Illuminated ring keys improve readability

By Control Engineering Staff September 14, 2006
Illuminated ring keys from B&R Industrial Automation offer a high degree of readability, generous pressing area, and long life span.

Illuminated ring keys are intended to improve visual components and boost security on operator panels. Composed of a short-stroke key, a source of light, and high-performance LEDs, the devices feature a luminous ring developed by B&R Industrial Automation . The ring provides even distribution of light around the key, said to promote optimal readability and signal effectiveness even at great distances.

The ring keys have a 1-in. dia (25 mm) and a 0.6-in. (16 mm) pressing area. The short-stroke key with embossment or raised edge has a lifespan of at least a million uses. LEDs come in red, green, and yellow signaling colors and can be combined as needed into one- or two-color variants. Legend strips provide flexibility for key labels. Hygienic design allows use of the devices in food industry applications.

Devices can be controlled by terminal or industrial PC, or over a fieldbus (Ethernet Powerlink, CAN, or Profibus).

—Edited by Jeanine Katzel , senior editor,
Control Engineering