Hi,
I need to create a software that interfaces with instruments using traditional RS-232 and then also interface with a MES using OPC UA. Basically, the software acts as a gateway between instrument (and operator inputted data) and MES.
LabVIEW do have OPC UA toolkit but to download the toolkit compatible with LabVIEW 2020, I need to have active service license with NI. Since, the LabVIEW at work is under perpetual license and there is not active service license, I cannot download OPC UA toolkit.
Since my application might need user scanning bar code to for manual input data, I would like to stick with LabVIEW because of ease of building UI. However, for OPC UA Server/Client, I am thinking of using Python. However, I am not familiar with integrating Python and LabVIEW therefore I am seeking help from the community.
LabVIEW 2020 I am using is a 32-bit version and I assume I need to install 32 bit Python, and with LabVIEW 2020 it looks like it is compatible with 3.6 Python version only. Is 32 bit Python installation required only if I integrate *.py file with LabVIEW, or do I still need 32 bit Python install even if I plan on using executable compiled from the Python code.
If I use executable compiled from the Python code, can I compile with 64 bit Python installation? or I have to still compile with 32 bit Python?
I need a way to update the data in OPC UA Server (built in Python) from LabVIEW. I am thinking of passing it as function parameters (with *.py integration, and Python node) or command line parameter (with executable implementation). If you can suggest a better architecture for the data exchange then I would highly appreciate it.