SEMNAR REPORT

ON

VIRTUAL INSTRUMENTATION

BY

AKINDE PETER OLAMIDE NCSF/23/0100

EFIOM EUNICE MFON NCSF/23/0156

ADENLE JAMIU OLUWASEGUN NCSF/23/0090

ADESOKAN AYOMIDE RAMON NCSF/23/0178

ADETORO ERITOSIN ADEJOKE NCSF/23/0069

A SEMINAR SUBMITTED

TO THE DEPARTMENT OF COMPUTER SCIENCE, SCHOOL OF PURE AND

APPLIED SCIENCE, OGUN STATE INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, IGBESA

IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE AWARD OF NATIONAL DIPLOMA (ND)

SUPERVISOR: MRS. ACHORI

March, 2025.

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 CERTIFICATION

This is to certify that this seminar work; VIRTUAL INSTRUMENTATION is carried out by
AKINDE PETER OLAMIDE, NCSF/23/0100; EFIOM EUNICE MFO, NCSF/23/0156;
ADENLE JAMIU OLUWASEGUN, NCSF/23/0090; ADESOKAN AYOMIDE RAMON,
NCSF/23/0178; ADETORO ERITOSIN ADEJOKE, NCSF/23/0069; in the department of
computer science in partial fulfillment of the Award of National Diploma (ND)

________________________ ______________

Mrs Achori B.T Date

Supervisor

________________________ _______________

Mrs. Ojo A.I Date

Head of Department

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 DEDICATION

This seminar research work is dedicated to God Almighty, the Alpha and Omega

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I will not do without acknowledging the hands and wondrous works of Almighty God in my life
and this seminar research work. All glory to God.

I also want to appreciate my parents and siblings for their support in prayers, financially and
moral support

I would also like to thank Mrs Achori, my supervisor and the HOD for the mentoring guidance I
received in the course of this research work.

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 TABLE OF CONTENT

Cover Page

Certification Page

Dedication

Acknowledgement

Table of Content

Abstract
CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the study

1.2 Statement of Problem

1.3 Aim and Objectives

1.4 Significance of the study

1.5 Scope of the Project

1.6 Definition of Terms

CHAPTER TWO: LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Overview of related work

2.2 Discussion of existing solutions

2.3 challenges in current solutions

2.4 Related works

CHAPTER THREE: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3.1 Introduction

3.2 Architectural Design

3.3 Explanation of the design process

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3.4 Description of any software tools

3.5 Experimental setup and procedures

CHAPTER FOUR: SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

4.1 Summary

4.2 Conclusion

Reference

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 ABSTRACT

The development and use of programmable measurement systems have been widely explored.
The possibility of modifying the measurement procedure simply by changing the algorithm
executed by the computer-based architecture without replacing the hardware components makes
any experimental activity easier. Virtual measurement systems has been introduced to simplify
the design and implementation of programmable measurement systems by adopting a visual
interface. In this report, the overview of virtual instrumentation has been discussed. The reasons
for a wide acceptance of LabVIEW have been highlighted. The applications and field where
LabVIEW has been widely used are reviewed. In the end, small implementations on LabVIEW
have been demonstrated.

Keywords:– LabVIEW, VIs, DAQs

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 CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the study

Virtual instrumentation is the use of customizable software and modular measurement

hardware to create user-defined measurement systems.

Traditional hardware instrumentation systems are made up of fixed hardware components, such
as digital multimeters and oscilloscopes that are completely specific to their stimulus, analysis,
or measurement function. Because of their hard-coded function, these systems are more limited
in their versatility than virtual instrumentation systems. The primary difference between
hardware instrumentation and virtual instrumentation is that software is used to replace a large
amount of hardware. The software enables complex and expensive hardware to be replaced by
already purchased computer hardware; e. g. analog-to-digital converter can act as a hardware
complement of a virtual oscilloscope, a potentiostat enables frequency response acquisition and
analysis in electrochemical impedance spectroscopy with virtual instrumentation (Chaturi Singh
and Poddar, 2010).

