Vernier DTS-EC Manual

Vernier Dynamics
Cart and Track
System with Motion
Encoder
(Order Codes DTS-EC and DTS-EC-LONG)
The Dynamics Cart and Track System with Motion Encoder is outfitted for the
precise study of dynamics cart motion without the use of ultrasonic motion
detectors. Instead of a traditional motion detector, the system makes use of a novel
Motion Encoder System. The encoder consists of several parts:
A track with an encoder strip along the length of the track
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A dynamics cart with an optical encoder and infrared (IR) transmitter
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An IR receiver that attaches to the end of a track
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The encoder strip consists of alternating black and white bars with a 4 mm period,
allowing the optical sensor to detect the passage of the bars as the cart moves.
With two sensors appropriately placed on the underside of the cart, a change in
position with 1 mm resolution can be determined, as well as the direction of travel
of the cart. A narrow infrared beam transmits motion data to a receiver.
No alignments or adjustments are necessary, as the receiver attaches firmly to the
track, and the cart rides in slots on the track. The IR beam is not affected by
reflections from nearby objects.
The system is designed for use in physics and physical science courses for motion
and energy experiments. An optional Optics Expansion Kit (order code OEK)
converts the track to an optics bench. A 2.2 m track is also available.
Some typical experiments done with the system include
Motion under zero acceleration
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Motion under constant acceleration with the ramp inclined
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Inelastic collisions using the included hook-and-pile tabs
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Elastic collisions using the included magnetic bumpers
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Note: Vernier products are designed for educational use. Our products are not
designed nor are they recommended for any industrial, medical, or commercial
process such as life support, patient diagnosis, control of a manufacturing
process, or industrial testing of any kind.
What's Included
Motion Encoder Cart with 2 magnetic and 2 plain collision tabs (requires
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2 AAA batteries, not included)
Motion Encoder Receiver
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Plunger Cart with 2 magnetic and 4 plain collision tabs
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Cart Masses (4) – 125 g
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Combination 1.2 m Dynamics Track/Optics Bench with encoder strip*
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Adjustable Leveling Feet (2)
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Mounting hardware for Dual-Range Force Sensor and Low-g Accelerometer
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(2 large bolts and 4 small bolts)
Adjustable End Stop
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Motion Detector Bracket
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Motion Detector Reflector Flag with 2 magnetic collision tabs
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Photogate Brackets (2)
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Rod Clamp
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Allen wrench 3/32 inch
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Ultra Pulley
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Pulley Bracket
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*The Dynamics Cart and Track System with Motion Encoder and Long Track
includes the parts listed above but substitutes a 2.2 m track for the 1.2 m track.
Compatible Software
See
www.vernier.com/manuals/dts-ec
Vernier Dynamics Cart and Track System with Motion Encoder.
WARNING: The Motion Encoder Receiver is not compatible with the Texas
Instruments TI-Nspire Lab Cradle. Connecting the Receiver to the Lab Cradle
will render the Cradle inoperative, requiring repair by Texas Instruments.
Getting Started
1. Attach the receiver to the end of the track, matching the encoder strip on the
track to the markings on the receiver.
2. Place the track on a level surface.
3. Insert two AAA batteries (not included) into the encoder cart.
4. While the battery compartment is open, move the switch to the appropriate
distance for the track you are using. Use 1 m for the 1.2 meter track, and use
2 m for the 2.2 meter track.
5. Connect the receiver to the interface (LabQuest 3, LabQuest Mini, etc.).
Launch the data-collection software (Vernier Graphical Analysis
®
LabQuest App).
6. Turn on the cart by pressing the power button. It will glow blue when the cart
is on.
7. Place the cart on the track, wheels in grooves, with the blue light facing the
receiver.
8. Begin data collection, and let the cart roll.
Need additional information?
Visit the following link:
www.vernier.com/start/dts-ec
Calibrating the Sensor
Calibration of the Motion Encoder System is not necessary nor is it possible. The
printed bars on the track determine the scale, and the cart encoder counts the
passage of the bars. Available units are meters and feet, selectable in the software.
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for a list of software compatible with the
®
or