Multiple “similar” items… easiest way to create these with labels

Question: I’ve got 41 computers and 41 monitors … 56 small file cabinets, 70 chairs, etc. Do I have to input each and every one? How can I print a group of labels that say the same thing …… 33CHAIR?

Specifically, for example, how do I get the data base to store 70 labels, from 33CH50 to 33CH120 … without having to go through and create the barcode label 70 times, once with each new number? Can I put in 70 numbers at once if they are consecutive?

Answer: There are several ways to effectively barcode items:

1. Use a single identifier (barcode) for items of which there are many of the same type/kind.
   But, make the item a “binned” item (a check box on the item itself when it is created).

1. You can either put the same barcode label on each item, or simply have a laminated, binder sheet with the barcode label that identifies the item(s).  All binned item barcodes could be stored in the binder.  Then scan the barcode from the binder upon check out/ check in of the item.

2. Create the ‘individual’ record, including barcode, for the first of the items. Then, use the COPY Button to automatically generate each additional item record. The Copy function allows you to copy a prior asset record. It only takes a few seconds if you want to individually label each with a unique barcode.

EX: Enter the first chair and print its label. Then press the Copy button. It will blank the serial number, so you could record the next serial number (if needed), and then automatically record the next barcode upon save. Print the next label and you are done. 5-10 seconds for each entry is typical.

1. Individually, name ( ID ) and barcode each item.  This will take a bit more time, as each will now be an individual, unique item.

If the product you’re using is ATS, once individual items have been created, you could use the Label Function (Label Text Tab Menu at the top of the ATS screen):

Select Label Setup | Select Asset |Select Print Label Sequence to print out a group of labels.

Based on the question’s example, use the Prefix Field for the group identifier (max 3 characters). For example,  CH.  Then use 50 as the starting point, and 70 for the quantity of labels.  Make sure you have a label printer for this that can handle consecutive label printouts.  A standard printer will likely only print one label at a time.