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We provide support for Python in all major operating systems. We also provide instructions on how to get your project started in a number of common development environments. Select your operating system and preferred development environment below, and follow the instructions to get your project running with Phidgets.


== Quick Downloads ==
If you do not know which development environment you want to use, or your development environment of choice is not listed, we recommend starting with command line or terminal as the simplest path to getting your code running.


=== Documentation ===
Once you have set up your development environment to run with Phidgets, we recommend you follow our guide on [[Phidget Programming Basics]]. The guide will showcase the fundamentals of programming with Phidgets, with examples in Python.


*{{Phidget22API}} (Select Python from drop-down menu)
== Setup Guide ==


=== Example Code ===
<div class="phd-deck-sequence">
{{PT3_PYTHON_CHOOSE}}{{PT3_PYTHON_WIN_PYCHARM}}{{PT3_PYTHON_WIN_PYCHARM_1}}{{PT3_PYTHON_WIN_PYCHARM_2}}{{PT3_PYTHON_WIN_PYCHARM_3}}{{PT3_PYTHON_WIN_CMD}}{{PT3_PYTHON_MAC_TRM}}{{PT3_PYTHON_LNX_TRM}}{{PT3_PYTHON_SBC_TRM}}{{PT3_PYTHON_WIN_LIC}}{{PT3_PYTHON_WIN_VS}}{{PT3_PYTHON_WIN_VS_1}}{{PT3_PYTHON_WIN_VS_2}}{{PT3_PYTHON_WIN_IDLE}}
</div>


*{{SampleCode|Python|Python Examples}}


=== Libraries ===
== Quick Downloads ==


{{AllQuickDownloads}}
If you already know what you're doing and just need the files, you can find them all below.


== Getting Started with Python ==
=== Python Package ===
Welcome to using Phidgets with Python! By using Python, you will have access to the complete {{Phidget22API}}, including events. We also provide example code in Python for all Phidget devices.


If you are developing for Windows, keep reading. Otherwise, select your operating system to jump ahead:
It is recommended to follow the instructions in the setup guide above and use PIP to install the python package, but if you need the source file, you can download it here.
*[[#macOS | macOS]]
*[[#Linux | Linux]]
== Windows ==
{{Windows_Languages}}


===Install Phidget Python module===
* [https://cdn.phidgets.com/downloads/phidget22/libraries/any/Phidget22Python.zip Phidget Python Package]
Before getting started with the guides below, ensure you have [https://www.python.org/downloads/ Python] installed on your machine (both 2.7 and 3.6 are compatible with Phidgets). You will also need to download the [{{SERVER}}/downloads/phidget22/libraries/any/Phidget22Python/zip Phidget Python module].


After unpacking the Phidget Python module, open the command prompt at folder location and enter the following command:
=== Documentation ===
<syntaxhighlight lang=python>
python setup.py install
</syntaxhighlight>


This will build the module and install the Python module files into your site-packages directory.
*{{Phidget22API}}  (select Python from the drop-down menu)


