Comitronic-BTI LOCKGARD M2.SP RFID Key Interlock Review: Specs, Price and Applications
LOCKGARD M2.SP is an RFID key-operated safety switch with a key-blocking mechanism. It controls authorization to energize hazardous machinery and supports an operator-access sequence. It is not, by itself, a power switch-disconnector that physically isolates every energy source. The manufacturer identifies a complete PL e / Category 4 chain when it is connected to an appropriate AWAX enclosure.
Quick Verdict
Consider M2.SP when a controlled key sequence fits the machine-access design. Specify the matched safety electronics, key assignment and restart behavior. Its RFID code space addresses key identification; it does not independently establish the achieved performance level of the installed safety function.
Comitronic-BTI LOCKGARD M2.SP RFID Key Interlock at a Glance
Specification | Details |
Function | RFID key-operated safety switch with key blocking |
Supply | 24 VDC ±10% |
Maximum current | 380 mA |
Enclosure / cable protection | IP65 / IP65 under specified installation |
Temperature | −25°C to +50°C |
Cable options | MKT50: 0.5 m PUR; MKT220: 2.2 m PUR; M12 termination |
Safety scope | Manufacturer describes PL e / Cat. 4 chain with AWAX; assess actual assembly |
Design and Engineering Assessment
The access sequence must identify when a key can be withdrawn, what equipment state permits release and which condition prevents re-energization. A key held by an entrant can be useful only if the complete arrangement reliably preserves that person’s control of restart. Multiple entrants require an explicitly designed strategy rather than shared-key assumptions.
The published 24 VDC and 380 mA figures concern the interlock electronics. Do not interpret them as a motor-power switching rating. Separately specify the contactors, drive protective functions or isolating device that implement the required machine response.
An IP65 label does not establish compatibility with every detergent, immersion or damaged connector. Mount the housing against foreseeable mechanical loads and route the PUR lead without applying connector strain. Preserve the cable option and pin assignment in replacement documentation.
Design the Authorization Boundary
Define the hazard, required stopping condition, key ownership and monitored outputs before choosing the AWAX configuration. Match the exact manufacturer connection instructions rather than using an unverified generic safety-relay circuit.
Differentiate operational access permission from maintenance isolation. Stored electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic and gravity energy can remain after a control command has removed motor torque.
Acceptance and Key Management
Validate key removal, attempted restart, power interruption and the documented fault responses using an approved procedure. Confirm that a reset cannot itself produce unexpected motion.
Keep an inventory of authorized keys, device settings and replacement instructions. A replacement key or module must preserve the accepted access logic rather than simply fit the connector.
Applications and Selection
Guarded industrial machinery using a documented RFID-key authorization and operator-access sequence.
For Comitronic-BTI LOCKGARD M2.SP RFID Key Interlock, define the actual machine duty before selecting an ordering configuration. Include the required operating point, available installation space, environment and control interfaces. The specification table describes the product or family; the surrounding machine determines which of those features matters for the intended job.
Price and Value
Request a quote for the exact ordering code, supply, contact arrangement, accessories and integration scope. Confirm the applicable instructions and documentation with the delivered configuration.
Compare complete installed alternatives using the same required protective function, diagnostic coverage, service procedure and acceptance criteria. Hardware cost alone does not represent the engineering and validation effort.
Pros and Cons
Advantages
RFID identification and key blocking in one access device
Two documented PUR cable-length options
Defined AWAX safety-chain integration
Limitations
Requires matched safety electronics and machine validation
Not a universal energy-isolation device
Key ownership and multi-person entry need deliberate design
Who Should Consider Comitronic-BTI LOCKGARD M2.SP RFID Key Interlock?
Consider this configuration when guarded industrial machinery using a documented RFID-key authorization and operator-access sequence matches a documented project requirement. Preserve the complete selected identity, interfaces and accepted operating procedure for commissioning and maintenance.
Comitronic-BTI LOCKGARD M2.SP RFID Key Interlock FAQ
Does M2.SP directly isolate motor power?
It is an RFID safety-control device. Specify the actual power-isolating and stopping equipment separately.
What supply is listed?
The manufacturer lists 24 VDC ±10% and 380 mA maximum for the device.
Does the switch alone establish PL e?
No. The manufacturer’s chain statement requires appropriate AWAX integration and the installed function needs assessment.
What do MKT50 and MKT220 mean?
They identify 0.5 m and 2.2 m PUR cable versions with M12 termination.
Is IP65 equivalent to immersion protection?
No. Apply the stated enclosure and cable protection under the specified mounting and connection conditions.
Does RFID coding solve multi-person entry?
No. Key retention and authorization for every entrant must be designed into the complete access sequence.
What should a replacement preserve?
Device identity, cable/pinout, assigned keys, approved electronics and accepted restart behavior.
What should a quotation include?
The exact M2.SP configuration, AWAX scope, keys, cables, mounting and required documentation.
Prices are indicative and may change. Confirm the final configuration, commercial terms and delivery schedule before ordering.
