Broadcasting computer(arduino) name to network.

I'm about to embed some Arduino+Ethernet shields into some equipment I'm making. I understand they all need unique MAC addresses and individual IP addresses on each network, however it would be good to be able to address them through a browser by name rather than having to know all the IP octets.

When I look at my router IP table or Mcafee AV it comes up with the 'name' of the devices on my network Eg ' Donkey' as the name I've given to an old slow PC or 'SonyBravia...' for the TV etc I can even address my NAS via a URL with '//verbatimnas' and similarly for a wireless repeater. Trouble is that I cant find any code that will let me broadcast names of the kit or even better address them over the internet using the '//xxxxx' format.

Has anybody any experience of doing this sort of thing.

The feature you're looking for is probably mDNS or Bonjour (the name in the Apple world). There are implementations for the Arduino world but be prepared: it consumes processing power and flash storage size.