[[File:Python_install.png|link=|center]]
=== Example Code ===


===Command Line===
====Use Our Examples====
One of the best ways to start programming with Phidgets is to use our example code as a guide. Before we get started, make sure you have read [[#Install Phidget Python module | how to install the Phidget Python module]] section above.
Now that you have Python and the Phidget Python module installed, select an example that will work with your Phidget:
*{{SampleCode|Python|Python Examples}}
*{{SampleCode|Python|Python Examples}}
Open the command prompt at the location of the example and enter the following command:
<syntaxhighlight lang=bash>
python example.py
</syntaxhighlight>
[[Image:Python_command_run.png|link=|center]]
You should now have the example up and running for your device. Play around with the device and experiment with some of the functionality. When you are ready, the next step is configuring your project and writing your own code!
====Configure your project====
When you are building a project from scratch, or adding Phidget functionality to an existing project, you'll need to configure your development environment to properly link the Phidget Java library.
To include the Phidget Python library, add the following line to your code:
<syntaxhighlight lang=python>
from Phidget22.PhidgetException import *
from Phidget22.Phidget import *
</syntaxhighlight>
Then, you will also have to add a reference to your particular Phidget. For example, you would include the following line for a DigitalInput:
<syntaxhighlight lang=python>
from Phidget22.Devices.DigitalInput import *
</syntaxhighlight>
You can now compile the file as shown in the previous section.
The project now has access to Phidgets. Next, view the [[#Write Code | write your own code]] section located below.
===IDLE===
====Use Our Examples====
One of the best ways to start programming with Phidgets is to use our example code as a guide. Before we get started, make sure you have read [[#Install Phidget Python module | how to install the Phidget Python module]] section above.
Now that you have Python and the Phidget Python module installed, select an example that will work with your Phidget:
*{{SampleCode|Python|Python Examples}}
Right-click on the example and open it in IDLE:
[[Image:Python_idle_open.png|link=|center]]
To run the example, simply click on ''Run'' and select ''Run Module'':
[[Image:Python_idle_run.png|link=|center]]
You should now have the example up and running for your device. Play around with the device and experiment with some of the functionality. When you are ready, the next step is configuring your project and writing your own code!
====Configure your project====
When you are building a project from scratch, or adding Phidget functionality to an existing project, you'll need to configure your development environment to properly link the Phidget Java library.
To include the Phidget Python library, add the following line to your code:
<syntaxhighlight lang=python>
from Phidget22.PhidgetException import *
from Phidget22.Phidget import *
</syntaxhighlight>
Then, you will also have to add a reference to your particular Phidget. For example, you would include the following line for a DigitalInput:
<syntaxhighlight lang=python>
from Phidget22.Devices.DigitalInput import *
</syntaxhighlight>
You can now compile the file as shown in the previous section.
The project now has access to Phidgets. Next, view the [[#Write Code | write your own code]] section located below.
===Visual Studio + Python Tools for Visual Studio===
====Use Our Examples====
1. Please ensure that the Phidget Python Module is installed onto your system.
2. Next, download the [[#Example_Code|examples]] and unpack them into a folder. While these examples were written in Python 3.4, they are also compatible with Python 2.6. It is probably best to start with the HelloWorld program, which will work with any Phidget. There is also an example file for your specific Phidget device. The source file will be named the same as the software object for your device. If you are not sure what the software object for your device is, find your Phidget on our [http://www.phidgets.com webpage], and then check the {{Phidget22API}} documentation for it. You will need this example source code to be imported into your project later on.
3. A new project will need to be created. Generate a new Python project with a descriptive name such as PhidgetTest.
[[Image: VS New Project.png|link=|600px]]
4. Right click on the project in the Solution Explorer and select Add->Existing Item
[[Image: VS Add Exixting.png|link=|600px]]
5. Navigate to the folder with the examples and select the one you wish to open.
[[Image: VS Select Example.png|link=|600px]]
6. Right click the newly-loaded example file and select 'Set as Startup File'.
[[Image: VS Set Startup file.png|link=]]
7. To run the program, under Debug select "Start Debugging"
[[Image: VS Start Dubugging.png|link=|600px]]
Here is an example output:
[[Image: VS Example Output.png|link=|600px]]
====Write Your Own Code====
When you are building a project from scratch, or adding Phidget function calls to an existing project, you'll need to configure your environment to properly link the Phidget Python library. Please see the [[#Use Our Examples|Use Our Examples]] section for instructions.
Then, in your code, you will need to include a reference to the Phidget Python library.
<syntaxhighlight lang=python>
from Phidget22.PhidgetException import *
from Phidget22.Phidget import *
</syntaxhighlight>
Then, you will also have to add a reference to your particular Phidget. For example, you would include the following line for a PhidgetDigitalInput:
<syntaxhighlight lang=python>
from Phidget22.Devices.DigitalInput import *
</syntaxhighlight>
Please see the [examples] on how to add a reference to your particular Phidget.
The project now has access to the Phidget function calls and you are ready to begin coding.
The same [[#Edit the Examples|teaching section]] which describes the examples also has further resources for programming your Phidget.
===Eclipse + PyDev===
====Use Our Examples====
1. Please ensure that the Phidget Python Module is installed onto your system.
2. Next, download the [[#Example_Code|examples]] and unpack them into a folder. While these examples were written in Python 3.4, they are also compatible with Python 2.6. It is probably best to start with the HelloWorld program, which will work with any Phidget. There is also an example file for your specific Phidget device. The source file will be named the same as the software object for your device. If you are not sure what the software object for your device is, find your Phidget on our [http://www.phidgets.com webpage], and then check the {{Phidget22API}} documentation for it. You will need this example source code to be imported into your project later on.
