Norsk versjon - LabVIEW (The page is currently being updated)

Software information

Program Information

LabVIEW (Laboratory Virtual Instrument Engineering Workbench) is a graphical programming platform and development environment designed for creating and implementing systems for data acquisition, instrument control, and industrial automation. Instead of text-based coding, LabVIEW uses a visual programming language called G-code, in which users drag and connect graphical elements (nodes) on a block diagram to define data flow. This makes the platform intuitive for engineers and researchers, particularly those without extensive programming experience, to develop applications.

LabVIEW is particularly well suited for:

• Automated test systems: Used for design validation, production testing, and research.
• Data acquisition: Supports connectivity to a wide range of hardware, such as sensors and instruments, through protocols including GPIB, Ethernet, USB, and CAN.
• Industrial control: Enables real-time and FPGA-based programming for precise control and monitoring.
• Mathematical functions: Includes extensive libraries for analysis, such as FFT, filtering, PID control, and statistics.
• User interfaces: Integrates front panels for creating intuitive GUIs without additional coding.

Applications—referred to as Virtual Instruments (VIs)—consist of two main components: a front panel (user interface) and a block diagram (graphical code). LabVIEW’s dataflow model supports parallel execution, and the platform is compatible with operating systems such as Windows, macOS, and Linux, as well as embedded systems including FPGA and real-time hardware. It also offers flexibility for integration with other languages such as Python, C, and .NET, as well as third-party tools through the VI Package Manager and the NI Tools Network.

Developer:

LabVIEW was developed by National Instruments (NI), now part of Emerson, an American company based in Austin, Texas. Development began in 1986 under the leadership of Jeff Kodosky, who aimed to create a tool that simplified measurement automation for scientists and engineers. Kodosky leveraged the graphical interface of early Apple Macintosh computers to develop the visual programming language “G.” National Instruments continues to update LabVIEW and regularly releases new versions.

Additional Notes:

• LabVIEW offers modules such as LabVIEW FPGA, Real-Time, and Vision Development for specialized applications.
• A free Community Edition is available for non-commercial use, as well as a Student Edition for educational purposes.
• LabVIEW’s strength lies in rapid prototyping and hardware integration; however, it can present challenges for complex algorithms or web API integration without specialized expertise.

For more information, please refer to National Instruments’ official website.

License Information

Site License: NTNU holds an NI Academic Site License with a Student Install Option. The software packages LabVIEW and Multisim are available to all students and employees at NTNU. LabVIEW is supported on Windows, macOS, and Linux platforms.

1. For Manual Installation

If you download LabVIEW directly from National Instruments, the software must be activated using a license key (serial number).

LabVIEW License Codes:

• D11L1077580 – Student license serial number (Dec 31, 2025)
• D11L1105206 – Academic Site License Student (Dec 31, 2026)
• H21N64341 | Part Number: 785245-3501 MIMO App Framework, 128 Max Antennas, 1 Dev License, 1 Year SSP
• D11L1031118 | Part Number: 788494-35 Multisim AVL, Subscription License, Download
• D11L1031120 | Part Number: 788645-35 LabVIEW for Academic Use AVL, Subscription License, Download
• M78X97780 | Part Number: 784212-3523 NI Academic Site License – LabVIEW Teaching and Research, Large
• M78X97780 | Part Number: 782921-3523 NI Academic Site License – LabVIEW Teaching and Research (Large)
• J10X51800 | Part Number: 782920-3523 NI Academic Site License – LabVIEW Teaching Only (Large)
• M74X76920 | Part Number: 781106-3521 LabVIEW MathScript Module, macOS/Linux

Multisim License Codes:

• M78X97790 | Part Number: 784214-3523 NI Academic Site License – Multisim Teaching and Research, Large
• M78X97790 | Part Number: 782923-3523 NI Academic Site License – Multisim Teaching Only (Large)

Campus License Codes:

• J10X51800 | Part Number: 852777-08F Upgrade, NI Academic Site License (Campus), Spring 2008

License codes and serial numbers can be found under “Products and Services” → “View My Products.” Please refer to the provided link for more information.

2. Using the License Server

Alternatively, you can activate LabVIEW via NTNU’s license server:

• License Server: ni.lisens.ntnu.no
• This method does not require you to manually enter a license key; however, you must be connected to NTNU’s network (or VPN) for the activation to function properly.

Please note that the software may only be used for academic purposes (teaching and research) — not for revenue-generating contract research.
Licenses expire on December 31, 2026.

