The physics department at Luther College will update microcomputer equipment and improve its contribution to physics instruction throughout the physics curriculum. First generation KIM and PET microcomputers were introduced beginning 9 years ago in lower division laboratories and course work. These are now obsolete, and they will be replaced with PC- XT type computer stations in order to keep students abreast of important current technology and introduce new capabilities in the courses. The upper division curriculum will be strengthened by purchase of new advanced microcomputers: the PC-AT 16-bit microcomputer, and a 32 bit accelerator board for a Mac-Plus. These will be used to expand instruction in techniques important to the forefront of physics: modeling of complex systems, and the numerical solution of problems by computer. The excellent graphics, very large memory, and high computational speed will permit a new class of problems to be attacked by our students, and also enable new student/faculty research opportunities. In addition, a new telescope mount will be purchased to permit completion of a student-originated research project which involves the computer control of a 14-inch telescope.
