Abstract: A system for controlling and monitoring usage of equipment comprises an electronic key for controlling operation of the equipment and a central storage location for a plurality of keys. Access to the keys is controlled so that only authorized personnel can obtain a key and may be directed to select a particular key. In any event, the key is associated with a particular authorized person. At the equipment, the key is inserted and data contained in the key is read and the equipment enabled under microprocessor control. Data relating to the activity of the equipment can be written to circuitry in the key for transfer back to the central storage location when the key is returned.