Stop relying on outdated padlocks - this key knows who you are

In industrial environments, time is money - but safety is everything. Many manufacturers still rely on outdated, mechanical lockout systems that are slow, error-prone, and impossible to scale. The CKS2 Safe Key System from EUCHNER changes all of that. Built around highly coded, transponder-based keys and robust evaluation electronics, CKS2 offers a compact, intelligent solution for controlling access, ensuring safe interventions, and keeping operations compliant without slowing down production.

This is more than a safety product; it's a gateway to a safer, leaner and smarter manufacturing process.

At its core, the CKS2 is an electronic key system designed to manage machine and installation lockout, access permissions, and controlled restart - meeting the highest safety standards up to Category 4 / PL e (EN ISO 13849-1).

When a key is inserted into the device, its unique data is validated. If the key is recognised, the system enables safety outputs. No complex configuration is needed: keys are taught in directly at the key adapter, offering a fast, flexible deployment across various use cases.

It's ideal for:

- Temporary interventions (e.g. cleaning, setup, tool changes)

- Avoiding cumbersome LOTO procedures

- Enabling local, low-risk tasks inside the machine area - only after safe isolation

A safer way to access hazardous zones

Imagine a scenario where an operator needs to enter a guarded manufacturing cell for maintenance or adjustments. With CKS2:

1. The machine is safely stopped.

2. The operator withdraws their coded key from the external CKS2 device.

3. Only then can the access door be opened.

4. Inside the cell, that same key is reinserted into another CKS2 device to safely energise limited equipment for diagnostic or setup purposes.

No key = no access. No restart = until the key is returned. This simple flow guarantees that nobody is inside the machine area during startup, without relying on visual checks, handwritten permits, or mechanical padlocks. It's an intelligent lockout system that improves both safety and productivity.

Flexible integration: from standalone to fully networked

The CKS2 is a FlexFunction device - adaptable for lockout systems, key transfer systems, or authorization control points.

For simple setups, CKS2 works as a compact, rear-mounted device (IP67-rated) that integrates cleanly onto panels or guards. For more advanced architectures, it can be deployed as part of the award-winning MGB2 modular safety door system using the MSM- CKS2 submodule, connecting via PROFINET / PROFIsafe or EtherCAT using EUCHNER's MBM fieldbus modules.

Want to go digital? Combine CKS2 with EUCHNER's IO-Link Gateway to enable diagnostics, predictive maintenance, and Industry 4.0-level communication.

Built for industry, built to last

- Proven detent mechanism holds keys securely, even under vibration.

- RGB diagnostic LED provides immediate status feedback to operators.

- Compact and robust IP67-rated housing stands up to harsh environments.

- Colour-coded keys and replaceable labels aid in fast identification.

- No need for mechanical key exchange boxes or complex cabling.

Thanks to over a billion unique key combinations, the system offers maximum tamper protection and traceability - ensuring you always know who accessed what, when, and why.

Real applications, real advantages

Application 1 - Controlled Access: The machine can only be restarted once the same key used to gain access is reinserted into the system. All users can access the key, and the system ensures safe restart only after the cell is clear and secure.

Application 2 Restricted Use by Trained Personnel: Only authorised users have access to the coded keys. When the key is inserted, the machine enters a safe state. The door unlocks, and work can be performed. Restart is only possible once the key is removed from the internal unit and returned to its original location.

In both cases, CKS2:

- Eliminates the need for complex LOTO tags and padlocks

- Reduces restart errors and unauthorised access

- Supports multi-user configurations with multiple keys and access zones

- Enables rapid intervention while maintaining full safety integrity

EUCHNER's CKS2 Safe Key System is already used across automotive, logistics, packaging, and process industries - by companies that can't afford to compromise on safety or uptime.