3. Next, a new project will need to be created. Generate a new PyDev project with a descriptive name such as PhidgetTest.
[[Image: PyDev Create Project.png|link=]]
4. To import the example program into your project, right click the Project and select Import.
[[Image: PyDev Import 1.png|link=]]
5. On the next screen, select File System and proceed to the next screen.
[[Image: PyDev Import 2.png|link=]]
6. Browse to the directory where you extracted the examples into, and select the example you wish to open.
[[Image: PyDev Import 3.png|link=|600px]]
7. The only thing left to do is to run the examples! Click on Run → Run.
[[Image: Pydev Run.png|600px|link=]]
Once you have the Python examples running, we have a [[#Edit the Examples|teaching section]] below to help you follow them.
====Write Your Own Code====
When you are building a project from scratch, or adding Phidget function calls to an existing project, you'll need to configure your environment to properly link the Phidget Python library. Please see the [[#Use Our Examples|Use Our Examples]] section for instructions.
Then, in your code, you will need to include a reference to the Phidget Python library.
<syntaxhighlight lang=python>
from Phidget22.PhidgetException import *
from Phidget22.Phidget import *
</syntaxhighlight>
Then, you will also have to add a reference to your particular Phidget. For example, you would include the following line for a PhidgetDigitalInput:
<syntaxhighlight lang=python>
from Phidget22.Devices.DigitalInput import *
</syntaxhighlight>
Please see the [[#Example_Code|examples]] on how to add a reference to your particular Phidget.
The project now has access to the Phidget function calls and you are ready to begin coding.
The same [[#Edit the Examples|teaching section]] which describes the examples also has further resources for programming your Phidget.
== OS X ==
The first step in using Python on Mac is to install the Phidget libraries. Compile and install them as explained on the [[OS - OS X]] page, which also describes the different Phidget files, their installed locations, and their roles....
The next step is to install the Phidget Python module. Download it here:
*[[Phidget Python Module]]
Then, unpack the module and enter the root of the newly unzipped directory. There will be a script in the base directory called setup.py. This is used the same way as most other distributed Python modules - from a command line type:
<syntaxhighlight lang=python>
python setup.py install
</syntaxhighlight>
This will build the module and install the built python module files into your site-packages directory.
===Use Our Examples===
First, download the examples:
*[[#Example_Code|Phidget Python Examples]]
Unpack them, and enter the root directory. You will find examples specific to each Phidget device, as well as a HelloWorld.py example. The HelloWorld.py code is probably the easiest example to run as it will work with any Phidget device. Or you can use the example specific to your Phidget. The source file will be named the same as the software object for your device. If you are not sure what the software object for your device is, find your Phidget on our [http://www.phidgets.com webpage], and then check the {{Phidget22API}} documentation for it.
The Phidget examples were written in Python 3.4 and this tutorial assumes its use. However, they should still be compatible with Python 2.6.
If needed, make those changes to the HelloWorld.py example or the one for your Phidget.
<syntaxhighlight lang=python>
python HelloWorld.py
</syntaxhighlight>
====Write Your Own Code====
When writing your code from scratch, you start it as you would any Python code, such as within a text editor like Emacs, Vi, Gedit, or Kate. In your .py source code file, you must include a reference to the Phidget module:
Then, in your code, you will need to reference to the Phidget Python library.
<syntaxhighlight lang=python>
from Phidget22.PhidgetException import *
from Phidget22.Phidget import *
</syntaxhighlight>
Then, you will also have to add a reference to your particular Phidget. For example, you would include the following line for a DigitalInput:
<syntaxhighlight lang=python>
from Phidget22.Devices.DigitalInput import *
</syntaxhighlight>
For other devices, it would be the software object you found when running the examples above. Then, you would run your Python code the same way as the examples.
To learn how to write your own code for your Phidget, and to learn more about our API, we have a [[#Edit the Examples|teaching section]] to help you follow the provided Python examples and which has resources such as the {{Phidget22API}} reference.
== Linux ==
Python has excellent support on Linux.
The first step in using Python on Linux is to install the Phidget libraries. These are the core Phidget libraries, written in C, which when compiled become part of the programming libraries available to your system. Download, compile, and install from the links and instructions on the main Linux page. That Linux page also describes the different Phidget files, their installed locations, and their roles.
The next step is to install the Phidget Python module. Download it here:
*Phidget Python Module
Then, unpack the module and enter the root of the newly unzipped directory. There will be a script in the base directory called setup.py. This is used the same way as most other distributed Python modules - from a command line type:
<syntaxhighlight lang=python>
python setup.py install
</syntaxhighlight>
This will build the module and install the built python module files into your site-packages directory.
===Use Our Examples===
First, download the examples:
*[[#Example_Code|Phidget Python Examples]]
Unpack them, and enter the root directory. You will find examples specific to each Phidget device, as well as a HelloWorld.py example. The HelloWorld.py code is probably the easiest example to run as it will work with any Phidget device. Or you can use the example specific to your Phidget. The source file will be named the same as the software object for your device. If you are not sure what the software object for your device is, find your Phidget on our [http://www.phidgets.com webpage], and then check the {{Phidget22API}} documentation for it.
The Phidget examples were written in Python 3.4 and this tutorial assumes its use. However, they should still be compatible with Python 2.6.
If needed, make those changes to the HelloWorld.py example or the one for your Phidget.
