Using LabWindows/CVI with TCP, UDP, and Other Low-Level Communications Applications

LabWindows/CVI supports several low-level protocols you can use to communicate between computers.

Each protocol is different, especially in the way it refers to the network location of a remote application. Each protocol generally is incompatible with other protocols. For example, if you want to communicate between Linux and Windows, you must use a protocol that works on both platforms, such as TCP.

TCP and UDP

TCP and User Datagram Protocol (UDP) are available on all platforms LabWindows/CVI supports. TCP is a reliable, connection-based protocol. It provides error detection and ensures that data arrive in order and without duplication. For these reasons, TCP is usually the best choice for network applications.

Although UDP can give higher performance than TCP and does not require a connection, it does not guarantee delivery. Typically, use UDP in applications in which guaranteed delivery is not critical. For example, an application might transmit data to a destination frequently enough that a few lost segments of data are not problematic.

Deciding between TCP and UDP

TCP is the best protocol to use if you want reliable data transmission. UDP is a connectionless protocol with higher performance, but it does not ensure reliable data transmission.

Executing System-Level Commands

Use the system function to execute or launch other Windows-based applications or Linux command-line applications. With this function, you execute a system-level command line that can include any parameters supported by the application you want to launch.