Curriculum-wide systems programming environment for mechanical engineering instructional laboratories

LabVIEW has been adopted as the programming development environment for students to generate their own virtual instruments. The language based upon a systems approach, fits well the measurements system course, the first of four courses in the curriculum with associated laboratories. Each of the laboratories uses LabVIEW in different modes, but in a seamless way and making use of students expanding skills. Examples of experiments are presented. Observations on the impact of this new tool on the program are presented.