Python Resources

This page provides resources for using Python for data acquisition, analysis, and visualization in PHYS 4430.

Getting Started

Setup & Installation

Install Python, packages, and hardware drivers (NI-DAQmx, NI-VISA, Thorlabs Kinesis).

Workflows

Choose between JupyterLab, VS Code, and Jupyter in VS Code. When to use each.

Data Analysis

Data Analysis with Python

Core skills: NumPy arrays, Matplotlib plotting, curve fitting with SciPy, FFT basics, error propagation.

Fourier Analysis

DFT concepts, computing power spectra with rfft, frequency resolution, windowing, and aliasing. Reference page with optional practice exercises.

Hardware Interfacing

NI-DAQmx

Interface with the USB-6009 DAQ for voltage measurements, sampling, and continuous acquisition.

VISA Instruments

Control oscilloscopes, function generators, and power supplies via PyVISA. Covers Keysight and Tektronix equipment.

Thorlabs Motors

Control stepper motors via the Kinesis SDK for automated positioning and scanning.

Additional Resources

Python Learning

Hardware Documentation