In this article, Karen Bucci describes how she incorporated her iPad with the wireless SmartScope iGO microscope and Wi-Viewer app to teach her fourth-grade class the science module "Ecosystems" by National Science Resources Center's Science and Technology for Children (STC) (1996, 2005). A main idea in the unit is the importance of…

Understanding the fundamentals of data acquisition and control is an important part of learning about the use of small computers in chemistry. Data acquisition and control principles can be taught at moderate equipment cost using micrcomputer game ports. Therefore, the components of the Apple II microcomputer game port are described. (JN)

Discusses: (1) rationale for chemical sensors in process analysis; (2) existing types of process chemical sensors; (3) sensor limitations, considering lessons of chemometrics; (4) trends in process control sensors; and (5) future prospects. (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…

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)

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…

Reviews three functions performed by modern computing integrators: (1) data acquisition; (2) data processing; and (3) communication. Also shows with examples how new electronic components enhance the functions of this popular analytical instrument in those areas. (JN)

Describes (1) an inexpensive photogate, (2) one use for a "dead" ammeter, (3) photogate addition for visual and audio signal, and (4) a photogate housing constructed from a plastic water pipe. (JN)

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)

A gas chromatography (GC) mass spectroscopy (MS) system recently developed by Hewlett-Packard (HP-5987 GC/MS/Data System) is described, illustrating the technological advances that have been achieved with the system. Examples of the data processing and output process are provided to demonstrate the capabilities and application of the system to…

Evaluates the Measurement Module (TEL-Atomic, Incorporated), a real time data capture and display instrument which (according to the manufacturer) was designed primarily for use in demonstrations. Includes comments on the module's specifications and features, software, documentation, and student laboratory use. The module is compatible with Apple…

Describes the Interactive Microcomputer Peripheral (including major features, source, and current cost) and physics experiments using the instrument. The instrument can also be used for such purposes as counting, timing, and frequency measurement as well as for experiments in biology and experimental psychology. (JN)

Describes "Experiments in Chemistry," in which experiments are performed using software and hardware interfaced to the Apple microcomputer's game paddle port. Experiments include temperature, pH electrode, and EMF (cell potential determinations, oxidation-reduction titrations, and precipitation titrations) investigations. (JN)