With the recent introduction of relatively inexpensive Digital Signal Processing (DSP) cards for PCs, a large number of sophisticated and innovative acoustics experiments involving digital fast Fourier transform (FFT) spectrum analysis become possible at a considerable savings compared with stand-alone FFT analyzers. This grant remedies the lack of equipment to perform FFT spectrum analysis in the laboratory of the introductory musical acoustics course, The Science of Music. The labs had been based on stand-alone digital storage oscilloscopes. The lack of FFT capability is a serious pedagogical deficiency in light of the enormous importance of harmonic spectra to the understanding of the physics of sound and musical instruments. Fourier analysis is often a difficult concept for students to understand in the abstract. They need to be provided hands-on laboratory experiences to enhance their understanding. This grant equips eight previously purchased computer lab stations in the acoustics lab with DSP cards and software required to perform FFT analysis. In addition, one unit is being placed in the PC dedicated to the acoustics lecture room, facilitating in-class demonstrations and discussions. Additional utilization of the new equipment occurs the form of senior research projects, advanced laboratory experiments (for physics majors), and use in a new course in Physical Acoustics for majors.