Download

To download LabVIEW and Multisim at NTNU, several methods are available depending on whether you are an employee or a student, and which version you require. Below is an updated overview with links and instructions:

🖥️ Download via NTNU’s Official Channels

1. NTNU Software Portal

• Navigate to: NTNU’s portal for software downloads.
• Here you will find:
  • Infomation on license terms
  • Download links
  • Instalations guides

2. Download from National Instruments (NI)

• Navigate to: NI’s software download portal.
• Select the desired version (e.g., LabVIEW 2025 Q1).ni.lisens.ntnu.no:27000or use the assigned license code.
• Activate using the license server:

System Requirements

Before you begin, ensure that your computer meets the minimum requirements:

• Operating System: Windows 11, Windows 10 (64-bit), Windows Server 2022, or Windows Server 2019 (64-bit)
• Processor: 1.5 GHz (recommended: multicore 2 GHz or higher)
• RAM: At least 2 GB (recommended: 4 GB or more)
• Storage: Minimum 5 GB of free disk space (more for additional modules)
• Internet: Required for download and activation
• Screen Resolution: 1024×768 or higher

🧩 Other Requirements

• .NET Framework: Version 4.6.2 or later required for certain features
• Administrator Rights: Required for installation and license activation

Installation Guide

Step-by-Step Installation Instructions

Step 1: Obtain the Installation File

1. Visit NI’s Website:

• Navigate to the NI portal.
• Select the desired version, e.g., LabVIEW 2024 Q3 or Community Edition (free for non-commercial use).

2. Log In or Create an Account:

• Click on “My Account” and select “Create an account” if you do not already have an NI account.
• Complete the required information and confirm your account via the email link you receive.

3. Download the Installation File:

• Choose “NI Download Manager” or “Standard Download” (recommended: NI Download Manager for faster download).
• Download the installation file (.exe or .iso) to a known location on your computer — see the LabVIEW guide for details.

Step 2: Begin Installation

1. Run the Installation File:

• Locate the downloaded file (e.g., LabVIEW_2024_Q3.exe).
• Right-click and select “Run as Administrator” to avoid permission issues.

2. Extract Files:

• Click “Start” to extract the installation files. This process may take several minutes depending on your system.

Step 3: Select Components

1. Choose Components to Install:

• The NI Package Manager will open and display available components (e.g., LabVIEW core, drivers, additional modules such as LabVIEW FPGA or Real-Time).
• Select the components you require. For beginners, it is recommended to install only the core software to conserve disk space (e.g., LabVIEW Base/Full/Professional). Additional modules can be added later via NI Package Manager.

2. Recommendation:Do not install unnecessary drivers or add-ons unless you know they are required (e.g., for specific hardware). This will reduce installation time and disk usage.

Step 4: Accept License Agreements

1. Review and Accept:

• Read through the displayed license agreements.
• Click “Next” or “Accept” to proceed. There may be multiple agreements to accept.

2. Optional: Disable Windows Fast Startup:

• You may be given the option to disable Windows Fast Startup. This is optional, and it is recommended to leave it enabled by default unless you experience issues.

Step 5: Install the Software

1. Start Installation:

• NI Package Manager will download, extract, and install the selected components. This process may take 5–30 minutes depending on your system and internet speed.

2. Software Updates:

• If prompted to allow NI Update Service to check for updates, click “Yes.” This ensures you receive the latest drivers and updates.

3. Wait Until Completion:

• Avoid interrupting the process. If you wish, take a break while the installation runs.

Step 6: Activate LabVIEW

Start the Activation Process:

• Once the installation is complete, the activation wizard will launch automatically.
• Log in using your NI account (the same account used in Step 1).

Enter Serial Number (if required):

• If you have purchased a license (e.g., through the university or Studica), enter the serial number (a 9-digit code, e.g., A12B34567).
• The serial number can be found in your purchase confirmation, on the DVD cover (for physical copies), or under “My Products” in your NI account.
• For the Community Edition, link the license to your NI account without entering a serial number.

License Renewal and License Information

Check License Status and Expiration Date

1. Open NI License Manager:

• Launch NI License Manager on the computer where LabVIEW is installed (typically found under the Start menu or in C:\Program Files\National Instruments\NI License Manager).
• Check the license expiration date under “Local Licenses” or “Network Licenses” to confirm when it expires. For perpetual licenses, the software will continue to function after expiration, but SSP (access to updates and support) will cease. For subscription licenses, the software will stop functioning after expiration.

2. Log in to Your NI Account:

• Navigate to My Account and log in with your NI credentials.
• Under “My Products”, you can view details about your license, including the serial number, license status, and expiration date.

3. Contact NTNU IT Suppor

Overview of Key Features in the Program

🔧 Core Features of LabVIEW

1. Graphical Programming (G)

• LabVIEW uses a visual programming language where you build programs (VIs) by connecting functional blocks in a block diagram. This approach makes code development and debugging intuitive, particularly for engineers and researchers. For more information, see the LabVIEW User Manual.

2. Front Panel and Block Diagram

Each VI (Virtual Instrument) consists of two main components:

• Front Panel: The user interface where you can add controls and indicators.
• Block Diagram: The workspace where you connect functions and structures to define program logic.

