[android] Check in/Check out software for tablets?

[GeneralWinter]

Hi all,

 

We have a good 150+ tablets in our school, including a couple of sets of Learnpads and the rest Toshibas with Learnpad software over the stock android. Basically what I want to do is have some kind of system so that when staff take them for lessons or anything else its logged.

 

I've been thinking the best way to do this is use a system not unlike one would use in a Library setting as all I want to know is When, Who and how long (We have problems with them going missing or laying dormant in a draw somewhere for months so to know when they're overdue would save me a lot of time. I've talked to our librarian and the software she uses could be adapted however we only have it licensed for use on one machine and for something like this I'm leaning more toward open source unless the price was very reasonable.

 

I've also been wondering if this would be best achieved with barcodes/QR codes. Let me know if you have any ideas or a system in place like this already

 

Thanks alot!

[gh5000]

Hi,

 

We've written a small (that we've added a lot to) program in C# (visual studio) that rights back to a SQL database. The core of the program that you're wanting is relatively simple and a fun project to do if you're into that sort of stuff.

 

Some one really good with Excel might do something sufficient or Access.

 

Haven't looked in a while but there were sharepoint based library type software/programs about but I found they just weren't what we were after - or at least couldn't be configured to say laptops instead of books.

 

We use barcodes to look devices up and import student names from csv (MIS report). Can also look up by S/N when the students peel off the label!

 

Let me know if you want further info.

[GeneralWinter]

Thanks for the response,

 

Yeah I've thought about making this a project rather than looking for a pre made solution although its just finding the time when I'd like to implement something like this right away (It's just me here). That's the problem I've come across with these Library based programs, they're to narrow to adapt.

 

Barcodes seem to be the way forward and I could probably base those on serial number or something.

 

I'd certainly welcome a PM if you're willing to share your program.