Developing Proficiency

With Graphical System Design

Develop Faster Reduce Costs Exceed Requirements

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Your Success Depends on Proficiency

Successfully completing an application with the graphical system design approach means more than simply generating a functional program that meets requirements. A successful project also minimizes development time and maintenance costs while taking full advantage of National Instruments tools, including increased productivity with NILabVIEW system design software and access to advanced technology through NI hardware. Proficiency with National Instruments products makes this kind of success possible.

Application complexity and criticality

Large Hadron Collider (LHC) Collimator Control

Software Architect

Smart Grid Monitoring

Software Developer

Simple Data Logger

Basic Developer

LabVIEW and software engineering skill level required

Proficiency Varies by Application

As the size, complexity, and criticality of your application increase, the knowledge and skills you need to be successful change. Because of this, users who have been developing simpler LabVIEW applications for many years may have difficulty delivering a more complex system. As you move from project to project, you should assess which additional concepts you need to learn and scale your skill set to match the demands of your new application.

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How Do I Use This Brochure?

This brochure offers guidelines to determine the level of proficiency that best ensures success for current and future projects. To help you accelerate your development, create quality code that you can reconfigure and reuse, and effectively configure and control your hardware, NI skills guides assist you in identifying which proficiency level your current application requires. You can then learn more about the skill sets important for proficiency at that level and the options for obtaining those skills consistent with your time constraints, budget, and personal learning preferences.

Steps to Graphical System Design Proficiency

Step 1: Read the descriptions below and find the category that best applies to you. Step 2: F  ind the corresponding category in the LabVIEW Skills Guide on the back of this page to identify your proficiency path. Step 3: Review the applicable hardware proficiency paths online at ni.com/skills-guide.

Graphical System Design Software and Hardware Skills Guide Technician or Basic Developer
Size/complexity of my application Develop or support/troubleshoot a small to medium application

Software Engineer

Software Architect

Design and develop a medium to large application

Determine and design the architecture or act as technical lead or project manager for a large application

(<20 VIs)

(20+ to 100 VIs)

(100+ VIs)

Criticality of application

Build a functional prototype or short-term use system

Develop one or more systems for ongoing use or deployment over multiple months or years

Design a mission critical application: incorrect execution may result in signicant loss

