The Future of the Unit Test Framework

[Elijah_K]

Evan, your question about the future of the Unit Test Framework (UTF) comes at a perfect time.  We're currently examining what features to add or improve for future versions, and we're very interested in learning how people are using it and what feedback they have for us.

So, how have you all been using it and what would you like to see improved?

Click here to evaluate the Unit Test Framework if you haven't used it yet.

[PhillipBrooks]

I have not used the Unit Test Framework product, but have a question regarding the recent bundling of the VI Analyzer with the Software Validation Tools.

An Info-LabVIEW post pointed out that on the Q1 2009 Dev Suite letter from Marni Schwartz that the VI Analyzer was moved from the Developer Suite Core to Software Validation Tools, and that in the future, users would need to purchase Software Validation Tools use VI Analyzer.

We are upgrading right now from 7.0 to 8.6.1.  We are using VI Analyzer and the Upgrade Analyzer plug-ins extensively at this time. We also plan to add VI Analyzer to our code review process going forward.  We don't have regulatory testing requirements or validation needs, and also happen to have the Automated Test option (TestStand) which could be used if or when necessary to create a test harness for our code.

I strongly believe that VI Analyzer should remain part of the DevSuite Core package.

[Elijah_K]

You should still be able to activate VI Analyzer with 8.6.1 using your previous serial number since you're under SSP.  This will no longer be the case beginning in August, when the next version of LabVIEW is released.

This is largely because of changes and new functionality that warranted pulling it out of DevSuite Core and bundling it with the Unit Test Framework and the Desktop Execution Trace Toolkit.  VI Analyzer will continue to be sold at it's original price as a standalone product.

The Upgrade Analyzer tests can be run without a license for VI Analyzer.  They use the same engine, but different licenses.