title: An Inexpensive, Open-Source USB Arduino Data Acquisition Device for Chemical Instrumentation.
abstract: Many research and teaching labs rely on USB data acquisition devices to collect voltage signals from instrumentation. However, these devices can be cost-prohibitive (especially when large numbers are needed for teaching labs) and require software to be developed for operation. In this article, we describe the development and use of an open-source USB data acquisition device (with 16-bit acquisition resolution) built using simple electronic components and an Arduino Uno that costs under $50. Additionally, open-source software written in Python is included so that data can be acquired using nearly any PC or Mac computer with a simple USB connection. Use of the device was demonstrated for a sophomore-level analytical experiment using GC and a CE-UV separation on an instrument used for research purposes.
authors.affiliation: Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109.
authors.forename: James P
authors.initials: JP
authors.lastname: Grinias
authors.affiliation: Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109; Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109.
authors.forename: Jason T
authors.initials: JT
authors.lastname: Whitfield
authors.affiliation: Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109.
authors.forename: Erik D
authors.initials: ED
authors.lastname: Guetschow
authors.affiliation: Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109; Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109.
authors.forename: Robert T
authors.initials: RT
authors.lastname: Kennedy
keywords: Analytical Chemistry; Computer-Based Learning; Graduate Education/Research; Instrumental Methods; Laboratory Computing/Interfacing; Laboratory Equipment/Apparatus; Laboratory Instruction; Second-Year Undergraduate