Simulation Using Xorbit with EPICS*
Kenneth Evans, Jr.
Argonne National Laboratory
The accelerator code Xorbit has an interface to the EPICS control system. This
means that machine data such as magnet settings can be sent to Xorbit via
EPICS, and the resulting orbit parameters such as beta functions, etc. can be
calculated. In addition, Xorbit can be made to simulate the real machine,
whether the latter is running or not. To accomplish this for the APS, there is
a database of process variables in an IOC corresponding to each APS ring and
beamline. These process variables are very similar to the real process
variables that read and set power supplies and read monitors, except that when
a setting is changed, Xorbit is notified via a callback, calculates a new
orbit, and outputs the appropriate readbacks to the database. By attaching the
string "Xorbit:" to a control name the control system will respond to the
simulation rather than the real system. This allows the testing of control
algorithms, orbit diagnostics, and many other components of the control system
(as well as EPICS itself). It is fast enough to be visually similar to
accessing the real system.
*Work supported by U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Basic Energy Sciences
under Contract No. W-31-109-ENG-38.