The concept of a synthetic instrument is a subset of the virtual instrumentation concept. A

synthetic instrument is a kind of virtual instrumentation that is purely software defined. A
synthetic instrument performs a specific synthesis, analysis, or measurement function on
completely generic, measurement agnostic hardware. Virtual instrumentation can still have
measurement-specific hardware, and tend to emphasize modular hardware approaches that
facilitate this specificity. Hardware supporting synthetic instrumentation is by
definition not specific to the measurement, nor is it necessarily (or usually) modular (Sethunadh
and Mohanlal, 2009) .

Leveraging commercially available technologies, such as the PC and the analog-to-digital

converter, virtual instrumentation has grown significantly since its inception in the late 1970s.
Additionally, software packages like National Instruments' LabVIEW and other graphical
programming languages helped grow adoption by making it easier for non-programmers to
develop systems.

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The newly updated technology called "hard virtual instrumentation" is developed by some
companies. It is said that with this technology the execution of the software is done by the
hardware itself which can help in fast real time processing (Jiri Pechousek, 2016).

1.2 Aim and Objectives

The aim of the study is to create customizable, user-defined measurement and control systems by
combining modular hardware and software, allowing for flexibility and adaptability in test,
measurement, and automation applications.

While the objectives are as follows below:

i. Virtual instrumentation empowers users to build systems tailored to specific needs, rather
than relying on fixed-function instruments.
ii. To utilizes modular hardware components and customizable software to create a flexible
and scalable system.
iii. To provide tools for acquiring, analyzing, storing, sharing, and presenting data, offering a
comprehensive solution for various applications.
1.3 Features of Virtual Instrumentation

A virtual instrument consists of an industry-standard computer or workstation equipped with

powerful application software, cost-effective hardware such as plug-in boards, and driver
software, which together perform the functions of traditional instruments. Virtual instruments
represent a fundamental shift from traditional hardware-centered instrumentation systems to
software-centered systems that exploit the computing power, productivity, display, and
connectivity capabilities of popular desktop computers and workstations. Although the PC and
integrated circuit technology have experienced significant advances in the last two decades, it is
software that truly provides the leverage to build on this powerful hardware foundation to create
virtual instruments, providing better ways to innovate and significantly reduce cost. With virtual
instruments, engineers and scientists build measurement and automation systems that suit their
needs exactly (user-defined) instead of being limited by traditional fixed-function instruments
(vendor-defined).

This document describes powerful programming tools, flexible acquisition hardware, and the

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personal computer, which are the essential components for virtual instrumentation. The synergy
between them offers advantages that cannot be matched by traditional instrumentation.

1.4 Advantages of Virtual Instrumentation

i. Cost Reduction: By utilizing general-purpose computing platforms and software, virtual

instrumentation significantly lowers instrument costs compared to traditional, dedicated
hardware.
ii. Flexibility and Reconfigurability: Virtual instruments allow users to customize and
reconfigure their instruments by adding or replacing functional modules through software,
offering unmatched flexibility.
iii. Scalability: Virtual instrumentation systems can be easily scaled up or down to meet
changing application needs, making them suitable for a wide range of measurement
environments.
iv. Improved Performance: Virtual instruments can achieve higher performance and
efficiency through the integration of digital signal processing techniques and the ability to
leverage the power of computers.
v. User-Defined Systems: Engineers and scientists can create user-defined measurement and
control systems that precisely meet their application requirements, leading to higher
quality products and faster time to market.
1.4 Disadvantages of Virtual Instrumentation
i. Initial Costs and Complexity: While virtual instrumentation can reduce long-term costs,
the initial investment in hardware and software can be significant.
ii. Performance Overhead and Reliance on Hardware: Virtual instruments rely on the
performance of the underlying computer, which can lead to performance bottlenecks if the
computer is not powerful enough.
iii. Security Concerns: Virtual instruments, being software-based, are susceptible to security
vulnerabilities, such as malware and unauthorized access.
iv. Compatibility Issues: Virtual instruments may not be compatible with all types of
hardware or software, which can limit their usability.

