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Data Acquisition Computers

In TRIUMF, the DIGITAL VAX is used as the main computer in a data acquisition system. It sends out CAMAC commands to instruct the crate system to collect data. The data collected is then stored in the VAX's memory. The VAX is connected through wires to a CES2280 interface module, which is plugged into the system crate.

Along with the VAX, a modular computer is usually used. TRIUMF uses the CES2180 ``Starburst'' module. The purpose of the module is to lighten the work load of the VAX's CPU. The VAX can thus store the data without using too much of its own CPU time.