Overview

The Pilz PITreader is a modern, secure access control solution designed to protect your machinery, operators, and production processes. Using advanced Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, it ensures that only authorised personnel can operate or access specific machine functions - helping you improve safety, efficiency, and compliance.

As industrial automation becomes more complex, managing machine access is critical. The PITreader integrates seamlessly into your safety system, giving you full control over who can do what - while preventing unauthorised use and costly human errors.

How It Works

The PITreader uses Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) keys, cards, or tags to authenticate users. Access is only granted when a valid credential is presented. The system ensures machines remain in a safe state until the operator completes a secure log-out process - reducing the risk of accidental restarts.

• Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Technology: Uses Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) transponder keys, cards, or stickers for user authentication and permission storage.
• Company-Specific Coding: Transponder data areas can be company-specifically coded and locked, offering a high level of manipulation protection.
• Flexible Deployment: Can be used as a standalone device for simple enable/disable tasks or integrated with Pilz small controllers (PNOZmulti 2) or automation systems (PSS 4000) for complex permission matrices.
• Safe Operating Mode Selection: In conjunction with a safe evaluation module (e.g., PITmode Fusion, PITmode flex), it enables functionally safe switching of up to five operating modes (up to PL d), allowing for safe entry into hazardous areas or reduced speed operations.
• Integrated User Management Software: The PIT Transponder Manager (PTM) and User Authentication Service (UAS) software tools provide a graphical interface for managing user data, permissions, and block lists across multiple PITreader units.
• Connectivity: The PITreader S version supports the OPC UA standard, expanding connection options to third-party systems and increasing the security of communication.
• User Information: Features a multi-coloured LED ring to provide clear visual feedback on the system status and user permissions.
• Compact Design: The reader unit has a slim design (22.5 mm standard diameter) for easy installation.

• Factory Automation & Production Lines: Used to ensure only trained staff can operate, parameterise, or service machinery, particularly in automotive and packaging industries.
• Robotics: Managing access to robot cells during maintenance, troubleshooting, or setup, often in conjunction with "key-in-pockets" solutions.
• Machine Tools: Controlling access to CNC or conventional machine tool interfaces to prevent unsafe changes in operation.
• Safe Gate Guarding: Used within the PITgatebox pushbutton unit to manage authentication and access to dangerous zones.
• Retrofitting and Upgrading: Used to modernise older machinery by replacing mechanical key switches with secure, electronic Remote Frequency Identification (RFID) transponder keys.
• Process Engineering: Controlling user permissions to adjust parameters on process equipment, such as in chemical or food beverage production.
• USB Port Access Control: Activating USB ports on machines only for authorised personnel.

Why Choose Pilz PITreader?

The PITreader delivers a safe, reliable, and future-proof access control system for modern industrial environments. Whether you need basic machine access control or a fully integrated safety solution, it provides the flexibility and security your operation demands.