Card Reader for AB 5/04 & PLC 5/20

[WireGuy1950 0]

I would like some thoughts and information on using a serial magnetic card reader with the above AB processors. The card reader would be for operator identification / parameter access. Our machines currently have three access levels, one just allows operators to view the set-up parameters, another allows supervisors to change setup parameters, and another OEM level where we can change PLC constants. Level two is currently reached via key switch, OEM level is reached via the same key switch and HMI password (On PV1000 / SLC 5/04). The customer now wants his operators to use their ID badges to log into the press. I envision that this login would be transferred to the new network, compared to a list and then the appropriate security level would be sent back to the press. This way we could differentiate between regular operators and supervisors and maintenance people, basically overriding the key switch. The system will be networked, probably DH+. Thanks