Locksmithing has been a crucial profession throughout human history, as people have recognized the importance of protecting their belongings.
In the modern era, the locksmithing industry has undergone significant advancements, with the integration of digital technology into commercial systems. The professionals at locksmithspros.org stay up to date on the newest electronic lock system advances, and as old lock-and-key mechanisms are phased out in favor of more complex solutions, it is equally critical for homes and business owners to be educated.
Understanding the basics of these systems does not require technical expertise, but knowing which solutions are best suited for your specific needs can offer reassurance. In this article, we will review the latest advancements in electronic lock systems.
The Three Leading Electronic Lock Systems of Today
The first thing to grasp about electrified lock systems is that they can be complemented with extra layers of security. Each system incorporates earlier innovations and electronics to help you organize your space in terms of access, human traffic flow, and security.
Unlike traditional lock and key, electronic lock systems need to be wired to an electric source to function. The most commonly used systems are magnetic, mortise electronic, and cylinder electronic locks.
Magnetic Locks
Maglocks or magnetic locks for doors are valued for their reliability and are widely used for high-security needs. Unlike some of the other systems, maglocks operate independently of the door handle. The armature plate gets mounted to the door, and the electric magnet is attached to the frame. The main advantage of this system is the holding force with which it can secure the door—between 600 and 3,000 pounds.
Your main consideration before getting a magnetic lock is whether you can provide a constant source of electric power. The power supply can be 24VAC or 12VCD and requires being hardwired into the electrical infrastructure of the premises. The best option is to power the maglock off a dedicated circuit. Since maglocks are FSA (fail-safe lock) systems, loss of electric power voids the security apparatus, meaning the door is unlocked. Hence, it is highly advisable that the system is also powered by a backup generator.
Mortise Electronic Locks
Mortise systems offer security and privacy in a variety of settings, ranging from hospital rooms and classrooms to secure areas in production facilities and even public restrooms. Mortise locks are mainly used on doors intended to prevent ingress into the secured area and to allow egress from outside the same area. Handled from the inside, the door latches out, enabling the person to exit without a key. A deadbolt secures entry without a key from the outside. However, there are options to configure a mortise lock both ways.
On a mortise lock, the lock body is inserted into the door, typically on doors with a narrow profile. It can be integrated with keypad and card reader devices, push buttons, intercoms, and key switches depending on the need and security for access control. A system can be equipped with panic hardware, enabling security to monitor the status of the door (open/close) and a panic alarm if the door doesn't close within a preset time window. Mortise locks can be configured either as Fail Safe (FSA) or Fail Secure (FSE) and require a DC circuit of 12–24 volts.
Cylindrical Electronic Locks
This is the most common type of door lock available with electric components and can be implemented and configured for various usage and access. Like mortise locks, these electric systems come in FSA and FSE options. Cylindrical locks support keyed and thumb-turn functions from inside, outside, and both. Cylindrical systems are normally used for hotel rooms, storerooms, entrance points, classrooms, offices, bathrooms, etc.
Unlike mortise locks, cylinder locks are generally weaker, that is, they can yield more easily to mechanical damage. Nevertheless, in their common application, they are a better option than the regular, mechanical kind and do provide better security to your premises than the usual lock and key. Cylinder locks can be equipped with fob readers to enable quick entry without handling the mechanics of key insertion.
Likewise, these locks can be controlled remotely. Premises that include multiple electrified cylinder locks can be equipped with high-security systems that can trigger total lockdowns, like in schools or office buildings.
The Underlying Electronic Lock Technologies
All of the systems above can be additionally reinforced with digital technologies for added layers of security. These include:
- Smart locks which react to wireless signals to enable remote access and monitoring. Devices that can be paired with the lock system include cell phones and smart home interfaces.
- Biometric locks are more advanced systems designed to react by validating the fingerprint or the biometrics of the owner's face. Biometric locks are more expensive to install and maintain.
- Card Access Systems are commonly found in large residential complexes and office buildings. Entry is granted by waving an RFID fab or card, but further control can be customized.
Conclusion
To ensure the proper installation and maintenance of electronic lock systems, it is always recommended to consult a professional locksmith. Ask your local locksmith who can offer experienced advice on which sort of electronic lock system is best suited for your unique needs, taking into account aspects such as the level of protection necessary, the size and layout of the facilities, and the budget.
They can also provide guidance on the latest digital technologies that can enhance the security of the system and offer regular maintenance and repair services to ensure the system is always functioning properly. Working with a local locksmith provides homeowners and business owners with the assurance that their electronic lock system is secure and reliable.
