TLU Optical Spectroscopy Research Lab: ​Solution development for renewed functionality​

This work involves updating the control and data acquisition capabilities for instruments in the TLU Optical spectroscopy lab. Instrumentation in the lab is more than two decades old and fully functional. However, the computers (PCs), interfaces and software have undergone several generational upgrades in that same time span, making the equipment obsolete when paired with current computers and the instruments were no longer supported by the manufacturer. In a true test of the scientific method, an investigation of the compatibility between instruments, PCs of various ages, operating systems, and control software versions was undertaken. The challenge of combining older model GPIB protocol with current USB interfacing methods required numerous iterations to discover the right order and combination of installation, connections, and settings. Success was achieved with an internet archived version of Windows XP cleverly installed on a newer model PC, allowing for the original control software to function properly. This work served as an example of the importance of following and relying on the scientific method, where knowledge is often gained through failure and success comes only after persistence and careful attention to detail.