A microcomputer-controlled system for instrument processing and billing for complex analytical instruments funded by multiple sources in the University of California at Berkeley's College of Chemistry is described and its potential applications in other administrative situations are outlined. (MSE)

In a modular approach, instruments are considered as systems composed of modules, each module performing a particular function. Examines process of relating specifications for instruments to those for particular modules, effect of microcomputers on modular approach, and extension of the approach to such devices as "hyphenated" or tandem…

A controversy has arisen as to whether instrument vendors are providing sufficient information about instrument-associated software to permit users to understand invisible data transformations going on inside of the equipment. Topics addressed include software protection, user modifications, and publishing software. (Author/JN)

Discusses developments in electrochemical instrumentation, including the role of computers, measurement/control instruments, present needs and future prospects. Indicates that microprocessors are used primarily for data processing, and that progress depends on noninstrumental factors such as electrode materials. (Author/JN)

Describes a two-term course in electronic instrumentation for chemistry and physics students. The first term focuses on analog circuits and the measurement of voltage, current, and impendance. The second-term course focuses on digital pulses/logic, microcomputer organization, and assembly language programing and interfacing to experiments. (JN)

Describes laboratory workstations which provide direct connection for monitoring and control of analytical instruments such as pH meters, spectrophotometers, temperature, and chromatographic instruments. This is accomplished through analog/digital and digital/analog converters for analog signals and input/output devices for on/off signals.…

Described is a project SIINC (Scientific Instrumentation Information Network and Curriculum), a three year pilot program to test the feasibility of developing a computer-based system for accessing information vital to users of chemical instrumentation. Project SIINC fills the gap between conventional sources of instrumental information and…

Describes an inexpensive and versitile interface which can be readily adapted to many on-line experimental projects in scientific fields by educators who are not computer experts. Hardware and software requirements are noted. (JN)

Describes a ripple tank demonstration that displays interference patterns responsible for producing beats and provides photographs of computer simulations of various beat interference patterns. Includes programs for the computer simulation and equations of constructive interference paths in beat interference patterns. (Author/SK)

Biology teachers at Ithaca College have developed a course in experimental methodology and instrumentation that teaches beginning biology students the need for accuracy and precision in measurement. This course is described. (JN)

Four ways in which microcomputers can be turned into laboratory instruments are discussed. These include adding an analog/digital (A/D) converter on a printed circuit board, adding an external A/D converter using the computer's serial port, attaching transducers to the game paddle ports, or connecting an instrument to the computer. (JN)

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)

Microcomputers are commonly interfaced to external devices in scientific, industrial, and consumer settings for data acquisition and for control. The general problem under consideration is the task of taking measurements of some continuous phenomenon, transforming them into digital form, and storing the data in the microcomputer for later use.…

Describes major features of a computer-operated, cybernetic potentiostat and the development, design, and operation of the software in ROM. The instrument contains control circuitry and software making it compatible with the static mercury drop electrode produced by EG&G Princeton Applied Research Corporation. Sample results using the…

Discusses the role and use of microcomputers in scientific research, from monitoring instruments to controlling experimental processes. Included are descriptions of a computer-controlled protein sequencer and gene synthesizer, and microcomputer uses in medicine, physiology, biochemistry, and geology. (JN)