A multidrop PC network/database server for material flow and inventory control

A network/database server is presented in this paper. The PC serves as the data acquisition controller of a polled multidrop network that retrieves information from input terminals. The PC server simultaneously receives data from any combination of terminals on the network. It then updates a local SQL database, prompts the operator at the terminal for the next bit of information, while allowing access to the database from users connected to the server via a local area network. This system was developed to replace an out dated inventory tracking and control process which is currently in use by a local manufacturing company. The system presented will provide greater efficiency and productivity to the company by allowing its employees access to an inventory database that is updated in real-time. The use of a multitasking operating system and modern networking methods are the tools that will provide the company with the ability to keep its employees on top of inventory issues. This paper illustrates the practicality and benefits of taking advantage of the multitasking, networking, and processing capabilities of modern computers and operating systems