Physics 211

MBL1

MBL Task #1
Create a Word file with the label MBL1...{your team initials}
Equipment:Science Workshop software, ScienceWorkshopinterface, Motion
sensor

You will now investigate a computrer-based measuring tool. This tool will
usually be referred to as MBL (microcomputer-based laboratory) or computer-
assisted data acquisition. MBL equipment consists of a sensor (or sensors)
connected to the computer through an interface box and monitored with software.
During this term, you will be using sensors such as motion detectors, force sensors,
and temperature sensors. Each sensor that you use will be connected into the CI-
6560 Signal Interface II developed by Pasco Scientific. This interface is able to
convert analog or digital signals from the various sensors into digital signals which
are understood by the computer. Finally, this will all be monitored with the Science
Workshopsoftware.

Start the Science Workshopprogram from the Launcher (click once) or from
inside the Application Folder (click twice). You will need to be sure that the
interface box is turned on (the switch is in the back and a green light on the front
will let you know when it is on).

Once
everything is on
and running, you
will see a window
that includes the
following image:

Today you will be using a motion sensor. Make sure that the motion sensor
is plugged into the digital channels 1 (yellow plug) and 2.

Using the mouse, click on the "digital plug button" and drag it up to
Channel 1. Select the motion sensor.

You should see a graphic of the motion sensor.

Next, click on the "graph" button and drag it up to Channel 1.
Select "Position (x)" and then "Display."

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