Fanuc Focas | 2 [top]
FANUC FOCAS 2 (Fanuc Open CNC API) is a specialized application programming interface (API) that allows computer software to communicate directly with FANUC CNC controllers over Ethernet or HSSB (High-Speed Serial Bus). It is the industry standard for retrieving real-time data from machine tools for monitoring, diagnostics, and automation. Key Capabilities
- Upload/Download .NC files: Push a new program to the CNC's internal memory or PCMCIA card.
- Directory Listing: Read the entire file catalog of the CNC without touching the pendant.
- Delete/Manage files: Clean up old programs remotely to free up memory.
Introduction
Introduction
To understand the significance of FOCAS 2, one must first recognize its evolution. While FOCAS 1 was largely designed for the era of High-Speed Serial Bus (HSSB) and older controller series like the 16i and 18i, fanuc focas 2
- Real-Time OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness): Software can automatically track Planned Production Time vs. Operating Time (Availability), part counts (Performance), and scrap counts (Quality)—all without operator data entry.
- Predictive Maintenance: By monitoring spindle load, axis torque, and alarm frequencies, algorithms can predict bearing failures or tool breakage before they happen.
- Paperless Manufacturing: A central server can push the correct CNC program to a machine just before a job starts, ensuring the operator always runs the latest revision.
- Remote Troubleshooting: A manager or applications engineer can view the exact alarm, program line, and machine state from an office PC, drastically reducing downtime.
- Data Historization: All machine data can be streamed to a SQL database for long-term trend analysis and quality traceability.
Technical Specifications