Comparative Analysis of the CERN Accelerator Control Systems

In the framework of a future unique accelerator control structure for the LHC era, the convergence of the PS and SL systems was relaunched in 1997. The present study was triggered by a directive from the SL and PS Divisions to investigate and propose concrete actions. The two systems are compared in the areas of server architecture, networking capabilities including performance and flexibility, support for generic, re-configurable applications, and general purpose operator interfaces. Additional sub-systems covered by this report include the timing system software, error reporting, and the alarm sub-system. Areas where duplication of effort exists are noted, as are areas where each system could profit from the strengths of the other system. Additionally, areas are pointed out where features are missing from both systems as compared to other state- of-the-art accelerator control systems. A set of specific recommendations is proposed leading in the direction of future integration of these two systems. features are missing from both systems as compared to other state- of-the-art accelerator control systems. A set of specific recommendations is proposed leading in the direction of future integration