This project creates a laboratory for signal processing and instrument interfacing. The two workstation laboratory demonstrates state-of-the-art signal processing using simple object oriented programming of familiar computers. The laboratory is multi- disciplinary with applications in Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Biology, Chemistry, Communication, and Music. Topics covered include digital and analog signal production, signal transmission through practical media, signal reception, and processing. Specific topics include modems, signal synthesis, harmonic analysis, programming signal processors, computer- instrument interfacing, and computer networks. The laboratory enhances the student's understanding of the technical and economic limits of computers and communication. Students interface sensors with computers and evaluate their limitations. The students also write and test signal processing software and use signal processing software to evaluate the technical limits of various real-world systems. The award is being matched by an equal amount from the principal investigator's institution.
