Using MATLAB to interface with Hardware

Is it possible to use MATLAB to control hardware interfaces with simple IOs?

Answer 1

[Walter Roberson]

I dunno. I find the basic serial interfaces easy enough to program (at least according to the documentation), but I have seen other people call them too difficult to use. "Simple" is a matter of opinion.

Serial interfaces can be done with basic Matlab. The Data Acquisition Toolbox adds A/D and D/A for a couple of major brands and interface styles, but is not especially strong on USB (not really Mathwork's fault: manufacturers tend to dislike documenting their USB interfaces.) There is also the Instrument Control Toolbox; I am not clear on the distinction between that and Data Acquisition other than that I know Instrument Control adds TCP and UDP.

If you need high bandwidth or low latency, then usually the best thing is to have the I/O board directly on the computer (and consider using Real Time Workshop). Interfacing over USB often leads to bandwidth or latency disappointments.

Video has its own set of issues.