Vernier Go Direct User Manual page 2

Powering the Sensor
Connect the unit to a USB device such as a USB port on a computer or
Chromebook, a USB wall outlet, or USB power brick. External power is
required even if you are using the device with a wireless data connection. When
connected to a USB port with adequate power, the unit will automatically wake
up.
Connecting the Sensor
See the following link for up-to-date connection information:
www.vernier.com/start/gdx-pl
Connecting via Bluetooth Wireless Technology
Ready to connect Red LED flashes when sensor is powered and
ready to connect.
Connected Green LED flashes when sensor is connected via
Bluetooth wireless technology.
Connecting via USB
Connected via USB, data- Red LED flashes when sensor is powered and
collection software is not ready to connect.
running
Connected via USB, data- Green LED is solid when connected to the soft-
collection software is run- ware via USB.
ning
Identifying the Sensor
Use the Identify feature to flash the LED on the sensor that is connected via
Bluetooth wireless technology. In Graphical Analysis 4, Identify is accessed
from Sensor Information. In LabQuest App, Identify is accessed by tapping the
sensor meter, then tapping Go Direct.
Using the Product
Follow these steps when using the Go Direct Projectile Launcher when
performing basic launch experiments.
1. Place the launcher on a flat surface and secure. We recommend placing the
launcher on a sturdy table and securing the launcher to the table with table
clamps (not included).
2. Connect the hand pump to the launcher.
3. Connect the sensor following the steps in the Getting Started section of this
user manual.
4. Loosen the knob on the back of the unit, rotate the launch chamber to the
desired launch angle, then secure the knob.
5. Set the release pressure by adjusting the range knob. Turn clockwise for
higher pressure and higher muzzle velocity and counter-clockwise for lower
pressure and lower muzzle velocity.
6. Insert one steel ball into the launch chamber. This is most easily done by
inserting the ball into the launch chamber with your index finger, guiding
the ball into the launch chamber. The ball should seat all the way to the
back of the launch chamber.
7. Pump the hand pump until the pressure stabilizes. You should hear a small
release sound when that pressure is reached. We recommend listening for at
least three small release sounds and then waiting for five seconds to ensure
the pressure has fully stabilized.
8. Start data collection.
9. Press and hold the Arm button. While still pressing the Arm button, press
the Launch button to launch the steel ball.
10. Observe the range of the ball and position the waxed tape along the line of
sight for subsequent data collection.
Channels
The Go Direct Projectile Launcher has two measurement channels, both of
which are active when the sensor is connected. The channel names are
Launch Speed
l
Launch Angle
l
Note: The two embedded photogates and the accessory port are logically linked
together to provide a single-channel output from these sensors, reported as Gate
State. The gate state data is used to determine the launch speed of the projectile.
Calibrating the Sensor
Angle
The Angle sensor channel is factory calibrated before the sensor is shipped. It is
possible to apply a single-point calibration offset if the displayed angle is off
compared to a known angle (as determined by using a level).
To set the angle calibration offset, complete the following steps:
1. Click or tap the angle channel meter to view sensor options.
2. Select Calibrate.
3. Adjust the launch barrel to the desired position.
4. Enter the known angle and click or tap Keep.
5. Click or tap Apply to store the calibration offset to the sensor.
To remove the offset and restore the factory calibration, complete the following
steps:
1. Click or tap the angle channel meter and choose Calibrate.
2. Click or tap Reset to Defaults to restore the factory calibration.
Note: The embedded photogates do not require calibration.
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