A control unit is for a medical imaging system. The control unit includes a programmable logic gate, designed for at least one of closed-loop control and open-loop control of at least one component of the medical imaging system; a microprocessor, connected to the programmable logic gate via a first interface; and a signal line to connect the microprocessor to a contact array, arranged externally on the control unit. The microprocessor is designed to provide a second interface via the signal line and to control the programmable logic gate in accordance with a command signal received via the second interface. Further, the signal line is provided at least in part by the programmable logic gate and the programmable logic gate includes a receive unit for reading out the command signal.