DataSnap™ Impact STEM Lab

What grade levels is the DataSnap Motion Sensor designed for?
The DataSnap Motion Sensor is ideal for upper elementary, middle, and high school students exploring STEM, physics, and engineering concepts.

How does this sensor differ from traditional data collection methods?
The DataSnap Motion Sensor drives engagement by making setup and operation easy. Moving beyond the stopwatch and calculator of the past, the sensor collects, calculates, and presents accurate data directly to students, allowing them to deeply engage in the iterative engineering design process.

What data does it collect?
Using multiple integrated sensors and advanced algorithms, the DataSnap Motion Sensor measures and displays values of position, velocity, acceleration, and force data. Results are presented through easy-to-read graphs in the free DataSnap app.

How do students access the data?
Students connect the sensor to the free DataSnap app using Bluetooth® technology. The app displays lesson-specific data and visualizations that help students analyze results and make design improvements.

How many students can use the sensor?
The wireless design makes it easy to share sensors among student teams. While classroom needs vary, we generally recommend two to eight sensors per class.

What is the difference between the Standard and Advanced Curriculum?
The Standard Curriculum focuses on building conceptual understanding, while the Advanced Curriculum incorporates algebra-based math skills for deeper analysis and application.

Is teacher training or support included?
Each STEM Lab (sold separately) includes two curriculum levels, student-facing lesson slide presentations, printable student engineering workbooks, and a teacher guide designed for easy classroom implementation.

What devices does the DataSnap app work on?
The DataSnap app works in Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge on Chromebooks, laptops, desktop computers, and select tablets. It is supported on Windows and Mac operating systems but does not operate on iOS.

What other program support do you provide?
We provide free webinars, blogs, and classroom resources to help educators successfully implement STEM learning experiences.

What STEM Labs does this DataSnap Motion Sensor work with?
The DataSnap Motion Sensor is compatible with multiple DataSnap STEM Labs. For a complete comparison, see the DataSnap Comparison Chart.

DataSnap Comparison Chart

What hardware is required?
You will need a Bluetooth-enabled Chromebook, laptop, or desktop computer with internet access and either the Chrome or Edge browser.

Are student accounts required?
No. The DataSnap app does not require user accounts, and student data is not stored.

What happens if the sensor is dropped?
The sensor is engineered to withstand the drops and impacts specified in the curriculum activities.

How do you charge the sensor?
Place the sensor into the magnetic charging dock.

How long will the battery last?
Each sensor’s battery will last six hours when fully charged. We recommend using the charging cases as a “Pairing Station” in the classroom, where students bring their device to be paired with the sensor.

How do students know which sensor they are paired to?
When paired, the sensor’s LED lights match the color shown in the DataSnap app. Students can also select the sensor icon in the app to flash the sensor light and confirm the connection.

How does the sensor perform updates?
Sensor firmware updates are delivered through the DataSnap app when available. The app will notify the user when an update is needed.

How many devices can a sensor connect to at once?
Each sensor can only connect to one device at a time. Placing the sensor on the powered charging case will disconnect the Bluetooth connection.

What is the range between the device and sensor?
The typical operating range is approximately 30 feet (9 meters).

What happens if the sensor moves out of range?
The app may indicate that the connection has been lost. Move the sensor closer to the device and reconnect through the pairing process.

How does this lab differ from a traditional egg drop challenge?

It incorporates re-usable building platforms and real-world data collection and analysis using DataSnap Motion Sensors and a free web app, making it a modern, STEM-focused experience that allows students to rapidly iterate.

What concepts will students learn?

Students learn force and motion, engineering process, data analysis, and iterative design.

How many students can use this kit at once?

This kit is designed for up to 30 students working individually or can support up to 10 teams of three.

Is teacher training or support included?

Yes, the kit includes two curricula (one more conceptual and the other involving more advanced math) and printable student engineering workbooks for easy implementation.

What technology is included?

DataSnap Motion Sensors and the free web app that accompanies them are used for real-world data collection and analysis. The motion sensor connect to the app via Bluetooth technology.

The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by RealityWorks, Inc. associated products is under license.

How many labs would you recommend for a 20-student classroom?

We recommend one lab for a 20-student classroom.

Is it ok to drop the sensor without the Impact Ship and/or Exosuit? 

Yes. When used as directed and from the heights specified in the curriculum, the sensor can safely be dropped without either accessory.

What are the motion triggers for the Impact STEM Lab? 

The triggers in Impact are: 

1. Hold for 1 second. 
2. Let it fall. 
3. Sensor lands. 
4. Sensor rests for 3 seconds.  

Why does drop time seem longer than it should? 

If the sensor experiences motion during the hold period, it may interpret this movement as part of the drop and begin its time count early. Repeat the data collection trial and be sure to hold the sensor as still as possible before dropping. 

Why does the sensor show a drop acceleration greater/less than 1 G? 

Minor rotation and movement of the sensor during a drop can affect acceleration measurements. Small variations around 1 G are normal and expected. If presented acceleration data is not as expected, repeat the data collection trial. 

What other program support do you provide?

We offer free webinars, blogs, and classroom resources to help your program succeed.

How does this DataSnap STEM Lab compare to your other DataSnap STEM Labs?

You can find a detailed comparison of the DataSnap Stem Labs in this chart.

DataSnap Comparison Chart