Requirements for a successful cosmic ray detector workshop

Construction

Items needed:

  • If constructing detector(s):
    • CRMD kit
    • 6000 series CRMD assembly instructions (included with CRMD kit)
    • tools:
      • multi-meter (digital, accurate to 0.01 v or better)
      • scissors
      • ruler or meter stick 
      • sandpaper
      • "tongue-depressor" stick (in CRMD kit)
      • razor or box cutters
      • tape measure (50ft/20m)
      • protractor
      • extra cotton gloves for handling scintillator
      • optional: oscilloscope
    • supplies:
      • 3/4" (~2 cm) and 3" (~8 cm) electrical tape -- black vinyl
      • ** 1/2" (~1.3 cm) teflon plumbing tape
  • power strip(s) for computers and CRMD
  • good room to construct and setup the detector with table top space
  • access to the outside for placement of the GPS receiver: must have clear view of the sky and within 75 feet of the detector for cable run (antenna can look through a window)
  • one computer with USB port for talking to the detector and capturing data
  • USB drive for each teacher to upload data and download online files
  • verify: data computer will not go into 'sleep' mode; Windows: check 'Control Panel'
  • need apps:  'hyperterm' on Win; 'ZTerm' on Mac.  These can be downloaded free.
  • USB drivers installed on data computers for “6000” series DAQ, found at:
  • User agreement for teacher who will use the detector at school

 

Venue

Needed for the e-Lab workshop:

  • build teacher accounts ahead of time. Need:
  • access for facilitator machine on the local network
    • computer access for each participant with internet (IT staff available: trouble-shooting)
    • root access to each computer for installing apps and rebooting.
    • ability to print e-Lab resources
    • LCD projector: two would be best, but one is OK
    • black/white board & markers
  • Print:

Other considerations:

  • Set-up and clean-up of room
  • Name tags (optional but helpful; romaji kudasai)
  • Tables, outlets, lighting, space, etc.
  • Computers for detectors and presentation (QuarkNet team may have sufficient for presentation)
  • Projector and screen
  • Internet Access (important)
  • Notebooks/pens/markers (participants bring?)
  • Venue and/or Parking Passes if Necessary
  • Food related: tea, snack, lunch?

Important Human Elements:

  • Physicist to give teachers a talk on cosmic rays
  • Presence of local physicist-mentor(s) for teachers
  • Continued communication after the workshop
  • Translator(s) are helpful for international workshops