Software development for a switch-based data acquisition system

The authors report on the software aspects of the development of a switch-based data acquisition (DAQ) system at Fermilab. They describe how, with the goal of providing an ´integrated systems engineering´ environment, several powerful software tools were put in place to facilitate extensive exploration of all aspects of the design. These tools include a simulation package, a graphics package, and an expert system shell, which have been integrated to provide an environment which encourages the close interaction of hardware and software engineers. The authors present a description of the simulation, user interface, embedded software, remote procedure calls, and diagnostic software which together have made it possible to provide real-time control and monitoring of a working prototype switch-based DAQ system. The prototype DAQ system is capable of running at 600 Hz of current CDF (Collider Detector Facility) events (200 Kbytes) and comprises several VME Sun 1E boards, as well as the switch backplane and auxiliary components.<>