1. Introduction The goal of this research is to study the fundamentals of microcontrollers and determine their possible functionality within the laser lab. Microcontrollers are designed to be embedded in a device to control its actions and procedures. Their small size and low cost can make them advantageous in the laser laboratory. We are using a BASIC Stamp 2 OEM Module, received in a through-hole kit form, that we can assemble ourselves. The BASIC Stamp has fifteen digital input/output pins. We must therefore use an analog to digital converter (ADC) for the microcontroller to read and process the analog input data. Once this is complete, we can use a digital to analog converter (DAC) to create some desired output. The characteristics for this specific microcontroller may put limitations on its ability to complete certain tasks. We intend to uncover the limitations of this product and find a niche for it within the BSU Laser Laboratory. Materials BASIC Stamp 2 OEM Module (Kit Form): Xytronic LF2000 Lead-Free Digital Soldering Station: Sun Equipment Powered Breadboard PBB-4060: BASIC Stamp Editor v2.5.2 Methods Our first step was to assemble the BASIC Stamp BS2 OEM using the Parallax assembly instructions. Having suitable soldering technique insures a proper joint connection and prevents damage to the board and components. To insure that the assembly was performed properly we connected the BS2 to a computer and power supply. Once the BS2 was identified by the program editor we built a small circuit to test its basic functionality. This circuit included three LED’s and is programmed to loop through a traffic light sequence. We are currently analyzing the theoretical capabilities of the BS2 and to understand the limits of input for an analog to digital converter (ADC). For example, an ADC with a 10 bit output can designate 1024 unique points of signal measurement. We must also consider the ability of an ADC to sample time fast enough such that we can capture the essential changes in an analog waveform. Current Status The microcontroller is functional and we have coded a program to test its functionality. With continued effort during the spring semester we will be able to input an analog signal using a Analog to Digital Converter. Our hopes are to implement the BS2 into a functional Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) controller. A PID uses a method that gives control of a system through active feedback for some desired output. References "BASIC Stamp 2 OEM Module (Kit Form)." Parallax Home. Web. 08 Dec. 2011.. Hewes, John. "Soldering Guide." Welcome to the Electronics Club. Web. 08 Dec. 2011.. "Parallax Education Education Home." Parallax Home. Web. 08 Dec. 2011.. "Practical Considerations of ADC Circuits : DIGITAL-ANALOG CONVERSION." All About Circuits : Free Electric Circuits Textbooks. Web. 08 Dec. 2011. <http://www.allaboutcircuits.com/vol_4/chpt_13/10.htm l>. Microcontrollers for Research in the BSU Laser Laboratory Erkan Gulturk, Kevin McElwee Bridgewater State University, Bridgewater MA 02325 Mentor: Edward F. Deveney Ph.D