On-line control of a real system with MATLAB/SIMULINK

An interface routine using C programming language, establishes communication between MATLAB and an I/O card. This enable the user to implement the simulated controller in MATLAB environment to control real-time plant, as well as to utilize the software as a data collection device which records plant output and reference input. With the help of the interface routine, the performance of each controller scheme is recorded and analyzed. This is to enhance control laboratory, by enabling students to design and implement controller via SLMULINK to control a real physical system, and free the lab station from devices such as function generator, oscilloscopes etc.