Python Based Interface to the KARA LLRF System

The Karlsruhe Research Accelerator (KARA) at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) is an electron storage ring and synchrotron radiation facility. The operation at KARA can be very flexible in terms of beam energy, optics, intensity, filling structure, and operation duration. Multiple digital LLRF systems are in place to control the complex dynamics of the RF cavities required to keep the electron beam stable. Each LLRF system represents a well established closed system with its own set of control logic, state machine and feedback loops. This requires additional control logic to operate all stations together. In addition, during special operation modes at KARA, extra features such as well defined beam excitation are needed. This paper presents the implementation of a Python layer created to accommodate the complex set of options as well as an easy to use interface for the operator and the general control system.