Build Text Express VI doesn't work without a variable

Question

I like the build text express VI because it lets me hide a lot of the clutter of building text strings on the code page itself, inside the express VI.
Two questions:
1) Why does the build text express VI require a single variable before 'Result' will contain text typed into the 'Text with Variables in Percents' field. If no variable is listed the result is always null.
2) Is using many copies of this express VI a waste of memory or is it decent sized or possibly doesn't matter at all... I have just started using it so have no idea how well it works as far as adding bulk to the program.

Answer 1

The express vi is a vi. Yes it will take more memory to use the build text vi that using the format into string function. The express vi if you right click on it and open front panel you will see what code is involved. A good example is to go and look at the vi metrics with a build text express vi and you will see that there are 42 different nodes in one express vi. If you put a format into string function you will see using vi metrics only 1 node. Another drawback is that the build text will only allow you to have 8 input variables. It is a easy tool to use but can be bulky if used improperly. Hope this helps.
BJD1613
Lead Test Tools Development Engineer
Philips Respironics
Certified LV Architect / Instructor