System and method for identifying automation components

An identification unit for a system for identifying automation components, wherein the identification unit is configured to be assigned to an automation component, the identification unit comprising:

• an identification code stored in the identification unit for identifying the automation component;
• a transmit unit for transmitting the identification code from the identification unit to a read unit;
• and
• an activating device for activating the transmit unit to output the identification code of the automation component when a pre-definable component class corresponding to the identification unit is addressed.

A method for identifying automation components of an automation system, the method comprising:

• assigning of an identification unit to each automation component;
• storing of an identification code for identifying the respective automation component in a storage unit of the identification unit;
• reading of the identification code under program control or user control from the identification unit;
• and
• activating the identification unit by selectively addressing a pre-definable component class to cause the identification unit corresponding to the pre-definable component class to output the identification code.