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This paper presents the approach taken to give engineering students the necessary competencies and facilities to implement real-time control solutions. This goal is achieved first by way of an introduction to the basic principles underlying real-time control. Then, by motivating the use of personal computers as a versatile alternative to more traditional implementation equipment. Finally, by combining LabVIEW and DAQ boards to form an integrated framework for fast prototyping of real-time control solutions. Control algorithms written in G (the graphical programming language of LabVIEW), in C or as S-functions (MATLAB scripts describing SIMULINK dynamical models) can be validated on laboratory-scale processes. The possible realtime control and monitoring of ongoing operations, either locally on the host computer or remotely via the Internet, is a key feature from an educational point of view. In fact, the chosen paradigm truly enable thelearning by doing'approach. Moreover, this practical activity can be carried out at any time from anywhere to efficiently support automatic control study.