LabVIEW TCP Data Transmission Exercise

Overview

• Today's video focuses on sending data using TCP protocol from client to server.
• Demonstration using a thermometer as a sensor (for demo purposes only).

Client and Server Setup

• Client Side: Sends data.
• Server Side: Reads data sent from the client.

Client Side Implementation

1. Create a new VI (Virtual Instrument).

   • Front Panel: Insert a thermometer (acts as sensor).
   • Change thermometer display to control for fractional output.

2. Implement TCP Protocol:

   • Use functions: TCP Open, TCP Write, and TCP Close.
   • Duplicate the TCP Write function.
   • Connect functions:
     • Connect first TCP Write to second TCP Write.
     • Connect both to TCP Close.

3. Data Handling:

   • Use string functions to convert thermometer readings to byte format.
   • Set timeout values to -1 (no timeout) for all TCP operations.
   • Enclose everything in a While Loop, set wait time to 1000 ms (1 second).
   • Set remote port ID as 2021.

4. Save Client VI:

   • Name file "client.vi".

Server Side Implementation

1. Create another new VI for Server.

   • Insert a thermometer (different color for distinction).

2. Implement TCP Functions:

   • TCP Listen, TCP Read, TCP Close.
   • Duplicate TCP Read function and connect accordingly.

3. Data Processing:

   • Change the data type from decimal string to number.
   • Use Bytes to Read to ensure correct data processing.
   • Set timeout to -1 again. Port remains 2021.

4. Enclose everything in a While Loop for continuous operation.

Testing and Troubleshooting

• Ensure both client and server VI are running simultaneously to establish a connection.
• If issues arise:
  • Check Bytes to Read settings on both client and server.
  • Make sure the server can detect data coming from the client (set constants appropriately).

Conclusion

• Successfully demonstrated how to send sensor data from a client to a server using LabVIEW and TCP protocol.
• Encouragement for viewers to apply this knowledge to their projects.