The Best of Both Worlds

The new Softwire graphical programming tool combines graphical and text-based programming for Visual Basic.

Softwire, a new graphical programming tool for building data acquisition applications, is the first software of its kind to use industry-standard Visual Basic code.

Combining the speed and simplicity of graphical programming with the power and flexibility of text-based syntactical routines, Softwire makes it easy to incorporate custom Visual Basic routines into any application.

An innovative 'try before you buy' distribution system lets users obtain the software on CD free of charge, then contact UK suppliers Adept Scientific for an unlock code to extend use beyond the 30-day trial period.

Up to now, developing data acquisition applications has meant either becoming familiar with a proprietary programming language, or using an icon-based, point-and-click interface that doesn't allow the flexibility to add or adapt code.

Softwire, a new software package from data acquisition specialists ComputerBoards, offers the chance to combine the flexibility of text-based programming with the speed and ease of use of graphical alternatives ? and it produces code in Visual Basic, the world's most popular programming tool.

Using Softwire is as easy as any other graphical programming system.

The user simply places objects on the screen which represent data acquisition or user interface controls, then connects them with simple drag-and-drop 'wires' through function and logic blocks.

The code for the data acquisition system is automatically generated.

But Softwire does not generate hard proprietary code ? it runs in Visual Basic and generates Visual Basic code.

Users can include custom VB routines as blocks within the application.

Softwire represents a real breakthrough both for experienced Visual Basic programmers, who will see their system development time slashed, and for those who are happy to create specialist routines in Visual Basic but do not wish to design complete systems.

With graphical programming techniques, although system building is always straightforward, adding certain specific or custom elements means having to add on more components and increase the complexity of the system.

With Softwire, any Visual Basic routine, perhaps to support an I/O board or instrument, can be integrated into the system using the User Function control block.

When this block is placed on the Softwire screen, a VB syntax window automatically appears: users simply place their code at the 'Add your custom code here' prompt.

Nobody wants to throw out the investment already made in software, so Softwire is completely ActiveX (COM) based.

All Softwire control blocks are fully COM/ActiveX compatible and are easily interfaced to Visual Basic programs.

It's also straightforward to convert existing ActiveX controls for use with the Softwire graphical programmer.

A key advantage of Softwire's COM/ActiveX implementation is that all control block parameters may be set via program control or with easy-to-use property page menus.

Some graphical programming languages force users to hard code every block parameter with another icon or control block.

In Softwire any object can have its operating parameters configured in an easy-to-understand property page.

Setting the channels to sample, or setting a sample rate, is as easy as typing in the desired number.

Of course all control parameters are also available to the programming interface and are easily controlled by the program.

OEMs and systems integrators will be particularly attracted to Softwire as the compiled applications created may be distributed as .EXE programs royalty free.

Of course, Softwire supports Computerboards' complete line of measurement, control and GPIB interfaces, but any other hardware with a Visual Basic interface can be incorporated into a Softwire-generated system.

Softwire can also be a great tool with which to learn Visual Basic.

Users can get to understand the ins and outs of using forms and property pages without having to write code, and when ready to start writing Visual Basic code, use the Softwire User Function block to help integrate the code into an application.

An innovative method of distributing Softwire lets users try out the software before buying, while allowing uninterrupted use after the trial period has expired.

The full, boxed Softwire program, with manuals, is available free of charge on request by UK distributor Adept Scientific, and will run for 30 days.

At the end of this period, it just takes a phone call to get an unlock code for unrestricted use.

Softwire is supplied with a wide variety of helpful example programs.

Every control block usage is shown in simple, easy-to-follow example programs.

In addition, a variety of larger, more complex examples are provided.

There are also example programs which show how Visual Basic code can be easily integrated into a Softwire application.

Back to top