Fiber optics as a physical network layer for MAP

Fiber optics can be used as a passive physical medium for a MAP (Manufacturing Automation Protocol) network with up to 32 nodes. This approach is directly contrasted to the present IEEE 802.4 phase coherent carrierband, coaxial cable based, proposed standard. I describe two methods how the fiber optics can be laid out in a factory floor environment. 

The more flexible method of distributing fiber is shown to support the coexistence with MAP of dedicated point-to-point links between random locations, such as might be used for full-motion video functions. Further, I indicated how the MAP networking can be expanded to many more nodes and over an extended area using an active head-end.