Item types and spec fields

Item types let you describe different kinds of stock with the details that matter for each. A resistor has resistance and tolerance; a screw has a diameter and length. They are free on every plan.

Create an item type

1. Open Item Types and choose New Item Type.
2. Either click one of the template buttons at the top of the page - there are starters for electronics (resistor, capacitor, inductor, diode, MOSFET, BJT, IC, connector, fuse) and fasteners - or build your own from blank.
3. Give the type a Name and description.
4. Add fields. Each field has a Label, a Field type and options.

Templates make you a copy you can edit freely.

Field types

• Number - with an optional Unit (such as Ω, F, V, mm) and the option to accept SI prefixes. You can then type 4k7, 100n or 2.2u. You can set a Minimum and Maximum.
• Choice - pick from a list that you define.
• Yes/No
• Text

Other field settings:
- Required - the field must be filled in.
- Show in list - show the value in the stock list's summary.
- Help text - guidance shown on the form.

Use a type on an item

In the stock item form, choose the Item type and the fields appear. Items without a type work exactly as before. Changing an item's type replaces its specs, so you are asked to confirm.

Filter by specs

On Stock Items, choose an item type and filter by its fields - numeric ranges, choices, text or yes/no.

Changing things later

• A field's type is fixed once created. To change it, archive the field and add a new one.
• A number field created without a unit can have one added later (for example set a capacitance field to F so you can type 100nF). Once it has a unit, that is fixed too.
• Archive hides a field or type but keeps stored values. You can restore it later.
• A type that is in use can't be deleted - archive it instead.
• Choices can only be added to, and can't contain commas.