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Vernier, Variable Bring Sensor Platform to STEM Classrooms

Vernier has partnered with Variable to bring the latter company's iPad-based modular wireless sensor platform, Node, to science classrooms.

The Node sensor platform connects to an iOS device via Bluetooth to transfer data from the built-in gyroscope, accelerometer, or magnetometer. The device also includes USB expansion ports at each end to add additional sensor modules.

Additional features of Node include:

  • Multiple, simultaneous data streams;
  • Open APIs for all sensor modules;
  • A 12-hour continuous-use battery life; and
  • A 256-bit encryption engine.

"The addition of the Node platform to our line of data-collection technology for science and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) education brings exciting new potential for students around the world," said David Vernier, co-founder of Vernier Software & Technology and former physics teacher, in a prepared statement. "Educators using tablets and other mobile devices have the flexibility to use these wireless sensors with many of the experiments we have written to support science standards and to let students tap into their own creativity to explore science concepts."

Normally available for $149, the iOS-only version of the Node is currently selling for $99. A version compatible with iOS, Android, Windows, Mac OS X, Raspberry Pi, and Linux devices is available for $149.

More information is available at nodesensors.com.

About the Author

Joshua Bolkan is contributing editor for Campus Technology, THE Journal and STEAM Universe. He can be reached at [email protected].

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