Lessons from the Garden

FOCAS 2 completely modernizes Distributed Numerical Control (DNC).

Unlocking the Power of FANUC Focas 2: The Ultimate Guide to CNC Data Connectivity

FOCAS 2 is a fundamental enabler of modern smart manufacturing initiatives. By extracting raw data from CNCs, enterprises can implement highly sophisticated production strategies. Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) Tracking

| Feature | FOCAS1 (Legacy) | FOCAS2 (Modern Standard) | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Hardware-bound: Relies on the proprietary High-Speed Serial Bus (HSSB). Requires a dedicated FANUC HSSB interface card and cable on both the CNC and PC. | Ethernet-based: Uses standard TCP/IP network. Connects via a simple Ethernet cable, just like any other device on the network. | | Supported Controls | Targets older generation CNCs, such as the 0i, 16i, 18i, and 21i series from the HSSB era. | Supports all modern, Ethernet-capable FANUC controls, including the flagship 30i/31i/32i series and the 0i-F series. | | Network & Deployment | Point-to-point, physically limited by cable length. Deployment requires installing a specific hardware card on your PC. | Native TCP/IP support allows it to be routed across switches, entire plants, or even securely via a VPN. Deployment only requires copying a DLL file. | | Core Functions | Primarily for basic data collection: CNC status, alarms, parameters, and program management. | All features of FOCAS1, plus advanced functions: high-speed Data Server access, multi-channel support, tool life management, and expanded diagnostic data. | | Programming Support | An older, simpler but less powerful set of functions. | A richer, more powerful API that supports multi-threaded applications and includes functions for complex tasks like reading servo/spindle data. |

Access spindle load, feed rate, tool positions, and machine status instantly.