How can I collect and view data from multiple thermocouples simultaneously?

[slindow]

I am trying to read and collect data from 4 thermocouples connected to the NI 9211 module simultaneously. I am able to get data from one channel at a time currently using this VI from the NI LabVIEW examples, but would like to see all 4 channels at the same time and be able to export them as an excel file.  I have never programmed in LabVIEW before, and if someone could offer me some guidance, it'd be much appreciated! The VI is attached.

Thanks

[mikeporter]

First, you need to learn about LV and there are many free resources available.

But to your specific problem, simply define multiple channels in the acquisition task, then when reading the data read multiple channels.

Mike...

[slindow]

When I try to create another physical channel and attach it to the DAQmx, it tells me that only 1 input is allowed. So I am confused as to how define more than 1 channel if only 1 input is allowed?

[Hooovahh]

You have to define multiple physical channels to read, and when you do the read you must state that you are going to read multiple channels.  Attached is an edited VI where all I did was set the Physical Channels to be for AI0 and AI1 on Dev1.  Then the Read I changed to Multichannel Multisample.

To select the physical channels you want click the drop down and choose browse.  From here select the two channels you want holding CTRL.

[FullOfQuestions]

Hello, I attempted to open the "Thermocouple Hooovahh Edit 2.vi ‏143 KB" VI found in the 4th message of this chain, but I am currently using LabView 2010 and this VI is not compatible with the 2010 release. Could an equivalent VI compatible with LabView 2010 be produced so that I may view the file?

Thank you very much in advance. I hope to hear from you soon.

Best,

A poor student stuck in 2010

[NIquist]

You can add that functionality to your own VI in a few seconds.

1)  On your front panel modify the Physical Channel control to create the desired channels.  You will have a device identifier/channel for channel 0 something like (e.g.: cDAQ1/ai0).  Change it to "cDAQ1/ai0:3" to select a range of channels from ai0 to ai3.

2) On your block diagram change the DAQmx Read VI polymorphic pulldown:  Analog > Multiple Channels > Single Sample > 1D waveform.

That's it, you're done except for the data logging.  Look at some examples (Help > Find Examples...) and tutorials and give it a try.  Post back if you get stuck.

[Hooovahh]

Attached is the VI posted, back saved in 2010.  I don't have 2010 to test it with so no idea if it actually works.

EDIT: also if you are a student you can get LabVIEW for free, I believe it is the latest version.  NI has said you get it free for 6 months but can keep renewing as long as you are a student.

[FullOfQuestions]

Thank you very much for your help. All up and running now!

Have a great day,

A student no longer stuck in 2010