A TNET database server for production flow control

A PC TNET (multi-drop polling network) database server is presented. The PC serves as the data acquisition controller of a polled multi-drop network that retrieves information from input terminals. The PC server simultaneously receives data from any combination of terminals on the network. It then updates a local SQL database while allowing access from users connected to the server via an Ethernet or other wide area networks. This system was developed to replace an out dated inventory tracking and quality control procedure used by a metal powder mixing manufacturing company. The system presented will provide greater efficiency and productivity to the company by allowing access to an inventory database that is updated in real-time. The use of a multi-tasking operating system and modern networking methods are the tools that provide the company with the ability to address complex inventory and quality control issues. This paper illustrates the practicality and benefits of taking advantage of the multi-tasking, networking, and processing capabilities of modern computers and operating systems