Applications of Microprocessors in Accelerators

Microprocessors (pP) are finding a growing list of applications in accelerators and associated equipment. ¿P´s may be used as autonomous data loggers and process controllers and in distributed systems. A ¿P is essentially a computer CPU. Applying ¿P, centers around two distinct problems - completing the ¿P into a computer and interfacing the computer to its environment. The computer can be completed with standard computer components. CAMAC was chosen to be the interface to the environment. CAMAC has several advantages at Fermilab. It is widely used, special function modules for accelerators have already been developed, and many accelerator personnel are familiar with it. Also, it is becoming more widely accepted internationally. A brief description of the CAMAC system is given.