Getting Started with LabVIEW
- Updated2026-09-28
- 2 minute(s) read
Learn about LabVIEW fundamentals. If you are using LabVIEW for the first time, NI recommends starting with the LabVIEW Tutorial at the NI Learning Center (learn.ni.com).
About LabVIEW
Learn the basics about LabVIEW, including what LabVIEW is designed to do, how to install LabVIEW, and how to navigate the editor environment.
LabVIEW Theory of Operation
Learn the fundamental design principles that underpin LabVIEW, such as the dataflow paradigm, separating programs into a block diagram and a front panel, and data types.
Creating VIs and SubVIs
LabVIEW VIs—virtual instruments—model the appearance and function of a physical instrument. Create functional programs in LabVIEW by creating VIs, which you can reuse in other VIs as modular subVIs.
Connecting LabVIEW and Physical Instrumentation
You can connect LabVIEW to many different types of instrumentation to automate measurement applications. You can use LabVIEW with both NI hardware, through NI drivers, and third-party hardware, through an extensive Instrument Driver Network (IDNet).
Programming Examples and Learning Materials
To learn how to develop VIs in LabVIEW with practical examples or to use guided learning material, access LabVIEW example code and training materials.
Related Information
- NI Learning Center—LabVIEW Tutorial
- LabVIEW Overview
LabVIEW (Laboratory Virtual Instrument Engineering Workbench) is a programming environment used to create applications using the G programming language.
- LabVIEW Editions
Multiple editions of LabVIEW are available. Each edition includes different capabilities.
- Installing LabVIEW
You can install LabVIEW on the Windows or Linux operating system.
- Finding Your Way in LabVIEW
Learn the parts of the LabVIEW environment and how to navigate through them.
- Managing a Project in LabVIEW
- Block Diagram Data Flow
- Block Diagram Objects
- Using Wires to Link Block Diagram Objects
- Building the Front Panel
The front panel is the user interface of a VI. Generally, you design the front panel first and then design the block diagram to perform tasks on the inputs and outputs you create on the front panel.
- Functions Overview
- Loops and Other Structures
Structures in LabVIEW are graphical representations of the loops and case statements of text-based programming languages.
- Data Types in LabVIEW
Learn about how LabVIEW handles different different data representations.
- Creating Modular Code with SubVIs
A subVI is a VI that appears on the block diagram of another VI. Use subVIs in LabVIEW to create modular code that you can use in other VIs.
- Designing User Interfaces
If a VI serves as a user interface or dialog box, front panel appearance and layout are important. Design LabVIEW front panels to resemble instruments so users can easily identify which actions to perform.
- Designing the Block Diagram
- Wiring the Block Diagram
A wire is a data path between items on the block diagram of a VI. Add wires between items to connect those items into a functioning program.
- Building the Connector Pane
- Running VIs
Running a VI executes the operation for which you designed the VI. You can run a properly wired VI from the block diagram, from the Project Explorer, or programmatically.
- Debugging Techniques
If a VI is running but generating unexpected data, you can use techniques like error monitoring, execution highlighting, probes, and breakpoints to debug your VI.
- Overview of Virtual Instruments and Measurements
- Controlling Instruments
- Using Instrument Drivers
- ni.com—NI Drivers
- ni.com—Instrument Driver Network (IDNet)
- Using LabVIEW Examples, VI Templates, Project Templates, and Sample Projects
Find LabVIEW examples, VI templates, project templates, and sample projects to start building VIs and application architectures. Use these resources to reuse code, follow design patterns, and speed development.
- NI Community—Example Code for LabVIEW
- NI YouTube Channel—Getting Started with LabVIEW Playlist
- NI Learning Center—LabVIEW Core 1
- NI Learning Center—LabVIEW Core 2
- NI Customer Service Help Center—Accessing On-Demand Training