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Vernier Science Education Unveils the Vernier Energy Counter

In an exciting development for educational tools, Vernier Science Education has introduced the Vernier Energy Counter, specifically designed for elementary and middle school students. This innovative device enables young learners to effectively measure and compare the energy output from renewable sources such as wind and solar. This hands-on opportunity stands as a significant step in engaging students in real-world scientific exploration.

The Vernier Energy Counter was launched recently, allowing students to interactively engage with KidWind wind turbines and solar panels. During KidWind challenges, students are encouraged to design, build, and rigorously test various turbine models with the aim of maximizing their energy production. With the new counter, students are able to simply connect their turbine or solar model, press a button, and run a 30-second test. They’ll then receive an immediate digital reading of the energy produced in joules, all without the need for a computer or the complexities of multimeter calculations.

Jill Hedrick, CEO of Vernier Science Education, expressed the company’s commitment to fostering scientific curiosity among students. She stated, “Exploring renewable energy with KidWind gives students an early opportunity to practice science and engineering skills through hands-on projects. The Vernier Energy Counter makes measuring energy output straightforward and helps students learn to interpret results. This is key for building skills that mirror real-world scientists and engineers while also prepping them for more advanced technology in the future.”

In terms of features, the Vernier Energy Counter boasts a digital display that clearly shows the total energy output. Additionally, it includes a built-in 30 Ω load, source inputs accommodating potentials of up to ±12 V and currents of up to ±400 mA. To enhance usability in the classroom, the Energy Counter is powered by a long-lasting rechargeable battery that can facilitate over 100 tests of KidWind turbines and solar panels on a single charge.

To assist teachers in integrating the Vernier Energy Counter into their curricula, two free investigations have been made available. These concise investigations, titled Investigating Wind Energy, Lesson 06: Blade Design Pitch and Wind Energy Explorations, Lesson 05: Blade Variable Pitch, guide students through various experiments. They will test different blade designs, measure energy output, and use their findings to discern which configurations yield the most energy.

For educators looking to introduce this innovative tool, the Vernier Energy Counter is priced at $85 and is fully compatible with the KidWind products available from Vernier. Additionally, it comes backed by comprehensive product support and a robust five-year limited warranty, ensuring that schools have a reliable resource at their disposal.

To learn more about the Vernier Energy Counter and to explore how it can enhance STEM education, visit Vernier's website.

About Vernier Science Education

For over 45 years, Vernier Science Education has been dedicated to supporting STEM education by creating reliable and effective educational resources. Their solutions encompass a wide range of hardware, software, assessments, and professional development aimed at empowering educators. Vernier prides itself on being an authentic partner to educators, helping to nurture a new generation of problem solvers and innovative thinkers in a STEM-literate society. To discover more, visit Vernier’s website.