The data module, the missing link in high level control languages

The design of the control system for the CERN 400 GeV proton accelerator, using a network of some thirty computers, provided the opportunity to try out an approach, using an interpreter for the high- level control language NODAL, together with special functions called data modules. The data module provides, as a function of the interpreter, the data table and specialised data-based handler to provide all the required single actions on a basic piece of equipment. (1 refs).