Naming conventions

The inventory is only useful if everyone enters things the same way. A few shared conventions prevent the usual mess of duplicate models and mismatched names.

Categories

Categories are the broad type of a thing. We’ve set up a starter set, and you can add more as the lab’s equipment grows:

• VR HMD
• AR/MR HMD
• Controllers & Input
• Trackers & Base Stations
• Sensors
• Cameras
• Computers & Laptops
• Displays & Monitors
• Peripherals
• Cables & Adapters

If something doesn’t fit, make a new category (keep the name short and general, like the ones above) rather than forcing it into the wrong one. Check with Francisco if you’re not sure whether a category already covers it.

Model names

Use the manufacturer’s own product name, and only that — “Quest 3”, “ZV-1”, “HoloLens 2”. Don’t add the serial, the color, or the year to the model name; those belong on the individual asset. One product means one model, shared by every unit.

Statuses

• Ready to Deploy — available, on the shelf. Use this for new items.
• Deployed — checked out to someone (the system sets this for you).
• Pending — being set up, repaired, or not ready to lend.
• Archived — retired or no longer in service.

Ownership

Every asset has an Ownership field. It defaults to NUILAB. Pick the right one:

• NUILAB — lab research equipment (most things).
• Ortega — Prof. Ortega’s personal or grant-specific gear.
• Dept — belongs to the CS department.
• Other — anything else; add a note.

You can add a value if you genuinely need one, but check with Francisco first so we don’t end up with “Lab” and “NUILAB” meaning the same thing.

Locations

Make a location once and reuse it. Agree on names up front — Lab 215 and Room 215 are two different places to the system. Ask Francisco for the current list of rooms and cabinets.