Evaluation: Calculator-Based Lab Unit
Source: School Mart, P.O. Box 80, Gambrills, MD 21054 phone 1-800-285-2662
Cost: $210

The Texas Instruments Calculator-Based Lab(CBL) Unit is a device that can be used to collect and store all types of experimental data. It can function as a stand-alone multimeter, or it can be controlled through a linking cable connected to a graphing calculator. The standard CBL kit comes with probes to measure temperature, light intensity and electrical conductivity. Other probes, including those from Vernier Software, can be used with the CBL Unit to measure anything from pH to dissolved oxygen in solutions to gas pressure. When using the TI graphing calculator to control the CBL, the data is stored in the calculator's memory where it can be recalled for further analysis.
Students are able to accurately collect real-time data more rapidly, while using microscale amounts of reagents.

For a more detailed description of the capabilities and uses for the CBL and graphing calculators, check out this month's On-Line Seminar. Specific instructions are provided to let you become familiar with this technology. Texas Instruments also offers a free loaner program of calculators and CBL units by calling 214-917-1550.

Submitted by Mark Case