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Efficiency is key in any industrial control system, and operators constantly seek new ways to improve speed and quality. But speed and quality aren’t the only progress indicators. Today, system security is equally important, ensuring bad actors can’t gain access to and disrupt a business’s critical workflows.
That’s why many industries have moved away from older user authentication methods like usernames, passwords, and passcodes to modern methods like RFID card readers and fingerprint scanners. And these advanced authentication methods don’t just boost defense against unauthorized access. They also allow users to manage critical workstreams with the tap of a card or the press of a finger.
Modern authentication boosts efficiency and security
Outdated authentication types can be cumbersome to input. Typing and retyping credentials on a keyboard, especially a touchscreen keyboard, takes valuable time. Credential-based authentication is also more vulnerable to brute force attacks, allowing malicious users to gain access and possibly cripple company networks. These worries are virtually non-problems with RFID card readers and fingerprint scanners.
Modern authentication methods allow users to access critical systems on a company’s HMI near instantly. Simply tapping an RFID-enabled card to an RFID card reader or pressing a fingertip to a fingerprint scanner will quickly unlock an HMI for immediate monitoring and control of a SCADA system and more.
RFID and fingerprint authentication also have the benefit of being more difficult to steal than usernames and passwords because they require a unique, physical form of access. Typically, RFID cards and devices are one-of-a-kind, and their level of security depends on how well their owners safeguard them. Biometrics are a distinct form of identification, making fingerprint recognition one of the most secure options.
Implementing an RFID card reader or fingerprint scanner is just as easy as using one. On Maple Systems’ cMT series HMIs, RFID and fingerprint authentication are added using an external USB device. Maple Systems’ cMT HMIs support most USB-connected RFID and fingerprint devices.
How to connect an RFID card reader
To connect an RFID card reader to a cMT series HMI, open the HMI configuration software, EBPro. Navigate to the project’s System Parameter settings and select the Security tab. Click the Plugins button and check the box under the Smart Card tab to enable the RFID card reader control settings.
Once enabled, navigate to the Settings section of the Plugin window. Click Scan Reader. A new window will appear telling you to insert your USB device. Plug the RFID device into the PC now. (Do not plug your reader into the PC until prompted, or it will not be detected.) EBPro will automatically populate the VID and PID fields once the USB is read. Now you can adjust the device settings for automatic logins, UI configuration, commands, and more.
Watch the video below for a step-by-step guide on implementing an RFID card reader.
How to connect a fingerprint scanner
To connect a fingerprint scanner to a cMT series HMI, open the HMI configuration software, EBPro. Navigate to the project’s System Parameter settings and select the Security tab. Click the Plugins button and check the box under the Fingerprint tab to enable the fingerprint scanner control settings.
Once enabled, navigate to the Settings section of the Plugin window. Set a custom or preset address tag and number for your new device on the Address bar. You may select the underlined text labeled “Usage” on the right side of the Plugin window to see how the scanner device’s control address can be used. Each command address allows for different controls, like login, adding or removing a fingerprint, and more.
Watch the video below for a step-by-step guide on implementing a fingerprint scanner.
Streamline more with a Maple Systems HMI
Maple Systems’ HMIs also support JavaScript authentication, enabling developers to implement pattern locks, long presses, and gestures to grant users access. Each authentication type has pros and cons, so understanding each is important when choosing which is best for your industrial control system.
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| Pattern Locks | Long Presses | Gestures |
Updating your HMI with modern user authentication, whether through an RFID card reader, fingerprint scanner, or JavaScript, is just one way to improve your control system. Visit Maple Systems’ support center for resources and guides to improve more of your company’s industrial control processes. Also, view our range of user-friendly and advanced HMI models for an easy upgrade to your system’s control hardware.
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Contact our sales team for pricing, availability, and support.
Email sales@maplesystems.com or call (425) 745-3229.
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