Solution 11565: Calibrating the Vernier® Gas Pressure Sensor.
How can I calibrate the gas pressure sensor?
It is not required to calibrate the gas pressure sensor. Vernier® has set the sensor to match the stored calibration before shipping it. Simply use the calibration file stored in the ChemBio program.
To perform a custom calibration, follow the steps below:
• For the first calibration point:
Open the 3-way valve on the sensor to the atmosphere, so it equilibrates to atmosphere pressure. When the voltage reading displayed on the calculator screen stabilizes, enter the atmospheric pressure, as recorded with a barometer.
• For the second calibration point, DO ONE OF THE FOLLOWING:
1. Use the syringe provided with the gas pressure sensor to produce a pressure very near zero. Before connecting the syringe, push its plunger all the way in to the 0 mL mark. Connect the syringe directly to the gas pressure sensor stem. To produce near zero pressure, pull the plunger out to the 20 mL position. If the syringe and valve have a tight seal, the pressure will be approximately 0 kPa or
2. Apply pressure with a pump, measuring it at the same time with a pressure gauge or
3. Before connecting the syringe, move the plunger on the syringe so that the syringe volume is set at 10 mL. Connect the syringe to the stem of the gas pressure sensor. Move the syringe plunger so that the voltage reading displayed on the computer or calculator is 3.0 volts. Enter a value of 139.4 kPa as the value (or 1.376 atm, or 1045.9 mm Hg) for this calibration point.