Then, if you have not set up your udev rules for USB access, you will need to run the Python example as root:
<syntaxhighlight lang="Python">
sudo python HelloWorld.py
</syntaxhighlight>
===Write Your Own Code===
When writing your code from scratch, you start it as you would any Python code on Linux, such as within a text editor like Emacs, Vi, Gedit, or Kate. In your .py source code file, you must include a reference to the Phidget module:
<syntaxhighlight lang=python>
from Phidget22.PhidgetException import *
from Phidget22.Phidget import *
</syntaxhighlight>
Then, you will also have to add a reference to your particular Phidget. For example, you would include the following line for a DigitalInput:
<syntaxhighlight lang=python>
from Phidget22.Devices.DigitalInput import *
</syntaxhighlight>
For other devices, it would be the software object you found when running the examples above. Then, you would run your Python code the same way as the examples.
To learn how to write your own code for your Phidget, and to learn more about our API, we have a [[#Edit the Examples|teaching section]] to help you follow the provided Python examples and which has resources such as the API reference.
== Edit the Examples ==
By following the instructions for your operating system and compiler above, you probably now have a working example and want to understand it better so you can change it to do what you want. This [[#Edit the Examples|teaching section]] has resources for you to learn from the examples and write your own.
Your main reference for writing Python code will be the {{Phidget22API}}.
=== Code Snippets ===
The following code snippets describe how to do various general tasks with Phidgets. You should be able to find places in the examples where these snippets exist, and modify them to suit your requirements.
==== Step One: Initialize and Open ====
Before using a Phidget, it must first be created and opened.
<syntaxhighlight lang=python>
# Create
try:
  device = DigitalInput()
except RuntimeError as e:
  print("Runtime Error: %s" % e.message)
# Open
try:
  device.open()
except PhidgetException as e:
  print (“Phidget Exception %i: %s” % (e.code, e.details))
  exit(1)
</syntaxhighlight>
The variable device is now a handle for the Phidget. This example is ''specific to the Digital Input'' because the call DigitalInput() is used. For another device, use the correspondingly named call in the Python API.
The handle '''device''' is then used for all the Python function calls using the Phidget for its device-specific functions - in this case, Digital Input specific functions. Every type of Phidget also inherits functionality from the Phidget base class.
Note that open() opens the software object, but not hardware. So, it is not a guarantee you can use the Phidget immediately.
Also note that you can catch exceptions thrown by the Phidget library as we did above when using the open() call. In other words, this should probably be present around most of your Phidget calls, especially when you are learning how to use the Phidget and debugging your code:
<syntaxhighlight lang=python>
try:
  # Your code goes here
except PhidgetException as e:
  print (“Phidget Exception %i: %s” % (e.code, e.details))
  exit(1)
</syntaxhighlight>
==== Step Two: Wait for Attachment (plugging in) of the Phidget ====
To use the Phidget, it must be plugged in (attached). We can handle this simply by calling openWaitForAttachment in place of the basic open. This function works for any Phidget. openWaitForAttachment will block until a connection is made to the Phidget, or the specified timeout is exceeded:
<syntaxhighlight lang=python>
device.openWaitForAttachment(5000)
print ("%d attached!" % (device.getDeviceSerialNumber()))
</syntaxhighlight>
Sometimes, it makes more sense to handle the attachment via an event. This would be in instances where the Phidget is being plugged and unplugged, and you want to handle these incidents. Or, when you want to use event-driven programming because you have a GUI-driven program. In these cases, an event-driven code snippet to handle the attachment might look something like this:
<syntaxhighlight lang=python>
def AttachHandler(e):
    attachedDevice = e
    serialNumber = attachedDevice.getSerialNum()
    deviceName = attachedDevice.getDeviceName()
    print("Hello to Device " + str(deviceName) + ", Serial Number: " + str(serialNumber))
# Insert code for -creating- device here....
try:
    device.setOnAttachHandler(AttachHandler)
except PhidgetException as e:
    # Insert code for handling any exceptions
    # A common exception will occur if you do not create the device properly above
# Insert code for -opening- device here....
</syntaxhighlight>
==== Step Three: Do Things with the Phidget ====
You can read data and interact with your Phidget both by polling it for its current state (or to set a state), or by catching events that trigger when the data changes.
For a Phidget Digital Input or Output, the polling method of getting the input state or setting an output state looks something like this:
<syntaxhighlight lang=python>
#Get the state from a digital input
digitalInputDevice.getState()
#Set the duty cycle for a digital output
digitalOutputDevice.setDutyCycle(0)
</syntaxhighlight>
To catch data changes via events, you would use something like this:
<syntaxhighlight lang=python>
def StateChangeHandler(e, state):
    print("State %f" % state)
    return 0
# Insert code to create an Digital Input called 'device'
# Hook our function above into the device object
    device.setOnStateChangeHandler(StateChangeHandler)
# Insert code to open 'device'
</syntaxhighlight>
==== Step Four: Close and Delete ====
At the end of your program, don’t forget to call close() to free any locks on the Phidget that the open() call put in place!
<syntaxhighlight lang=python>
device.close()
</syntaxhighlight>
== Further Reading ==
[[Phidget Programming Basics]] - Here you can find the basic concepts to help you get started with making your own programs that use Phidgets.
[[Data Interval/Change Trigger]] - Learn about these two properties that control how much data comes in from your sensors.
[[Using Multiple Phidgets]] - It can be difficult to figure out how to use more than one Phidget in your program. This page will guide you through the steps.
[[Polling vs. Events]] - Your program can gather data in either a polling-driven or event-driven manner. Learn the difference to determine which is best for your application.
[[Logging, Exceptions, and Errors]] - Learn about all the tools you can use to debug your program.
[[Phidget Network Server]] - Phidgets can be controlled and communicated with over your network- either wirelessly or over ethernet.

