Honeywell PW6K1R2 Dual-Reader Access Control Module

Overview

The PW6K1R2 is a two-door reader interface module within Honeywell’s PW-Series access control architecture. It functions as a distributed intelligence layer between field-installed credential readers and the system’s intelligent controllers, enabling secure, resilient door control even during network interruptions.

Designed for enterprise and campus-scale security deployments, the PW6K1R2 connects to Honeywell PW-Series intelligent controllers using a high-reliability RS-485 bus and supports a wide range of legacy and modern reader technologies.

​System Architecture & Communication

The PW6K1R2 operates as a downstream reader module managed by PW-Series controllers. It does not communicate directly over Ethernet but relies on the host controller for TCP/IP connectivity.

• RS-485 communication to intelligent controllers
• Supported baud rate: 38,400 bps
• Multi-drop RS-485 topology with ring support for fault tolerance
• Remote firmware distribution through the controller network
• Flash memory for firmware image storage and configuration retention

Compatible host controllers include:

• Honeywell PW6K1IC
• Honeywell PW5K1IC

Reader Interface & Offline Logic

This module supports two independent reader channels, each capable of autonomous access decisions when upstream communication is unavailable.

Supported reader types:

• Wiegand (custom and standard formats)
• Magnetic stripe readers
• Proximity readers
• Keypad-based credential input

Offline operating modes (configurable per reader):

• Secure locked state
• Fail-safe unlocked state
• Facility-code–only access

Local decision-making ensures door operation continuity during controller or network outages.

Onboard Database & Processing Capacity

The PW6K1R2 includes local memory and a real-time clock, enabling it to enforce access rules without constant host polling.

Key capacities:

• Cardholders: up to 100,000 credentials
• Event storage: up to 100,000 transactions
• Supported Wiegand formats: up to 128
• Time zones: 127
• Holiday schedules: 255
• Access levels: 128
• RTC with leap-year and timezone awareness

I/O Expansion & Monitoring

While the PW6K1R2 focuses on reader interfacing, it integrates with companion I/O modules for full door control solutions.

• Supports supervised and non-supervised input circuits
• Cabinet tamper monitoring
• Power status supervision
• Digital signal conditioning using onboard A/D conversion

Mechanical & Installation Compatibility

The module is engineered for standardized PW-Series enclosures, supporting both wall-mounted and rack-mounted installations.

Supported enclosures:

• PW5K2ENC1 compact enclosure
• PW5K2ENC2 19-inch rack enclosure
• PW5K1ENC3 low-profile enclosure

Designed for long-term operation in controlled indoor security cabinets.

Typical Applications

The PW6K1R2 is commonly deployed in:

• Corporate and multi-building office campuses
• Healthcare and pharmaceutical facilities
• Data centers and secure IT rooms
• Universities and institutional environments
• Government and infrastructure security systems

FAQ

Q: Can the PW6K1R2 operate without continuous controller communication? Yes. The module stores credential and access data locally and enforces predefined offline behaviors when the RS-485 link is unavailable.

Q: Does the module support direct Ethernet connectivity? No. Ethernet communication is handled by the intelligent controller. The PW6K1R2 communicates exclusively via RS-485.

Q: Is this module suitable for high-credential systems? Yes. Its onboard database capacity supports large cardholder populations and high event volumes.