A starter or example module for tabular data?

Hello, running Drupal 5.x here.

I have a number of simple tabular databases with simple drop-down list box choices for some fields. As an expedient, I am using a very nifty PHP class, a MySQL Table Editor (http://www.phpguru.org/static/TableEditor.html) to let some of our staff update these tables (equipment list, for example)..

I would like to Drupal-ize these interfaces. Looking around, I considered modifying/adapting some existing modules; a movie database module actually seemed like a possible candidate. That approach would mean a lot of search and replace.

Then I wondered: is there a minimal example/starter module for tabular that would allow me to start with a skeleton and then expand? I thought I found something like this before, but maybe I am confusing that with one of the tutorials.

The basic functions I would be looking to have include:

- sorted browsing of table in column/row display (like what you get with that TableEditor class).
- Ability to add supporting tables for categorical lookups and pick lists
- ability to define add/edit detail screens with filtered inputs.

So, my simplest possible module might be:

- equipment table
- manufacturer table
- equipment add/edit screen

but with the supporting .module and .install and .sql files that would make it work in Drupal.

Is there any existing skeleton aplication as this? Or is there another approach to adding these kinds of generic, tabular data applications with lookup tables that I should be thinking about? I have started to look at the Drake Module and CakePHP framework as a possible approach.

Another issue that I need to think about (that I am completely ignorant of) is the method of upgrading such an application as we dream up new fields/elements that can be added.

Any thoughts appreciated.

Jim