τHK: A modular housekeeping system for cryostats and balloon payloads

Area of Science:

• Experimental Physics
• Aerospace Engineering
• Instrumentation

Background:

• Scientific experiments require precise environmental control and monitoring.
• Stratospheric ballooning presents unique challenges for instrumentation due to temperature extremes and power constraints.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce the τHK (tau Housekeeping) system, a novel instrumentation solution.
• To detail the system's capabilities for cryogenic temperature readout and heater control.
• To highlight its suitability for the Taurus balloon experiment and other applications.

Main Methods:

• The τHK system utilizes a modular IEEE Eurocard subrack architecture.
• It accommodates up to 16 interchangeable daughter cards for specialized functions.
• Features include low-noise lock-in amplifiers for RTD readout and flexible bias/readout for various sensors.

Main Results:

• A fully populated system supports up to 256 independent channels with low power consumption (<7.5 W).
• The system offers precise cryogenic heater control and high power load modulation.
• Daughter cards include specialized modules for RTD readout, general-purpose thermometry, and load driving.

Conclusions:

• The τHK system provides a power-efficient and adaptable solution for experimental housekeeping.
• Its modularity and performance make it well-suited for demanding environments like stratospheric ballooning.
• The system is versatile for both cryogenic and ambient temperature applications.