Wireless Sensors Now Available for Science Classroom Experiments
Pasco
Scientific has introduced what the company
says is the first line of wireless sensors that can be used
by students in
classroom experiments and connect to almost any technology platform.
The
wireless sensors can be used in a number of
typical science lab procedures like measuring pH balance, temperature,
pressure, force and acceleration. The wireless technology eliminates
the need
for a separate device to connect sensors to computers, tablets or
smartphones.
Pasco's
wireless sensors are compatible with
Windows, Mac, iPad, iPhone, Android tablets and phones and
Chromebooks. They
must be Bluetooth Smart devices but, if not, a USB Bluetooth adaptor is
available from Pasco.
With the
use of the sensors, students can transfer information acquired in lab
experiments directly to their devices, simplifying lab setup and
allowing
teachers and students more time to perform their experiments.
Prices
for the wireless sensors begin at $39 and
battery life on the sensors can be as long as a semester or, depending
on use,
a year.
"Pasco
was the first to offer wireless and mobile
capabilities in education in 2009 with our Airlink sensor interface and
many
others have followed our example since then. Our commitment to
innovation is
driven by our mission to transform science education for teachers and
students,"
said Pasco CEO Steven Korte. "With the new wireless sensors, teachers
can
implement dynamic tools to empower students to think and act like
scientists
and apply that thinking to real-world situations. It's more than just
memorizing
facts. When students can measure and analyze — and see the invisible —
they become
more engaged and unleash their curiosity in science."
About the Author
Michael Hart is a Los Angeles-based freelance writer and the former executive editor of THE Journal.