The Operation Control System for the Tianlai Experiment

TL;DR

This paper details the design of a remote operation control system for the Tianlai 21cm intensity mapping experiment, emphasizing accessibility, simplicity, flexibility, EMI control, and security.

Contribution

It introduces a comprehensive remote control system for the Tianlai experiment, including control network, mechanisms, and security features, applicable to other remote observatories.

Findings

The system enables remote control via LAN with secure login.

Designed for online accessibility, simplicity, and EMI control.

The control system's hardware and software can serve as a reference for similar projects.

Abstract

The Tianlai 21cm intensity mapping experiment is located at the Hongliuxia Observing Station, which is a remote site with excellent electromagnetic environment. To facilitate the operation of the Tianlai experiment while reducing the required human power and travel cost, we have designed the system to be remotely controllable from the start. In this paper, we present the basic design of the operation control system, including the control network, and the controlling mechanisms for the power switch, the steering of the dish antenna, the analog and digital components of the array, and the operation of the array. In the design of this system of operation control, we emphasize the following points: online accessible, simplicity, flexibility, strict control of electromagnetic interference (EMI) and security. The various devices are connected in a local area network (LAN), and one can control them remotely by securely logging into a server on the LAN and issue commands. We describe the functions of the programs designed for the control. Similar design and the various hardware and software components may also be applicable or of reference value to other remote observing stations.