Latest revision as of 22:55, 19 December 2024


We provide support for Python in all major operating systems. We also provide instructions on how to get your project started in a number of common development environments. Select your operating system and preferred development environment below, and follow the instructions to get your project running with Phidgets.

If you do not know which development environment you want to use, or your development environment of choice is not listed, we recommend starting with command line or terminal as the simplest path to getting your code running.

Once you have set up your development environment to run with Phidgets, we recommend you follow our guide on Phidget Programming Basics. The guide will showcase the fundamentals of programming with Phidgets, with examples in Python.

Setup Guide

Python - Select Development Environment

Select your Development Environment:

Windows

MacOS

Linux

PhidgetSBC

Language - Python

Windows with Pycharm

Welcome to using Phidgets with Python! By using Python, you will have access to the complete Phidget22 API, including events.

PyCharm is an integrated development environment for Python by JetBrains.

Installing the Phidget Python Module

First, install Python3 if you haven't already.

Next, select your preferred installation method below:

PIP Install

PIP Global Install

«
»

Language - Python

Installing the Phidget Python Module

You can install the Phidget22 libraries for your current PyCharm project with PIP by opening File > Settings

Installing the Phidget Python Module

Next, navigate to Project > Project Interpreter and click on the + symbol located on the right:

Installing the Phidget Python Module

Type Phidget22 into the search bar, select the package named Phidget22 and click Install Package:

Finding Code Samples

To find the code sample to use for your Phidget, navigate to the Code Samples page and select your device from the drop-down menu.

Once you select your device, the code sample generator will give you a working code sample, and a selection of options to customize it to your needs.

Using the Code Samples

Click the Download Example button to download the sample code:

Using the Code Samples

Add the example you just downloaded by dragging it into the project:

Using the Code Samples

Finally, run the project:

The project is now running with Phidgets!

What's Next?

Now that you've set up Phidgets in your programming environment, you should read our guide on Phidget Programming Basics to learn the fundamentals of programming with Phidgets.

«
»

Language - Python

Installing the Phidget Python Module

Python 3.4+ includes PIP by default. To install the Phidget22 Python module with PIP, simply open the Command Prompt (press the Windows key and search for cmd), and enter the command:

python -m pip install Phidget22

Installing the Phidget Python Module

To use the global Phidget22 library in your PyCharm project, select Inherit global site-packages when creating a new project.

Finding Code Samples

To find the code sample to use for your Phidget, navigate to the Code Samples page and select your device from the drop-down menu.

Once you select your device, the code sample generator will give you a working code sample, and a selection of options to customize it to your needs.

Using the Code Samples

Click the Download Example button to download the sample code:

Using the Code Samples

Add the example you just downloaded by dragging it into the project:

Using the Code Samples

Finally, run the project:

The project is now running with Phidgets!

What's Next?

Now that you've set up Phidgets in your programming environment, you should read our guide on Phidget Programming Basics to learn the fundamentals of programming with Phidgets.

«
»

Language - Python

Installing the Phidget Python Module

To install the Phidget22 Python module without PIP, you need to download it here:

● Phidget22 Python Module

Unpack the Phidget22 Python module and open the Command Prompt (press the Windows key and search for cmd). Find the folder where you downloaded the Python module and enter this command:

python setup.py install

This will build the module and install the Python module files into your site-packages directory.

Finding Code Samples

To find the code sample to use for your Phidget, navigate to the Code Samples page and select your device from the drop-down menu.

Once you select your device, the code sample generator will give you a working code sample, and a selection of options to customize it to your needs.

Using the Code Samples

Click the Download Example button to download the sample code:

Using the Code Samples

Add the example you just downloaded by dragging it into the project:

Using the Code Samples

Finally, run the project:

The project is now running with Phidgets!

What's Next?

Now that you've set up Phidgets in your programming environment, you should read our guide on Phidget Programming Basics to learn the fundamentals of programming with Phidgets.

«
»

Language - Python

Windows with Command Line

Welcome to using Phidgets with Python! By using Python, you will have access to the complete Phidget22 API, including events.

The command line is the default environment to make Python programs in Windows, since it's available immediately after installing Python.

Installing the Phidget Python Module

First, install Python3 if you haven't already.

Python 3.4+ includes PIP by default. To install the Phidget22 Python module with PIP, simply open the Command Prompt (press the Windows key and search for cmd), and enter the command:

python -m pip install Phidget22

Finding Code Samples

To find the code sample to use for your Phidget, navigate to the Code Samples page and select your device from the drop-down menu.

Once you select your device, the code sample generator will give you a working code sample, and a selection of options to customize it to your needs.

Using the Code Samples

Click the Download Example button to download the sample code:

Using the Code Samples

To run the example, open the command prompt at the location of the example and enter the following command:

python example.py

The script is now running with Phidgets!

What's Next?

Now that you've set up Phidgets in your programming environment, you should read our guide on Phidget Programming Basics to learn the fundamentals of programming with Phidgets.

«
»

Language - Python

MacOS with Terminal

Welcome to using Phidgets with Python! By using Python, you will have access to the complete Phidget22 API, including events.

The terminal is the default environment to make Python programs in macOS, since it's available immediately after installing Python.

Requirements

First, install Python3 if you haven't already.

If you plan on using any USB Phidgets that use the HID stack, you'll need to install the Phidget drivers for MacOS. You can check which stack your USB Phidgets use by checking the 'USB Stack' in the product specifications. If all of your Phidgets use the PHIDUSB stack, you can skip installing the drivers.

