Legacy fORPs
The fORP has been in production since 1996. The first models were based on a fragile fiber optic bundle and used a hand-built optical d-connector. The button boxes were made from plastics disks and typewriter keys. Generating different outputs for button presses required changing the PICT Chips.
The FIU-004/005 interface and handhelds began production in 2003 with the circular optical connector. A compact 8-position program switch allowed for several program options on all three output connectors (Serial, USB, Parallel). Handhelds could have up to 8 buttons. The joystick and trackball were developed for variable optical output.
In 2009 we introduced the 900 series with three levels of interface offered a range capabilities. The FIU-904 was inexpensive and compact. The FIU-932 was flexible and worked with all our devices.
In 2020 we began shipping the latest interface, BIRCH-OIU. The bright 7" touch screen display displays responses as they happen and simplifies mode selection. It is a drop-in replacement for the 932 interface and compatible with existing handhelds and bundles. While we no longer support the electronics or optical components of the the legacy fORP, this sections lists a few peripherals that can be purchased.