3. Function Palette and Built-in VIs

LabVIEW’s function palette includes a wide range of built-in functions and VIs (subroutines) covering:

• Programming (loops, conditions, variables)
• Measurement and instrument control (Measurement I/O)
• Signal processing and analysis
• File handling and data storage

4. Dataflow Model

• LabVIEW employs a dataflow model, where a node (function) executes only when all its inputs are available. This enables natural parallelism and simplifies the development of concurrent systems.

5. Hardware Integration

• LabVIEW is tightly integrated with National Instruments hardware (such as DAQ, PXI, CompactRIO), providing easy access to measurement data and control systems.

6. Error Handling and Debugging

• Debugging tools include probes, breakpoints, and highlight execution, making it straightforward to identify and correct errors in the program.

7. Specific Features in Recent Versions (e.g., LabVIEW 2024 Q3)

• Enhanced User Interface: Updated interface for faster navigation and customizable workflows.
• Python Integration: Improved support for Python 3.x via the Python Node, simplifying calls to external scripts.
• SystemLink Integration: Enhanced support for cloud-based data processing and fleet management of test equipment.
• Bug Fixes: Resolves known issues such as VI Analyzer errors and compatibility problems with Windows 11.

Sources for Further Information

• Visit NI’s official website for detailed feature descriptions and downloads.
• LabVIEW User Manual: Available through the NI Product Documentation Center.
• NI Community: Forums for user support and examples in “Community Documents.”

Add-on Modules Developed by National Instruments (NI)

1. LabVIEW FPGA Module:

• Description: Enables programming of Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) for high-speed, customized control and signal processing tasks. Commonly used in applications requiring precise timing, such as robotics and the automotive industry.
• Features: Design of custom digital circuits, real-time signal processing, and integration with NI hardware such as CompactRIO and PXI systems.
• License: Requires a separate license, available through the NI Academic Volume License (AVL) for universities.

2. LabVIEW Real-Time Module:

• Description: Supports the development of deterministic applications for real-time systems, used in industrial automation, aerospace, and medical equipment.
• Features: Integration with real-time operating systems, deterministic task scheduling, and support for NI hardware such as cRIO and sbRIO.
• License: Included in the AVL LabVIEW Option or available as a separate purchase.
• Use: Suitable for systems where timing is critical, such as motor control or fault detection.

3. Vision Development Module:

• Description: Provides tools for image processing and machine vision, used in applications such as quality control and robotic vision.
• Features: Image analysis (e.g., pattern recognition, OCR), support for industrial cameras, and integration with NI Vision hardware.
• License: Separate license, available through NI or AVL.
• Use: Commonly used in production lines for defect detection and automated inspection.

4. Control Design and Simulation Module:

• Description: Enables design, simulation, and analysis of dynamic systems, such as control systems and electromechanical systems.
• Features: Simulation of linear and nonlinear systems, PID controller design, and support for MATLAB/Simulink integration.
• License: Separate purchase, often included in AVL for academic users.
• Use: Used in research and education to model complex systems.

5. Database Connectivity Toolkit:

• Description: Allows LabVIEW to communicate with databases for storing and retrieving test data.
• Features: SQL queries, support for ODBC-compatible databases (e.g., MySQL, SQL Server), and data handling for large datasets.
• License: Available through NI Tools Network or AVL.
• Use: Ideal for test reporting and data archiving in industrial applications.

6. LabVIEW NXG Web Module (legacy, limited support in newer versions):

• Description: Enables creation of web interfaces for remote monitoring and control of LabVIEW applications.
• Features: Web-based GUI design, HTTP/REST communication, and support for cloud integration.
• License: Separate module, but limited support after LabVIEW NXG development was discontinued.
• Use: Useful for remote monitoring of test stations.

7. LabVIEW Datalogging and Supervisory Control Module:

• Description: Supports data logging and monitoring of industrial processes.
• Features: Real-time data logging, alarms, and HMI (Human-Machine Interface) development.
• License: Separate purchase, commonly used in SCADA systems.
• Use: Frequently applied in process control and energy management.

Download and manage LabVIEW add-ons using the VI Package Manager (VIPM), available from the official National Instruments (NI) website.

User Assistance

IT Services

NI Technical Support:

• Description: Provides assistance with technical issues such as installation, activation, troubleshooting, and usage of LabVIEW and related modules. Support may include phone, email, or service requests.
• Contact:
  • Website: Navigate to “Support” and select “LabVIEW” to create a service request or access documentation. An NI account is required to submit a request.
  • Email:Customer Service for general inquiries or licensing questions.
  • Phone: For Norway, contact NI Norway at +47 66 90 76 60 (Asker office).
  • NI Community Forum

Supplier information

Manufacturer: See more about LabVIEW at National Instruments

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