THE MAGAZINE FOR COMPUTER APPLICATIONS
Circuit Cellar Online offers articles illustrating creative solutions
and unique applications through complete projects, practical
tutorials, and useful design techniques.

AND THE LIST GOES ON...

Putting Together Parts Lists

by George Martin

Start ı Phase 1ıIn the Beginning ı Phase 2ıCreating a Database ı Manipulating the Files ı Phase 3ıAn Entry-Level MRP Program ı Added Benefits ı Sources and PDF

PHASE 2ıCREATING A DATABASE

As the size and complexity of the project develops, the next problem youıll encounter is controlling the amount of dollars committed. You might get a great deal when pricing the component, but eventually youıll have to pay for those parts. And, youıll probably have to pay for them before you assemble, test, and ship the final product. Of course, you can schedule parts deliveries over a duration of time in order to spread out the cash requirements, but your accounting manager (perhaps your spouse) will still want to know how much money is needed and when.

The controlling document for this mess is a purchase order (PO) where you can list the parts ordered, delivery dates, shipping information, billing information, tax information, and any other pertaining information.

The step that ties the PO to the parts list can be done using the software you have on hand and is probably best done using a database program. I built a simple system using Borlandıs Paradox database software. However, this software is old and DOS-based, and on top of that, Iım running out of computers that can run the code. So, Iıve switched to a new system, but Iıll go over that later.

I built a simple database consisting of three filesıVendor, PO, and Parts Requirements. The Vendor file contains the ID (a quick and easy name and a key to link the files), name, address, and telephone and fax numbers of the vendor. The PO file consists of the PO number and date, vendor ID, whether or not the part is taxable, terms, and special instructions. And finally, the Parts Requirements file contains the part name, number, and description, the PO number, item number, quantity, delivery date, project, and manufacturer.

Note that the key fields are used to link the files. Read your database textbook if youıve forgotten how it works. If this is a new concept for you, get an introductory text. You can easily make a nightmare of a database, so tread carefully.

PREVIOUS • NEXT