Installing the Phidget Python Module

To install the Phidgets Python Module, you'll need PIP, which is included in Python 3.4+ by default. To install the Phidget22 Python module with PIP, simply open the Terminal and enter the command:

python pip install Phidget22

Finding Code Samples

To find the code sample to use for your Phidget, navigate to the Code Samples page and select your device from the drop-down menu.

Once you select your device, the code sample generator will give you a working code sample, and a selection of options to customize it to your needs.

Using the Code Samples

Click the Download Example button to download a Java file with the sample code:

Using the Code Samples

To run the example, open the command prompt at the location of the example and enter the following command:

python example.py

Success! Your program is now running with Phidgets!

What's Next?

Now that you've set up Phidgets in your programming environment, you should read our guide on Phidget Programming Basics to learn the fundamentals of programming with Phidgets.

«
»

Language - Python

Linux with Terminal

Welcome to using Phidgets with Python! By using Python, you will have access to the complete Phidget22 API, including events.

The terminal is the default environment to make Python programs in Linux, since it's available immediately after installing Python.

Installing the Phidget Python Module

First, install Python3 if you haven't already.

Python 3.4+ includes PIP by default. To install the Phidget22 Python module with PIP, simply open the Terminal and enter the command:

pip3 install Phidget22

Setting UDev Rules

By default, Linux will not allow regular users to access physical hardware, as a security feature. This means that you must grant yourself root privileges via sudo to run Phidgets code.

sudo python3 Python_Example.py

To avoid having to use sudo every time, you can set up a rules file to allow it automatically using the vendor code for Phidget USB devices. Create a text file called 99-libphidget22.rules containing the following line:

SUBSYSTEMS=="usb", ACTION=="add", ATTRS{idVendor}=="06c2", ATTRS{idProduct}=="00[3-a][0-f]", MODE="666"

Mode 666 means every user has permission to read and write to the specified devices. Next, move this file to /etc/udev/rules.d. Now you can run code that uses Phidgets as a regular user without sudo.

Finding Code Samples

To find the code sample to use for your Phidget, navigate to the Code Samples page and select your device from the drop-down menu.

Once you select your device, the code sample generator will give you a working code sample, and a selection of options to customize it to your needs.

Using the Code Samples

Click the Download Example button to download a Java file with the sample code:

Using the Code Samples

To run the example, open the command prompt at the location of the example and enter the following command:

python3 Python_Example.py

Success! Your program is now running with Phidgets!

What's Next?

Now that you've set up Phidgets in your programming environment, you should read our guide on Phidget Programming Basics to learn the fundamentals of programming with Phidgets.

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Language - Python

PhidgetSBC with Python

Welcome to using Phidgets with Python! By using Python, you will have access to the complete Phidget22 API, including events.

Requirements

If you haven't already, check out the user guide in order to set up the following:

● Connection to local Network

● Administrator password


This guide will cover development using an external machine. For development using the SBC itself, go back and select Terminal - Linux as your environment.

Installing Python

The quickest way to install Python is through the SBC web interface. Open the Phidget Control Panel on your external machine and click on the Network Phidgets tab.

Double click on your SBC in the device list.

Installing Python

Once you're logged in to the web interface, click on System and Packages.

It may take a minute or two to load this page.

Installing Python

Finally, click on the Install button next to Python Support.

It will take a few minutes to install. Once it's complete you can click on the Back button.

Developing With An External Computer

There are two main ways in which you can access your SBC from an external computer:

● SBC Web Interface

● Secure Shell (SSH)


Since the SBC OS Guide covers the web interface in detail, this guide will cover SSH.

SSH

If you are unfamiliar with SSH, it is a simple yet powerful tool that allows you to log into a remote machine in order to execute commands. You can also transfer files using the associated SCP tool.

In order to use SSH, you need the following:

● The SBC's IP address (e.g. 192.168.3.195) or the link local address (e.g. phidgetsbc.local)

● The administrator password

● SSH enabled on the SBC

SSH

You can enable SSH on the SBC Web Interface as shown below:

SSH on Windows

To use SSH on Windows, we recommend PuTTY. Use the images below as a guide for configuring PuTTY (use the IP address or the link local address interchangeably):

SSH on Windows

After clicking open, simply login as root and provide the administrator password:

To transfer files between your SBC and Windows machine, we recommend either of these programs:

● WinSCP

● PuTTY PSCP

You will follow a similar process to access the SBC as described for SSH.

SSH on Linux and macOS

SSH is available on Linux and macOS by default. To run SSH, open the terminal and type:

ssh root@phidgetsbc.local

Or, something like this (you will need to know the IP address of your SBC):

ssh root@192.168.3.195

You will then be prompted for the password in order to gain access to the SBC:

SSH on Linux and macOS

To copy a file from the SBC to your development machine using SCP, open the terminal and type:

scp root@phidgetsbc.local:/path/to/source /path/to/destination

You can reverse this if you want to transfer a file from your development machine to your SBC:

scp /path/to/source root@phidgetsbc.local:/path/to/destination

Finding Code Samples

To find the code sample to use for your Phidget, navigate to the Code Samples page and select your device from the drop-down menu.

