TF3710 | TwinCAT 3 Interface for LabVIEW™

The TF3710 function TwinCAT 3 Interface for LabVIEW™ enables the exchange of data between LabVIEW™ and the TwinCAT runtime. ADS Client VIs for LabVIEW™ are provided, which enable ADS communication with the TwinCAT 3 runtime. In addition, the TwinCAT 3 Interface for LabVIEW™ contains an NTP Client VI that enables the time synchronization between LabVIEW™ and TwinCAT on the basis of the Network Time Protocol. TF3710 uses ADS communication and is suitable for communication with TwinCAT target systems with any supported operating systems (Windows 10, Windows CE, TwinCAT/BSD).

LabVIEW™ programs are called virtual instruments, or VIs, because their appearance and operation imitate physical instruments, such as oscilloscopes and multimeters. LabVIEW™ contains a comprehensive set of tools for acquiring, analyzing, displaying, and storing data, as well as tools to help you troubleshoot code you write.

The TwinCAT 3 Interface for LabVIEW™ is used when automation technology and measurement technology exchange data in a system. For example, the EtherCAT measurement modules and TwinCAT are used for the acquisition of measured data in a test bench; the test bench is operated via a higher-level LabVIEW™ visualization.

Using the TF3710 function, the test bench operator can access the TwinCAT data of the Beckhoff measurement technology hardware and generate additional measurement functions via the familiar user interface. The communication between TwinCAT and LabVIEW™ is bidirectional: TwinCAT data can be streamed to LabVIEW™, processed and displayed. LabVIEW™ data such as a start event or an external measuring signal can be transmitted from LabVIEW™ to TwinCAT.

The PC-based controller offers the option to run the TwinCAT 3 runtime and the LabVIEW™ application via the LabVIEW™ Application builder on a single Industrial PC. The LabVIEW™ application can of course also be operated on separate devices that are reachable by ADS.

The NTP Client VI is used with a test setup for the cost-optimized time synchronization of the high-end measurement controller of NI™ with the peripheral automation technology. The EL6688 EtherCAT Terminal (IEEE 1588 external synchronization interface) enables the exact time synchronization of the two systems.

LabVIEW™ and NI™ are trademarks of National Instruments. Neither Beckhoff, nor any software programs or other goods or services offered by Beckhoff, are affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by National Instruments.