.NET or CVI or TestStand

[dotNet_to_LabW]

Hi,

In last few days we have tried developing test sequences for our devices in TestStand. Earlier, I have used .NET enviornment for developing test applications.

- We have observed that not all companies deliver IVI class and specific drivers with their products for e.g. Keithley 2700, NIDAQmx etc. In order to take full advantage of using TestStand, we have to develop drivers on our

- I think that the results that are achieved by using TestStand can also be achieved by using CVI or .NET and that too with more ease.

Now my question is:

- What advantages does TestStand really offers over CVI or .NET

- If we have to select between CVI and .NET, what developing envoirnment for test cases is recommended.

Thanks and regards

Rahul

[Duffy2007]

Hi Rahul,

the advantage of TestStand is that you can use both CVI and .Net, from our side we do not say use CVI or .NET.

I think for you it would easier to use .NET steps, because you have ther more experience in .Net programming.

The advantage of CVI is that NI has more examples as in .NET, but feel free and select the language you think that is the right for you.

[chenny]

First, TestStand is a test management software, the purpose or role in test automation is different compared with CVI or NET

- Both CVI and NET can be used to develop test code modules or test related tasks in .lib or .dll

- TestStand will be used to create and execute the test sequences and other utility sequences such as datalogging or report generation to manage the test flow

NI provides lots of drivers for DAQmx or GPIB devices. So it really depends upon your requirement or which ide you prefer/good at to write code modules

[dotNet_to_LabW]

Thanks for replying.

Do you mean its all about writing the code? Because if I have to use dll or lib files then I can choose any of the 3 enviornments to write test sequences?

Logging and report generation are possible in .NET and CVI too but there I have to manage it in my code. Is there any other advantage which teststand offers? Also, I could not find possibility of creating User interface and xml serialization in TestStand.

Regards

Rahul

[Duffy2007]

Hi Rahul,

if you have installed TestStand then you find examples for user interfaces in different languages.

The TestStand API overs you many options over an ActiveX interface to control TestStand.

[chenny · Accepted solution]

As I said before, TestStand is a test management software, which provides framework and utilities to support test flow. So you can focus upon the test itself.

If you want to organize test, do logging, report, etc by yourself, there is really no need to use TestStand