Jonathan Weintroub (Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian)
Co-Authors and affiliations are as listed in ALMA Memo 607
https://library.nrao.edu/public/memos/alma/main/memo607 <https://library.nrao.edu/public/memos/alma/main/memo607> .pdf
Topics:
Emerging digital correlator concepts, technologies, and architectures
Digital Correlator and Phased Array Architectures for Upgrading ALMA
This poster summarizes the findings of the the SAO-led ALMA Development Study of a next generation combined correlator and VLBI beamformer We examined a variety of technologies and algorithms, balancing costs and timelines against benefits. The work was divided into eight technical work packages. The first of these posited a set of science requirements, thoughtfully developed by our team. These gave concrete goals for proposed technical developments and architectures. A top-level conceptual framing of the full installation, including specifications and rough equipment costing and schedule, is included. By locating the new back end at ALMA’s OSF mid-level facility, using existing fiber optics for data transport from the high site, an orderly phase-in of new technology is tractable. The final report for this Study is published as ALMA memo 607, and includes a list of contributors and their institutions.