Support and maintenance expectations for the application

Support and maintain own applications or application will not be maintained

Develop any applications to be used, supported, or maintained by others

Develop any applications to be used, supported, or maintained by others

My expectation for future LabVIEW use

Plan to use LabVIEW for only one project

Plan to use LabVIEW for multiple projects

Plan to use LabVIEW for multiple projects

Frequency of LabVIEW use on current application

Spend less than 10 hours a week developing applications in LabVIEW

Use LabVIEW regularly

Either I or the team I lead is using LabVIEW regularly

LabVIEW Skills Guide

Required LabVIEW Software Skills
Technician or Basic Developer Install LabVIEW Navigate the LabVIEW environment Apply key LabVIEW structures and data types Apply key LabVIEW elements for relating data Read and interpret existing LabVIEW code Troubleshoot and debug LabVIEW code Understand and select appropriate application timing techniques Use event programming to handle user interface interaction or communicate data between processes Programmatically control UI objects Evaluate and use file I/O formats for data analysis and storage Optimize reuse of existing code for your projects Create executables and installers to distribute your application Apply basic design patterns and LabVIEW templates such as Simple State Machine Software Engineer (builds on the skills obtained by Basic Developers) Identify an appropriate software development process for the project Understand and design to requirements Derive a task list and high-level flowchart to guide design and development Organize a software project using the LabVIEW Project Explorer Window Develop a user interface that meets user requirements and LabVIEW style guidelines Handle and log errors globally or locally during code execution Design, implement, document, and test code modules for each task Integrate code modules into the application architecture Design, implement, document, and test an intermediate-level LabVIEW architecture such as a Queued Message Handler Software Architect (builds on the skills obtained by Software Engineers) Determine appropriateness of an object-oriented approach for your application Design an application using object-oriented design principles Implement a basic class hierarchy using LabVIEW classes Use LabVIEW features that provide additional functionality to LabVIEW classes Implement an application using common object-oriented design patterns Modify an existing LabVIEW application to replace common patterns with LabVIEW objects Optimize code and resources to effectively reduce development time and costs Adapt the software engineering process to your projects Select and leverage appropriate tools and techniques for managing development Conduct an effective LabVIEW code review Understand tools and advanced techniques for testing and validating applications Refine a requirements document and develop an architecture for an application based on LabVIEW Understand and apply the elements of a good architecture Understand architecture design trade-offs and select an appropriate design pattern for your application Design a clean API Analyze, critique, and improve the architecture of a LabVIEW application Understand and apply advanced design patterns and LabVIEW templates such as the Actor Framework template Actor Framework Template Software Engineering with LabVIEW LabVIEW Object-Oriented Programming LabVIEW Object-Oriented Programming FAQ Queued Message Handler Template Software Engineering with LabVIEW LabVIEW Core 3 Development Life Cycle Models Controlling Timing in LabVIEW Applications Event-Driven Programming Programmatically Controlling VIs File I/O LabVIEW Style Checklist Building and Distributing Applications Simple State Machine Template LabVIEW Core 2 Getting Started with LabVIEW LabVIEW Installation Guide

ni.com/skills-guide
Online Product Documentation Self-Paced Online Training Courses Instructor-Led Training Courses

LabVIEW Core 1

LabVIEW Core 1

LabVIEW Core 2

LabVIEW Core 3

Object-Oriented Design and Programming in LabVIEW

Managing Software Engineering in LabVIEW

Advanced Architectures for LabVIEW

To find training courses near you, view the NI training catalog at ni.com/training.

NI Hardware Proficiency
In addition to determining which level of LabVIEW proficiency you require to achieve success with your graphical system design application, you need to identify the level of hardware proficiency required. NI offers skills guides at ni.com/skills-guide/hardware for each of the following hardware platforms.

Data Acquisition (DAQ)

NI is a trusted computer-based measurement provider for engineers and scientists. Find out the level of DAQ proficiency you need to take advantage of NI DAQs high-performance I/O, industry-leading technologies, and software-driven productivity gains for your application:

Perform basic measurements Develop DAQ systems Architect complex DAQ systems

Instrument Control
NI offers high-quality instrument control hardware for buses such as GPIB, USB, and Ethernet to help you automate your measurements. And you can use NI resources to identify which category your application falls into and which level of instrument control proficiency you need:

Tester/technician System developer System architect

Embedded Monitoring and Control

To help you develop embedded monitoring and control systems, NI CompactRIO hardware offers powerful benefits including precise high-speed timing and control plus rugged hardware. Find which level of proficiency is required for your embedded application:

High-performance (FPGA) prototype High-performance (FPGA) deployment Basic performance (Scan Engine) prototype Basic performance (FPGA) deployment

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The Experience You Need

With NI training courses, you learn recommended techniques to reduce development time and improve application performance and scalability. In a recent survey, customers reported on average 66 percent faster learning times, 50 percent quicker development, and 43 percent less maintenance after taking NI training courses. Learn from NI and industry experts in a variety of formats, including online, self-paced, and classroom settings. NI training is a smart and safe investment to unlock your application development potential.

 estimate that the training courses have saved me more than 150 hours I in self-paced learning time to get to an equivalent skill level. 
Thomas Sumrak, Test Engineer, PAR Technologies, LLC

Training Formats
NI offers courses in several languages and formats including instructor-led classes at facilities worldwide, courses on-site at your facility, online courses, and self-paced courses to better serve your individual needs. Whichever course format you choose, NI training courses can help you achieve immediate productivity gain and long-term success. Visit ni.com/training/options for more details.

