G Programming Language
Intuitive, flowchart-like dataflow programming model
Shorter learning curve than traditional text-based programming
Naturally represents data-driven applications with timing and parallelism
The G programming language is central to LabVIEW; so much so that it is often called “LabVIEW programming.” Using it, you can quickly tie together data acquisition, analysis, and logical operations and understand how data is being modified. From a technical standpoint, G is a graphical dataflow language in which nodes (operations or functions) operate on data as soon as it becomes available, rather than in the sequential line-by-line manner that most programming languages employ. You lay out the “flow” of data through the application graphically with wires connecting the output of one node to the input of another.
The practical benefit of the graphical approach is that it puts more focus on data and the operations being performed on that data, and abstracts much of the administrative complexity of computer programming such as memory allocation and language syntax. New programmers typically report shorter learning curves with G than with other programming languages because they can relate G code to flow charts and other familiar visual representations of processes. Seasoned programmers can also take advantage of the productivity gains by working at a higher level of abstraction while still employing advanced programming practices such as object-oriented design, encapsulation, and code profiling.