LAFAYETTE INSTRUMENT CO. Precision Stop Clock

Circa Late 1960's

These instruments were widely used in physiological and psychological research for precise timing of experimental trials. It is AC powered.

Use Cases:

• Precision Timing: Unlike standard stopwatches, these clocks are designed for high-accuracy measurement of elapsed time in increments as small as 0.01 seconds (as indicated by the outer dial numbering from .10 to .90).

• Experimental Control: In a physiology lab setting, it would likely be used to time reactions or durations of physiological events.

• Remote Operation: The "Shunt Timer Posts" allow the clock to be started and stopped via an external switch or a set of relay contacts.

Technical Features:

• Internal 6V DC Supply: The clock provides its own low-voltage power for the control circuit. This allows a simple, non-powered switch (like a push button or "shunt") connected to the top terminals to safely trigger the timing mechanism without requiring external power.

• Shunt Operation: To operate the timer, a user would connect a switch across the two terminals. When the switch is closed (shunted), the internal DC current flows, activating the electromagnetic clutch to start or stop the hands. The black lever located at the upper left face of the device is used to reset the timer to "ZERO".

Historical Significance:

These electromechanical clocks represent a key era in laboratory instrumentation before the full transition to digital timers. LAFAYETTE INSTRUMENT CO., founded in 1947, became a staple in academic labs for providing robust, specialized tools for data collection in human and animal research.

Accessories Available separately:

• Cable Connected Pushbutton.

(H-15cm x W-12cm x D-12cm)