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 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)

Discusses how computational errors arise in analysis of data and how they can be minimized. Shows that all computations are subject to roundoff/truncation errors and how such errors are propagated and influence the stability and condition of a reaction. Applications to procedures used in analytical chemistry are addressed. (JN)

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…

Focuses on attributes of microcomputer systems which affect their usefulness in a laboratory environment. In addition to presenting general concepts, comments are made regarding the implementation of these concepts using a microprocessor-based data acquisition system developed at the University of North Carolina. (CO)