LabVIEW and Test & Measurement Job Opportunities

The test and measurement domain is vast, encompassing all layers of the OSI/TCPIP protocol stack. Various standards bodies, like IEEE and 3GPP, define RF or protocol conformance documents, which are then used to develop test cases for wireless devices and systems. This includes mobile subscribers/UEs, base stations/NodeB/ENodeB, access points, routers, dongles, and more. Test and measurement jobs are available in wireless and electronics industries worldwide.

Test and measurement applications are developed in a variety of programming languages, including C, C++, C#, .NET, VB, Visual C++, and LabVIEW. Some test cases are also developed using scripting languages like TestStand, Perl, and Python. These applications can analyze or generate packet or signal vector/matrix data, working either offline or in real-time with RF VSG/VSA (Vector Signal Generator/Analyzer) equipment.

The applications are developed for performing conformance tests, both for RF/PHYSICAL layer validation and protocol stack testing. Offline analyzer applications require signal vectors that were previously acquired or generated using a generator application. Similarly, offline generator applications create signal vectors that can be played with an AWG (Arbitrary Waveform Generator) and up-converter to emulate a real-time signal.

Unlike offline applications, online applications work in conjunction with a DAQ (Data Acquisition) card. The DAQ card houses an AWG and RF up-converter as part of an RF VSG module, and an RF down-converter and digitizer as part of an RF Vector Signal Analyzer module.

The test and measurement field is constantly evolving, especially with the development of advanced wireless technologies and standards like WLAN, WiMAX, Zigbee, LTE, and LTE Advanced. Test and measurement applications are often targeted for pre-certification tests, as well as manufacturing and automation tests.

To succeed in the test and measurement domain, a strong knowledge of scripting or programming languages is essential. Candidates with experience in ATE (Automated Test Equipment) manufacturing test case development will have a distinct advantage for LabVIEW test and measurement positions. Domain knowledge varies by industry but can be acquired on the job. For LabVIEW-related jobs, certificate-based training provided by National Instruments (NI) is highly beneficial.

NI offers various certifications for engineers and managers, including:

• Certified LabVIEW Associate Developer
• Certified LabVIEW Developer
• Certified LabVIEW Architect
• Certified LabVIEW Embedded Systems Developer
• NI TestStand Certification
• LabWindows/CVI Certification

Skills Desired

• Knowledge of Production Test Hardware
• Hands-on experience using test equipment like spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, oscilloscopes, signal generators, and vector signal analyzers.
• Proficiency in LabVIEW and TestStand programming.
• Basic understanding of RF and DSP (Digital Signal Processing) concepts.
• ATE Test System development experience is a plus.

Companies Hiring for LabVIEW/Test and Measurement Jobs

• National Instruments
• Tektronix
• Guzik
• VI Technologies
• Pricol Limited
• Qualcomm
• Schneider Electric
• MaxLinear, Inc.
• Robert Bosch
• Honeywell

Expected Salary Range