Python and MATLAB Interfaces to RHIC Controls Data

In keeping with a long tradition in the BNL ColliderAccelerator Department (C-AD) controls environment, we try to provide general and simple to use interfaces to the users of the controls. In the past, we have built command line tools, Java tools, and C++ tools that allow users to easily access live and historical controls data. With more demand for access through other interfaces, we recently built a set of Python and MATLAB modules to simplify access to control system data. This is possible, and made relatively easy, with the development of HTTP service interfaces to the controls. While this paper focuses on the Python and MATLAB tools built on top of the HTTP services, this work demonstrates clearly how the HTTP service paradigm frees the developer from having to work from any particular operating system or develop using any particular development tool.