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1. 6 Definition of terms

Virtual Instrument (VI): A measurement, test, or control system built using a combination of
software and hardware, where the software provides the functionality of a traditional instrument.

Modular Hardware: Components that can be combined and configured to create a specific
measurement or control system.

Customizable Software: Software that allows users to define and configure the functionality of
the virtual instrument, rather than being limited by fixed-function instruments.

User-Defined Measurement Systems: Virtual instrumentation allows users to create

measurement and control systems that are tailored to their specific needs, rather than being
limited by vendor-defined instruments.

Software-Centric Approach: Virtual instrumentation emphasizes the role of software in defining

and controlling the functionality of the measurement or control system.

Hardware-Centric Approach: Traditional instrumentation systems are often hardware-centered,

where the hardware dictates the functionality of the system.

LabVIEW: A popular graphical programming language and development environment used for
creating virtual instruments.

NI (National Instruments): A company that is a leading provider of virtual instrumentation

hardware and software, including LabVIEW.

Embedded Device: A specialized computer system designed to perform a specific task, often
used in virtual instrumentation systems.

GUI (Graphical User Interface): The visual interface of a virtual instrument, allowing users to
interact with and control the system.

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 CHAPTER TWO

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 History of Virtual Instrumentation

The concept of virtual instrumentation emerged in the late 1970s, driven by microprocessor
technology, enabling flexible and user-defined measurement systems by leveraging software and
modular hardware. This approach allows for a shift from dedicated hardware to customizable
software interfaces, making instruments more adaptable and powerful. The advent of
microprocessors allowed for a shift in how instruments were designed and controlled. Instead of
relying solely on dedicated hardware, the functionality of a machine could be changed by
modifying its software.

National Instruments (now NI) introduced the concept of "Virtual Instruments" (VIs) in the early
1980s, emphasizing a three-component approach: acquisition, processing, and
presentation. Virtual instrumentation systems utilize modular measurement hardware and
customizable software to create user-defined measurement systems. Virtual instruments rely on
general-purpose computers and workstations, in combination with data collection hardware
devices and virtual instrumentation software, to construct integrated instrumentation systems.

2.2 Types of Virtual Instrumentation

i. Synthetic Instruments: These are purely software-defined, performing specific synthesis,
analysis, or measurement functions on generic hardware.
ii. Plug-in Hardware: This involves using hardware that plugs into a computer, offering data
acquisition capabilities.
iii. Networked Hardware: This involves accessing hardware through a network, providing a
wider range of data acquisition capabilities.

2.3 Uses of Virtual Instrumentation

Virtual Instrumentation (VI) allows users to build customized measurement and automation
systems using general-purpose computers and software, offering flexibility and cost-
effectiveness across various fields like engineering, healthcare, and education.

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2.4 Challenges in Virtual Instrumentation

i. Compatibility Issues: Different hardware devices and software platforms can have
varying interfaces and command sets, making it difficult to create a seamless and
universal virtual instrumentation system.
ii. Security Concerns: Virtual instrumentation systems, being software-based, can be
vulnerable to cyberattacks and data breaches, requiring robust security measures.
iii. Specialized Training: Developing and using virtual instrumentation systems often
requires specialized knowledge and skills in programming, data acquisition, and
instrument control, which can be a barrier for some users.
iv. Cost efficiency: Virtual instrumentation projects can be perceived as costly investments,
with investments in thin clients, enhancements to the existing network and storage
infrastructure.
2.5 Related Works
Gary J. N. R. (Gary J. N. Reinholz), and Rainer A. (Rainer A. Reibestein) (1997). Work Done:
This paper discusses the concept of virtual instrumentation (VI) and its potential to transform
traditional measurement techniques. It delves into the development of graphical programming
and integration with computer-based measurement and control systems. Limitation: The
technology at the time was limited by the processing power of computers and the software's
capability to support complex measurements in real-time.

