FOCAS 2 is a library (DLLs for Windows, shared objects for Linux) that allows external applications to communicate directly with FANUC CNCs over Ethernet (or HSSB). It provides read/write access to CNC data: macro variables, offsets, programs, alarms, status, tool data, and more.
using FANUC.Focas.CNC;// 1. Connect to CNC at IP 192.168.1.100 short ret = Focas.cnc_allclibhndl3("192.168.1.100", 8193, 2, out ushort handle);
// 2. Read current operation mode (Auto/MDI/Jog) ushort mode; ret = Focas.cnc_rdopinfo(handle, out mode);
// 3. Read actual spindle speed (double value) double speed; ret = Focas.cnc_rdspeed(handle, out speed);
// 4. Write a macro variable (#500 = 123.456) double value = 123.456; ret = Focas.cnc_wrmacro(handle, 500, 0, ref value);
// 5. Disconnect ret = Focas.cnc_freelibhndl(handle);
Note: function names are illustrative; use the language SDK/wrapper you have.
conn = Focas2.connect(ip='192.168.1.50', port=8193)
axes = conn.read_axes() # actual position, command position
spindle = conn.read_spindle() # speed, load
alarms = conn.read_alarms()
programs = conn.list_programs()
for p in programs:
text = conn.read_program(p)
save_file(p, text)
conn.disconnect()
FANUC FOCAS 2 is powerful but punishing – it gives deep access to the CNC, but the lack of modern security, cryptic documentation, and licensing hurdles make it a mixed bag.
✅ Best for:
Experienced automation engineers needing high‑speed, bidirectional CNC integration in a controlled factory network.
❌ Avoid if:
You need quick setup, modern security, or cannot get the FOCAS option enabled on your machines. Consider MTConnect or an external PLC‑based data collection for simpler read‑only needs.
Would you like a code example (e.g., reading a macro variable in Python via FOCAS 2) or a deeper look at enabling the license on a specific FANUC controller?
FANUC FOCAS 2 (Fanuc Open CNC API Specifications 2) is a specialized communication protocol and a set of library functions that enable high-level data exchange between a host computer (typically a PC) and FANUC CNC controllers. It serves as a bridge for industrial automation, allowing developers to create custom applications for real-time monitoring, data collection, and machine control. Architecture and Connectivity
FOCAS 2 is primarily composed of a set of Dynamic-Link Library (DLL) files that applications use to interact with the CNC. Communication is typically established through two main methods:
Ethernet (TCP/IP): The most common method, utilizing an embedded Ethernet port on the controller for standard network integration.
High-Speed Serial Bus (HSSB): A proprietary hardware-based connection that offers higher speeds and stability than standard Ethernet, often requiring a dedicated interface card. Core Functionality
The library allows for reading and writing a vast range of data, turning raw machine information into actionable insights. Key capabilities include:
Status Monitoring: Accessing real-time machine states such as running, idle, or alarm conditions.
Program Management: Uploading, downloading, and searching for CNC programs, as well as modifying macro programs. fanuc focas 2
Operational Data: Retrieving positional data (absolute, relative, machine), actual feed rates, and spindle speeds.
Tooling and Maintenance: Reading and writing tool life management data, tool offsets, and workpiece reference points.
Diagnostic Information: Collecting alarm history, operator messages, and waveform diagnosis data for maintenance. FOCAS 1 vs. FOCAS 2
While both libraries share similar functions, they are distinguished by their compatibility with specific CNC hardware and modern operating systems:
FOCAS 1: Targeted at legacy controls and older Windows environments (e.g., Windows 95 through XP).
FOCAS 2: Supports newer high-end controllers like the FS30i/31i/32i/35i series and modern 64-bit operating systems including Windows 10 and 11. How to Use Fanuc FOCAS to Collect Machine Data
FANUC FOCAS 2 (Fanuc Open CNC API Specifications 2) is a specialized communication protocol and set of library files designed to bridge the gap between high-performance FANUC CNC controllers and external PC-based applications. As the industry-standard gateway for industrial data collection, FOCAS 2 enables manufacturers to monitor machine status, collect production data, and even control CNC operations in real-time. Core Capabilities and Functions
The FOCAS 2 library is a collection of Dynamic Link Libraries (DLLs) that allow developers to access nearly all internal CNC and PMC (Programmable Machine Control) data.
Machine Monitoring: It provides real-time access to running status, feed rates, spindle speed, motor data, and active alarms.
Axis and Motion Data: Users can read absolute, relative, and machine positions, as well as remaining distance to go.
Program Management: The protocol supports the uploading, downloading, searching, and activation of part programs.
Maintenance and Diagnostics: It can retrieve operation history, alarm history, and servo/spindle diagnostic data for predictive maintenance.
Customized Logic: FOCAS 2 allows for the creation of customized functions, including the ability to modify macro programs directly from a Windows application. The Evolution: FOCAS 1 vs. FOCAS 2
While both protocols serve the same primary goal, they represent different generations of connectivity: FANUC.FOCAS Tutorial Episode 1 What is FOCAS?
Headline: Unlocking the Black Box: Why FANUC FOCAS 2 is the Unsung Hero of Modern Manufacturing
If you work with CNC machines, you know FANUC. But do you know FOCAS 2?
For years, shops treated CNCs as isolated islands—machines that cut metal but kept their data locked inside. Then came FOCAS 2 (FANUC Open CNC API Specifications version 2), and it changed the game.
