The Siemens SIMATIC RF1170R (6GT2831-6BB00) is an HF 13.56 MHz RFID access control reader from the SIMATIC RF1100 series, designed for Ethernet-networked machine and plant access control using modern HF smart card credentials. It supports ISO 14443 A/B (including MIFARE) and ISO 15693 transponders with encrypted data transmission. Power over Ethernet supplies both data connectivity and operating power through a single RJ45 cable, eliminating the need for a separate power supply at the reader location.

What Transponder Technologies Does the RF1170R Support?

The RF1170R operates on the HF 13.56 MHz band and supports ISO 14443 A/B (including MIFARE Classic and MIFARE DESFire) and ISO 15693 transponders. It does not support LF 125 kHz technologies (HITAG, EM41xx). For environments that require both LF and HF badge reading over Ethernet, the RF1140R dual-frequency model is available. Encrypted transponder data transmission and configurable access keys ensure secure authentication for machine and plant access control.

How Does the RF1170R Connect to an Access Control Network?

The RF1170R uses a standard 10/100 Mbps Ethernet interface with Power over Ethernet, requiring only a single RJ45 connection for both data and power. It communicates with a host computer or Modbus client over the network and is configured using Siemens SIMATIC RF1100 configuration software. Siemens recommends mounting within a protected area with the PoE port not openly accessible after installation.

What Are the Installation Requirements?

The RF1170R uses the standard SIMATIC RF1100 housing (90 × 62 × 23.5 mm, PC-GF polycarbonate in titanium gray) with four M4 screws for cabinet or wall mounting. The front face is rated IP65 for indoor and sheltered outdoor use, with IP20 at the rear. Operating temperature range is −25 °C to +55 °C. A 3-color LED indicates power, tag detection, and error states. The reader requires a PoE-capable network switch or PoE injector on the infrastructure side.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is the RF1170R different from the RF1140R?

The RF1170R (6GT2831-6BB00) is an HF-only reader operating at 13.56 MHz, supporting ISO 14443 A/B and ISO 15693 smart cards. The RF1140R (6GT2831-6CB00) adds LF 125 kHz support for legacy HITAG and EM41xx badges. Both use Ethernet with PoE and share the same housing. Choose the RF1170R when your facility exclusively uses modern HF credentials over a networked topology.

Does the RF1170R require an external power supply?

No. The RF1170R is powered entirely through PoE via its Ethernet connection. A PoE-capable network switch or a PoE injector must be present on the network side.

Can the RF1170R be used outdoors?

The RF1170R has an IP65-rated front face, suitable for indoor and sheltered outdoor installations. It should be mounted within a protected area as recommended by Siemens, with the PoE port not directly exposed.