Keywords-Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA);

Abstract — Research reactors are important neutron sources for research and radioisotope production purposes. The common problem of these facilities is their obsolete instrumentation and control (I&C) systems. The spare parts are not still available as their production is discontinued; therefore, the maintenance is a difficult problem. A major attitude of aging management of research reactors is modernization of the old age I&C systems. In this work, a modern control rod driving system for TRR control rod mechanisms is designed and constructed using state of the art electronic technology. Unlike the original analog system, self-check capability and essential interlocks are implemented. The system is cost effective as FPGA technology is utilized. Future upgrades are possible as FPGA is a reprogrammable device. The proposed equipment is recommended to be installed in other nuclear research reactors, which suffer from aged I&C systems