Programming guidelines -
Measurement and control with LabVIEW

These guidelines/rules should be followed as closely as possible in the finalized, individual project. Use them as a help during discussions and suggestions of improvement.

1. Name all indicators and controls
   
2. Only update settings that need to be updated - use event structures
3. Don't use Wait(ticks) to make things work
4. Keep the amount of inputs and outputs low (max about 4 each) - use structures or refnums
5. Never hard-code parameters that could change, such as VISA addresses
6. Design a simple, uncluttered icon for each .vi
7. Use threading when possible
8. Don't show any internal structures or variables

Questions suitable for group discussions

1. What is the main goal of the project?
2. Which communication protocols does the project use? Are there any alternatives?
3. How are commands sent? How is the information received?
4. What part takes the most time to execute?
5. What happens if the communication is lost?
6. Is the program structure suitable for extension to several commands/measurements/instruments?