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FIGURE 3.65 Minicell controller.

3.18.5 Fiber-Optic Sensory Links for Minicell Controllers
A minicell controller is typically used to coordinate and manage the
operation of a manufacturing cell, consisting of a group of automated
programmable machine controls (programmable controllers, robots,
machine tools, etc.) designed to work together and perform a complete
manufacturing or process-related task. A key benefit of a minicell con-
troller is its ability to adjust for changing products and conditions. The
minicell controller is instructed to change data or complete programs
within the automation work area. A minicell controller is designed to
perform a wide variety of functions such as executing programs and
data, uploading/downloading from programmable controllers, moni-
toring, data analysis, tracking trends, generating color graphics, and
communicating in the demanding plant floor environment. Successful
minicell controllers use fiber-optic links that can interface with a vari-
ety of peripheral devices. A minicell controller can be used in a variety
of configurations, depending on the optical-fiber lengths, to provide
substantial system design and functional flexibility (Fig. 3.65).

3.19 Versatility of Fiber Optics in Industrial Applications
A constant concern in communication is the ever-increasing amount of
information that must be sent with greater efficiency over a medium
requiring less space and less susceptibility to outside interferences.