> I have been given a tremendous quantity of surface mount components,  
> left
> over from a commercial operation. There are anywhere from 100 to  
> 1000 of
> each value, although there are some sandwich sized ziplock bags that  
> are
> nearly full!!!!!!!

I put parts in ZipLoc bags.  You can get them at many stores.  You can  
also order smaller ones.  I have some that are 2 inches by 4 inches.   
I use a black marker to write values on the bags.  I can see in the  
bags to see how many parts are left.  I put the bags in manila folders  
in my filing system.  Multiple bags in each folder based on grouping  
values.
The parts that don't go into the small bags get thrown in file boxes  
to replenish the small bags later.  You can also put the filled manila  
folders in file boxes.

This is how I store samples as well.  I give the incoming samples a  
sequential number ( Snnnnn ) and put a bunch of them in one manila  
folder, sometimes with datasheets.  My database ( Filemaker ) links  
the part number with the sequential number.  I also link parts with  
projects using Filemaker.  Just entering the part number followed by a  
sequential number on one line of a spreadsheet or text document allows  
you to search for sample parts.  You can add manufacturer names and  
other stuff to the line.

A suggestion.  Sell them in bulk on eBay and use the money to get the  
parts you really want.
MA

WFT Electronics
Denver, CO   720 222 1309
" dent the UNIVERSE "

All ideas, text, drawings and audio , that are originated by WFT  
Electronics ( and it's principals ),  that are included with this  
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