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…

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)

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)

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.…

Presented are system concepts with examples of various vendor approaches for implementing laboratory local area networks. (CW)

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)

Describes a way to use computers in teaching chemistry, in this case in a demonstration lesson on supercooling using a thermister in a game port to interface the computer with cooling phenyl salicylate. Discusses the advantages over the traditional method of instruction. (CW)

Uses of Zenith Z-100 microcomputers by chemistry students at Clarkson College are discussed. These include: (1) programing; (2) word processing; (3) numerical methods, statistical/plotting programs; (4) laboratory data acquisition and manipulation; (5) simulations; (6) computer assisted instruction; and (7) computer managed instruction. (JN)

Describes development of microcomputer-controlled gamma scintillation spectrometer and chromatographic data analyzer, including design and construction of interface electronics and production of software. Includes diagrams of electric circuits and project evaluation indicating that both instruments functioned as intended. (JN)

The main part of this project involved using a computer, either an Apple or an IBM, as a chart recorder for the infrared (IR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrophotometers. The computer "reads" these machines and displays spectra on its monitor. The graphs can then be stored for future reference and manipulation. The program to…

This project involved interfacing of microcomputers with three chemical instruments--Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), Infrared Spectroscopy (IR), and the spectrophotometer. A Pascal program called "Spectrum" allows data from the NMR to be read and graphed, a specific area of the graph zoomed, ratios of specified areas of the graph…

Describes a chemistry lab experiment in which a microcomputer is used to graph data. In the experiment a catalyst is used to decompose a commercial bleach. The computer's game port is used with a potentiometer to plot the volume of oxygen gas produced versus elapsed time. Courseware information is included. (TW)