Development of FPGA-based neural network regression models for the ATLAS Phase-II barrel muon trigger upgrade

Effective selection of muon candidates is the cornerstone of the LHC physics programme. The ATLAS experiment uses a two-level trigger system for real-time selection of interesting collision events. The first-level hardware trigger system uses the Resistive Plate Chamber detector (RPC) for selecting muon candidates in the central (barrel) region of the detector. With the planned upgrades, the entirely new FPGA-based muon trigger system will be installed in 2025-2026. In this paper, neural network regression models are studied for potential applications in the new RPC trigger system. A simple simulation model of the current detector is developed for training and testing neural network regression models. Effects from additional cluster hits and noise hits are evaluated. Efficiency of selecting muon candidates is estimated as a function of the transverse muon momentum. Several models are evaluated and their performance is compared to that of the current detector, showing promising potential to improve on current algorithms for the ATLAS Phase-II barrel muon trigger upgrade.

Integration and Commissioning of the Software-based Readout System for ATLAS Level-1 Endcap Muon Trigger in Run 3

The Large Hadron Collider and the ATLAS experiment at CERN will explore new frontiers in physics in Run 3 starting in 2022. In the Run 3 ATLAS Level-1 endcap muon trigger, new detectors called New Small Wheel and additional Resistive Plate Chambers will be installed to improve momentum resolution and to enhance the rejection of fake muons. The Level-1 endcap muon trigger algorithm will be processed by new trigger processor boards with modern FPGAs and high-speed optical serial links. For validation and performance evaluation, the inputs and outputs of their trigger logic will be read out using a newly developed software-based readout system. We have successfully integrated this readout system in the ATLAS online software framework, enabling commissioning in the actual Run 3 environment. Stable trigger readout has been realized for input rates up to 100 kHz with a developed event-building application. We have verified that its performance is sufficient for Run 3 operation in terms of event data size and trigger rate. The paper will present the details of the integration and commissioning of the software-based readout system for ATLAS Level-1 endcap muon trigger in Run 3.