cddb to mysql or csv

[Jim Kuzdrall]

On Tuesday 29 May 2007 08:31, Tom Buskey wrote:
> >     So, I will photograph the spines to prove I have the CDs and
> > copy the .cddb directory to the inventory CD.  If I have to make a
> > claim, the problem of cddb-to-database-to-agent can be solved then.
> >
> >     Problems get solved on gnhlug just like magic!
>
> So, basically you're creating an insurance inventory?
>
> A barcode inventory might be a good solution also.  There are
> programs out there, free, web based, and for $$$....
>
> Having the photos solves 90% of the problem :-)

    The photos turned out to be quicker and more informative than bar 
codes.  The camera will take 200 pictures before the flash disk must be 
emptied.  I created a scaled floor plan of the basement, showing the 
benches, bookcases, cabinets, etc.

    The pictures were grouped as: books, components, computers, 
instruments, materials, office, tools, personal.  For each group, the 
floor plan was annotated with letters showing the location an direction 
of the photos, then scanned to a png file.

    After that, it was just a matter of indicating the picture number 
range associated with each group and letter.  (The camera was set to 
make up a non-resetting numbered sequence in the auto-generated name.)  
Nothing else had to be written down because the pictures were closeups 
which showed model numbers, book spines, part numbers, etc.

    Bar codes would be good if I wanted to track the equipment itself, 
but all I need to do is prove what I own at this moment.

    The cddb file is not hard to take apart with bash and some command 
line tools.  My programming may not be the most sophisticated, but I am 
sure I can get it working reliably.  Since the inventory is now 
complete, the conversion program is a leisure project.  (I suppose I am 
missing a great chance to learn Python, but bash will have to do.)

Jim Kuzdrall