DCS
A Detector Control System (DCS) gets into focus whenever a large number
of various sensors and actors within a detector need to be monitored,
operated or synchronized in a well specified manner by using a
centralized approach. In case of particle accelerator detectors, some
well established systems in this context are for example SCADA or EPICS.
These control systems make it possible to connect all supervised
components of a detector to a special controls network which ensures,
that even in an emergency situation all devices can be reached and at
least put into a safety mode that prevents human injuries or device
damage. The basic requirement hereby is, that all connected components
can communicate with the DCS by using a supported protocol.
Unfortunately, not all devices operated within a detector offer such a
feature, especially when obtained from the COTS market. Therefore, a
major role in a DCS environment is played by the so called Detector
Control System Board (DCSB). This board offers a variety of interfaces
to connect to a variety of proprietary devices. One of such boards, the
Fault-Tolerant Local Monitoring and Controls Board (FTLMC) has been
developed at IRI: