Automating Acoustic Transients Research with Labview Software and the GPIB

Abstract

The focus of this project has been shifting continuously throughout the quarter between the study of laboratory automation and the study of specific phenomena using laboratory automation. The result is a project that explores the use of specific interfacing techniques, and two related applications, but does not explore either completely. For this reason, the two applications mentioned are discussed in greater detail than would be expected for a study of general automation techniques alone. At the same time, no experimental research was performed. This has been a recurring source of anxiety because it is difficult to make an intermediate step the final goal. In other words, it was not easy to concentrate on the "tools" of research while working with a physical phenomenon. Nonetheless, the experience and information gathered are clearly valuable for the Physics department at Kalamazoo college and myself.