The NI LabVIEW FPGA Module is used with NI LabVIEW to help engineers develop and debug custom hardware logic that can be compiled and deployed to NI hardware with onboard FPGAs. When fast, deterministic response is required, use NI hardware with FPGAs for inline signal processing, communication with digital protocols, and closed-loop decision making.
The LabVIEW FPGA Module is built for high-throughput, data-intensive RF and advanced communication systems. For signal generation and analysis, the LabVIEW FPGA Module includes ready-to-use FPGA Math & Analysis VIs for filtering, FFTs, waveform generation, and related processing. These VIs accelerate development while maintaining deterministic performance.
The LabVIEW FPGA Module enables a structured DSP flow from algorithm design to optimization and hardware deployment. Using FPGA-optimized primitives like FIR filters and FFTs, parallel stages run with deterministic timing. Built-in simulation supports bit-accurate validation before compiling—reducing risk and speeding development for RF, software defined radio, and high-speed systems.
The diagram shows high-level data flow in the LabVIEW FPGA Module, from I/O acquisition and FPGA processing to the host VI handling GUI interaction.
The LabVIEW FPGA Module makes high-speed, low-latency systems accessible to more engineers.
The LabVIEW graphical design lets engineers build FPGA systems without HDL code, using an intuitive data flow programming environment to visually depict parallel processes and signal flow. This method removes the need to learn traditional hardware description languages like VHDL or Verilog while still supporting advanced FPGA development.
Engineers save development time by reusing existing code. The LabVIEW FPGA Module can integrate HDL or netlist IP, including VHDL and Verilog synthesis files, by using the IP block to integrate existing HDL.
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In the diagram, the LabVIEW FPGA Module serves as the custom processing layer. It handles time-critical, deterministic tasks directly on the FPGA, bridging physical I/O and higher-level software that manages control, logging, and user interaction.
Embedded system testing demands deterministic timing and real-time control. The LabVIEW+ Suite for HIL includes NI VeriStand, LabVIEW, the LabVIEW FPGA Module, the LabVIEW Real-Time Module, and more NI software to meet the needs of engineers doing embedded software test and simulation.
The Embedded Control and Monitoring Software Suite is a collection of software and tools for industrial equipment or designing smart machines.
Feature | LabVIEW FPGA | Other HDL (Verilog/VHDL) |
|---|---|---|
Programming Style | Graphical data flow | Textual design |
Hardware Connectivity | Native integration with NI FPGA-enabled hardware | Requires manual constraints and detailed board knowledge |
Ease of Development | Integrated compile flow and hardware abstraction reduce development time | Requires synthesis knowledge and deeper hardware expertise |
Broader Ecosystem | Integrates with the NI software stack: LabVIEW Real-Time, TestStand, VeriStand, DIAdem, and more; enables full test and measurement workflows | Typically requires custom integration for system-level test and automation |
LabVIEW FPGA can be used with a wide variety of NI hardware that features reconfigurable technologies such as CompactRIO Controllers, FlexRIO devices, USRP Software Defined Radio Devices, the PXI Vector Signal Transceiver, and more.
CompactRIO systems provide high-performance processing capabilities, sensor-specific conditioned I/O, and a closely integrated software toolchain that make them ideal for Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), monitoring, and control applications.
These devices combine analog and digital I/O with a user-programmable FPGA for onboard signal processing and custom system timing and synchronization.
These modules combine analog and digital I/O with a user-programmable FPGA for onboard signal processing and custom system timing and synchronization.
Your system must meet the following requirements to use LabVIEW FPGA Module.
The LabVIEW FPGA Module enables custom and standard communication protocols directly on FPGA hardware without low-level HDL. Engineers can prototype quickly and integrate deterministic signal generation, triggering, and fault injection. This capability supports protocol validation, error testing, and ECU verification across automotive, aerospace, and telecom systems.
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USRP SDR devices incorporate transceivers, receivers, and an onboard FPGA for rapidly prototyping high-performance, high-channel-count wireless communications systems.
Spectrum and signal analyzers measure electrical signals in the frequency and time domains. Use these products for applications such as wireless communications, RFIC characterization, radar test, spectrum monitoring, and signal intelligence.