Richard, Just a few things we use in our tracking database...

We track based on a "device" of which an asset number is one of the components. We affix a common tracking label (incremental unique) to each device so that when we see multiple devices beside each other, we can quickly establish which asset is which. We also keep location information as to where the device is kept physically and we also capture Serial numbers, model information, description etc. Special info regarding the particular asset is also stored such as the MAC address(es) so that we can use the tracking DB for locating a device that may be misbehaving on our network.

We also have audit capabilities where we use physical location to confirm equipment is where they should be and flag those devices that have not been found yet. We presently use manual keying of the tracking number; but will be looking at barcode for faster auditing.

Just some ideas...

Regards,

Chris