Frequently Asked Questions About Vernier LabPro®
What are the differences between LabPro and the Universal Lab Interface?
How does LabPro compare to the Serial Box Interface?
Can I use LabPro with a new computer that does not have a serial port?
What computer software do I use with LabPro?
How is LabPro different from the new CBL 2™?
How is LabPro different from the original CBL™?
How is LabPro different from Go! Link?
How do I take data remotely using LabPro?
Can I use my old sensors with LabPro?
What about curricular materials?
What is included with the LabPro system?
How much does it cost and when can I get a LabPro?
Q: What are the differences between LabPro and the Universal Lab Interface?
A: LabPro has all the features of our Universal Lab Interface (ULI) and many more. It features
automatic sensor recognition with six independent channels: four analog and two digital. LabPro can
be used with a computer or a TI graphing calculator. It can also be used as a stand-alone data
logger. When used with a computer, it can be connected to the serial port or a USB port. It collects
data faster than our ULI and supports analog output. LabPro is also less expensive than the ULI!
Q: How does LabPro compare to the Serial Box Interface?
A: LabPro supports more data collection channels than the Serial Box: four analog channels instead of
two. Not only can LabPro be used with a computer, but it is completely portable as well. It can be
used in the field with a TI graphing calculator or as a stand-alone device. Unlike the Serial Box
Interface, LabPro can collect radiation, motion, and sound data.
Q: Can I use LabPro with a new computer that does not have a serial port?
A: Yes, you can connect LabPro directly to the USB port on your iMac, iBook, G3, or G4 Macintosh
computer. You do not need a USB-to-serial adapter. If you are using newer versions of Windows, you can
also use USB. Windows 95 does not support USB, but it can use LabPro via a serial connection.
Q: What computer software do I use with LabPro?
A: Our award winning Logger Pro software supports the use of all our sensors with LabPro.
LabPro will only work with Logger Pro version 2.0 and later. If you have Logger Pro version 1, you can download a free Logger Pro upgrade to Logger Pro 2.2.1. An upgrade to Logger Pro 3 is also available.
Q: How is LabPro different from the CBL 2?
A: LabPro and CBL 2 are the results of a collaborative effort between Vernier Software and Texas
Instruments. The interfaces share the same shape, cradle and overall look, but LabPro has more analog
and digital ports. LabPro uses a 12-bit A/D converter, which means it has higher resolution than CBL
2. It also supports analog output. CBL and CBL 2 are primarily designed for use with TI Graphing
Calculator. LabPro connects directly to either calculators or computers. (TI plans to support the use
of CBL and CBL 2 with their TI Interactive! computer software and the TI-GRAPH LINK™ cable.)
Q: How is LabPro different from the original CBL?
A: LabPro connects directly to calculators or computers. It has the calculator programs stored in Flash
ROM. With a single button press, the calculator program is loaded into the graphing calculator. LabPro
has more memory and it collects data faster. It has more analog and digital ports. It supports a wider
range of sensors, including two motion detectors at the same time. LabPro supports a wider range of auto
ID sensors.
Q: How is LabPro different from Go! Link?
Go! Link is a single-channel, analog-only interface. While it is lower cost than a LabPro, the LabPro offers six inputs, including two digital. The Go! Link works only with a computer.
Q: How do I take data remotely using LabPro?
A: There are two ways to take data remotely: one method uses a calculator and the other does not. To take
data with LabPro by itself, you simply press the Quick Setup button. This prepares the unit to collect
data. Then press the Start/Stop button to begin collecting data. Press the Start/Stop button to stop data
collection. The second option is to connect LabPro to a TI graphing calculator. The LabPro System even
includes a cradle that holds the calculator and LabPro together.
Q: Can I use my old sensors with LabPro?
A: Yes. LabPro uses the same connectors as the original CBL. Since almost all Vernier sensors have been
compatible with CBL for years, this will not be a problem. If you have Vernier computer sensors with order
codes that end in "-DIN" or "-DG", you will need adapters ($5.00 each). Click here for more information about adapters.
Q: What about curricular materials?
A: We have a complete series of new lab books for LabPro for chemistry, biology, physics, physical
science, middle school science, and water quality.
Q: What is included with the LabPro system?
A: You will get everything you need to connect LabPro to a computer or graphing calculator. This includes the LabPro interface, computer USB cable, AC power supply, calculator link cable, DataMate Calculator program, calculator cradle, user's manual, and voltage sensor. Logger Pro computer software is sold separately. As always, our software comes with a site license.
Serial cables are sold separately (order code: CBS-IBM, price $5).
Q: How much does it cost and when can I get a LabPro?
A: LabPro is $220. It is now shipping.
13979 SW Millikan Way
Beaverton, OR 97005-2886