What is it? Simply put, FOCAS 2 is the library that allows external software to communicate with FANUC controls (Series 0i, 16i, 18i, 30i, and 31i). It is the bridge between the proprietary world of G-code and the open world of modern software development. FOCAS 2 is a library (DLLs for Windows,
Why does it matter today? In the era of Industry 4.0 and Smart Manufacturing, FOCAS 2 is the backbone of connectivity. Without it, you can’t have:
✅ Real-time Monitoring: Pulling spindle speed, feed rate, and load meter data directly to a dashboard. ✅ Machine Downtime Analysis: Automatically logging when a machine is idle vs. cutting. ✅ Digital Twins: feeding live data to simulation software to predict collisions or optimize cycles. ✅ Remote Diagnostics: Reading alarm codes from the office instead of standing at the console.
The Developer’s Perspective For the automation engineers and C#/.NET developers out there: FOCAS 2 provides a DLL (FWLIB32.DLL) and a set of C-based headers that allow you to call functions directly over Ethernet. Whether you are building a simple OEE tracker in Python or a full-scale SCADA system, FOCAS 2 is the key that unlocks the data door.
The Bottom Line If your machines are running FANUC controls but they aren't talking to your network, you are sitting on a goldmine of unused data.
Don't let your CNC be a black box. It’s time to start asking your machines what they know.
#Manufacturing #CNC #Fanuc #FOCAS2 #Industry40 #Automation #IIoT #SmartFactory
The FANUC FOCAS 2 (FANUC Open CNC API Specifications) protocol is a powerful interface designed to bridge the gap between CNC machines and external software applications. It allows for high-speed Ethernet or HSSB (High-Speed Serial Bus) communication to retrieve machine data, monitor production, and manage CNC programs. Understanding FANUC FOCAS 2: A Comprehensive Overview What is FOCAS 2?
FOCAS 2 is a set of library functions (DLLs) provided by FANUC. It acts as a middleman between the CNC’s internal data and a developer’s custom application. Architecture: C/C++ based API.
Connectivity: Works over Ethernet (TCP/IP) or Fiber Optic (HSSB).
Compatibility: Supported on most modern FANUC i-Series controls (e.g., 0i-D, 0i-F, 30i, 31i, 32i). Core Functionalities
The protocol allows developers to access almost any piece of information residing within the CNC control. Key capabilities include: Machine Status Monitoring: Real-time execution status (Run, Stop, Alarm). Current coordinates (Absolute, Relative, Machine). Spindle speed and feed rates. Program Management: Uploading and downloading G-code files. Searching for specific program numbers. Deleting or renaming programs in memory. Tool and Offset Data: Reading and writing tool wear/geometry offsets. Managing tool life data. Diagnostics and Alarms: Retrieving active alarm messages and history. Reading PMC (Programmable Machine Control) signals (I/O). Implementation Requirements
To build a FOCAS-based application, you generally need the following components:
FOCAS Library Files: The .dll and .lib files (e.g., Fwlib32.dll).
Header Files: .h files that define the functions for your programming environment (C#, VB.NET, C++, or Python via wrappers).
Hardware Connection: An enabled Ethernet port on the FANUC Data Server or the "Embedded Ethernet" port.
CNC Settings: The CNC must have its IP address configured and the FOCAS port (usually 8193) opened. Benefits for Smart Manufacturing
FOCAS 2 is the backbone of "Industry 4.0" for machine shops. Its primary benefits include:
Data Transparency: Eliminates manual data entry by pulling production counts directly from the controller. using FANUC
Predictive Maintenance: By monitoring spindle load and temperature over time, shops can predict failures before they happen.
Custom Dashboards: Companies can build their own shop-floor monitoring software without paying for expensive third-party subscriptions.
Automation: Enables automated cell controllers to change G-code programs based on the specific part entering the machine. Limitations and Considerations
Complex Development: It is a low-level API. Using it requires significant programming knowledge compared to plug-and-play solutions like MTConnect.
Single-Threaded Nature: Many FOCAS functions are synchronous; if the machine doesn't respond, the application can hang unless handled with proper threading.
Cost: While the protocol is often "there," some older machines may require a paid FANUC option to unlock the Ethernet/FOCAS functionality.
💡 Pro Tip: If you are just starting, look for the "FOCAS Library Document" (HTML help file) included with the FANUC drivers. It contains the exact syntax and return values for every function available. If you’d like to dive deeper, I can help you with:
Specific Code Snippets: (e.g., "How do I read the current G-code line in C#?")
Troubleshooting: Common connection errors like EW_PROTOCOL or EW_SOCKET. Alternatives: Comparing FOCAS 2 to MTConnect or OPC UA. Which area would you like to explore next?
For the developers and engineers in the room, understanding the stack is vital.
using Fwlib; // Reference to FOCAS DLL// Connect to CNC at 192.168.1.100 short ret = Focas1.cnc_allclibhndl3("192.168.1.100", 8193, 1, out ushort h);
if (ret == 0) // Success ODBSYS sysinfo; ret = Focas1.cnc_rdcncinfo(h, out sysinfo); Console.WriteLine($"Connected to: sysinfo.cnc_type");
// Read Current Status (Running, Stopped, Alarm) ODBST status; ret = Focas1.cnc_rdstatus(h, out status); Console.WriteLine($"Machine State: status.status"); Focas1.cnc_freelibhndl(h); // Close connection
In the noisy, chip-laden environment of a modern machine shop, the most critical evolution isn't happening at the cutting tool—it’s happening inside the control cabinet. As the manufacturing world races toward Industry 4.0, the bridge between the CNC machine and the digital enterprise relies on a singular, robust protocol: FANUC FOCAS 2.
If you want a language-specific example (Python, C#, or C) or a checklist tailored to a specific Fanuc controller model, tell me which language or model and I’ll provide code and command sequences.
(Invoking related search terms.)