National Instruments introduces LabVIEW 2016

By: Jim Harrison

At NI Week in Austin, TX, National Instruments opened the doors on the next version of the system design software suite. One addition to the famous design tool is the integration of Python language IP, using a simple API from Enthought Inc. (available in the LabVIEW Tools Network) that can hook Python scripts into LabVIEW applications.

The new Channel Wire function is purported to simplify complex asynchronous communications connections and to simplify communication between parallel sections of code. It is also said to help improve code readability and reduce development time. The channel wire method is available on both the desktop and real-time versions.

LabVIEW also adds 64-bit add-on support for LabVIEW Control Design and Simulation Module, MathScript Real-Time Module, Unit Test Framework Toolkit, Desktop Execution Trace Toolkit, and VI Analyzer Toolkit. This also allows the tools to support more RAM. The new version also now streamlines the automation of benchtop measurements with the Instrument Driver Network, which supports 500 new devices in addition to the existing 10,000 supported instruments. It is also compatible with National Instruments hardware technologies for RF design and test, embedded control, monitoring, and engineering education.

The LabVIEW Full Development System includes:

• Fully integrated graphical system design software
• Support for a wide range of measurement hardware, I/O, and buses
• Custom, event-driven user interfaces for measurement and control
• Extensive signal processing, analysis, and math functionality
• Advanced compiler to ensure high-performance execution and code optimization
• SSP for professional technical support, online training, and software upgrades

The base price for the LabVIEW Full Development System is $2,999, while the Professional Development System costs $4,999.