New Tools for K-modulation in the LHC

For many applications, the precise knowledge of the beta function at a given location is essential. Several measurement techniques for optics functions are used in the LHC to provide the most suitable method for a given scenario. A new tool to run k-modulation measurements and analysis is being developed with the aim to be fully automatic and online. It will take constraints of various systems such as tune measurement precision, powering limits of the LHC superconducting circuits and limits of their quench protection systems into account. It will also provide the possibility to sinusoidally modulate the currents of the investigated quadrupoles with a predefined frequency and amplitude to increase the measurement precision further. This paper will review the advantages and limitations of k-modulation measurements in the LHC with and without sinusoidal current modulation. The used algorithms and tools will be presented and estimates on the obtainable beta function measurement precision will be given.