Self-Paced Format Features

Learn from a certified instructor who can answer questions Access relevant hardware1 Eliminate distractions with a classroom setting Interact with other students Content modified to meet your groups specific needs Avoid travel expenses Printed manual that accompanies the course2 Exercises to practice concepts you learn Multimedia training Concept review quizzes Full-day class (8 hours per day) Half-day class (4 hours per day) Learn on your own schedule (24 hours/7 days) Price
1Some

Instructor-Led
1- to 4-day classes held live remotely

Prerecorded modules viewable at ni.com

Online

Online

1- to 3-day classes held at training facilities

Regional

1- to 3-day classes held at your location

On-Site

$4

$$

$$$

$$$

courses use simulated hardware; 2Manuals differ in format and content detail by course; 3Recorded video of the class can be reviewed; 4Or included with software service contract

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Courses
National Instruments provides many different training courses designed to help you become successful using your NI hardware and software. NI engineers and certified professional instructors design and teach courses that help you learn to develop robust, maintainable applications.

Development Courses
NI LabVIEW Development Courses

LabVIEW Development with NI Hardware Courses

LabVIEW Core 1 LabVIEW Core 2 LabVIEW Core 3 LabVIEW Connectivity LabVIEW Performance Object-Oriented Design and Programming in LabVIEW Advanced Architectures in LabVIEW Managing Software Engineering in LabVIEW Using NI LabVIEW for Test and Automation in Regulated Markets

LabVIEW Real-Time 1 LabVIEW Real-Time 2 LabVIEW FPGA High-Throughput LabVIEW FPGA NI FlexRIO Data Acquisition and Signal Conditioning LabVIEW Instrument Control Sound and Vibration Fundamentals Modular Instruments: Switches Modular Instruments: Digital Multimeters (DMMs) Modular Instruments: High-Speed Digital I/O RF Measurement Fundamentals RF Application Development LabVIEW Machine Vision and Image Processing

NI TestStand Courses

TestStand 1: Test Development TestStand 2: Framework Development

NI LabWindows/CVI Courses

NI Multisim and Ultiboard Courses

LabWindows/CVI Core 1 LabWindows/CVI Core 2

Multisim Basics Ultiboard Basics

NI VeriStand Course

NI DIAdem Courses

NI VeriStand Fundamentals

DIAdem Basics DIAdem Advanced

* Courses and formats vary by region

Purchasing Options
Purchase Now, Schedule Now If you already know the course you need and when you would like to take it, you can get started now by browsing our training catalog at ni.com/training. Purchase Now, Schedule Later Buy training credits now and redeem them within the year for any training or certification offering. Credits can be applied to anyone and are valid anywhere in the country of purchase. Membership Savings Take regional and online courses and certification exams for one low price. Memberships are available in six-month, one-year, and two-year options.

Already a Member of the Standard Service Program (SSP)?

With an active LabVIEW SSP membership, you are entitled to self-paced online training. Visit ni.com/ssp to see the courses you are eligible for and begin viewing training videos immediately.

The mark LabWindows is used under a license from Microsoft Corporation. Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and other countries.

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Validate Your Expertise

For developers and engineers using NI software, certification is a proven way to boost career potential. Certification helps inspire confidence in technical skills, leading to promotions, new opportunities, and higher pay for individuals. For organizations, certification is a strategic investment that pays off in increased productivity, reduced turnover, and an overall competitive advantage.

Certications Offered
Skill Level NI LabVIEW
Mastery in architecting and project managing LabVIEW applications Ability to create functional, well-documented LabVIEW code with minimal development Broad understanding of LabVIEW core features and functionality and the ability to read and interpret existing LabVIEW code

NI TestStand
Ability to architect and project manage NI TestStand applications Broad and complete understanding of NI TestStand core features and functionality

NI LabWindows/CVI

Architect

No certication offered

Developer

Broad and complete understanding of LabWindows/CVI core features and functionality

Associate Developer

No certication offered

No certication offered

Benefits of Certification
NI certification demonstrates that you have the skills needed to create high-quality applications with NI software platforms and gives customers, peers, and employers confidence in your abilities. A recent survey of NI Certified LabVIEW Developers revealed tangible benefits that have a direct, measurable, and positive impact on employee and manager alike, such as the following:

54 percent said the quality of their work improved 45 percent said their peers perceptions of them improved 29 percent received new project opportunities 36 percent said the certification increased their compensation by more than 5 percent 10 percent received a promotion at work

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The mark LabWindows is used under a license from Microsoft Corporation. Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and other countries.

