DRAFT : quickly test a function outside your existing (and complicated) vi

[Behr-33]

I often need to make single test on specific function before placing them in a block diagram.

We could have a test zone you could access in a right click and place in to block diagram

This test zone would be a standalone "vi" that could be run to test the way a function work.

This would replace :

- either the need to open a new vi, place simple code to test in it and then crash it after tests are performed

- or the need to configurate your complex vi in order to check the way a string format specifier works

If tests are successfull, you would have the option to "keep it on block diagram".

[Ironman99]

When I have to test a specific function before placing it on the block diagram, I always create a new VI. At the end of testing, instead of copying its code and delete the new VI, I directly save the new VI and I use it as a subVI.

This seems to me a good practice, that simplifies the block diagram, saves space, and helps me in debugging the main program. This pays me back the effort of having to create the new VI.

So I think I'd not use often the new feature that you proposed... Just my opinion...

Cheers.

Marco.

[Intaris]

I don't really see the time savings over just creating a VI for testing...... Just my 2c

[Behr-33]

Marco,

You are right : when you want to add a new functionality, you new to test in a new vi and then use it as a subvi.

But, when you just want to check the behavior of a built in function: you won't make a subvi.

I cant count that any times I work with labview. I make lots of blanck vi that finally go to trash after a short test.

Thanx for your comment

[Ironman99]

Aaah! Ok... I didn't understand you meant a built-in function...

Probably you already know... but, as a workaround, you can place and connect in your block diagram the built-in function you want to test, select it, and then with Edit->Create SubVi you'll have the subvi ready to test. When finished, all you have to do is an undo in the calling vi...

Cheers.

Marco.

[Brian_Powell]

Interesting historical tidbit...  One of the "features" of LabVIEW 1 is that builtin functions had front panels.  You could double-click on "add" for example, and open a front panel with two numeric inputs and an output and run it.  A few people missed this feature when we removed it (or rather, chose not to implement it) in LabVIEW 2.  Among the reasons we didn't implement it is that LabVIEW 2 added multiple data types and polymorphism.  There's not a single front panel for "add".

[Darren]

Any idea that has not received any kudos within a year after posting will be automatically declined. 

[X.]

@Brian_Powell: Where can we get a copy of LabVIEW 1?