System and method for deploying and executing a program, e.g., a graphical program, on an embedded device, e.g., a compact sensor interface (CSI) that includes or is coupled to one or more sensors. The program is stored on a host mobile computer, e.g., a PDA, then downloaded to the CSI over a wired or wireless serial link, e.g., cable, infrared (IR), Bluetooth, etc. The embedded device executes the graphical program to perform the function, thereby generating data. The data is sent to the mobile computer over a wired or wireless serial link, e.g., via a Front Panel Protocol, where the data is displayed. Alternatively, the mobile computer executes a different program to perform a discovery operation to detect and establish communications with the embedded device, retrieves the data from the embedded device via a wireless serial transmission medium, e.g., IR link (e.g., IrDA), Bluetooth, etc., and displays the data.