Each VXI crate contains a Slot 0 (Resource Manager) module which connects to a standard PC running Windows2000 via a IEEE1394 (firewire) bus. The nature of the IEEE1394 bus allows up to 63 VXI crates to be connected via a single interface in the PC. The PC then communicates with the MIDAS control GUI via ethernet and allows setup and monitoring of all VXI modules in the crate. A logic analyser facility is built-in which can monitor some VXI backplane lines and is particularly of use for setting up and checking the module digital timing.
Further about the Resource Manager

The Total Data Readout electronics does not use an in-crate Readout Controller and Readout Bus in the way that previous VXI based data acquisition systems (such as Euroball and ExoGam) have. However it is planned to permit data readout from the VXI modules using single cycle VME accesses. This will permit low rate data readout using the Resource Manager which can also create singles histograms. This mode of operation would be useful for module testing and setup purposes and possibly low rate experiments especially if only singles histograms are required.

Using the Register Server the user can via the MIDAS GUI set and monitor all adjustable controls built into the VXI cards. Once the setup of the electronics is satisfactory the values of all parameters can be saved to disc. Complete electronics setups or just a selected portion can be quickly restored back into the electronics should this be necessary.