CLAD

The NI CLAD (Certified LabVIEW Associate Developer) exam tests your foundational knowledge and skills in using National Instruments' LabVIEW graphical programming environment. The main points covered fall into these broad categories:

• LabVIEW Fundamentals: This is the core of the exam. You'll need a thorough understanding of:

  • The LabVIEW Development Environment: Navigating the environment, using palettes, understanding the project explorer, and managing VIs.
  • Data Types: Working with various data types (numeric, Boolean, string, arrays, clusters, etc.) and their properties.
  • Dataflow Programming: Understanding how data flows through the diagram and the execution paradigm. This includes understanding how data dependencies affect execution.
  • Basic Structures: Proficient use of loops (For, While, and other iterative structures), sequence structures, case structures, and formula nodes.
  • Data Acquisition Fundamentals: Basic concepts of acquiring data from simple sources (simulated or basic hardware interfaces). Understanding the role of DAQmx (Data Acquisition) is usually included, though deep knowledge isn't expected at this level.
  • Signal Processing Basics: Elementary signal processing concepts like waveform generation, basic signal analysis (e.g., plotting, calculating statistics), and signal manipulation.
  • Control Structures: Using timing functions and state machines (though usually at a very basic level)

• Data Representation and Manipulation: This emphasizes working effectively with different data types and structures within LabVIEW. You should be comfortable manipulating arrays, clusters, and other complex data structures.

• Debugging and Error Handling: You need to understand basic debugging techniques in LabVIEW, such as using probes, the execution highlight, and single stepping to identify and correct errors. Basic error handling mechanisms are also tested.

It's crucial to understand that the CLAD exam focuses on foundational concepts. It doesn't delve into advanced topics like advanced data acquisition, real-time programming, FPGA programming, or sophisticated analysis techniques. It aims to verify a candidate's ability to create simple to moderately complex LabVIEW applications based on a solid understanding of the core principles. Think of it as a stepping stone to more advanced certifications.