TALOS: a framework for autonomous control systems for complex experiments

What is it about?

TALOS is an open-source framework to swiftly code distributed control systems for quantum and atomic physics experiments. It unifies a network of computers in a single entity capable of high degree of automation, ensuring reliability, repeatability and minimising the operations workload on scientists. The integration of FPGA control enable nanosecond precision of operations.

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Photo by Devon Rogers on Unsplash

Photo by Devon Rogers on Unsplash

Why is it important?

Modern quantum and atomic physics experiments rely on the coordinated action of multiple devices to perform top-notch measurements, and often, a timing precision in the order of the nanosecond is required. Coding a control system which can safely and reliably operate such experiments is complex and time-consuming. TALOS is a framework to ease the programming of control systems for experiments by providing a base that unifies more computers in a single entity, guarantees smooth operations, and enables a high degree of automation. These features save scientists time (in coding and operating the control system), which can be more successfully employed in scientific research.