Testing the PreProcessor modules of the ATLAS level-1 calorimeter Trigger

The PreProcessor (PPr) System of the ATLAS Level-1 Calorimeter Trigger is a highly parallel system which receives, digitises and processes about 7200 analogue calorimeter trigger signals from the entire ATLAS Calorimetry. Its key component is a custom build ASIC which determines the transverse energy deposits and transmits them to the object-finding processors of the calorimeter trigger: Cluster Processor and Jet/Energy-Sum Processor. The PPr System consists of 124 identical 9U VME PreProcessor Modules (PPMs), which fit into 8 crates. Each module receives and processes 64 analogue calorimeter trigger signals. Before the modules are installed in the electronic cavern of the experiment, their proper operation has to be ensured. An extensive test procedure has been developed to establish all functions of the PPM in short and long periods of operation. The modules are tested both individually as well as in a crate configuration similar to that of the final system. The transmission of the real-time data over 15m long LVDS cables and the readout are checked with a dedicated VME based system, which emulates both the processors of the calorimeter trigger and a DAQ readout module. Additionally, periodic monitoring of the temperatures and voltages across each board is performed during tests to verify the operating conditions of the modules