Once you select your device, the code sample generator will give you a working code sample, and a selection of options to customize it to your needs.

Using the Code Samples

If it's unclear what any of the options do, click on the nearby '?' for more info.

Once you've made your selections, click the Download Example button under Downloads.

Setting up a New Project

When developing on an external computer, you should write and test your programs on that machine. When you are ready, upload your program to the SBC.

Setting up a New Project

Once your code is written, follow these steps to get your program running on the SBC:

1. Using the SBC Web Interface, create a new project:

Setting up a New Project

2. Transfer all the project files from the development machine to the SBC, either using the SBC Web Interface or a tool like WinSCP.

The project directory will be:

/usr/userapps/ProjectName

Setting up a New Project

3. Use SSH to access the SBC terminal and go to the project folder:

cd /usr/userapps/ProjectName

You can now run the program with the command:

python ExampleName.py

Success! The program is running on your SBC.

Running a Program Automatically

To run a Python script as a standalone application or to run it in the web interface, you will need to add a line to the top of the script with the path to your Python executable. If you have followed the steps in this guide, it will be:

#!/usr/bin/python

Click on the sections below for various automation options:

-----

Running a Program from the SBC Web Interface

To quickly test whether a program can be run automatically, you can try starting it from the SBC Web Interface.

1. To start the program, navigate to Projects->ProjectName->Startup Settings in the SBC Web Interface.

2. Select your program in the drop-down menu labeled Executable/Class Name.



3. Click the Start button on the SBC web interface.


4. You'll note that as it runs, there are two links below the Stop button which can be used to view the program output:

  • stdout: view the program output like you would in a terminal or command prompt
  • stderr: view the program error output
Run on Boot

Running on boot ensures that your program will never miss an event. As long as the SBC is running, your code will be running. This section assumes you have written and compiled your program on an external computer, and have uploaded it to the SBC Web Interface.


To have your program run on boot, navigate to Projects->ProjectName->Startup Settings in the SBC Web Interface. After selecting your project, copy the settings from the image below:



We will review some of the options that are shown in the image above:

  • Startup Order: lower numbers boot first. Booting later means more programs are available for use, booting earlier means other programs can use your program.
  • Run as a daemon: starts the program as a daemon. Unless you have explicitly written your program as a daemon, leave this checked, or else your SBC may hang on boot.
  • Executable/Class name: your main Java class or C file.
  • Arguments: any command line arguments the program needs.

After saving your changes, your program will run automatically whenever your SBC boots.

Run on a Schedule

Running your program on a schedule allows you to perform your task once a week, or once a minute without worrying about memory management issues or instability problems that may arise. It executes, and then gets cleaned up. To run your program on a schedule, we recommend using Cron. Cron can automatically schedule programs (known as jobs, or cron jobs). Cron simply reads a crontab file and runs whatever programs are listed, with whatever timing they are listed with. Cron runs continuously in the background, but the cron jobs only run as long as they naturally would, and then they exit.


Let's set up your first cron job. We will use nano to edit the crontab file, but feel free to use whatever editor you prefer.


First, set your editor to nano: 

export EDITOR=nano

Next, edit your crontab file: 

crontab -e

Finally, schedule your cron job: 

#cron job that will run at 5AM every week:
0 5 * * 1 /root/code/myprogram argument1


After entering your task, simply save and exit the file.

What's Next?

Now that you've set up Phidgets in your programming environment, you should read our guide on Phidget Programming Basics to learn the fundamentals of programming with Phidgets.

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Language - Python

Windows with LiClipse

Welcome to using Phidgets with Python! By using Python, you will have access to the complete Phidget22 API, including events.

LiClipse is a closed-source development environment based on Eclipse, with support for Python.

Installing the Phidget Python Module

First, install Python3 if you haven't already.

Python 3.4+ includes PIP by default. To install the Phidget22 Python module with PIP, simply open the Command Prompt (press the Windows key and search for cmd), and enter the command:

python -m pip install Phidget22

Setting Up a New Project

When you are building a project from scratch, or adding Phidget functionality to an existing project, you'll need to configure your development environment to properly link the Phidget Python library.

To start, create a new Python project:

Setting Up a New Project

Next, add a new file to the project:

Finding Code Samples

To find the code sample to use for your Phidget, navigate to the Code Samples page and select your device from the drop-down menu.

Once you select your device, the code sample generator will give you a working code sample, and a selection of options to customize it to your needs.

Using the Code Samples

If it's unclear what any of the options do, click on the nearby '?' for more info.

Once you've made your selections, click the copy button and paste the code into your new project.

What's Next?

Now that you've set up Phidgets in your programming environment, you should read our guide on Phidget Programming Basics to learn the fundamentals of programming with Phidgets.

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Language - Python

Windows with Visual Studio

Welcome to using Phidgets with Python! By using Python, you will have access to the complete Phidget22 API, including events.

