One of the key points of computer-integrated manufacturing is the network. For low level field networks, three levels, i.e. high programmable controller (PLC) level, PLC level, and I/O level, are used, and according to the users' trends towards open systems, their standardization is being worked internationally as well as domestically. This paper describes the users' needs, Fuji Electric's present status, standardization progress, and future problems.

Personal computers are situated at the cell control level in the hierarchy model of computer-integrated manufacturing. This level, which is connected to high level networks for information and low level networks for control, has been hotly debated on its importance in recent years. This paper describes the client-server function for the high level networks and the personal computer service for the low level networks and introduces parts performed by personal computers at cell control level.

Most of networks for programmable controllers (PLCs) at station control level where PLCs are situated as the core of production systems are for each company's exclusive use. Controller level networks are late in their standardization, which is domestically and internationally pushed these days. This paper introduces some standard controller level networks, including ME-NET, SUMINET-3200, and the network for PLCs (abbrev. JPCN-2) under standardization by Japan Electrical Manufacturers' Association.

Most of field device level networks for programmable controllers (PLCs) that connect system I/O, actuators, sensors to PLCs are for each company's exclusive use at present. Multi-vendor environment as the base of FA promotion has not been brought about and network standardization is demanded. This paper introduces standard field device level networks for PLCs, "Field network standard for programmable controllers, Level 1"established by Japan Electrical Manufacturers' Association in November 1993 and Fuji Electrics products connected to the networks.

On the basis of its own concept of distributed CIM, i.e. "Mini-CIM," Fuji Electric has developed the client-server system construction and operation package for factory automation, "ESYNET." This paper outlines the features and offered services of the ESYNET which aims at efficient development of systems and enrichment of package programs. Giving examples, it describes methods of constructing or modifying a system using the ESYNET.

Recently, physical distribution has been reconsidered strategically as "logistics" that integrates not only the storage and transport of materials but also the flow of materials and information from production to sale taking a broad view of things. Under the circumstances, client-server systems applying general-purpose networks are becoming the mainstream of physical distribution and information systems. This paper gives an example of a client-server system introduced in an automatic sorting system.

Business rationalization is necessary for combined facilities such as a Kurhaus, a hotel, and a restaurant. To meet the requirements, Fuji Electric has realized improvements in adjustment speed and office work efficiency and standardization with a system applying a personal computer LAN. This paper introduces an outline and functions of the system supplied to Kurhaus Katsuura Parkland in 1993.

More comfortable and easier to use environment for constructing automation systems is being arranged by the multi-vending of networks for programmable controllers, improvements in the speed, capacity, and price of personal computers, and the spread of Japanese MS OS/2 and Japanese Microsoft Windows. Under the circumstances, Fuji Electric has developed a small and medium scale PA/FA system comprising FA personal computers and MICREX-F series. This paper introduces an example of its application.

Radio communication systems are most characterized in that no wiring is required and incorporating moving terminals in a network is possible. These functions a wire system lacks will greatly change the conventional concept of networks. In Japan in 1989, specified low power radio station with a communication area up to an open distance of 300m are permitted without a license, and their rapid spread is being planned. This paper introduces an example of a radio communication system supplied to a physical distribution center packaging line.

The cases of NetWare application to FA or combination of FA and OA are increasing. The points of system construction in these cases are the operating environment of the application package, the division and combination of system functions, the necessity of communication between clients, and the method of data storage. This paper describes the points of the system construction and an example of application to a quality control system in the semiconductor industry.

Recently, various control devices that can be connected to a T-link have been put on the market, and systems comprising T-link networks have been used in the field of sophisticated, complex, mechanical control. This paper introduces an example of a successful T-link network application in a machine controlled by coordinate operation of several motors.

For the EIC-integrated system of cement plants, the low level controllers of the distributed control system MICREX have come into wide use. Fuji Electric has developed a minimum wiring electrical system using programmable controllers with many transmission interfaces, their peripheral devices, and a control center equipped with solid-state, composite controllers. This paper introduces an example of the system for cement plants.

The Fl-Net distribution system was designed to centralize the management of monitoring, control, and recording functions in the field of power distribution. This system can form standard component devices into a network using their remote terminals. The network can be put under centralized management using distribution package software based on equipment monitoring software, Remis. This paper describes an outline and features of the Fl-Net distribution system.