Operation experience with the LHC RF system

The LHC ACS RF system is composed of 16 superconducting cavities, eight per ring, housed in a total of four cryomodules each containing four cavities. Each cavity is powered by a 300 kW klystron. The ACS RF power control system is based on industrial Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), with additional fast RF interlock protection systems. The Low Level RF (LLRF) is implemented in VME crates. Operational performance and reliability are described. A full set of user interfaces, both for experts and operators has been developed, with user feedback and maintenance issues as key points. Operational experience with the full RF chain, including the low level system, the beam control, the synchronization system and optical fibers distribution is presented. Last but not least overall performance and reliability based on experience with first beam are reviewed and perspectives for future improvement outlined.