Building Scientific Apparatus

Building Scientific Apparatus provides the basic principles of mechanics, optics and electronics required for the design and construction of unique laboratory devices. The required technical skills, as well as the workings of individual components, are described along with tricks of the trade that cannot be found elsewhere. Concise text along with tables of materials properties and the characteristics of optical, electronic, and thermal devices are complemented by hundreds of hand-drawn illustrations. Second Keypoint: Utilizing original drawings and examples, this book refines technical jargon to help scientists understand and create the apparatus and mechanisms fundamental to their studies.. This best-selling book removes the mystery in building scientific apparatus. Every scientific apparatus requires a mechanical structure, even a device that is fundamentally electronic or optical in nature. A successful scientist must acquire many engineering skills in order to proceed efficiently with an experimental investigation. This volume provides a practical guide for working scientists who need to capitalize on new and unfamiliar technologies as they go about their work. } Building Scientific Apparatus is a unique single-volume reference for the scientist or engineer whose work requires the construction of unique apparatus. The basic principles of mechanics, optics and electronics required in the design of laboratory devices are covered in sufficient detail that reference to other texts is seldom necessary. Technical skills such as glassblowing, machining, mechanical drawing, soldering, are described along with many of the tricks of the trade that cannot be found elsewhere. The text describes the design and workings of components such as vacuum pumps, mirrors and lenses, and electronic circuits. The appropriate integration of components into a working apparatus is discussed, as is the questions of whether components are to be fabricated or purchased. In the latter case, text helps with the writing of specifications. Building Scientific Apparatus features clear, concise text. There are comprehensive tables of materials properties, and the characteristics of optical, electronic, and thermal devices. The text is complemented by hundreds of hand-drawn illustrations.Previous editions of Building Scientific Apparatus have become the standard text for practicing scientists and engineers who build their own laboratory apparatus. The book is the ideal introduction for graduate students beginning research in the physical, engineering, or biological scienceseven the social sciences when apparatus is required. The book has a definite appeal and usefulness for amateur scientists as well. At least a quarter of the Third Edition of Building Scientific Apparatus is new material. The remaining text has been reviewed and updated, as have many of the illustrations. }