Orthogonal Automatic Steering into the Zero Gradient Synchrotron (ZGS) Using Achromatic Magnets

In the past, steering of the 50-MeV proton beam into the main ring of the ZGS was performed empirically. The method was unsatisfactory because of the heterogeneity of the magnet adjustments. An algorithm was developed that described the orthogonal position of the beam in terms of exit position, exit angle, and position in the center achromat. Any combination of steering parameters can be made by adjustment of the achromatic magnets. The necessary modes of operation, functions, and readouts are combined in a consolette. The consolette is interfaced with the central control computer as an on-line, time-shared input/output (I/O) device. When a steering change is desired, the computer, via stepping motors, adjusts the four magnets for the required solution.