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Test Cell Measurement and Control

"The system based on LabVIEW provides advantages over the PLC-based system in terms of analog signal processing and the graphical user interface."

- Vijay Jayabalan - Captronic Systems

Developing a Starter Generator Test System with NI CompactRIO and LabVIEW

A test cell can range from a transmission test stand up to a full-fledged four-wheel vehicle dynamometer. Test cells combine industrial machinery with precision control and laboratory-quality measurements to replicate real-world environments for automotive components, systems, and complete vehicles. Many systems use dynamometer and/or servo-hydraulic systems to subject components to various loads to simulate real-world and extreme conditions. With connectivity to both industrial and automotive systems, the NI platform is uniquely positioned to provide a greater level of integration for automotive test cell applications.


A typical test cell system begins with a rugged NI programmable automation controller (PAC) capable of controlling the equipment that applies loads and forces to the components under test. CompactRIO PACs bring rugged measurements and control closer to the component under test and distribute control to subsystems in the harsh test cell environment. You can control the entire system with NI operator interfaces. All of these hardware components are programmed with the LabVIEW graphical system design environment.

Test Cell Control and Measurement System Using NI PXI

Typical test cell systems contain a powerful PXI controller, chassis, and high-performance I/O for measurements. Select the appropriate chassis, controller, and modules for your application and let the PXI advisor recommend the necessary components and accessories to complete your system.

  • Customize your system by choosing only the components you need
  • Print an itemized list or visit the online store to purchase your system
  • Achieve expandable I/O using PXI or expansion I/O over Ethernet

Start Building Your Test Cell System with PXI

Distributed Test Cell Control and Measurement System Using NI CompactRIO

You can use rugged CompactRIO and C Series I/O modules to move I/O closer to test stands, which reduces cabling, noise, and cost. When you select the chassis, real-time controller, and C Series modules for your application, the advisor recommends the components you need to complete your system. You can combine CompactRIO systems with PXI systems to integrate I/O flexibility with high performance.

  • Customize your system by choosing only the components you need
  • Print an itemized list or visit the online store to purchase your system
  • Further expand I/O using deterministic Ethernet expansion chassis

Start Building Your Test Cell System with CompactRIO

Locate an NI Partner

NI solutions partners are companies involved in the delivery of our products as solutions, or companies providing complementary software and hardware products.

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Benefits of Using NI

  • Graphical system design programming for all system components reduces development time
  • Multicore controllers and user-defined FPGAs achieve higher performance
  • Advanced control and measurement techniques meet your specific application needs


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