Describes hardware that enables the use of an IBM PC microcomputer as a frequency meter or a counter by using the parallel printer port. Eliminates the 16-bit time-day counter through the use of an external time base that can be conveniently set depending on the desired frequency range. (JRH)

Described is a position transducer used to convert the position of an object into a voltage read by a computer with use of an interface board. The arrangement of the apparatus, electronic circuit, and typical graph displays are presented. Discussed is the instructional use of the transducer. (YP)

Computer interfaced electrostatic charge sensors allow both qualitative and quantitative measurements of electrostatic charge but are quite sensitive to charges accumulating on modern synthetic materials. They need to be used with care so that students can correctly interpret their measurements. This paper describes the operation of the sensors,…

Described is a project involving the introduction of microcomputers into the laboratory portion of a college general physics course for data collection and analysis. The results of an evaluation of this program are presented. (CW)

Introduces a photogate arrangement using a photo-reflective sensor for air track experiments. Reports that the sensitivity to sunlight can be eliminated and a mechanically more convenient package produced. Shows the mounting, circuit, and usage of the photogate. (YP)

Discussed is a method of measuring the coefficient of linear expansion of a solid. Getting many data points, using a computer program using the least square fit technique, and modifying the apparatus are described. (YP)

Demonstrates a method of measuring the acceleration due to gravity. Provides an illustration of the apparatus and the data analysis. Suggests four different variations of this experiment. (YP)

Reports experiences during a two-year period in introducing the computer to the laboratory and students to the computer as a laboratory instrument. Describes a working philosophy, data acquisition system, and experiments. Summarizes the laboratory procedures of nine experiments, covering mechanics, heat, electromagnetism, and optics. (YP)

Describes making laboratory apparatus such as a heavy-duty turntable; a hand-held milk-carton accelerometer; an inverted air table; free-fall measurement with a solenoid as a starting device; and a bright point source. Presents an evaluation of "The Champ Universal Interface and Sensor Pack Software." (YP)

Presented is the use of a microprocessor for mechanics experiments. Described are the experimental set-ups, experimental method, and conclusions. Includes several diagrams and pictures. (YP)

Described are the apparatus and procedures needed for a demonstration of the measurement of the electrical resistance of metals as a function of temperature using a microcomputer interface. Discussed are materials, apparatus construction, and experimental results. (CW)

Described are the apparatus and procedures needed for a demonstration of a determination of the polarity of charges carried by individual ground flashes of lightning. Discussed are materials, apparatus construction, and experimental results. (CW)

Described are the apparatus and procedures needed for this correction technique using a microcomputer interface. Discussed are materials, apparatus construction, and experimental results. (CW)

Introduces three different techniques to facilitate the measurement of speed and the associated kinematics and dynamics using a computer. Discusses sensing techniques using optical or ultrasonic sensors, interfacing with a computer, software routines for the interfaces, and other applications. Provides circuit diagrams, pictures, and a program to…