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Experiments

Before starting a LabStream experiment, configure the experiment workspace to define what to monitor and what to control. An experiment can contain multiple charts and multiple controlled output channels.

Charts (Monitoring)

  • Add Channels: Any device channel can be added to a chart for monitoring.
  • Display Values: Charts display the converted reading value for each channel (physical measurement → display value via coefficients).
  • Multiple Charts: You can add multiple charts to a single experiment and arrange them as needed.

Typical Steps

  1. Open the Experiment Workspace.
  2. Click Add Chart.
  3. Select one or more channels to monitor.
  4. Configure display units and axis settings.
  5. Save and position the chart in the workspace.

Controlled Output Channels (Control)

LabStream supports three modes of output control channels:

  • Manual: Set a fixed output value that remains constant until changed.
  • Programmable: Define a custom program with sections and repeats. The output follows the programmed sequence over time.
  • Automatic (PID): Use a PID controller to automatically adjust the output based on a feedback channel to reach and maintain a target setpoint.

Typical Steps

  1. Click Add Controller.
  2. Choose control mode (Manual, Programmable, Automatic PID).
  3. Select the output channel to control.
  4. For PID mode, select a feedback channel and configure PID parameters (P/I/D, setpoint, limits).
  5. For Programmable mode, define sections (duration, target, ramp/step) and repeat behavior.
  6. Save and place the controller widget in the workspace.

Running an Experiment

  • Start: After configuring charts and controllers, click Start Experiment. LabStream samples all devices at a fixed 1-second interval, updates charts with display values, and sends control outputs according to configured controllers.
  • Stop: You can stop the experiment at any time. Controllers cease sending outputs, and charts stop updating.

Data Collection & Export

  • Automatic Save: Experiment data is automatically saved to the local database for safety and reliability.
  • Live Export: You can export data at any time during the experiment.
  • Post-Run Access: After the experiment stops, you can fetch the stored data for further analysis at any time.

Tips

  • Remove unused devices from the system to reduce bandwidth and improve responsiveness.
  • Limit the number of devices on a single serial port to keep the 1-second sampling cadence stable.

Next Steps

  • Configure your first experiment by adding charts and controllers.
  • See the Devices section for supported models and channel details: Devices.