LabVIEW
7.3#3 in electrical design softwareFree planFree planWebLinuxmacOSWindows
VisitLabVIEW vs PowerWorld Simulator
PowerWorld Simulator
6.5#8 in electrical design software$11,000 one-timeFree planWindows
VisitWhat both publish
| Fact | LabVIEW | PowerWorld Simulator |
|---|---|---|
| Founded | 1976 | 1996 |
| Headquarters | Austin, Texas, United States | Champaign, Illinois, United States |
| Purpose | LabVIEW is a graphical programming environment for developing automated test and measurement systems. | Simulator interactively simulates high-voltage power system operation over periods from several minutes to several days. |
| Support | A single-seat purchase includes an NI software service agreement with technical support, version downloads, and LabVIEW Core 1 on-demand, with perpetual-license benefits included for the first year. | The company lists technical support by email and says license maintenance includes customer support, upgrades, and software patches. |
LabVIEW plans
- LabVIEW Community EditionFree
- LabVIEW Base subscription—
- LabVIEW Base perpetual—
- LabVIEW Full subscription—
- LabVIEW Professional perpetual—
- LabVIEW Professional subscription—
PowerWorld Simulator plans
- Simulator evaluation versionFree
- Simulator base package (first commercial license)$11,000, paid once
Pick LabVIEW if…
LabVIEW suits engineers building automated test and measurement applications, especially when they need instrument connectivity, analysis and a control interface. The Community Edition is limited to personal, non-commercial, non-industrial use.
Pick PowerWorld Simulator if…
It suits utilities, system operators, agencies, developers, traders, consultants, and academic users working with high-voltage power systems. Buyers should be prepared to use Windows and assess whether the 13-bus evaluation is sufficient before purchase.