Vernier LabQuest Mini User manual

LabQuest Mini
(Order Code: LQ-MINI)
LabQuest Mini is a multi-channel, data-collection interface
that can be used to collect data from Vernier sensors on
various platforms, such as Windows®and Mac®computers
and Chromebooks™. LabQuest Mini supports a wired (USB)
connection only.
The LabQuest Mini interface contains three analog ports (CH 1–CH 3), two digital
ports (DIG 1 and DIG 2), a mini-USB connection, and a power adapter port
(although power through this port is rarely needed).
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
LabQuest Mini interface
USB cable
Getting Started
Follow these general procedures when using LabQuest Mini. For instructions on
getting started with a specific sensor, see www.vernier.com/start/lq-mini
1. Install software appropriate for the data-collection platform you are using.
2. Connect a supported sensor to LabQuest Mini.
3. Connect the small end of the USB cable to the USB port on LabQuest Mini.
4. Connect the other end of the cable to a USB port on your computer or
Chromebook. The LED will glow orange.
5. Start the software. The LED will change to green. You are now ready to
continue your experiment.
Compatible Platforms, Software, and Sensors
See www.vernier.com/manuals/lq-mini for a list of platforms, software, and sensors
compatible with LabQuest Mini.
Providing Power
Power for LabQuest Mini is supplied by the USB port of the computer or
Chromebook to which it is connected. LabQuest Mini does not need batteries or
an external AC power supply.
Note: There may be configurations that limit how much power is available from
the USB port on a computer or Chromebook. Such configurations may include the
use of other devices that require USB power at the same time as LabQuest Mini. In
these situations, disconnect the other devices or use an external power supply
(order code LQ-PS) to provide additional power to LabQuest Mini.
Connecting Sensors
LabQuest Mini supports two types of sensors—analog and digital. Connect sensors
to the appropriate port on your LabQuest Mini.
Analog Sensors
Examples of analog sensors are temperature probes, pH sensors, and force sensors.
Up to three analog sensors can be connected to LabQuest Mini. The three ports for
analog sensors (CH 1–CH 3) are located on the left side of the unit. These ports
accept British Telecom-style plugs with a right-hand connector.
Digital Sensors
Examples of digital sensors include motion detectors, photogates, and
rotary motion sensors. Up to two digital sensors can be connected to LabQuest
Mini. The two ports for digital sensors (DIG 1 and DIG 2) are located on the top
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side of the unit. These ports accept British Telecom-style plugs with a left-hand
connector.
Note: Most sensors are automatically identified allowing the software to set up a
default experiment. If you are using a sensor that does not auto-ID, you will need
to manually identify the sensor in the software.
LED Behavior
State Meaning
Off Not connected to USB host or no power from USB host
Orange USB connected; not communicating with software
Green Connected to host via USB; ready for data collection
Red USB host failed to enumerate or USB port underpowered
Specifications
Resolution 12 bit
USB specification 2.0 full speed
Maximum sample rate
(computers)
100,000 samples per second (one sensor)
10,000 samples per second (two or more sensors)
Maximum sample rate
(Chromebooks)
10,000 samples per second
Minimum sample rate 0.00125 samples per second (800 seconds/sample)
Size 8.6 cm × 10.5 cm × 2.7 cm
Weight 100 g
Care and Maintenance
Water Resistance
LabQuest Mini is not water resistant and should never be immersed in water. If
water gets in the device, immediately disconnect all sensors and cables. Allow the
unit to dry thoroughly before using it again. Do not attempt to dry it using an
external heat source.
Storage
Do not store LabQuest Mini in a chemical closet or in areas of concentrated
chemical gases.
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How the Interface Works
The LabQuest Mini interface is more than just a physical adapter between two
different connectors. It is hardware that allows Vernier sensors to interact with
computers and Chromebooks. LabQuest Mini contains dedicated electronics for
precise sampling of sensor events. LabQuest Mini timestamps these events so
measurements from multiple sensors can be analyzed simultaneously. To allow
data to flow smoothly, LabQuest Mini manages the communication link between
the sensors and the computing platform.
Troubleshooting
For troubleshooting tips and frequently asked questions regarding LabQuest Mini,
see www.vernier.com/til/2133
Repair Information
If you have followed the troubleshooting steps and are still having trouble with
your LabQuest Mini, contact Vernier Technical Support at [e-mail] or
call 888-837-6437. Support specialists will work with you to determine if the unit
needs to be sent in for repair. At that time, a Return Merchandise Authorization
(RMA) number will be issued and instructions will be communicated on how to
return the unit for repair.
Accessories/Replacements
Item Order Code
LabQuest Power Supply LQ-PS
USB Cable LQ-CB-USB
Warranty
Vernier warrants this product to be free from defects in materials and workmanship
for a period of five years from the date of shipment to the customer.
This warranty does not cover damage to the products caused by abuse or improper
use. This warranty covers educational institutions only.
Disposal
When disposing of this electronic product, do not treat it as household waste. Its
disposal is subject to regulations that vary by country and region. This item
should be given to an applicable collection point for the recycling of electrical
and electronic equipment. By ensuring that this product is disposed of correctly,
you help prevent potential negative consequences on human health or on the
environment. The recycling of materials will help to conserve natural resources.
For more detailed information about recycling this product, contact your local city
office or your disposal service.
The symbol, shown here, indicates that this product must not be disposed of in
a standard waste container.
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Vernier Software & Technology
13979 SW Millikan Way • Beaverton, OR 97005-2886
Toll Free [phone] • [phone] • Fax [phone]
[e-mail] • www.vernier.com
Rev. 6/1/16
LabQuest Mini and other marks shown are our trademarks or registered trademarks in the United States.
All other marks not owned by us that appear herein are the property of their respective owners, who may or may
not be affiliated with, connected to, or sponsored by us.
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