General distributed control system for fusion experiments

A general control system using distributed LSI‐11 microprocessors is being developed. Common software resides in each LSI‐11 and is tailored to an application by control specifications downloaded from a host computer. The microprocessors, their control interfaces, and the micro‐to‐host communications are CAMAC based. The host computer also supports an operator interface, coordination of multiple microprocessors, and utilities to create and maintain the control specifications. Typical applications include monitoring safety interlocks as well as controlling vacuum systems, high‐voltage charging systems, and diagnostics.