Lightlab

A python library for remote laboratory control. Laboratory remoting facilitates experimental research:

• access from anywhere
• large dataset gathering, storage, and analysis
• repeatability
• real-time status and progress monitoring,
• intra- and inter-group collaboration

This package includes:

• A shared library of instrument drivers
• Representation of state for labs of multiple users
• Driver-independent abstractions of instruments
• Utilities for data structures, advanced sweeping, search procedures, spectrum analysis, and characterization
• Constructs of laboratory virtualization for repeatability and rapid user code development
• Detailed documentation of tips, tricks, and instructions for prepping your lab for remoting

Here is our philosophy of how a modern lab can look.

Installation

From PyPI:

pip install lightlab

From source (developer mode):

git clone https://github.com/lightwave-lab/lightlab.git
cd lightlab
pip install -e .  # install in editable mode.

Getting started

1. Configure GPIB/ethernet communication on a personal computer or instrumentation server
2. Initialize the representation of your lab state
3. Write a driver or use an existing one
4. Read about advanced features and tutorials
5. Get going! Need more help? Have suggestions? File an issue

Readthedocs: lightlab.readthedocs.io

Github: https://github.com/lightwave-lab/lightlab

Supported platforms

Server: Mac OS and Linux running ≥python3.6; not tested on Windows (to do).

Auxiliary hosts: Mac OS, Linux, Windows

Acknowledgements

This material is based in part upon work supported by the National Science Foundation under Grant Number E2CDA-1740262. Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation.