Solution
Global variables cannot be used to share data across LabVIEW projects or executables.
This limitation exists because:
- Each LabVIEW project or executable runs in its own application instance.
- Each instance has an isolated memory space.
- A global variable belongs exclusively to the memory space of the application instance in which it is loaded.
As a result:
- A global variable in Project A is not accessible from Project B.
- A global variable embedded in Executable A cannot be accessed by Executable B.
- There is no mechanism in LabVIEW to create a “detached” global variable accessible across multiple executables.
Global variables are only suitable for:
- Sharing data between VIs within the same project or executable
- Simple data access where tight coupling is acceptable
However, there are other methods for communicating between projects or executables which are detailed below.
- TCP/IP or UDP
- Network Streams
- Communicate Between Multiple LabVIEW Executables Using Shared Variables
In order to figure out the best networking protocol for you, please consult our tutorial Using the Right Networking Protocol