one aspect of the invention relates to an assembly comprising a plurality of bins with a plurality of lids associated therewith . each of the bins has a lock assembly that includes a catch operable to lock the lid in its closed position and a mechanical indicator responsive to the catch . another aspect of the invention relates to an automated dispensing cabinet that includes a control computer and a plurality of drawers having a plurality of row assemblies therein . each row assembly has bins that include a tabbed lid , a lock assembly with a catch operable to engage and disengage the tab , and an indicator responsive to the lock assembly . methods for dispensing from and restocking the remote dispensing systems are also given , as well as a method for indicating which item is to be dispensed from one of a plurality of bins .