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The silicon-controlled rectifier as an input latch for digital laboratory computer interfaces

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Abstract

Several standard solutions have been developed for problems encountered when monitoring laboratory response sensors with microcomputers. These problems include voltage-level translation, power-supply isolation, contact debouncing, and temporary data storage. Data storage has typically been accomplished through the use of edge-sensitive devices, which introduce difficulties when a researcher wishes to monitor the duration of a response. A circuit is described that includes an optoisolator with a silicon-controlled rectifier at its output stage. The circuit acts as a latch for the detection of brief responses, and, because it is not edge-sensitive, it can also be used to record the duration of sustained responses.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychology & Counseling, University of Central Arkansas, 72032, Conway, AR

    Michael T. Scoles

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  1. Michael T. Scoles
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Additional information

This work was supported by a grant from the University of Central Arkansas Research Council.

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Scoles, M.T. The silicon-controlled rectifier as an input latch for digital laboratory computer interfaces. Behavior Research Methods, Instruments, & Computers 22, 302–304 (1990). https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03209820

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03209820

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