Importing Data from LabVIEW Measurement (.LVM) Files into Multisim

Updated Nov 17, 2023

Environment

Software

  • Multisim
  • LabVIEW

Sometimes the best way to test a circuit design is with real-world input data, particularly when the inputs to a circuit are difficult or impossible to model and simulate. For example, when designing a filter on the output of a noisy power supply, it is quite difficult to write a simulation model for the noise on the supply. It is far easier to use LabVIEW data acqusition tools to capture the noise on the output of the supply and use that data as an input to the simulation.

Using real-world data as an input to simulation gives designers better insight into the operation of their circuits under life-like circumstances. Multisim 9 now includes the ability to natively use captured LabVIEW data as an input to simulations.

To incorporate LabVIEW measurement data into your simulations, use the Multisim LVM Source as follows:

1. Open the Component Browser by clicking Place»Component.
2. Select and place the LVM_VOLTAGE component from the SIGNAL_VOLTAGES family of the Sources Group.


 

3. Wire the LVM_VOLTAGE to your circuit’s input net.
4. After placing and wiring the LVM_VOLTAGE component, double-click on the component to open the Properties dialog box.


 
5. Click the File Select button  to choose the LabVIEW Measurement File from which to load data.
6. Optionally, check the Repeat button to repeat the waveform(s) in the LVM file. Should you choose this option, ensure that you have acquired only one period of input data for optimal results.
7. Begin simulation - the LVM_VOLTAGE will act as a signal voltage source using the acquired data from LabVIEW.