Paterakis N. G., Costas D. J. M., Vassilios V. V. (2004). Work Done: This work develops a
virtual instrumentation system for real-time power quality analysis. It uses National Instruments'
software and hardware platforms to design systems that can collect and analyze power quality
data. Limitation: The system's performance is limited by the precision of the data acquisition
hardware and software capabilities.

Chakraborty M. C. (2005). Work Done: The paper discusses how virtual instrumentation can be
utilized in educational settings to help students grasp complex instrumentation concepts and
measurement systems through hands-on learning and simulation. Limitation: One limitation is
that the virtual instruments may not replicate all the real-world complexities and potential faults
that students would face when working with actual physical instruments.

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Manoj Kumar S, Harish Ramaswamy, H. R. (2009). Work Done: This paper focuses on
designing virtual instruments for real-time embedded systems, discussing the challenges in
achieving real-time performance, including latency and hardware interfacing. Limitation: One
limitation is the difficulty in maintaining real-time constraints when dealing with complex data
acquisition systems that require high-speed processing and low-latency response.

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 CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.1 Components of Virtual Instrumentation
3.1.1 Software:
i. Virtual Instrument Software: This is the backbone of the virtual instrument, providing the
user interface, programming environment, and data processing capabilities.
ii. LabVIEW: A popular example of virtual instrument software, known for its graphical
programming approach.
iii. Driver Software: This software acts as an interface between the hardware and the virtual
instrument software, enabling communication and control.

3.1.2 Hardware:
i. Computer or Workstation: A standard computer or workstation serves as the platform for
running the virtual instrument software and processing data.

ii. Data Acquisition (DAQ) Hardware: This hardware, such as plug-in boards or modules, is
used to acquire signals from sensors or other sources and convert them into a digital
format for processing.

iii. Interconnect Buses: These buses, like IEEE 488 (GPIB) or PXI, facilitate communication
between the computer and the hardware.

iv. Sensors: These devices detect physical phenomena and convert them into electrical
signals.

v. Sensor Interface: This interface allows the sensor module to communicate with a
computer

vi. Processing Module: This module processes, mixes, compares, and manipulates the data

3.2 Working principle

i. Signal Acquisition: Sensors or other input devices capture real-world signals (e.g.,
voltage, temperature, pressure).

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 ii. Data Acquisition: The data acquisition hardware converts these signals into a format that
the computer can process.

iii. Software Processing: The software then processes, analyzes, and displays the data, often
in a user-friendly graphical interface.

iv. Control: The software can also be used to control external devices or systems based on
the measured data.

3.3 Conceptual frame work

Figure 3.1: Block Diagram of Virtual Instrumentation

Source: https://blog.geetauniversity.edu.in/virtual-instrumentation/
3.4 Area of application
Engineering:

i. Test and Measurement: VI is widely used in test and measurement applications for
developing and testing prototypes, analyzing data, and automating processes.

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 ii. Control and Design: VI is increasingly used in control and design sectors for tasks like
monitoring and controlling processes, and simulating systems.
iii. Electric Drives: VI can be used to monitor and analyze the performance of AC and DC
electric drives.

Healthcare:

i. Medical Diagnostics and Imaging: VI plays a crucial role in medical imaging

technologies like MRI and CT scans for real-time data acquisition and visualization.
ii. Remote Patient Monitoring: VI enables remote monitoring of patients' vital signs,
facilitating timely interventions and improved patient care.

Education:

i. Teaching Tools: VI can be used to create interactive and engaging educational tools for
teaching concepts in various engineering and scientific disciplines.
ii. Simulations: VI allows for the creation of virtual simulations of real-world systems,
providing students with hands-on learning experiences.

Nuclear Physics:

VI can be used to develop systems for nuclear spectroscopy measurements, such as amplitude
and time signal analysis.

3.5 Cost of implementation

Software Costs:

i. Development Software: If you're building your own virtual instruments, you'll need
software like LabVIEW or similar tools, which can have licensing fees.
ii. Application Software: Costs for test and data management software, and measurement
and control services software like NI-DAQmx drivers.

Hardware Costs:

i. Data Acquisition (DAQ) Hardware: You'll need hardware to acquire data from sensors
and instruments, which can range from inexpensive DAQ cards to more expensive,
specialized equipment.

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 ii. Sensors and Instruments: The cost of the sensors and instruments you're using to measure
the physical parameters will also contribute to the overall cost.
iii. Computer: You'll need a computer to run the virtual instrumentation software, which can
range from a standard PC to a more powerful workstation.

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 CHAPTER FOUR
SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION
4.1 Summary
Virtual instrumentation is the use of customizable software and modular measurement hardware
to create user-defined measurement systems. The concept of a synthetic instrument is a subset of
the virtual instrumentation concept. A synthetic instrument is a kind of virtual instrumentation
that is purely software defined. A synthetic instrument performs a specific synthesis, analysis, or
measurement function on completely generic, measurement agnostic hardware. Virtual
instrumentation can still have measurement-specific hardware, and tend to emphasize modular
hardware approaches that facilitate this specificity. Hardware supporting synthetic
instrumentation is by definition not specific to the measurement, nor is it necessarily (or usually)
modular.

4.2 Conclusion
In conclusion, A virtual instrument consists of an industry-standard computer or workstation
equipped with powerful application software, cost-effective hardware such as plug-in boards,
and driver software, which together perform the functions of traditional instruments. Virtual
instruments represent a fundamental shift from traditional hardware-centered instrumentation
systems to software-centered systems that exploit the computing power, productivity, display,
and connectivity capabilities of popular desktop computers and workstations. Although the PC
and integrated circuit technology have experienced significant advances in the last two decades,
it is software that truly provides the leverage to build on this powerful hardware foundation to
create virtual instruments, providing better ways to innovate and significantly reduce cost. With
virtual instruments, engineers and scientists build measurement and automation systems that suit
their needs exactly (user-defined) instead of being limited by traditional fixed-function
instruments (vendor-defined).

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 Reference
Gary J. N. R. (Gary J. N. Reinholz), and Rainer A. (Rainer A. Reibestein) (1997). Virtual
Instrumentation: A New Revolution in Measurement (ResearchGate)

Paterakis N. G., Costas D. J. M., Vassilios V. V. (2004)"A Virtual Instrument System for Power
Quality Analysis" Power Quality Analysis System (IEEE Xplore)

Chakraborty M. C. (2005) "Virtual Instrumentation in Teaching and Learning" Virtual

Instrumentation in Teaching (ResearchGate)

Manoj Kumar S, Harish Ramaswamy, H. R. (2009). "Design of Virtual Instrumentation for Real-
Time Systems" Design of Virtual Instrumentation for Real-Time Systems (IEEE Xplore)

Chaturi Singh and K. Poddar, (2010)“ Implementation of a LabVIEW-Based Automated Wind

Tunnel Instrumentation System,”

Sethunadh R and Dr. P P Mohanlal, (2009) “Virtual instrument based dynamic balancing system
for rocket and payload”.

Jiri Pechousek, (2016) “Application of Virtual Instrumentation in Nuclear Physics

Experiments” , Practical Applications and Solutions Using LabVIEW™ Software.

Marcin A. Stegawski and Rolf Schaumann, (2018) “A New Virtual-Instrumentation-Based

Experimenting Environment for Undergraduate Laboratories with Application in Research and
Manufacturing”, IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON INSTRUMENTATION AND MEASUREMENT,
VOL. 47, NO. 6, DECEMBER 2018 1503

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