Some Experiments in Physics Education: Using a Force Sensor Connected to a Computer

A data collecting and handling system called “The Measuring Tool” is used in physics education at many Swedish secondary schools (“gymnasium”). It was developed at the Institute of Technology at Jönköping University. The system is used with IBM PC and compatible computers. It consists of a 12-bit AD-converter card that is mounted inside the computer, an interface box and software. Data collection can be performed in two channels. The maximum sampling rate is 70,000 per second, sufficient for sound studies, for instance. The ADC card also contains digital I/O for the connection of lightgates, a GM counter or a stepper motor. The software is menu driven and very easy to handle. The collected data are presented in tables and diagrams. Different standard mathematical functions can be fit to the points in a diagram by the method of least-squares. There is also a modelling routine so that recorded data may be compared with a mathematical model. Numerical integration and derivation can be performed as well. For use with “The Measuring Tool” lightgates and sensors for force, magnetic flux, pressure, sound, temperature, etc., have been developed. The force sensor has proved to be especially useful, and a short description of the force sensor and a few examples of its use are given below.