Versatile Data Acquisition and Controls for Epics Using Vme-Based Fpgas

TL;DR

This paper discusses the development of versatile FPGA-based data acquisition and control interfaces for VME systems at Jefferson Lab, enabling customizable, rapid, and cost-effective solutions for EPICS-based control systems.

Contribution

It introduces a flexible FPGA library framework that allows quick, tailored development of VME-based data acquisition and control interfaces for accelerator systems.

Findings

Development of standard FPGA libraries for VME interfaces

Reduced design time and costs for system developers

Enhanced customization options for control system components

Abstract

Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) have provided Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility (Jefferson Lab) with versatile VME-based data acquisition and control interfaces with minimal development times. FPGA designs have been used to interface to VME and provide control logic for numerous systems. The building blocks of these logic designs can be tailored to the individual needs of each system and provide system operators with read-backs and controls via a VME interface to an EPICS based computer. This versatility allows the system developer to choose components and define operating parameters and options that are not readily available commercially. Jefferson Lab has begun developing standard FPGA libraries that result in quick turn around times and inexpensive designs.