Implementing a VXIplug&play soft front panel

In the past, traditional "rack-and-stack" instruments have enjoyed a significant advantage over their VXI counterparts-familiarity. Now VXIplug&play soft front panel interfaces add a familiar look and feel to the other advantages of VXI architecture. This paper describes the purpose of a Soft Front Panel (SFP), outlines implementation requirements and required functionality, describes the autoconnect procedure in the soft front panel development process, and discusses the benefits of a well-designed Graphical User Interface (GUI). This paper is based on the authors' work in developing VXIplug&play soft front panel interfaces for Tektronix products. Although, as with any new tool, using SFPs requires an initial investment of time and effort, the resulting product is well worth it.