Fourier Trilog - Fourier Multilog (2004)

Verdict: Another extensive system to rival what is out there. Clunky design.

Pros: Very well featured data loggers. Cons: Software is complex. 

Trilog works with the Palm handheld computer. Multilog works on the big machines like PCs and Apples. The Multilog data logger features fast recording and a comprehensive range of sensors.

The software is interesting too – there are intuitive data analysis tools and experiment notes in a very helpful video format. The software has some of the best curve fitting tools we’ve seen in this arena. There’s even a way to video your experiment (with a web cam) as you record temperature readings in the usual way. Well that’s the theory anyway. The software is inexpensive and yet comes with a wide school and home license.

Multilog is made by Fourier Systems and sold by Economatics in the UK. Some schools will have purchased an earlier version of Multilog from Scientific & Chemical Supplies www.sci-chem.co.uk.

Economatics - Jeulin VTT (2000)

Verdict: VTT is a very interesting all in one design that gains from working with Insight version 4. Pros: Works round the idea that computers are essential. Cons: Jeulin VTT unit keys and menus could be more intuitive

The Jeulin VTT is stylish and surprisingly capable. Its built-in screen shows results in bar, table and graph displays and this capability works round the need for a PC. The unit’s neat shape offers the look of something designed for measuring both in the field and on the bench. The built-in display shows results on a graph while all sort of buttons and menus offer access to some particularly flexible recording capabilities. These range from short, very fast recordings for physics to unusually leisurely experiments lasting up to a year.

Coming from France, the VTT sports a good range of sensors including some rarely seen examples of interest to biologists. Among them are devices for monitoring electrocardiograms, heart rate, lung ventilation as well as oxygen levels in respiration. Physics teachers might be intrigued by a sensor that accurately measures displacement, and the unit’s oscilloscope mode. A special tablet accessory shows the VTT screen on an overhead projector while sensors can measure distance, breathing rate and lung ventilation. A starter pack brings together a versatile set of sensors together with PC software. A Human Physiology pack (£869) looks like just the thing Biology and PE teachers have been asking for. For starters there’s a heart sensor to show pulse and ECG, even during exercise. But then there’s a ventilation sensor to measure air flow and a ‘respiration box’ to measure oxygen levels. Completing the package is the portable VTT Console that has a tiny screen and many computer-like features. Data you collect can also be uploaded to the computer.

SmartBox is a control box that lets you make say, a model greenhouse where ventilators and heaters can be switched on and off as the model demands. Boxes like Economatic’s SmartBox have the unusual ability to use analogue sensors to monitor the temperatures and control the heater. Although intended for control in 'design and technology' the sensing ability make it that much more versatile. It can even monitor experiments in school science. It will suit situations where both departments (i.e. science and technology) share computing resources. The additional functionality, together with some chunky, not too science focussed sensors make it not the first choice for lab work. Sensors and accessories are good value.

Control technology and robotics is great fun to teach – it’s not ‘in’ the UK science curriculum – but if you’re so inclined you can make models to teach concepts like homeostasis. For example, if you had the low cost (£70) Mains Relay unit, you can switch on ‘big’ equipment like a kettle or hair dryer. SmartBox works with Insight software or Logicator software.

Economatics previously marketed the ‘Discovery’ data logger aimed at primary schools. Numerous sensors and its ability to control motors make this something to share between science teaching and design and technology. This primary logger has now been replaced by Fourier’s ‘Ecolog’