PLC and Linux based control system for the CAMD Linac

Louisiana State University Center for Advanced Microstructures and Devices (CAMD) began operations in the fall of 1992. At the time, the facility had separate control systems for the storage ring and Linac. In 1997, CAMD began a control system upgrade project with the goal of producing a single unified control system running on the PC/Linux platform. After completion of the storage ring control system, the Linac control system was designed utilizing AutomationDirect.com PLCs for the real-time components, and PC/Linux for the user interface. The new Linac control system has been completed, and has been operational since July 2002. This paper will discuss the objectives, design, and future upgrade plans for the Linac control system, as well as the experiences with replacing the CGR-MeV VME/OS/9 control system with a PLC/PC/Linux based system.