If you have test data, it probably should reside in a database—not, as it so often does, in spreadsheet files. The problem with databases, though, is that anyone who has used even "simple" database-management software understands that database management is not a task that you can take lightly. Most engineers just don't regard database management as part of their jobs.

Unfortunately, ignoring database management doesn't make the problem go away. In fact, what usually happens is that the amount of data keeps mushrooming, and when you finally acknowledge that the file structure doesn't meet your needs, getting the data into a suitable form represents a big project. You have to decide on the appropriate structure and move the data into it, but you haven't budgeted for the effort.

VI Technology addresses these problems with its Arendar test-and-measurement data-management software, which helps engineers head off such problems before they develop and simultaneously eliminates the need for the armies of consultants.

The package gives engineers, scientists, and managers fast and secure access to test data and reports via an Internet connection. Arendar's Data Browser, a .Net application, retrieves data based on user-established criteria. Arendar's Web Dashboard provides encryption and secure access from any Web browser. For detailed interactive analysis, Arendar imports data from any Web-connected PC directly into Microsoft Access or National Instruments' Diadem.

Arendar works with Windows NT, 2000, and XP; Oracle 9 or later; SQL Server 7 or later; or SQL Desktop Edition 2000, as well as a long list of test-development environments and Web browsers. The desktop edition of Arendar, which you can run on the PC that controls your test setup, costs $1995. Arendar Enterprise Edition has two components: the $4995 server software and the $1495 client. Web Dashboard costs $1995.

VI Technology Inc, 1-512-327-3348, www.vi-tech.com.