Lab 02 Introduction to LabTutor Laboratory Handout

Introduction to LabTutor and PowerLab

• Purpose: Familiarization with PowerLab hardware and LabTutor software through simple recordings using a finger pulse transducer.

• Explanation of specialized features will be provided during specific lab sessions.

Background on ADInstruments

• ADInstruments provides both hardware and software for acquiring, storing, and analyzing data.

• Data Acquisition Process:

  • Transducer: Converts physiological signals (e.g., blood pressure, body temperature) into an analog voltage.

  • Signal Conditioning: Involves amplification and filtering of the voltage, including zeroing to remove unwanted steady offset.

  • Analog-to-Digital Conversion: The conditioned analog signal is sampled and converted into digital form for analysis on a computer.

PowerLab Hardware

• PowerLab Unit: A recording instrument that captures electrical signals via inputs on its front panel and outputs signals effectively.

• Extensions: Additional hardware such as front-ends and pods are available to enhance capabilities.

• PowerLab 4/25T: A specific model suited for teaching laboratories, featuring:

  • Four-channel recording instrument.

  • Built-in Bio Amplifiers for optimal biological signal recording.

  • Built-in Isolated Stimulator for safe electrical stimuli used in certain exercises.

• Setup: Attach cables to connectors on the PowerLab for signal measurement through LabTutor software.

• Control: The hardware interface is software-driven with no physical knobs or dials.

LabTutor Software

• LabTutor Overview: A web-based software for laboratory teaching that facilitates hardware control and data visualization.

• Functionality:

  • Controls hardware sampling and displays sampled data points.

  • Reconstructs the original waveform visually using lines between data points.

  • Mimics traditional chart recorders using a scrolling display area.

  • Digital data storage for future access, enabling further data manipulation and analysis.

Organization of LabTutor Laboratories

• Structure of LabTutor experiments:

  • Each experiment starts with an index page:

    • Contains a brief introduction and link to background materials.

    • Lists learning objectives related to the experiment.

  • Exercises: Tasks aimed at achieving specified learning objectives.

    • Highlighted text includes links to pop-up information, tips, and references.

  • Data Recording: Accomplished through a LabTutor panel.

  • Analysis Page: Allows for data measurement, completion of tables, and graph creation based on recorded data.