Minicomputer applications in solid state physics: Automated instrumentation for the de Haas–van Alphen effect

Abstract

A computer‐assisted measurement system is described which has been optimized for the precise measurements of the amplitudes, phases, and frequencies of the de Haas–van Alphen oscillations. System software, architecture, and control concepts are described which have general utility in computer‐controlled and automated measurements. The system is made flexible for a broad class of experiments by partitioning control functions, by providing efficient control parameter handling and editing, and by utilizing program chaining. The experimeter’s role is enhanced with an interface control board which allows the manual control and flexibility essential in a research laboratory.