The Single Mode Acquisition Code (SMAC) computer program mathematically models the optical, mechanical, and electronic dynamics of high-finesse, long-baseline, multiple-cavity optical interferometers like those used in gravity-wave detectors. Dynamical situations that can be simulated include those that involve noise and/or multiple modulation frequencies and side-bands. SMAC includes components for modeling the dynamics of cavity-control servomechanisms, electronic closed-loop servo control subsystems, and synchronous-detection electronic circuitry. Nonlinear time-domain models are incorporated for use in design- ing and testing lock-acquisition controllers. Once lock has been achieved, small-amplitude transfer functions represent cavity signals adequately. SMAC provides a graphical user interface for defining problems and controlling execution with respect to the problems. SMAC also provides extensive pre- and post-processing support.

This program was written by Laura Needels, David Redding, and Lisa Sievers of Caltech for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. For further information, access the Technical Support Package (TSP) free on· line at www.nasatech.com  under the Computer Software category, or circle no. 115 on the TSP Order Card in this issue to receive a copy by mail ($5 charge).

This software is available for commercial licensing. Please contact Don Hart of the California Institute of Technology at (818) 393-3425. Refer to NPO-20122.



This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
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Software for modeling dynamics of optical interferometers

(reference NPO-20122) is currently available for download from the TSP library.

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