Computer Controlled CAMAC Systems at Argonne

Abstract

Several computer controlled CAMAC systems are presently being developed at Argonne for data acquisition in low-energy nuclear physics. This paper discusses four of these. The systems are designed around 8K, 16-bit, Lockheed MAC-16 computers. A typical system includes two CAMAC crates and a complement of 15 modules. The crate controller in each crate serves as interface between the computer I/O bus and the CAMAC dataway. Up to 14 individual crates can be addressed in addition to a Teletype and other peripheral devices. The CAMAC modules being developed include Crate Controller, Dual ADC Controller, ADC Coincidence Unit, Dual Stabilizer, Quad Pre-Scaler, Clock, Display Controller, Readout Selector, Magnetic Tape Controller and Disk Controller. Most units are built in double-width modules using computer controlled wire-wrap construction.