Visual Studio is an IDE provided by Microsoft that can be used to develop code in a wide variety of programming languages, including Python.

Installing the Phidget Python Module

First, install Python3 if you haven't already.

You can install the Phidget22 libraries and python module for your current Visual Studio project with PIP by opening View > Other Windows > Python Environments

Installing the Phidget Python Module

Next, select Packages (PyPI) from the drop-down menu:

Installing the Phidget Python Module

Type Phidget22 into the search bar, then click Install Phidget22:

Success! Your project now has access to Phidget22.

Setting Up a New Project

When you are building a project from scratch, or adding Phidget functionality to an existing project, you'll need to configure your development environment to properly link the Phidget Python library.

To start, create a new Python project:

Setting Up a New Project

Then open the Python file that was generated with the project.

Finding Code Samples

To find the code sample to use for your Phidget, navigate to the Code Samples page and select your device from the drop-down menu.

Once you select your device, the code sample generator will give you a working code sample, and a selection of options to customize it to your needs.

Using the Code Samples

If it's unclear what any of the options do, click on the nearby '?' for more info.

Once you've made your selections, click the copy button and paste the code into your new project.

What's Next?

Now that you've set up Phidgets in your programming environment, you should read our guide on Phidget Programming Basics to learn the fundamentals of programming with Phidgets.

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Language - Python

Installing the Phidget Python Module

You can install the Phidget22 libraries for your current Visual Studio project with PIP by opening View > Other Windows > Python Environments

Installing the Phidget Python Module

Next, select Packages (PyPI) from the drop-down menu:

Installing the Phidget Python Module

Type Phidget22 into the search bar, then click Install Phidget22:

Success! Your project now has access to Phidget22.

Setting Up a New Project

When you are building a project from scratch, or adding Phidget functionality to an existing project, you'll need to configure your development environment to properly link the Phidget Python library.

To start, create a new Python project:

Setting Up a New Project

Then open the Python file that was generated with the project.

Finding Code Samples

To find the code sample to use for your Phidget, navigate to the Code Samples page and select your device from the drop-down menu.

Once you select your device, the code sample generator will give you a working code sample, and a selection of options to customize it to your needs.

Using the Code Samples

If it's unclear what any of the options do, click on the nearby '?' for more info.

Once you've made your selections, click the copy button and paste the code into your new project.

What's Next?

Now that you've set up Phidgets in your programming environment, you should read our guide on Phidget Programming Basics to learn the fundamentals of programming with Phidgets.

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Language - Python

Installing the Phidget Python Module

To install the Phidget22 Python module without PIP, you need to download it here:

● Phidget22 Python Module

Unpack the Phidget22 Python module and open the Command Prompt (press the Windows key and search for cmd). Find the folder where you downloaded the Python module and enter this command:

python setup.py install

This will build the module and install the Python module files into your site-packages directory.

Setting Up a New Project

When you are building a project from scratch, or adding Phidget functionality to an existing project, you'll need to configure your development environment to properly link the Phidget Python library.

To start, create a new Python project:

Setting Up a New Project

Then open the Python file that was generated with the project.

Finding Code Samples

To find the code sample to use for your Phidget, navigate to the Code Samples page and select your device from the drop-down menu.

Once you select your device, the code sample generator will give you a working code sample, and a selection of options to customize it to your needs.

Using the Code Samples

If it's unclear what any of the options do, click on the nearby '?' for more info.

Once you've made your selections, click the copy button and paste the code into your new project.

What's Next?

Now that you've set up Phidgets in your programming environment, you should read our guide on Phidget Programming Basics to learn the fundamentals of programming with Phidgets.

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Language - Python

Windows with IDLE

Welcome to using Phidgets with Python! By using Python, you will have access to the complete Phidget22 API, including events.

IDLE is a cross-platform development environment for Python targeted at newcomers to the language.

WARNING: We do not recommend using Idle with Phidgets. It has known problems dealing with multiple threads, which is a required feature if your program uses events.

Installing the Phidget Python Module

First, install Python3 if you haven't already.

Python 3.4+ includes PIP by default. To install the Phidget22 Python module with PIP, simply open the Command Prompt (press the Windows key and search for cmd), and enter the command:

python -m pip install Phidget22

Finding Code Samples

To find the code sample to use for your Phidget, navigate to the Code Samples page and select your device from the drop-down menu.

Once you select your device, the code sample generator will give you a working code sample, and a selection of options to customize it to your needs.

Using the Code Samples

If it's unclear what any of the options do, click on the nearby '?' for more info.

Once you've made your selections, click the copy button.

Using the Code Samples

Paste the sample code into a new Python script file in IDLE:

Using the Code Samples

To run the example, simply click on Run and select Run Module:

What's Next?

Now that you've set up Phidgets in your programming environment, you should read our guide on Phidget Programming Basics to learn the fundamentals of programming with Phidgets.

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Quick Downloads

If you already know what you're doing and just need the files, you can find them all below.

Python Package

It is recommended to follow the instructions in the setup guide above and use PIP to install the python package, but if you need the source file, you can download it here.

Documentation

Example Code

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