How to graph a basic functionH

[Iamthetest]

Hi, I am brand new to LabVIEW (V8.0) and programming in general.  I am beggining to become frustrated because I can't seem to do the most basic things.  At the moment I am trying to plot the following function:

y[volts] = -40t^2+8t, where t is in seconds.

Now I have put the function in a formula node and tried to connect it to an XY plot to no avail.  My intuition tells me that I need to have inputs for both X and Y, but I have no idea how to do that.  My guess is that I need to have a set of values for t, input those values into y, then output y into the graph.  Again, I have no idea where to go.  Thanks for any help.

-Zach

[Amanda_H]

Hi,

I wasn't sure exactly what you were looking for, but I went ahead and created a small example VI to get you started. This VI essentially mimics data acquisition every second, but it is impossible to do actual deterministic data acquisition without the LabVIEW Real-Time module. However, this VI may suffice for your purposes. Please let me know if you have any questions about how to modify this VI to make it work for you. Happy coding!

[Amanda_H]

Also, we offer courses across the nation to get you started with programming in LabVIEW. You can create a service request at ni.com/ask in order to request more information if you're interested!

[Iamthetest]

Thanks for your response Amanda.  Unfourtunately LabVIEW wouldnt allow me to view your vi because our versions arent the same.  To clarify my problem: I need to know how to plot a function.  f(t)=-40t**2+8t.  After much trial and error I found that I can plot an arbitrary signal, but that doesnt seem like the best solution.  Ive asked my professor and the TA, but because this class is so new at the university (only the second time its been offered) they are still learning the program themselves.  I appreciate your help and I look foward to learning how to utilize this program.

The exact problem I have been given is as follows:

Generate and plot a signal that has the following form: y[volts] = -40t^2+8t where t is in seconds.


Message Edited by Iamthetest on 01-25-2008 05:34 PM

[RDR]

I strongly recommend to at least follow this interactive tutorial to get started with LabVIEW:

Getting Started with LabVIEW

These tools will have you programming in LabVIEW in no time.  Have a great weekend!

[Iamthetest]

Thanks for your reply B O B.  I will be sure to read those links.  Ive watched some tutorials already and Ive found them helpful thusfar.