The MKS 937A Gauge Controller is one of the most ubiquitous pieces of equipment at SLAC. It can be loaded with sensor-specific controller cards for a wide variety of sensor types. It also provides analog outputs, (rarely used), gauge set-point relays, (typically monitored by PLCs controlling vacuum interlocks), and remote control and data via multiple protocols including RS-232, (used heavily by EPICS for monitoring, logging, and initialization)
[toc here, eventually]
Ordering Considerations
*notes on the secret menu for cold cathode gauges / boards.
*local copy of the secret menu
User Manual
Rack Mounting and Cable Management
*1U of spacing between controllers.
*Custom cable management ideas.
Commonly used sensors, and related cabling
*Brookhaven-special Cold Cathode Gauges
*Bakeable pirani Gauges
*TC Gauges
*Baratrons
Interfacing with PLCs
Gauge setpoint trip relays
Each of the up to 5 gauges controlled by the 937A has its own set point trip relay. All relays are accessible via a male, 15-pin D-Sub connector at the rear of the chassis. Interfacing those relays with a PLC requires, at least
Cold Cathode Enable connection.
Interfacing with EPICS
Digi
Serial Cabling
Pointers towards EPICS programming information.