Use of Multi-Network Fieldbus for Integration of Low-Level Intelligent Controller Within Control Architecture of Fast Pulsed System at CERN

Fieldbuses and Industrial Ethernet networks are extensively used for the control of fast-pulsed magnets at CERN. With the ongoing trend to develop increasingly more complex low-level intelligent controllers near to the actuators and sensors, the flexibility to integrate these within different control architectures grows in importance. In order to reduce development efforts and keep the fieldbus choice open, a multi-network field-bus technology has been selected for the network interfacing part of the controllers. Such an approach has been successfully implemented for several projects such as the development of high voltage capacitor chargers/dischargers, the surveillance of floating solid-state switch and the monitoring of a power triggering system that, today, are interfaced either to PROFIBUS-DP or PROFINET networks. The integration of various fieldbus interfaces within the controller and the required embedded software/gateware to manage to network communication are presented. The gain in flexibility, modularity and openness obtained through this approach is also reviewed.