CBL
Lab 7

Matching Distance vs. Time Graphs 

In this lab you will learn to use a motion detector interfaced with CBL and calculator to measure distances and times as you move within the room. You will also begin to learn how motion can be represented with graphs.

motion detector with CBL adapter

TI-83 calculator

TI CBL

link cable

DTMATCH program

meter stick

1. Attach the calculator to the CBL with the link cable.
2. Plug the motion detector with adapter into the sonic port of the CBL.
3. Plug the CBL ac adapter into the wall outlet and turn on the calculator and CBL.

1. Press the[PRGM] key on the calculator and select the DTMATCH program. Press [ENTER] to begin the DTMATCH program.
2. Hit enter to display the "challenge" distance versus time graph. Each tick mark in the y axis represents 0.5 meter and each tick mark on the x axis represents 0.5 second.
3. Plan how you will collect motion data that will match the given graph. One person should hold the detector as another person walks in front of the detector. Hit [ENTER] to collect your data. NOTE: the motion detector will give inaccurate values for objects closer than 0.5 m and farther than about 6.0 m.
4. Sketch the "challenge" graph and your graph on the same set of axes below.
5. Describe the motion necessary to match the "challenge" graph.
6. Repeat for several different challenges.

Motion description:

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