Vernier Data Pro - Manual (Page 15)

Data Pro 13
LabPro Tutorial 4: Collect Motion Data
The Vernier Motion Detector measures the distance to an object using echoing ultrasonic sound
waves. Data Pro then calculates the velocity and acceleration. This tutorial will show you how to
use a Motion Detector and make a graph of a walking person.
MATERIALS
Palm OS device Data Pro program
LabPro interface Motion Detector
walk back and forth
in front of
Motion Detector
PROCEDURE
1. Place the Motion Detector so that it points toward an open space at least 4 m long.
2. Connect the Vernier Motion Detector to the DIG/SONIC 1 port of the LabPro interface.
Use the interface cable to connect the LabPro to the Palm. Firmly press in the cable ends.
3. Turn on the Palm and start the Data Pro program. If you are on the Main
screen, tap to clear any sensors and default settings. (Or, if you are
not on the Main screen, tap Data Pro at the top of screen, and choose
New from the pull-down menu.)
4. Slowly move your hand to and from the Motion Detector and watch the
right-hand corner of the screen as Data Pro gives a live readout of the
distance (in meters). Keep your hand at least 0.4 m from the detector; if
you get closer than that the readings will be unreliable.
5. The sensor is set to collect data for five seconds. Tap to collect
data. Or, you can press the left-most key on your Palm OS device to start
collecting data. You will notice a fast clicking sound coming from the
Motion Detector. Wait one second, and then walk slowly away from the
Motion Detector. Stop for a moment, and then walk toward the Motion
Detector. The screen will give a sampling message.
6. After data collection is complete, you will be presented with a graph of
distance vs. time.