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How to Get Started With LabVIEW

Physics and engineering now rely on the interfacing of electrical measurement equipment with software. One method to do this is by using a formal programming language such as C++, Pascal or Java. An alternative and increasingly used method to communicate with electrical equipment is by using a piece of software known as LabVIEW. LabVIEW uses a visual way of programming that can be much easier than conventional programming. Programs are written by connecting a number of "wires" to inputs and outputs of operations and functions.

Instructions

- 1
  Open LabVIEW. A dialogue screen will open asking if a new vi (virtual instrument) is needed, or if a current vi should be opened. Select "Create new vi." Two screens will open. One screen is the front-end of the program, and this is where the interface is designed. To get started a very simple interface is needed.
- 2
  Go to the controls palette and select "Numeric control." The position and size of the numeric control can be controlled by clicking the left mouse button and dragging the mouse. When the left mouse button is released, the numeric control will appear.
- 3
  Go to the controls palette and select "Numeric indicator." Numeric indicators are used to display the result of an operation. Click the left mouse button in order to decide the position and size of the indicator.
- 4
  Right-click on the numeric control and click on the "Find on wire diagram" in order to access the programming screen. The numeric control indicator icon will be highlighted on the programming screen. In order to get started a very simple program will be used. Using the programming control palette, select the "+" operation. The mouse cursor will turn into an icon. The "+" operation icon can be positioned by pressing the left mouse button. Place it in between the numeric control and the numeric indicator.
- 5
  Select the wiring function. By clicking the left mouse button, connect a wire between the numeric control output and one of the "+" icon function inputs. Right-click on the remaining input on the "+" icon function and select "Create constant". A blank text box will appear. Type the number "1" into the text box. This means that the output of the "+" function will be the value of the numeric control plus one. Wire the output of the "+" icon to the numeric indicator. The programming section is now complete. Go to the front-end screen, and type a value into the numeric control. On the toolbar press the "Run" button (shaped like an arrow). The program should run and the numeric indicator should now display the controls value plus one.

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