Capabilities and Uses of a Graphic Display System as an Interface between the Zero Gradient Synchrotron Computer and the Human Operator

The control computer system at the Zero Gradient Synchrotron (ZGS) contains a 20" cathoderay graphic display system that can generate points, vectors, and characters. A variety of software routines have been written to operate the ZGS monitor on-line to obtain the required data, to perform the necessary calculations, and to generate the specific display patterns. Two dimensional displays describe accelerator parameters that are functions of time, of a space coordinate, or of a second machine parameter such as ring magnet field. "Three dimensional", displays (isometric), such as tune as a function of radial position and of ring magnet field, can also be generated. Many of the display patterns can be updated quickly enough so that the operator can follow the changes during an adjustment or optimization procedure. Experience shows that this display system can present complex information to the ZGS operator in a form that is easily understood. Permanent records of display information can be made by photography, by using the 30" X-Y plotter system, and by using the line printer. A variety of examples are discussed.