Edgar

Back in the old DOS days (92-93), I wrote such a system for a law firm that kept losing case files. It was a Clipper application with other "device" programming for the Intermec equipment (laser/wands/base stations). We ended up barcoding all of the firms case files (simple code 3 of 9) and placing light pens on either side of the file room doors. When someone would take out a file, they'd scan the bulk and then scan their barcode from a sheet on the wall.

At night, someone would walk through the building with a portable laser gun (programming required there too) shooting room number barcodes in each of the door jambs and any case bulks lying around the room. When the gun met up with the docking station, the data was pulled in and attached to the case file. This method provided a nice history of where any file had been and who had custody of it last. If there is ever a question where something is just check the last entry in the location history table.

It worked for them - so well that it's still working today. You did ask for ideas right? Good luck!

Regards,