How to Run MATLAB Script From Command Line

1. Method 1: Using MATLAB Command Line Interface
2. Method 2: Running MATLAB Scripts with Python
3. Method 3: Using MATLAB Engine API for Python
4. Conclusion
5. FAQ

Running MATLAB scripts from the command line can significantly streamline your workflow, especially when working with large datasets or automating tasks. Whether you’re preparing for a presentation, conducting research, or just tinkering with MATLAB, knowing how to execute scripts via the command line can save you time and effort.

In this tutorial, we will explore various methods to run MATLAB scripts directly from the command line, providing you with clear examples and explanations. By the end of this article, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to enhance your productivity and take full advantage of MATLAB’s capabilities.

Method 1: Using MATLAB Command Line Interface

One of the simplest ways to run a MATLAB script from the command line is by using the built-in MATLAB command line interface. This method is straightforward and effective for users who have MATLAB installed on their system.

To run a MATLAB script, follow these steps:

1. Open your command prompt or terminal.
2. Navigate to the directory where your MATLAB script is located.
3. Type the following command:

matlab -batch "your_script_name"

Output:

Running your_script_name...
Execution completed.

In this command, replace your_script_name with the name of your MATLAB script file (without the .m extension). The -batch option allows MATLAB to run the script non-interactively, which is particularly useful for automation tasks. This method is user-friendly and ensures that the output is displayed directly in your command line interface. If your script requires input arguments, you can modify the command as follows:

matlab -batch "your_script_name(arg1, arg2)"

This flexibility makes it easy to run scripts with various parameters, enhancing the overall usability of MATLAB in command-line environments.

Method 2: Running MATLAB Scripts with Python

If you’re comfortable with Python, you can leverage its capabilities to run MATLAB scripts as well. The subprocess module in Python allows you to execute shell commands, making it possible to run MATLAB scripts seamlessly.

Here’s how you can do it:

import subprocess

subprocess.run(["matlab", "-batch", "your_script_name"])

Output:

Running your_script_name...
Execution completed.

In this example, we import the subprocess module and use the run function to call MATLAB from Python. The command is similar to what we used in the command line, specifying the script name without the .m extension. This method is particularly useful if you want to integrate MATLAB script execution into a larger Python application or workflow. You can also pass arguments to your MATLAB script in a similar manner:

import subprocess

subprocess.run(["matlab", "-batch", "your_script_name(arg1, arg2)"])

Using Python to run MATLAB scripts not only provides versatility but also allows you to harness the power of both programming languages, making it an excellent choice for data analysis and automation tasks.

Method 3: Using MATLAB Engine API for Python

Another powerful approach is to use the MATLAB Engine API for Python. This method allows you to call MATLAB functions directly from Python, providing a more integrated experience. To use this method, you need to have the MATLAB Engine installed.

Here’s how to run a MATLAB script using the MATLAB Engine API:

import matlab.engine

eng = matlab.engine.start_matlab()
eng.your_script_name(nargout=0)
eng.quit()

Output:

Running your_script_name...
Execution completed.

In this code snippet, we first import the matlab.engine module and start the MATLAB engine. The start_matlab() function initializes the MATLAB session. We then call the MATLAB script using eng.your_script_name(). The nargout=0 argument specifies that we do not expect any output from the script. Finally, we close the MATLAB session with eng.quit().

This method is particularly advantageous for users who want to maintain a continuous workflow in Python while utilizing MATLAB’s powerful computational capabilities. It allows for more complex interactions, such as passing data between Python and MATLAB, making it ideal for sophisticated projects.

Conclusion

Running MATLAB scripts from the command line opens up a world of possibilities for efficiency and automation. Whether you choose to use the MATLAB command line interface, leverage Python’s subprocess module, or utilize the MATLAB Engine API for Python, each method offers unique advantages. By familiarizing yourself with these techniques, you can enhance your productivity and streamline your workflow. So, go ahead and experiment with these methods to find the one that best suits your needs and preferences.

FAQ

1. how do I run a MATLAB script without opening the MATLAB GUI?
   You can run a MATLAB script from the command line using the matlab -batch "your_script_name" command.

2. can I pass arguments to a MATLAB script from the command line?
   Yes, you can pass arguments by modifying the command to matlab -batch "your_script_name(arg1, arg2)".

3. what is the MATLAB Engine API for Python?
   The MATLAB Engine API for Python allows you to call MATLAB functions and scripts directly from Python, enabling seamless integration between the two languages.

4. is it necessary to have MATLAB installed to run scripts from the command line?
   Yes, you must have MATLAB installed on your system to execute scripts using the command line or any of the methods mentioned.

5. can I run MATLAB scripts in a scheduled task?
   Yes, you can schedule MATLAB scripts to run automatically using task schedulers in your operating system, utilizing the command line methods discussed.