How to Start Two Timers Simultaneously in a MATLAB Function

Learn how to effectively manage multiple timers in MATLAB by setting them to run simultaneously, ensuring your tasks are executed without delay.
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Understanding the Issue with Multiple Timers in MATLAB

When working with timers in MATLAB, a common challenge arises when attempting to run multiple timer functions at the same time. This issue particularly manifests when the tasks assigned to each timer are lengthy, leading to potential overlaps and missed executions. This guide will explore one user's predicament, which showcases how a problem arose when trying to run two timer functions (p_maj_input and p_maj_output_motion) simultaneously.

The user observed that when the number of subfolders exceeded four, the two timers no longer worked concurrently. The first timer would complete all its designated tasks while the second would only begin execution once the first was finished. This situation clearly highlights the necessity of optimizing timer execution in MATLAB.

The Challenge

The structure of the code presents two timer functions that share similar execution parameters:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

The user noted that the timers worked effectively when processing fewer subfolders. However, as the number increased, the callback functions began to interfere with one another, causing incorrect outputs. This essentially halted the simultaneous execution of the timers.

The Solution: Transitioning to Fixed Spacing

The core issue arises from the fact that one timer has not fully completed its cycle before another is initiated. To resolve this, the ExecutionMode needs to be adjusted. By changing from fixedRate to fixedSpacing, MATLAB will ensure that adequate time is provided for another timer to execute even if the first one is still processing.

Updated Timer Code Example

Here is a succinct example demonstrating the transition to fixedSpacing:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Key Takeaways

ExecutionMode Matters: Switching from fixedRate to fixedSpacing ensures that timers do not step on each other's toes.

Pausing for Completeness: Incorporating pause commands can help temporize outputs within callback functions if operations take longer.

Testing and Validation: Always test the updated timers under various scenarios (different numbers of subfolders) to ensure effectiveness.

By applying these changes, you'll find that your MATLAB functions can handle multiple timers efficiently, thereby maximizing productivity and ensuring accurate outputs during execution.

Finally, remember, effective programming in MATLAB requires a keen understanding of how tasks are executed in relation to one another, especially in timer-based operations.