Authentication in the appropriate format

Pilz offers a new version of its electronic access permission system for flexible, secure management of access to machinery. With the PITreader card unit, operators can now assign permissions on RFID transponders in card or sticker format.

The PITreader card unit introduces new formats for efficient control of access permissions: the RFID-capable PITreader card and PITreader sticker can be used in conjunction with or instead of the existing PITreader key transponder key. Machine operators have their individual permissions on the transponder and use them to authenticate themselves on the PITreader card unit, to gain entry to a plant or machine. That way, operating companies increase industrial security, because they control who has what permission and therefore who is granted access to the process.

With the new transponder types, operating companies have greater flexibility when managing access permissions. At the same time, they also meet the requirements for functionally safe operating mode selection.

One key card, many functions

The RFID transponders are available as freely writeable and also preconfigured versions. A transparent window on the PITreader card enables users to still read the LED status indicator on the access permission system when the card is held up to it.

If the company already uses RFID-capable cards, these can also be used in conjunction with PITreader card unit: in this case, users need only one card for multiple functions. That way they save time during authentication on the plant or machine, plus they have a particularly flexible and easily manageable solution. With the PITreader S card unit, the automation expert is also introducing a version for integrating the OPC UA standard, enabling optimum safety and connectivity.

Simple permission management

Administrators manage their user settings, block lists and user data for the transponder keys, cards or stickers via the graphical interface on the corresponding software solution PIT Transponder Manager (PTM) from Pilz. With preconfigured templates, individual user permissions are written to the RFID transponder simply, in just a few steps. The import function enables information to be read quickly and directly into the integrated database, saving the administrator considerable time. If a company uses several reader units, these are organised using the User Authentication Service (UAS) software tool.

A PITreader card unit can be used efficiently in combination with the PNOZmulti 2configurable small controller or the PSS4000automation system from Pilz for control of access permissions and safe operating mode selection. Thus the complete solution contributes towards greater safety and security in the widest range of processes.