The software tools for processing visual data in an educational chemical experiment, the experience of their usage, and a number of DIY (Do it yourself) projects developed on their basis were analyzed. Particular attention was paid to the role of self-made devices during the forced online education caused by COVID-19 and the full-scale war in Ukraine.
The results of the development of the software tool ColorKit, which is being developed at the Department of Physics and Chemistry of H.S. Skovoroda Kharkiv National Pedagogical University are presented. The basic principles were covered, the interface was described, the main functions of the application and their areas of usage were given. The principle of operation of the modules: "Spectrophotometer", "Colorimeter", "Refractometer", "Polarimeter" was characterized. The features of the structure of optical computer devices for physico-chemical analysis developed by teachers, students of higher education and students, members of the Academy of Medical Sciences were considered, and the results of their testing were highlighted.
The design of an absorption spectrophotometer based on a reflective diffraction grating made from a DVD disc was described; a new method of its calibration using a diamond green solution was proposed. The operating model was tested and it was established that the accuracy of the device was sufficient for demonstration and educational chemical experiments.
The operating principle of the "Colorimeter" module of the ColorKit software tool was considered. It was shown that, unlike other software tools, it had built-in approximation tools, which significantly facilitated the processing of visual data; displaying the results of mathematical processing in a graphic form, which made the experiment visual. It should be noted that for the correct operation of the virtual spectrophotometer and colorimeter in real time, the correct setting of the video device driver is quite important.
A number of optical schemes of refractometers developed on the basis of the ColorKit software tool were presented: with liquid and V-prisms; i.e. the device whose principle of action is based on changing the optical properties of the lens in contact with the solution. It was shown that the simultaneous display of the course of the rays and the results of mathematical processing provides a high level of visibility. The results of the approval of the LED DIE refractometer with a V-prism are outlined. Further prospects for the development of the ColorKit project are planned.