1. How is the CBL 2 different from the CBL?

The CBL 2 has a built in software program called DataMate which can be loaded on your calculator in a manner of seconds. In addition, the CBL 2 has two features which increase its ease of use: one, a shorter link cable, and two, a cradle. The cradle allows you to couple the calculator and the CBL 2 unit together as a single unit which creates the need for a shorter link cable. Both help make the CBL 2 less cumbersome for field studies. Also, the increased memory allows for expanded data point collection as well as an increased ability to archive data.

Texas Instruments developed the CBL 2 in response to a request from teachers for a easy to use CBL.

2. What is the necessary power source to run the CBL 2 unit?

Four 1.5 volt AA batteries or a single 6 volt lantern type battery. The 6 volt battery is only recommended for long term experiments.

Note: See the manual packaged with your CBL 2 to determine how to connect a 6 volt battery.

The CBL 2 can also be powered with an AC adapter which may be purchased from Texas Instruments. There are two adapters which are approved for use with the CBL 2, model AC-9920 or AC-9201. Call Texas Instruments Customer Support Line for more information. 1-800-842-2737

3. How often should the batteries be changed?

When the low battery icon is visible in the lower right hand corner of the calculator, the batteries should be changed immediately. This icon will appear on the main screen when you are running the DataMate software program. The batteries can be checked at any time by following this procedure:

On the main screen menu, select 5 which is "TOOLS." On the "TOOLS" menu select 3 which is "CHECK BATTERY."

Note: The batteries should be the first checkpoint if you are having problems with your data collection procedure.

4. How much does the CBL 2 cost?

When purchased from Texas Instruments, the CBL 2 costs $166.00. The CBL 2 is packaged with three probes: a temperature probe, a voltage probe and a light probe. Also included is the cradle, a six inch link cable, a teacher guide, a resource CD and 4 AA batteries so you can get started in minutes collecting data.

5. What other sensors should I buy?

Several teachers suggested the following probes and sensors would be the most useful to complete a general science setup:

• Motion detector-this sensor will also be used by the math teachers, so the cost can be shared.
• pH
• Gas Pressure sensor
• Microphone

Vernier will create a bundled package which will include the CBL 2, a lab manual, and 3-5 sensors related to the discipline you are teaching. The following packages are available:

• Biology Packages
• Chemistry Packages
• Physics Packages
• Physical Science Packages
• Water Quality Packages
• Middle School Packages
• Mathematics Packages
• Comprehensive Science Package

Visit Vernier's web site for additional information.

Vernier CBL 2 Science Packages http://www.vernier.com/pkgs/packcbl2.html

6. Is it possible to use a TI-73 calculator with the CBL 2?

The following calculators are compatible with the CBL 2: TI-73, TI-82, TI-83, TI-83 Plus, TI-86, TI-89, TI-92, and the TI-92 Plus. The CBL 2 automatically determines which calculator is attached and loads the relevant software.

Additional questions can be answered by visiting the Texas Instruments CBL 2 web site or Vernier's web site.

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