Most motherboards these days have the ability to connect a temperature sensor, meant for detecting case temp, using an inexpensive thermometer. The motherboard collects the data in real time and you can capture this in a windows app.
Also, in physics in college I conducted experiments using all sorts of peripheral devices...thermometers, motion sensors, timers, photo cells, etc. I don't remember where we got them, but these were part of a complete system of devices that connected to a peripheral scsi-based junction box. HTH, and I'd sure like to hear more about this. I'd love to extend the capabilities of my PC and get more out of it!
