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a stable radio link and do not come into contact
with the HMI.
ID key-operated switches are designed to deliver
a level of flexibility through four digital outputs that
can be freely assigned and used successfully for
control purposes. Varying levels of authorisation are
represented by separate – and different coloured –
keys. The option of an additional key that can be
configured entirely to a user’s specifications would
give additional flexibility.
Depending upon the application different ID key-
operated switches can be deployed. One could be
used autonomously, providing access for all users
while a second could be used to communicate with
a controller via an IO-Link, the industrial
communications networking standard used for
connecting digital sensors and actuators. The IO-
Link allows registration and precise allocation of
authorisation levels.
As well as flexibility and customisation the
switches offer a level of security and usability that
can’t be matched by any password solution. If the
ID key is lost, systems remain secure as the key is
simply blocked and replaced, while any individual
access levels act as a time stamp to catalogue who
last used the HMI and at what time – offering
additional security. In addition, it is also possible to
detect when a key has been inserted on the PLC
(programmable logic controller) side via a monitored
output.From a safety and quality perspective,
operation, downtime and maintenance information
can be recorded with the aid of a database.
Although the use of ID key-operated switches is
still relatively new, the potential of these devices
opens up options for other applications i.e. in PLCs
it could be used for other functions like switching-on
specific features.
A forgotten password could easily grind your
operation to a shuddering halt – don’t let that
inconvenience happen to you.
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