B&R 4E0021.01-090 | PANELWARE Numeric Keypad Module

Description

Product Overview

The B&R 4E0021.01-090 is a PANELWARE electronic keypad module designed for industrial operator-interface applications. Its primary purpose is to provide direct physical input for machine operators working with compatible B&R PANELWARE systems. The keypad features 12 dedicated numeric keys and four additional keys that can be labeled by inserting customized membrane legends. This arrangement supports numerical data entry, parameter adjustment, menu selection, and machine-specific operator commands. Unlike a standalone PLC input module, the 4E0021.01-090 functions as part of an HMI keypad arrangement, where physical key presses are interpreted by the associated controller or operator-panel system.

From a hardware perspective, the B&R 4E0021.01-090 has a blue front design and compact dimensions of 96 mm wide, 96 mm high, and 35 mm deep. Its technical documentation specifies three function keys with yellow LEDs, while the four additional keys provide user-defined labeling. The basic current consumption is 1.5 mA at 24 VDC, with each illuminated LED requiring an additional 3 mA. Operating temperature is specified at 0°C to +50°C, with storage temperature from −20°C to +60°C. The module carries CE certification and cULus approval under E115267. These characteristics are relevant when checking panel dimensions, electrical loading, and operating conditions during a replacement project.

In practical applications, the B&R 4E0021.01-090 can serve as the numeric-entry section of a machine operator station, including packaging equipment, production machinery, and legacy industrial workstations. It belongs to the broader PANELWARE operator-interface architecture and is listed among the keypad modules used with B&R PROVIT systems. Replacement work requires checking the host display/controller revision, keypad connection cable, mechanical fit, and legend arrangement. A matching keypad part number is important, but the host system’s hardware compatibility must also be established before installation.

Product Introduction (Non-Templated)

Numeric entry becomes inconvenient when operators must rely entirely on touchscreen navigation. The B&R 4E0021.01-090 PANELWARE keypad provides 12 dedicated numeric keys and four additional user-labeled keys for direct machine interaction.

Its 96 × 96 mm panel footprint suits compatible PANELWARE installations. During a legacy HMI replacement, check the host controller revision and keypad cable before assuming mechanical fit guarantees operation.

Key Technical Specifications

Specifications are based on B&R’s published product information. Confirm the host-system connection and applicable installation documentation before ordering.

4E0021.01-090

Related Products

The following products belong to the B&R PANELWARE and PROVIT ecosystem and are relevant to keypad replacement, operator-interface expansion, and maintenance.

1. B&R 4E0011.01-090 — Blue PANELWARE keypad with 16 keys and LED indication. Suitable when the operator station requires a full set of function keys rather than the 12-key numeric arrangement of the 4E0021.01-090.

2. B&R 4E0031.01-090 — Blue keypad with eight keys and one company-logo field. Intended for operator stations requiring a smaller set of dedicated machine commands.

3. B&R 4E0041.01-090 — Blue keypad with four keys and four additional information fields. Suitable for simpler operator panels with fewer physical input requirements.

4. B&R 4E0050.01-090 — Blue PANELWARE dummy module. Used to close an unused module position in a compatible panel arrangement rather than provide operator input.

5. B&R 4E0060.01-090 — PANELWARE special keypad module with an emergency-stop button. Intended for applications requiring a dedicated emergency-stop operator control. It must be integrated into an appropriately engineered safety circuit.

6. B&R 4E0070.01-090 — Special keypad module featuring a key switch and an ON/OFF switch. Suitable for machine operating modes or controlled access functions.

7. B&R 4E0080.01-090 — PANELWARE module with START and STOP keys and a company-logo field. Intended for operator stations requiring dedicated machine start/stop commands.

8. B&R 4A0005.00-000 — Blue PANELWARE keypad legend sheets. Used to prepare replacement or customized labels for compatible user-designated keypad keys.

9. B&R 9A0007.01 — 90 cm keypad module cable for applicable PROVIT 4000 installations. The documented application requires a display-unit revision of at least 20.16 and supports specified keypad models, including the 4E0021.01-090.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is the B&R 4E0021.01-090 compatible with existing PANELWARE systems?

It is designed for the B&R PANELWARE keypad architecture and is listed among the keypad modules used with PROVIT 4000 systems.

Before replacement, check:

• Host display or controller model.
• Hardware revision and keypad support.
• Keypad cable and connector arrangement.
• Available mounting space.
• Required keypad configuration.

The keypad should not be treated as a universal USB or standalone PLC keyboard.

2. Can I hot-swap the 4E0021.01-090 while the machine is operating?

Do not assume that live replacement is supported.

Disconnect the keypad according to the host-system maintenance procedure. Unexpected disconnection can interrupt operator input or prevent the controller from receiving key commands.

After installation, test every numeric key, user-labeled key, and LED indicator.

3. Does the 4E0021.01-090 support firmware version 3.1?

The 4E0021.01-090 is a physical keypad module, not an independently programmable PLC controller. A dedicated firmware version 3.1 requirement could not be verified.

Compatibility should instead be checked against the host PROVIT or PANELWARE system, its hardware revision, and the corresponding user-manual requirements.

4. Can I customize the four additional keys?

Yes. The module provides four keys intended for user-defined labeling through replaceable membrane legends.

Typical machine-specific assignments may include:

• Alarm acknowledgment.
• Manual operation.
• Parameter confirmation.
• Auxiliary machine functions.

The actual command assigned to each key depends on the host controller application. The keypad itself does not determine the machine logic.

5. How can I verify that a new-surplus B&R 4E0021.01-090 is authentic?

Request photographs of the actual product, part-number label, front keypad, LED indicators, and rear connection area.

For incoming inspection, check:

1. Model number and suffix.
2. Physical condition of all keys.
3. LED illumination.
4. Connector condition.
5. Evidence of previous repairs or mechanical damage.

New-surplus status should be distinguished from refurbished or previously installed inventory.

6. Can the 4E0021.01-090 replace the 4E0011.01-090?

Not as a direct functional replacement without checking the operator application.

The differences are:

• 4E0021.01-090: 12 numeric keys and four additional user-labeled keys.
• 4E0011.01-090: 16-key arrangement with LED indication.

Although both belong to the PANELWARE keypad family, their physical input layouts differ. The machine application must support the replacement’s key arrangement.

7. What warranty should I expect when purchasing the B&R 4E0021.01-090?

Warranty coverage depends on the supplied unit’s condition and the seller’s written terms.

Before purchasing, confirm:

• Warranty duration.
• Whether key and LED failures are covered.
• Functional inspection requirements.
• Return and replacement procedures.
• Whether the product is unused, refurbished, or previously installed.

For older PANELWARE installations, functional verification is particularly important because a defective keypad can interrupt local machine operation even when the main controller remains operational.