A LAMPF controls retrospective: the good, the bad, and “it seemed like a good idea at the time”☆

Abstract LAMPF (Los Alamos Meson Physics Facility) was the first large particle accelerator to require the use of a computerized control system as part of its design. Over the past 25 years, the LAMPF control system has evolved from a single mini-computer system using home-built data acquisition hardware to a complex network of VAX and micro-VAX computers using CAMAC and other data acquisition protocols. On the occasion of LAMPF's possible closing, this paper provides a look back at how the LAMPF control system got to where it is today. After a brief historical introduction, we will discuss aspects of control system design and implementation including, the impact of technology on decision making and topics from the LAMPF operational experience.