Tektronix, a leading provider of test and measurement solutions, is releasing a free, open-source Python native driver package for its test and measurement equipment, facilitating seamless instrument automation.

Tektronix released tm_devices, an open source Python driver package, on the 15th.

The free tm_devices provides a native Python user experience for instrument automation.

By integrating tm_devices into your workflow and using it with your preferred Integrated Development Environment (IDE), you can experience the power of auto-completion, accurate type hinting, comprehensive built-in help, real-time syntax checking, and enhanced debugging capabilities, helping you automate your instrumentation seamlessly.

The tm_devices open source Python driver package is designed to work with a wide range of Tektronix and Keithley devices and is continuously developed and updated, ensuring test and measurement users have access to the latest features and enhancements.

“Python is the largest and fastest-growing language among test automation engineers,” said Rick Kuhlman, GM of Portfolio Software at Tektronix.“We aim to increase their productivity and efficiency with Python-based development tools and code reuse,” he said. “Tektronix’s free, open-source release is intended to encourage collaboration and customization among engineers. Engineers will have the freedom to tailor the software to their specific needs, share improvements with the community, and benefit from the collective knowledge and contributions of developers worldwide.”

Typical automation involves learning and using string-based command APIs. This has drawbacks such as instrument-specific command sets, syntax checking for guesses and checks, and low visibility into debugging. Now, with tm_devices, you can enjoy Python autocompletion, type hinting, and real-time syntax checking with a single line and installation in seconds, all for free and open source.

"Tektronix designed tm_devices with simplicity in mind," Coolman said. "It features a quick installation process with no prerequisites or unnecessary dependencies. Unlike competitors who often require you to install and use a maze of additional driver software and interface layers, it's now incredibly easy to get started."

tm_devices is now available globally. More information about the tm_devices open source Python driver package is available at Tek.com.