ALICE is the heavy-ion experiment at the CERN Large Hadron Collider. The experiment continuously took data during the first physics campaign of the machine from fall 2009 until early 2013, using proton and lead-ion beams. In this paper we describe the running environment and the data handling procedures, and discuss the performance of the ALICE detectors and analysis methods for various physics observables.

A high voltage generator built by a series connection of 100 kV modules was produced. The series connection feasibility is ensured by the inherent floating character of each module which is wireless powered by high efficiency photovoltaic cells illuminated by a laser system. Each module is equipped with a control and monitoring board allowing excellent stabilization of the high voltage output. The performance of the system in terms of reliability, stability, and efficiency was evaluated. In particular using a three module setup, we achieved a maximum voltage of 234 kV with stability better than 0.1%.