Back in June, we published a blog post navigating the initial project outlines for LabVIEW in 2022. Recently, NI released their Q3 Roadmap for the platform, outlining their plan for upcoming releases. September also marks the 9th month since LabVIEW switched over to an all subscription model in January of 2022. In this post, we will see what has changed for the LabVIEW roadmap since our June post, and we will dive into the different options for LabVIEW subscriptions.
Additions to the Roadmap
Project Management is where NI focused their Q3 updates, adding the only new additions to the LabVIEW roadmap in this category. The first new capability is improvements to the speed at which applications can be built. This update is slated to be introduced in the upcoming 1 or 2 releases. Secondly, the addition of capabilities to assist in building package installers is listed for future development. Most of the roadmap’s emphasis on bettering project management remains unchanged from the earlier release, including improving source code control capabilities to enhance workflow and the ability to use different driver versions without updating.
A couple capabilities from the first LabVIEW release are not listed on the Q3 release / have already been implemented. These include a LabVIEW VI comparison tool that can be used across versions, system support for Windows 11, 64-bit module support for the compactRIO labVIEW RT/FPGA, and enhancing the performance of the LabVIEW IDE on high-resolution displays (for example, resolutions of 2560 x 1440).
In the Q3 release, NI made it clear that they are taking user feedback seriously when it comes to later releases and updates. They have launched a new online roadmap survey, providing an easy and interactive place to provide feedback and conversation. That update survey can be found here.
LabVIEW’s New Subscription Model
In January of 2022, NI transitioned their software sales from SSP’s to a subscription model to streamline purchasing and simplify their catalog. Through this system, users gain access not only to the most recent versions of their software- but older versions and online tech support as well.
There are currently three main editions of LabVIEW subscriptions; Base, Full, and Professional. Additionally, there is a “Debug and Deployment” subscription for users looking to fix a previously developed application or system. These licenses differ in their application, and their price depends on the length of the subscription as well as the method of delivery (see table below).
As of the writing of this post, Windows is the only OS for the LabVIEW subscription- with Mac and Linux coming soon. Each of the three main editions can be delivered via digital download or mailed as a physical USB.
Base is best used for developing straightforward test / measurement applications. Full is best for applications that call for sophisticated signal processing / analyses. Professional is best for engineers who are in need of tools for engineering software, code distribution, reporting, and deployment.
While the subscription model has been in effect for less than a year, it has still stirred up controversy among engineers and users in the NI community who are accustomed to the old payment model. However, NI remains engaged in the community forums and seem to be taking user feedback into consideration when planning their future.
Additional Information:
https://www.ni.com/en-us/shop/software/products/labview.html
https://forums.ni.com/t5/LabVIEW/LabVIEW-Roadmap-2022-Q3/td-p/4251635
