Controlling Subsystems

This section provides users with a clear understanding of how to control each subsystem of the PANDORA system.

Shutter

Controlled via the ShutterState class, the Shutter subsystem manages the light path by opening or closing the shutter. Connected through the LabJack, it determines if lights enter the optical path or not.

# Example: Open the shutter
pandora.open_shutter()

# Example: Close the shutter
pandora.close_shutter()

To check the connection please refer to the LabJack Interface section.

Monochromator

The Monochromator subsystem is managed by the MonochromatorController. It is responsible for tuning the system’s wavelength and ensuring the device starts in its home position (typically 400 nm). This subsystem plays a key role in wavelength calibration.

To access from the main controller, use:

monochromator = pandora.monochromator

# Example: Move to 500 nm
monochromator.move_to_wavelength(500)

# Example: Move to home position
monochromator.go_home()

# Example: Get current wavelength
monochromator.get_current_wavelength()

Flip Mounts

The Flip Mounts subsystem comprises multiple units (e.g., f1, f2, f3), each handled by an instance of FlipMountState. These flip mounts are linked to specific LabJack ports and enable rapid switching of optical paths—ensuring that only the desired signals reach the detectors while others remain safely out of the light path.

# There are many flipmounts

# Example: Activate flip mount 1 (IR blocking filter)
f1 = pandora.flip_mounts.f1
# Put on the optical path
f1.activate()
# Move out of the optical path
f1.deactivate()

# Example: Deactivate flip mount 2 (neutral density filter)
f2 = pandora.flip_mounts.f2
f2.activate()

Zaber Stages

The Zaber Stage subsystem, managed by the ZaberController, is used to position optical components (like neutral density filters) within the light path. Precise control over this stage ensures accurate alignment and optimal system configuration for various experimental setups.

LabJack Interface

The LabJack serves as the central digital I/O controller. It connects directly with the shutter, flip mounts, and other peripherals, facilitating coordinated control across all subsystems. Its integration is essential for synchronizing the operation of hardware components throughout the PANDORA system.

Keysight Electrometers

Represented by instances of KeysightState (such as k1 and k2), the Keysight Electrometers perform high-precision electrical measurements. They are configured to monitor currents accurately during exposures, whether in light or dark conditions, providing critical data for the system’s performance.