Distributing code

[ScotchTape]

I've run into an issue that is preventing me from turning my functional LabVIEW code into an EXE, so I'm looking for some suggestions on the best way to distribute my code.  Is it possible to lock down my source code so that it can still be executed but users are unable to modify it?  Is it possible to have LabVIEW automatically run the top level VI when it's opened?

Thanks

[Caseyw]

What version of LabVIEW are you using? In LabVIEW 8.2, you can select File >> VI Properties and navigate to the Protection category to lock or password protect your block diagram. In addition, under File >> VI Properties you can choose the Execution category and then select "Run when opened" to automatically execute your VI when it is opened. I hope this helps.

Regards,

Casey Weltzin

Applications Engineer

National Instruments

[ScotchTape]

Casey,

Thanks for the information.  I am using LabVIEW 8.2 and the VI properties does what I need for protecting the source code.  I'm not sure the "Run when opened" option is going to solve my problem, unless I instruct the operator to double click on that file.  What I'd like is to have a shortcut on the desktop that opens my project and automatically runs the top level VI.  Is that possible?

Thanks

[Caseyw]

Selecting "Run when opened" should start your VI whenever it is initially opened, even if your are using a shortcut to call your VI. As far as hiding your block diagram from the user, you may wish to build a Source Distribution from the Project Explorer window. You can do this by right clicking on Build Specifications and then selecting Source Distribution. Under the Source File Settings category, choose the VI of interest and select Customize VI Settings. Checking the Remove Diagram option will make the block diagram inaccessable to the VI user.

Regards,

Casey Weltzin

Applications Engineer

National Instruments

[parthabe]

You only ve to create the Desktop shortcut, for the operator to use it by simply double clicking.

This is the easiest & most direct way to use the application from the operator's point of view.

What U ve to do is open Ur projrct folder & navigate to the top-most VI & create a Desktop shortcut for it. I thnk this will work enough...

[ScotchTape]

Thanks, that works great.

[AdnanZ]

You shouldn't be having any issues when converting your LabVIEW code into an executable. Does this issue pertain to LabVIEW or something else in your system?

[ScotchTape]

Unfortunately I am having issues building an EXE even though the source code works fine in LabVIEW.  During the build process I get an error saying that a VI is broken.  It looks like it has something to do with using .Net constructors within a LabVIEW class object (see NI support requests 7148857 and 7148956).

[AdnanZ]

I looked up the service request and it seems like they are both waiting for you to reply to their emails. You can call them at 1-866-275-6964 and refer your service request numbers to get this issue resolved.

[ScotchTape]

I hope they're not waiting on me.  I've replyed to every email I've received requesting additional information.