Why Modular and Scalable Software Solutions?

Do you recognise the situation that clients do not see much progress in a test or measurement project despite steep prices? The fact is that elements used in ‘Project A’ and ‘Project B’ have not been utilised in project ‘C’ so far. Instead, software is developed from scratch every time which is expensive, time-consuming, and rarely a good solution. As a result, I want to highlight modular and scalable software solutions in this article as the future choice when it comes to test and measurement solutions for the industry.

Why and How to Make Modular and Scalable Test and Measurement Systems?

Do you want to deliver affordable, innovative, and high-quality test and measurement systems while also putting an end to expensive and endless test and measurement projects? By developing a modular software-foundation with the ability to reuse and customise software elements from previous projects, it’s possible.

Besides being possible, it will, moreover, result in:

• Higher Quality: Based on a standardised, but at the same time modular system consisting of basic libraries and well-proven modules, you will be able to deliver solutions of the highest quality
• Lower Costs: In many cases, you can provide software solutions that only consist of 20-30% new source code resulting in lower costs
• Shorter Development Time: By reusing elements from ‘Project A’ and ‘Project B’ in ‘Project C’, you can shorten the development time and improve quality assurance compared to developing the software from scratch
• More Flexibility: In case you define the software yourself, it allows you to customise your instruments or systems easily and quickly, just as you can make customisations based on your needs – and on an ongoing basis

An Example: Use Modular Tests to Reuse Your Test Stations in Different Contexts

When handling complaints, a test of the alleged error is almost always included. Sometimes, it can be done with a visual inspection, while at other times it requires a more thorough test of the electronics. Most often, you will be able to reuse a test station but if the test station is not flexible, it can become a major challenge.

In this case, the solution could be to use modular tests where an operator is able to select parts of the test to be executed. In this way, you save time regarding test execution, reduce test sequence maintenance, and avoid having to develop a new test station, among others.

Achieve the Best Results by using LabVIEW and TestStand

Do you know LabVIEW and TestStand?

In short, LabVIEW is a programming language that is strong when it is used for tasks that require test, measurement, and control. An advantage of LabVIEW is that it visualises every aspect of applications, including hardware configuration, measurement data, and debugging. This visualisation makes it simpler to integrate measurement hardware from any vendor, develop data analysis algorithms, and design user interfaces. LabVIEW enables to:

• Measure Physical Systems With Sensors or Actuators
• Validate or Verify Electronic Designs
• Develop Production Test Systems
• Design Smart Machines or Industrial Equipment
• Teach Engineering Students

Watch a video and start free trial by clicking here

TestStand, on the other hand, is a framework for test management where the execution of a test is an important function, but just one of many functions that TestStand provides. By means of TestStand, you can, among other things, develop automated test and validation systems. Furthermore, you can also extend the functionality of your system by developing test sequences that integrate code modules written in any programming language. TestStand enables to:

• Develop Automated Production Test Systems
• Deploy and Debug Test Systems
• Develop Automated Validation Test Systems

Read also: TestStand – More than Just Test Execution [Test Management]

Watch Educational Videos on YouTube [LabVIEW and TestStand]

Are you interested in watching educational LabVIEW and TestStand videos? At the risk of promoting GPower, I nevertheless suggest you take a look at GPower’s YouTube channel. Here, my colleagues and myself are creating LabVIEW and TestStand videos about ways of workings and best practices. Here, you will, among other things, learn more about:  

• How to Separate Compiled Code from Its Source Files? #LabVIEW
• Ways of Working at GPower: Software Packages [4:6]
• Ways of Working at GPower: Software Modules and Components [2:6]
• GPower IO-Link for LabVIEW & TestStand [Download Free Trial Versions]