Hi everyone!

I was wondering if anyone uses a bar code system when logging in
cases/specimens to the lab (especially those who are
in veterinary pathology/pharmaceuticals/biotech).  If so, would you tell me
a bit about how you do it.  One of our researchers
in another lab is changing over to a bar code system to better track their
specimens and was asking my supervisor questions. 
 What kind of equipment does it take to start this system up?  Does it save
time and/or effort, in the long run?  Do you need special software, if so
what kind?  If you have this system and could do it over would you still
stay with bar coding or would you hand write into logbooks?  Any info you
can send my way is greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

Judi Ford
Roche Bioscience
Palo Alto, CA