Tracking Modes
Not everything is counted the same way. An item's tracking mode decides how its quantity behaves — and it's the one choice worth getting right when you create an item. You pick it in the Add item dialog under Tracking.
Where to find it: the Tracking field when creating an item (Inventory → Add item).
For loose, interchangeable stock where you only care how many — screws, resistors, cable ties, offcuts. A single number you nudge up and down.
M3 × 10 socket screws: 250 in stock.
For individually identified units — tools, instruments, devices — where each one matters. Each unit is tracked separately by serial number, so you can record which specific unit you lent out, serviced, or calibrated. Serialised items unlock per-unit test & calibration records.
For things measured by how full they are rather than a whole count — filament spools, solder reels, liquids, gas bottles. You set a full capacity and a tare (empty weight), and Gubbins shows a gauge.
For things you want to list but not count — reference material, fixtures, anything where a quantity would be meaningless. No number at all.
| If the item is… | Use |
|---|---|
| Loose and interchangeable, counted by the piece | Bulk |
| A unique unit you need to identify individually | Serialised |
| Measured by fill level, not a whole count | Consumable |
| Something you list but never count | Untracked |
💡 Tip There's also an unlimited supply option for a Bulk-style item you always have on tap (mains power, tap water) — it shows as ∞ with no counter.
⚠️ Heads-up Changing an item's tracking mode after the fact is limited on purpose — switching freely between, say, Serialised and Consumable would make its existing stock history meaningless. Bulk ↔ Untracked can be changed in place; for a bigger change, create the item afresh in the right mode.
- Items — creating and editing items.
- Core concepts — how tracking, stock and locations fit together.
- Batches & lots — splitting stock by delivery and expiry.