Web-Based Measurements

National Instruments has announced LabVIEW 6.1, the latest release of its graphical development software for test, monitoring and control applications from the research laboratory to the manufacturing floor.

NI LabVIEW 6.1 builds on the web capabilities of LabVIEW 6i by simplifying the creation of remote applications and integrating the latest technologies for XML and wireless communications.

This latest version makes it easier for engineers to control their applications in seconds from any commonly used web browser. With two mouse clicks users can embed their application's front panel in a browser.

With this feature, colleagues across the office or across the globe can connect to the same system to view an application in real-time and engineers can control hardware from a separate office or from home.

LabVIEW 6.1 uses the latest commercial technologies to expand networking capabilities. The version works with Windows XP. In addition, the package introduces wireless infrared data communications protocols, empowering engineers to create applications that communicate with wireless devices, such as PDAs.

Users can also import and export XML-formatted data with LabVIEW to integrate VIs with other web or database applications in their enterprise.

LabVIEW 6.1 expands 6i's measurement capabilities. The point-by-point analysis libraries increase application performance and enhance real-time response for acquiring and processing data a single point at a time at relatively high speeds, such as in a closed-loop control application.

Version 6.1 also includes functions that increase Fast Fourier Transform analysis speed by up to 10 times over 6i.

Also released are the latest versions of the Real-Time Module and the Datalogging and Supervisory Control Module.

Users can now build targeted applications for measurement, monitoring and control. The Real-Time Module extends graphical development to enable creation of deterministic, real-time applications.

The Real-Time Module features improved network bandwidth and enhanced real-time performance. The Datalogging and Supervisory Control Module is for distributed monitoring applications and now offers enhanced historical data management tools in addition to built-in features for monitoring applications, such as automatic data logging, full alarm and event management.