FASTBUS in Europe, Status and Plans

Fastbus activity in Europe has definitely taken the direction of implementation and application. At SIN a system has successfully been commissioned and at CERN a multicrate configuration is being prepared for 1984. The importance of a single common data acquisition standard having been recognized for LEP experiments the data acquisition systems in preparation for these gigantic collaborations are largely to be based on Fastbus. Starter kits have been composed for the various collaborating groups and laboratories while the first commercially produced modules have become available. The ESONE-ASSG has continued its coordinating role and, having published a European version of the Fastbus specification, is now actively engaged in compiling supplementary information in documentary form for engineers, programmers and users.