In September 1983 Stevens Institute of Technology (SIT) began a program requiring every incoming student to own a Digital Equipment Corporation PC-350 microcomputer. Past computing experiences at SIT, impact of the program, software and hardware considerations, and computing experiences in chemistry are reviewed. (JN)

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)

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 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.…

Highlights current activities of the NSF-funded Project SERAPHIM, including a report on the August 1982 Biennial Conference, development of procedures/criteria for evaluating microcomputer software, software evaluation, and preparation of a list of available software. A list of materials available from the project and SERAPHIM Program Contest…

Suggests purchasing a digital multimer (DMM) with an IEEE-488 option to interface an instrument to a microcomputer, indicating that a DMM is well protected from overloads and is easy to connect. An example of its use in an experiment involving hydrolysis of tertiary butyl alcohol (with program listing) is given. (JN)

Lists: (1) educational uses of microcomputers; (2) goals of a microcomputer selection committee; and (3) goals to be achieved by students owning microcomputers. Discusses progress made by the selection committee, faculty development in computer literacy, current preparations being made for the arrival of the microcomputers, and computer uses in…

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)

Selections from volume 4 (numbers 1-4) of the Task Force on Computers in Chemical Education (TFCCE) Newsletter are presented. Number 1 includes an introduction to and objectives of the newsletter and TFCCE, a report on computer-related activities in the chemistry department at Eastern Michigan University, a list of TFCCE members, a discussion of a…