SNS Standard Power Supply Interface
Title: SNS Standard Power Supply Interface
Research Question: How can a standard power supply interface be developed to improve the communication and control of power supplies in a particle accelerator?
Methodology: The researchers developed a VME-based power supply controller module (PSC) and a power supply interface unit (PSI) that mount on the power supply. These modules communicate with each other using a pair of multimode fibers. The PSC time-stamps and stores this data in a circular buffer so historical data leading up to a fault event can be analyzed. The PSC contains a serial port so that local testing of hardware can be accomplished with a laptop.
Results: The SNS standard consists of a VME-based power supply controller module (PSC) and a power supply interface unit (PSI) that mount on the power supply. Communication between the two is via a pair of multimode fibers. This PSI/PSC system supports one 16-bit analog reference, four 16-bit analog readbacks, fifteen digital commands and sixteen digital status bits in a single fiber-isolated module. The system can send commands to the supplies and read data from them synchronized to an external signal at up to a 10KHz rate. The PSC time-stamps and stores this data in a circular buffer so historical data leading up to a fault event can be analyzed. The PSC contains a serial port so that local testing of hardware can be accomplished with a laptop.
Implications: The development of the SNS standard power supply interface has improved the communication and control of power supplies in the SNS accumulator ring, Linac, and transport lines. The interface supports one 16-bit analog reference, four 16-bit analog readbacks, fifteen digital commands, and sixteen digital status bits, allowing for better data acquisition and analysis. The use of a circular buffer enables the storage of historical data leading up to a fault event, which can be useful for troubleshooting and improving the overall performance of the power supplies. The inclusion of a serial port for local testing of hardware with a laptop further enhances the ease of use and maintenance of the power supplies.
Link to Article: https://arxiv.org/abs/0111044v1 Authors: arXiv ID: 0111044v1