Teaching Transducers and Instrumentation with the D1750 Module
Channel: LJ Create
Date: 2011-09-16

The D1750 Transducers and Instrumentation module from LJ Create ( http://www.LJCreate.com )....

Our high tech world is abundant with electronic gadgets and systems. 

A car is able to sense demand from the driver and perform thousands of calculations every second to control the engine for optimum performance and efficiency.
Robots can detect and avoid obstacles in their environment, and handle objects with precision and care.
A TV remote brings convenient control of the TV from a distance.
These are just some examples that use transducers to respond to a stimulus, process information and perform an action.
The D1750 is a self-contained trainer that allows learners to interconnect functional blocks to form circuits and fully functioning control systems.
The desk-top unit includes an integral power supply. The high quality, durable construction enables reliable and accurate experimentation.
The open panel access uses 4mm connection for configuring circuits from a choice of 24 sensors, 12 output devices and 21 signal conditioning circuit blocks. 
The trainer also features a shaft assembly that carries:
... a d.c. motor, 
...tachogenerator, [tak-o-generator]
...slotted and reflective opto-sensors for incremental and absolute position, 
...and a 360 degree precision potentiometer [po-ten-she-ometer] with indicator dial for closed-loop position control experiments.
The D1750 trainer can be brought into the classroom and setup with ease. 
It brings to life complex concepts and enables a hands-on approach to learning.
The package includes a comprehensive 375 page curriculum manual with:
...underpinning theory, 
...practical exercises,
...continuous and end of topic assessment.
If used with the optional management system, students' performance can be tracked in real-time and reported.
A 130 page technical manual provides operational and technical data for all the transducers and signal conditioning circuits. 
A separate workbook means students can maintain their own portfolio of work by recording notes, experiment results, calculations, graphs and conclusions. 
Solutions to questions and workbook activities are provided in an instructor's manual. 
As well as students working individually or in small teams, systems on the D1750 trainer can be demonstrated to larger groups using a visualiser and projector. 
Experiments within the curriculum manual look at the function of devices, such as:
...various light sensors,
...temperature sensors,
...strain gauge,
... bar graph,
...potentiometers, [po-ten-she-ometers]
...humidity and pressure sensors,
...linear variable differential transformer,
...relay and solenoid.
The signal conditioning circuit blocks enable the learner to perform experiments with the transducers. They also enable systems to be investigated. For example:
...a proximity detection application using ultrasonics, 
...an incubator temperature control,
...a digital thermometer,
...alarm warning,
...Closed loop motor control,
...and valve controller.
The D1750 Transducers and Instrumentation Trainer will make an excellent addition to electronics, control and engineering programmes.

See http://www.ljcreate.com/d1750 for more information.