Kelly Gordon
Improved Data Collection Device The new Flash memory offers 500 KB of memory that can be used to download program updates and store data from multiple trial experiments. CBL 2 makes collection and analysis of real-world data fast, easy, accurate, and understandable. CBL 2 is compatible with most existing CBL
programs and workbooks and can be connected to compatible graphing calculators, such as TI-73, TI-82, TI-83, TI-86, TI-89, and TI-92. CBL 2 is expected to cost less than the current CBL and will be available to schools for approximately $170. For more information contact Texas Instruments at: (800) TI-CARES; e-mail:
An updated version of the Calculator Based Laboratory data collection device from Texas Instruments will be released next month. The device, CBL 2, is used in
middle and high school science and mathematics experiments that use one or more sensors. New features include Flash memory with built-in calculator software and four channels for data collection.
An ISP Designed for Engineers
Private Delivery will be offering a private, secure, and confidential network that will allow users to avoid e-mailing sensitive documents over the Internet. Transferring files over the Internet can be a hassle due to unreliable servers and a general loss of graphic quality. Private Delivery will give users the option to select a member ISP or avoid the Internet entirely when sending files.
Users of Private Delivery will be able to control who receives their file transfers and will only receive data from parties they have authorized. Private Delivery guarantees the transfer of their customers' documents. A view bar will allow customers to see the document transfer and when the data are actually received.
Private Delivery's portable mailbox software can be used to access mail from any computer with a ZIP drive and modem. Private Delivery will be available in April and will be sold at a monthly rate of $14.95. A PowerPoint presentation about the ISP can be viewed at:
www.privatedelivery.com/isp. For more information, contact Geoff Phillips at (800) 765-6266 or e-mail: global@privatedelivery.com .
Online Sharing of Designs and Drawings
Informative Graphics Corp. is offering a free online service that lets users share drawings and image documents over the Internet without the inconvenience of installing software or transferring documents. The site is supported by Brava viewing technology, a Web collaboration application from Informative Graphics.
After users register for the service, anyone with access to the account can view and print saved drawings. Another option permits users to comment on designs or drawings by creating redline files, which are then attached and saved over the net. These redlines are then available to other account users for review and comment. Each user's account has the capability to upload 10 files or up to 5 MB of disk space.
DrawingRoom.net requires Windows 95 or higher and either Microsoft Internet Explorer 3.02 or higher or Netscape 4.0. To sign up for this free service or for more information and an online demo see:
www.drawingroom.net.
Video Tutorial
A new video tutorial, P.E. Review: Electronics, released by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers will help prepare engineers for the electronics portion of the Professional Engineerin
g Licensing Examination. The next exam will take place in April.
The tutorial gives hints on maximizing test scores and focuses on essential concepts such as how to analyze and design complex circuits. Expanding on sample problems given by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying, which prepares exams for state licensing boards, the video tutorial covers bipolar junction transistors, operational amplifiers, and other topics.
P.E. Review: Electronics costs $199 ($125 for IEEE members) and has a running time of 135 minutes. For more information or to order, call (800) 678-4333; e-mail:
customer-service@ieee.org; or see: www.ieee.org/eab.
Product descriptions are based on manufacturer's literature. Endorsement by ASEE is not implied.
more Teaching Toolbox articles - Research, Teaching, On Campus, Engineering.edu, Calendar
