Various embodiments include a variable frequency drive motor control apparatus. The apparatus includes a main controller having a first interface. A motor controller is coupled to and controls an electric motor, the motor controller further coupled to the main controller. A network switch is coupled to the main controller, the motor controller, and a remote controller over respective digital connections. The remote controller has a second interface. The network switches data between the first interface, the second interface, and the motor controller. A network coupler is coupled between a variable frequency drive controller and the motor controller.