Algorithm

[Don Coleman]

List:

I am faced with assigning a unique # which must correlate to a numeric
string that is comprised of an 8 digit Rx # and a 7-10 decimal quantity.  
Currently, each prescription label has a barcode which is an 8 digit Rx# and
a 5 digit quantity.  Due to a required software upgrade on their Clinical
Prescription Software application the quantity must be changed from an
integer value to a decimal, possibly with up to 4 digits to the right of the
decimal point.

Two solutions come to mind:

"Compress" the 15-18 digit # into a 8-10 digit # via application of an
algorithm and "uncompress" it as needed.  I'm guessing this would involve
use of letters in addition to strictly #'s.  Unsure if this type of
intelligence is available.  I checked the phone book but could not locate
the local algorithm store.  Google lists many sites, beginning with
Wikipedia examples, but I've never been a fan of this source.  

Assign a unique (sequential) # within my fP application and distribute this
# plus the original # as necessary.  Other alien applications would also
need to access and cross-reference this number so I would explore posting to
an SQL file.

Thoughts or suggestions?

Don Coleman
Donald G. Coleman, Consultant
402 Andrew Circle
Indiana, PA 15701
dcoleman at dgcreact.com
(724) 349-6302