LabView compatible PID controller

[AlexanderJust]

Dear all,

we are building an automated testing oven. It has been decided that it's cheaper and more convenient to use a pre built PID controller, however 

our task is to set the temperature of oven using LabView code, thus the PID should communicate with computer. 

I would be really grateful if you could give me a piece of advice whether such controllers exist and where they can be found or it might be easier to use DAQ box + NI PID

toolkit + power transistor with external power supply + heating element.

P.S just to note, working temperature range is not very high ( 20 - 200C)

All the best

Alexander 

[Norbert_B]

Alexander,

you should contact your local NI branch and ask for a visit of the sales rep.

He/she could give you some options and information you then can think about and select.

Norbert

[moderator1983 · Accepted solution]

Hi Alexander,

When you talk about PID controller, there are two options:

1. Software based PID controller (that you can develop using LabVIEW PID toolkit)

2. Hardware based PID controller... if you choose to have a hardware based PID, you need to make sure that it can be used with LabVIEW, I know that what your concern is...!!

Mostly these PID controllers (hardware based) are a serial instrument (RS-232, RS-485 or MODBUS based) and that can be easily integrated with LabVIEW.. no toolkit is required but all you need is VISA functions or MODBUS library.

[AlexanderJust]

Thanks very much! I'll have a look on these controllers, VISA functions are not a problem, used to work with them before, now have to decide on the right controller! 

[AlexanderJust]

could you recommend a company, that makes these controllers? 

[moderator1983]

You can search it online... I prefer searching on RS Cmponents. But it again depends on what is the end use of application, is it for academic purpose or for industrial...!!