NotAusTaster

NotAusTaster is a term used to describe an emergency-stop pushbutton on machinery and industrial control systems. In German-speaking contexts, the Not-Aus-Taster (often written with a hyphen as Not-Aus-Taster) is the standard device intended to halt machine motion or cut power quickly in a hazard situation. The device is typically red, with a clearly visible actuation surface, and is designed to be easily accessible.

Operation and design: Emergency-stop buttons are usually maintained-contact (latching) devices. When pressed, the NotAusTaster latches in the actuated position, interrupting the circuits that drive the machine. Resetting requires a deliberate action, such as twisting or pressing a reset element, before normal control can be restored. This behavior ensures that a hazard is addressed before the system restarts. NotAusTaster units come in various form factors, including mushroom-head buttons and compact pushbuttons, and may be mounted on control panels or integrated into safety enclosures.

Standards and safety context: Emergency-stop devices are governed by machinery safety standards and regional regulations. In Europe and internationally, ISO 13850 and related standards specify the performance, labeling, accessibility, and independence of emergency-stop devices from normal control circuits. IEC 62061 and other safety-system standards may apply to the broader safety function. Requirements typically emphasize clear labeling, unobstructed access, fail-safe behavior, and verifiability of the stop command.

Applications and considerations: NotAusTaster devices are widely used on manufacturing lines, conveyors, presses, and robotic systems to meet safety obligations and risk-reduction targets. They are a critical part of a broader safety system but must be chosen, installed, and maintained according to applicable standards and risk assessments to remain effective and reliable.