Reasons to Certify Your Employees

NI certification provides a standard, industry-accepted way of gauging employees skills, whether they are developing a part of a program or the complete application architecture. It also allows employers to clearly define and recognize technical skill development goals for individual employees while gaining the benefits of better work quality. At the same time, certification helps individuals within the organization recognize their peers and technical leaders, allowing the development of communication channels and communities that promote the use of good development practices and quick problem resolution.

 ou can be confident in what you are getting if that certification level is there. Y Those individuals have the knowledge and experience to hit the ground running, and we had an aggressive timetable for completing the project. 
David Hakey, Certified LabVIEW Architect and GE Energy Employee

Prepare for Your NI Certification

National Instruments provides a variety of materials to help you prepare for your certification exam. Go online to view preparation guides, webcasts, sample exams, solutions, and a recommended preparation plan based on when youre taking the test and how much experience you have. Visit ni.com/training/certification_prep.

Register for an Exam Near You

In the Americas and Europe, National Instruments offers many certification exams through Pearson VUE testing centers. For all other exams please refer to the upcoming exam schedule for your area or contact your local NationalInstruments office to request a different date or location. Visit ni.com/certificationschedule.

Already Certified?
Find a job that leverages your skills set. There are great companies out there looking for the best and brightest Certified LabVIEW Developers. Find employers at ni.com/labviewcareers.

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Need More Help?

Additional Resources for Continuing Your Learning

LabVIEW User Groups

LabVIEW user groups provide the opportunity for you to learn from and interact with other LabVIEW developers face-to-face. Find a user group in your area to get connected. Visit ni.com/usergroups for more information.

Live Events and Webcasts

Free technical sessions presented live at local NI events and virtually via webcast help you learn additional tips and tricks and keep up with the latest NI product and technology developments. Visit ni.com/events for more information.

Discussion Forums
Visit ni.com/forums and ask questions and start discussions with peers and NI experts.

NI Developer Community
Visit ni.com/community to find the latest example code, tutorials, and more from LabVIEW and other NI product users across the globe.

Technical Support Resources

Access technical support resources such as online product manuals, the NI KnowledgeBase, and written tutorials. Visit ni.com/support for more information.

No Time to Learn?
If you are unable to gain the skill level you need in the time allotted for your project, NI can augment your expertise by connecting you with an NI Alliance Partner or certified user who can help.

NI Alliance Partner Network

The NI Alliance Partner Network is a program of more than 700 companies worldwide that provide complete solutions and high-quality products based on graphical system design. To find an NI Alliance Partner, visit ni.com/alliance.

NI Certified Users
Thousands of certified professionals all over the world have proven their knowledge and skills with NI products by successfully completing NI certification exams. To view a list of certified users in your area, visit ni.com/training/certification.

U.S. Corporate Headquarters

11500 N Mopac Expwy Austin, TX 78759-3504 T: 512 683 0100 F: 512 683 9300 info@ni.com

International Branch Officesni.com/global

2012 National Instruments. All rights reserved. CompactRIO, CVI, DIAdem, LabVIEW, Multisim, National Instruments, NI, ni.com, NI FlexRIO, NI TestStand, NI VeriStand, and Ultiboard are trademarks of National Instruments. The mark LabWindows is used under a license from Microsoft Corporation. Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and other countries. Other product and company names listed are trademarks or trade names of their respective companies. A National Instruments Alliance Partner is a business entity independent from National Instruments and has no agency, partnership, or joint-venture relationship with National Instruments. 350891U-01 07180