A briefcase portable microcomputer (the Radio Shack TRS-80 Model 100TM) forms the hub of a cost-effective preventive maintenance and electrical safety recording system. Programmed in BASICTMand powered by batteries, the portable system has no warm-up or “boot” time. Considerable time is saved by not having to power down and re-activate the program between tested items. Data generated during the inspection are stored in RAM-files until printout. Printouts are user selectable. Equipment interfacing is possible with additional accessories.