TileCal Optical Multiplexer Board 9U prototype

This paper presents the architecture and the status of the optical multiplexer board (OMB) for the ATLAS/LHC Tile hadronic calorimeter (TileCal). This board will analyze the front-end data CRC to prevent bit and burst errors produced by radiation. Besides, due to its position within the data acquisition chain it will be used to emulate front-end data for tests. The first two prototypes of the final OMB 9U version have been produced at CERN. Detailed design issues and manufacture features of these prototypes are described. These prototypes are being validated whereas some firmware developments are being implemented in the programmable devices of the board. Functional descriptions of the board on its two main operation modes as CRC checking and data ROD injector are explained as well as other functionalities. Finally, the schedule for next year when the production of the OMB will be take place is also presented.