Computer Control Of High Power Klystron Modulators

Two computer control systems are described for providing remote monitor and control of high power klystron modulators. The first system utilizes a Macintosh I1 FX control computer with National Instruments LabView software to control a number of devices. These include a GPIB CAMAC crate controller, CAMAC analog and digital I/O modules, a digital delay generator, and an oscilloscope. A top level software screen allows the operator to view the overall status of the modulator and control high level operator functions. Status indicators inform the operator of general modulator conditions (whether interlock chains are satisfied, etc.). Lower level screens can then be brought up which show individual interlock status, allow control of the digital delay generator, and allow setup and acquisition of waveforms from the digital oscilloscope. The second computer control system represents a more complex system in which more functions are monitored and controlled by the computer. Up to 150 signals are controlled with this system, which is based upon the use of a 486 type computer with National Instruments LabWindows software to control a set of VME VO modules. As with the previously described controller, a top level computer display screen shows the operator the high level modulator functions, including general interlock status, high voltage power supply levels, and klystron support equipment status. Additional sub-screens can be brought up to turn on and adjust all of the modulator sub-systems, including the high voltage power supplies, pulse transformer bias power supply, thyratron auxiliaries, klystron magnet power supplies, klystron heater power supply, klystron vac-ion pump power supplies. Other features include software and hardware debugging routines and automatic data logging. Value 600 kV 870 A 14 ks 10 us