Fiber Optic Broadband LAN For The Manufacturing Automation Protocol

Distributed computer processing has led to the need for data communications over reliable links. This paper discusses the use of fiber optics in Manufacturing Automation Protocol (MAP) factory networks -- its potential and limitations. A fiber optic MAP system is described which provides completely compatible fiber optic interconnections for all 10 Mb/s broadband MAP equipment. The system uses innovative techniques to support broadband MAP as well as other broadband services such as video.