A controversy has arisen as to whether instrument vendors are providing sufficient information about instrument-associated software to permit users to understand invisible data transformations going on inside of the equipment. Topics addressed include software protection, user modifications, and publishing software. (Author/JN)

A technician auto analyzer (consisting of six modules: sampler, multichannel peristaltic pump, dialyser, heating/incubation bath, colorimeter, and recorder) was modified by using key modules and substituting standard equipment for others; spectronic 20 with homemade flow cell for colorimeter module. Descriptions and diagrams of the apparatus are…

For several decades there has been a general concern that the level of research funding for academic instrumentation was not sufficient to keep pace with the requirements of cutting edge research. To develop the factual trend data necessary to understand the depth of the problems in academia and thus provide an adequate response to these concerns,…

Identifies a trend in analytical chemistry toward greater use of instruments and a need for an understanding of the basic principles involved in instrumentation. This need can be fulfilled using homebuilt equipment; examples are provided in the areas of electrolytic conductance and electronic coulometry. (GS)

The system for determining parameters of a particle described in this document is a government-owned invention that is available for licensing. The background of the invention is outlined, and drawings of the system together with a detailed description of its function are provided. A collector contains a hole and annular apertures for transmitting…

Several teaching aids including a microcomputer system, a process control laboratory, a mechanics laboratory, and a teaching polariscope are described. (RH)

Explores questions, dilemmas, and issues facing individuals who teach and/or development undergraduate curricula in chemical instrumentation. Areas addressed include the instrumental analysis course, the laboratory, the role of electronics, and computer use. (JN)

Highlights an American Chemical Society (ACS) survey of 103 chemistry departments on their instrumentation needs. The 2-year study affirms that instruments used for chemical research and education are becoming outdated because of their age and changes in technology. The survey also reveals how departments plan to use newly acquired instruments.…

Discusses: (1) rationale for chemical sensors in process analysis; (2) existing types of process chemical sensors; (3) sensor limitations, considering lessons of chemometrics; (4) trends in process control sensors; and (5) future prospects. (JN)

Reviews literature dealing with novel developments or important trends in electrochemistry. Areas examined include mass transfer, electrode kinetics, surface effects, chemically modified electrodes, coulostatic/galvanostatic methods, bioelectrochemistry, spectroelectrochemistry, and electrode instrumentation. Books, textbooks, and literature…

Discussed are various types of electronic laboratory balances. (RH)

Described are available electronic laboratory balances. Information was supplied by the manufacturers or importers. (RH)