Analog Spectrophotometers in the Digital Age: Data Acquisition on a Budget

• Published in: Journal of chemical education Vol. 82; no. 2; pp. 294 - 296
• Main Authors: Nazarenko, Natalie A, Nazarenko, Alexander Y
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Easton Division of Chemical Education 01.02.2005; Journal of Chemical Education, Subscription Department; American Chemical Society
• Subjects: Analog computers; Chemistry; Computer Interfaces; Computer Software; Data acquisition; Data acquisition systems; Data Collection; Measurement Equipment; Personal computers; Radiation; Science education; Science Instruction; Scientific imaging; Spectrometers; Spectrophotometers; Spectroscopy; Windows (computer programs); Hands-On Learning / Manipulatives; Analytical Chemistry; First-Year Undergraduate / General; Cost-Effective Teacher; IR Spectroscopy
• ISSN: 0021-9584; 1938-1328
• DOI: 10.1021/ed082p294

In this article we describe how to employ an inexpensive analog-to-digital converter and a user interface to Microsoft Excel to make a useful computerized spectrophotometer. Readily available types of data loggers, Vernier LabPro and digital multimeters with an RS-232 interface, were utilized. The proposed design does not compromise the quality of the measurements. The conversion of the data to the Microsoft Excel format makes it a convenient tool for a wide range of data processing applications. The software can operate in Windows 9x/NT/2000/XP environments that are familiar to most chemistry students. The infrared and UV–vis instruments were used for various laboratory experiments in instrumental analytical chemistry and in organic chemistry laboratories.