When do I use Embedded software?

[Joe_John]

Can someone explain to me when I would use the following toolkits:

Microprocessor SDK

Embedded ARM

Touch Panel

I am asking because I just purchased http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=330375626989&ssPageName=ADME:L:OU:US:1123

I'm looking to create an HMI application that will communicate over ethernet to a controller and also control some onboard I/O ports.

What will I need to create and control my app?

[NicB]

The choice is yours and depends on experience, the DVD content and support, and market plan. (http://zone.ni.com/devzone/cda/tut/p/id/5773)

On the one hand, an optimum solution in terms of hardware requirements or power consumption would be LabVIEW for ARM since the microprocessor is ARM9 it is supported by Keil (http://www.keil.com/dd/chip/4277.htm). On the other hand, the first product developed will not have a so short time to market, because you have to develop the BSP and low level VIs (see the tutorial http://zone.ni.com/devzone/cda/tut/p/id/6994). However, the effort is rewarded when designing next projects.

Probably your board came preloaded with Linux. Microprocessor SDK fits better if you want to keep it there.

If Windows is OK, then time to marker will be shorter in Touch Panel starting with the first product.

[Joe_John]

If I use the touch panel toolkit, how do I gain access to the onboard I/O and analog ports?

[NicB]

This is not a so hard task because you have multiple choices again (e.g. call library function, Inline C Node, etc.)

The problem is I am not sure if ARM9 is supported in Touch Panel (http://zone.ni.com/devzone/cda/tut/p/id/9850#toc3).

Probably couple NI guys can help in this issue.

[Joe_John]

Ok, I understand that with some DLL's I should be able to connect to GPIO ports. Now....where do I locate DLL's to control the GPIO's on a MINI2440?

[David_L]

The Touch Panel Module is only supported on NI Touch Panels.  It might work on other Windows CE devices, but it's not gaurunteed.  If you are trying to put LabVIEW on an ARM device, you should probably look at the NI LabVIEW Embedded Module for ARM Microcontrollers.

[David_L]

And for the DLLs on a third party device, you should probably check with the manufacturer of the device.