Torch for electric arc welding system

A welding apparatus, comprising:

• a welding torch having a storage register configured to store an identification code that is used to identify said welding torch;
• a welding system coupled to said welding torch and having a controller, where said welding system is configured to generate a welding output signal and direct the welding output signal to said welding torch via a welding cable connected between the welding system and the welding torch,
• a decoder coupled to said storage register in said welding torch and to said controller in said welding system, wherein said decoder is configured to detect said identification code in said storage register and generate an enabling signal in response to detecting said identification code;
• and
• wherein said welding system has an alternative mode of operation, corresponding only to said welding torch, and a standard mode of operation which is different than said alternative mode of operation, and
• wherein said controller only enables said alternative mode of operation within said welding system in response to said decoder sending said enabling signal to said controller.