Use Case: Executive, Executive Package: Exec_Startup

Before any computer controlled observation can be done with ALMA, the software systems have to be started and initiated. This Use Case illustrate a standard startup sequence of the full ALMA Observing System to the stage where an Operator can see the status of the entire system and commence observations of SchedBlocks.

Goal:   Start and initiate Executive software.

Contact Author:   P. Grosbol

Role(s)/Actor(s):
Primary:  

• Operator
  

• Database
  

Priority:   Critical

Performance:   On the order of minutes

Frequency of Use:   A few times per month

Preconditions:

1. The ALMA software system has been installed

Basic Course:

1. The Operator issues the startup command on an appropriate computer console.
2. The startup task verifies if CORBA services are available on the local system or starts them if they are not present.
3. The ACS manages is started on the local system.
4. The startup configuration file is read. It contains information on:
   • components which have to be started and their order
   • events which have to be monitored
   • data-flow patterns which have to be checked
5. The Watchdog-Timer is started
6. A basic operator GUI is displayed and shows status of the initiation
7. Components indicated in the configuration file are started and initiated.
8. Error-Monitor is started to check events, errors and logs.
9. Exec Server component is initiated to provide other operator clients access to status information.
10. Operator registers with the Exec-server to obtain full control privileges.
11. Full operator GUI is displayed with active controls
12. The long term scheduler synchronization is started.
13. Access for other operator clients to login is made available.
14. All components are monitored periodically and status displayed.
15. Watchdog-Timer is reset periodically.
16. Alternative Course:
    
    • Parts of the components required do not initiate correctly.
    • Only basic status display are provided
    • Shutdown and initiation controls are active

Postconditions:

1. The ALMA software system is running
2. The Operator GUI is available and display the system status
3. Operator can issue commands through the GUI
4. The system accepts external requests for Operator-Clients

Issues to be Determined or Resolved:  

1. none at this time

Last modified: 31oct03