Property Tracking

The tracking component of the property module allows for the use of a barcode reader to handle the checking-out and checking-in of property items. This feature can also provide voice confirmation of the barcode activity so that the user may utilize the barcode reader with needing to see the computer screen.

See the topic on Barcode Scanners and the configuration manual for your barcode scanner, to get more information on how to configure your barcode scanner to work with Crimestar.

To activate voice confirmation your computer will need to have a sound card and the Microsoft text to speech engine (most new computers have it!). An on/off option switch can be found on the property page of the System Configuration module.

The following is a description of the specific functions that can be performed from the various screens. Some functions require the use of pre-printed barcode "Control Labels" which can be printed from the system configuration form and kept near your workstation for reference. Additionally the various Property Tracking codes will need to be printed by clicking the barcode print button (button with the barcode symbol on it) located on the "Other Codes" page of the system configuration form. Note: the barcode print button will only appear when a Property Tracking code type category is selected.

Tagging and Recalling an Article of Property: Click the button with the barcode symbol on it to print a barcode label for the item of property you wish to tag. Once the item is tagged you can recall the property screen for that item simply by scanning the barcode label affixed to the property or the barcode printed on the bottom of the property detail page printout.

Information shown on the printed labels: is obtained from the property item database record with the exception of the Agency Name. The official agency name information printed on the label is derived from UCR/NIBRS Report "Agency Name and State" Information. This information can be updated from the UCR/NIBRS reporting menu.

Update the Tracking Status: Once the appropriate item of property has been selected, you may scan the appropriate Property Status Code, Location Code and Contact code (the "Officer" code list may also be used for property tracking contacts) for the item. Each of these three pieces of information are required before a Tracking Transaction may be saved. The Returned & Destroyed status command codes may also be scanned but are not required. As each status related code is scanned the system will display your current selection in a popup window in the upper left portion of the main Crimestar screen.

Save or Cancel the Tracking Transaction: Once all status scanning is completed, scan the Save Transaction command barcode. At any time prior to saving the transaction you can cancel the transaction by scanning the Cancel Transaction command barcode. If you try to recall another article of property using the barcode scanner before saving the tracking transaction you will receive an error warning.