Instrumentino: An open-source modular Python framework for controlling Arduino based experimental instruments

Instrumentino is an open-source modular graphical user interface framework for controlling Arduino based experimental instruments. It expands the control capability of Arduino by allowing instruments builders to easily create a custom user interface program running on an attached personal computer. It enables the definition of operation sequences and their automated running without user intervention. Acquired experimental data and a usage log are automatically saved on the computer for further processing. The use of the programming language Python also allows easy extension. Complex devices, which are difficult to control using an Arduino, may be integrated as well by incorporating third party application programming interfaces into the Instrumentino framework.Program summaryProgram title: Instrumentino, ControlinoCatalogue identifier: AETJ_v1_0Program summary URL:http://cpc.cs.qub.ac.uk/summaries/AETJ_v1_0.htmlProgram obtainable from: CPC Program Library, Queen’s University, Belfast, N. IrelandLicensing provisions: GNU General Public License, version 3No. of lines in distributed program, including test data, etc.: 17 097No. of bytes in distributed program, including test data, etc.: 3 425 023Distribution format: tar.gzProgramming language: Python, C.Computer: i386, x86-64.Operating system: Linux, Mac OS X, Windows.RAM: 60 MBClassification: 16.4.External routines: wxPython, pySerial, matplotlib, agw (Instrumentino), SoftwareSerial (Controlino)Nature of problem:Control and monitor purpose-made experimental instrumentsSolution method:Modular Graphical User Interface for hardware controlRunning time:Depends on the user.