Abstract: A network system of programmable, identification, locating, monitoring and processing fixed position (FPN) and movable tag nodes, which provides direct inter-node communication capability without a central processor. The individual nodes include microprocessor elements, pre-programmed to recognize external environmental conditions and to logically act on the basis of recognized condition parameters, and where appropriate, to communicate with other nodes for network action. Each node comprises an IC having three independent processors which share a common memory and control circuitry but with separate sets of registers. A first processor (CPU) provides media access control and communication between the nodes and includes transceiver elements for receiving and transmitting information.