Discusses various topics related to the interfacing of computers, focusing particularly on methods of data collection using instruments. Topics include serial digital connections (examining RS 232C and V.24, physical protocol, electrical protocol, and other areas) and parallel digital connections. (JN)

The Apple game port has two types of inputs: the paddle input and the button input. Scientific applications of these input-output units are discussed, examining analog inputs (potentiometers, thermistors, and photoresistors), single bit digital inputs, and single-bit outputs. (JN)

Describes: (1) a FORTH-language, computer-controlled potentiometric titration; (2) coulometric titrations using computer-interfaced potentiometric endpoint detection; (3) interfacing a scanning infrared spectrophotometer to a microcomputer; (4) demonstrations of signal-to-noise enhancement (digital filtering); (5) and an inexpensive Apple…

Describes an apparatus that uses a microcomputer as a timing device in which the Coefficient of Restitution (COR) is measured. Diagrams of a circuit for timing measurements and a flow chart of a program that measures COR are provided. A list of COR for some common objects is also included. (CS)

Presents details of anodic stripping analysis (ASV) in college chemistry laboratory experiments. Provides block diagrams of the analyzer system, circuitry and power supplies of the automated stripping analyzer, and instructions for implementing microcomputer control of the ASV. (CS)

The use of a microcomputer as the basis of a multichannel analyzer (MCA) system is described. Principles of microcomputer MCA, choice of microcomputer, input-output port, data display, MCA program, and interrupt routine (with flowchart) are the topic areas considered. (JN)

Equipped with simple sensors and software, a microcomputer can become a microcomputer-based laboratory (MBL). Discusses the value of MBL's and provides three programs which preview the new MBL kits available for science classes. A list of commercially available MBL's (with product names, current prices, and other information) is also included. (JN)

Describes hardware and software requirements for interfacing a thermometer probe, via an analog and digital converter, to any Commodore PET, VIC-20, or Commodore-64 microcomputer (or other microcomputers with some modifications). Also describes use of the probe in an experiment measuring enthalpies of reaction to determine enthalpy of formation of…

Procedures for displaying computer-generated text and graphics to a large audience are inexpensive when a Fresnel-mirror projector is used. Although small liquid-crystal displays (LCDs) can be easily projected, large LCDs require some modification (which is described). Other devices with LCD displays (oscilloscopes, televisions, and pulse-height…

Microcomputer-based laboratories (MBLs) refer to a laboratory where a microcomputer gathers and displays data directly from the environment. Program listings for a response timer (using game paddles) to illustrate the nature of MBLs are presented. (JN)

Offers an alternative to kymography systems for undergraduates in physiology courses. Explains how an easy-to-build transducer can be used for recording diverse physiological phenomena. Reviews the theory of transducer function and explains the performance of the microcomputer kymography. (ML)

Bank Street Laboratory (a set of hardware/software tools for measuring temperature, light, and sound) consists of a board that plugs into Apple microcomputers, cabling, software, and six probes. Discusses the laboratory's hardware, including the analog-to-digital converter, multiplier chip, and modular connectors. Circuit diagrams of components…

A 16K Sinclair ZX81 microcomputer equipped with an analog to digital board and a Sinclair printer was used to capture data continuously from a total of eight temperature or light sensors. Describes the construction of the peripherals, explains how to connect them together, and provides a program to run the ZX81. (Author/JN)

Traces the development of instruments used in spectrophotometry. Discusses how spectrophotometric measurements are made. Describes the color comparator, the filter photometer, and the spectrophotometer. Outlines the evolution of optical systems, including light sources, the monochromator, the photodetector, double-beam optics, and split-beam…

Describes how personal computers are being integrated into the engineering education program at Queen's University (Ontario, Canada). Discusses some of the requirements of the program, which include a strong recommendation that each incoming student purchase a specific sophisticated microcomputer. (TW)