AiVibeFANUC FOCAS
FOCAS (FANUC Open CNC API Specifications) is FANUC's function library that lets PC software communicate with FANUC CNCs over Ethernet or a high-speed serial bus to read machine data and, where permitted, write data.
FOCAS provides a set of functions, supplied as libraries for PC applications, that connect to a FANUC CNC and exchange data. Applications can read information such as operating status and mode, alarms, axis positions, feed rate and spindle speed, spindle load, the running program and block, part counters, tool offsets, macro variables and parameters. Functions also exist for writing data such as offsets, macro variables and programs, and for transferring programs.
Because FANUC controls are widely installed, FOCAS is a common basis for machine monitoring software, DNC and program management systems, MTConnect adapters, MES integrations and analytics applications that need data directly from the CNC rather than from added sensors.
Availability of Ethernet communication and FOCAS functions depends on the control model, hardware and options, so each installation needs checking. Write functions can change offsets, variables or programs on a running machine, so access should be restricted and governed by change control, and the CNC network should be segmented following OT security practice such as IEC 62443. FANUC documentation governs which functions apply to each control series.
Key points
- FANUC Open CNC API Specifications for PC-to-CNC communication
- Reads status, alarms, positions, loads, programs, offsets and variables
- Also offers write functions, which need strict access control
- Availability depends on control model, hardware and options
Where AiVibe comes in
AiVibe designs and manufactures the AiAmbA AI Factory: edge devices plus AI agents that let people talk to CNC, PLC and robot controllers in plain language. Agents only propose changes, and a trained operator confirms each one.
Related terms
- CNC ControllerCNC & Precision Machining
- CNC Machine MonitoringCNC & Precision Machining
- MTConnectCNC & Precision Machining
- umati (Universal Machine Technology Interface)CNC & Precision Machining
- DNC (Distributed or Direct Numerical Control)CNC & Precision Machining
- IEC 62443 (ISA/IEC 62443)OT & Industrial Cybersecurity