As a general rule, I don’t promote programs that are “demo” versions and not fully functional, but the demo I am featuring today functions so well that I believe it is worth making an exception.

NOTE: Sadly, as of early August 2006, it appears that Riverdeep is no longer permitting downloads of the free version of the program. I’m leaving it listed on my Content & Curriculum page in case the free version ever becomes available again.

Virtual Electricity Lab (downloadable program) has been around for a while, but it is still very cool if you want to have fun exploring how electrical circuits work. Virtual Electricity Lab offers a selection of batteries, switches, bulbs, fans, and audio devices. Your job is to figure out how to connect them on a circuit board to make it all work. If you wish, you can have resistors, capacitors, and breakers to work with, along with meters to measure volts, amps, and ohms. There are suggested circuits to try, and even an opportunity to take and save bitmap snapshots of the circuits you do make. There is a built in reference and glossary of relevant terms. This program was developed originally by Edmark, which is now Riverdeep You can still purchase the full program, along with a set of lesson plans from Riverdeep. Or, you can download the free demo from http://www.wsd1.org/LTCActivities/46%20Freeware/virtual_labs_electricity.htm.

This program is available for Windows and Mac.