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Showing posts with label Master Key Systems. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Master Key Systems. Show all posts

February 17, 2022

How To Re-key Old Yale Mortise Deadbolt Locks

How do you re-key old Yale mortise deadbolt locks? 
This week we completed a re-key project for a new customer that involved these 75 year old Yale double cylinder mortise deadbolts. Pictured here is the image of one cylinder installed to the outside of the back door. At the left of the image you can see where someone had deliberately drilled the connecting screw to remove the ability to unscrew the screw from outside.
To be able to remove the cylinders from these really old Yale mortise deadbolts, both inside and outside connecting screws require to come out before the cylinders can be removed for re-keying.

Getting the screws out is not difficult, but that's why we are called as opposed to a handyman or carpenter contractor.

Just about any locksmith with some experience will know the method and skill required to easily disassemble any lock that uses these type of blind screws or bolts, without destruction and enabling the ability to reuse the same screws or bolts when putting the locks back together.



 Pictured next is the image of the cylinder on my bench, already removed from the door. You can clearly see the connecting screw hole.


This image displays the reverse side of the Yale mortise deadbolt cylinder. This style of Yale Mortise deadbolt lock was designed using the original rim style of pin tumbler cylinder, originally patented in 1865 by Linus Yale Jr.

Rekeying these types of older Yale cylinders can be a trap for younger players or less experienced technicians and we will explain the method below to help you with disassembly.


My pointer here is aimed at the retainer clip that holds the tail piece and cover to the rear of the cylinder and core. It is necessary to carefully squeeze the ends of the clip together first.


The next image shows me applying pressure to the retainer clip to allow the clip to be withdrawn from the back of the core.


Here you can see the clip beginning to come out of the cover plate that holds the tail piece on. Carefully use an awl to lever the clip from the core.



This image shows the retainer clip, almost fully withdrawn from the tail piece cover assembly. If you're careful enough, you will not damage the tiny clip enabling you to reuse it for reassembly,



Next, we were also required to disassemble an equally as old entrance knobset to extract the cylinder core for re-keying. To be able to remove the core (plug) from the cylinder it is necessary to remove the rear tail piece and cap assembly and retainer circlip, before you can then remove the core (plug) from the cylinder and replace the tumblers.


Here is an image of the tail piece assembly and retainer circlip removed and the cylinder ready for re-keying.
Some technicians may choose to not disassemble the clip and tail piece, preferring to remove and replace the top cap from the bible (top pinning chamber).

We choose to not show the actual re-pinning method and combination of the re-keyed locks, to protect the customers interests.

Benefits Using Locks210/St Louis Locksmiths For Your Re-Keying Projects
  • Almost 40 years local, national and international experience
  • Qualified, knowledgeable and field-experienced technicians
  • Quantity discounts
  • High-quality product options
  • Quality Assurance
  • Family owned and operated local business
Are you concerned how many keys exist to your home?
When you purchase your new home or move into your new rental property, it is common to want to be the only ones to have keys to your place. You can choose to purchase complete new locks and door hardware or simply contact your local locksmith to simply re-key your existing locks at much less cost, while maintaining the existing products and aesthetics. Contact Locks210/St Louis Locksmiths today and experience the difference we are known for.


August 30, 2021

Federal Eviction Moratorium Overruled By United States Supreme Court - Landlords Rejoice?

 

(Image of United States Supreme Court)









Last week, The Supreme Court Of The United States (SCOTUS), in it's infinite wisdom decided to overturn the current administrations Eviction Moratorium on constitutional grounds.

This decision is considered favorable to the legions of landlords and property owners, who have suffered economic uncertainty since the federal government (previous administration) first administered the eviction ban, as encouraged by the Centers For Disease Control (CDC) in February 2020, to protect renters who suffered major employment losses as a consequence of the economic upheaval caused by the Covid 19 pandemic.

This decision to overturn the executive order to extend the already in place moratorium, is no small matter.

For many locksmiths in this country, the imposition of the federal eviction moratorium was/is a double edged sword. Evictions (rekeys) are an integral part of every locksmith's acumen. Many locksmith companies, including ours enjoyed continuing business from landlords and property management companies who require to change locks when a former tenant leaves their property. All this business completely halted when the eviction moratorium came to be.

In our case, we suffered a monumental reduction in our business revenue as a direct consequence of the moratorium.

We understand and sympathize with the many millions of renters, who face life-changing circumstances as a result of the end of the moratorium, but also are somewhat heartened by this change in events. We anticipate a significant increase in requests to rekey houses, condominiums, apartments, flats, commercial dwellings etc and maybe, we too can change some of our economic circumstances too.

Evictions are not a simple matter for landlords, property managers to arrange. In most jurisdictions, to evict a tenant requires sometimes 30 days written notice and a legal court order, enforced by the local Sheriff. An officer must be in attendance to execute such an order.

The costs and time delays involved in executing a legal eviction can add up. Given the courtroom backlog, an unfortunate side-effect of the pandemic, the likelihood of timely execution of eviction notices is/will be delayed - further complicating things for property owners, landlords and property managers.

An article in Tucson Arizona, before the end of the moratorium shows but one family's predicament to come


In Missouri there was no statewide eviction moratorium but the federal moratorium was sufficient to protect the thousands of renters who were facing potential evictions, as a consequence of the pandemic related shutdowns.

Also, some property owners of multi-apartment complexes, found loopholes in eviction laws (prior to the pandemic) that would allow them to evict any tenant using a rehab-clause that effectively allows for evictions of tenants irrespective of their abilities to pay rent or not, while reconstructing a tenancy to improve the site. A federal judge sided with the tenant, using the Federal Eviction Moratorium in his ruling.

Moratorium’s end may mean thousands of Missouri evictions



There are some defenses that a tenant can use to avoid being evicted in Missouri. 


If you are a landlord, property owner or property manager and are requiring the services of a professional locksmith company to attend your properties and perform the necessary task of changing locks, you are welcome to contact us at your convenience.
We can be contacted by text or phone on 314-266-1533 or by email at sales@locks210.com

We always provide a cost estimate in advance. We are highly rated by the BBB as you can see in our business profile and we can also be found in ANGI/Home Advisor, read some of our reviews

March 9, 2021

Gear-R. High Security Hidden Access Control For Just About Any Application


We are proud to continue our long association with the fabulous Meroni family of quality Access Control products including the wide range of door locks, furniture and cabinet locks and hardware, automobile security products and other unique hardware that have established Serrature Meroni as one of the leading manufacturers in Europe and throughout the world.

Here we include a video that explains the new technology that offers virtually hidden access control for almost any application, including door locks, cabinets and cabinet furniture, vehicles, among the many offerings in the Meroni ranges.

Many of the products Meroni make, you can see throughout this website.

Products like Nova, Combina, Forma and Pigio door handles and door locking products. Unique cabinet and furniture hardware and lock products, even the unique water spigot lock system to protect water valves for parks and gardens.

Meroni can tailor the wide range of products to individual needs and custom modify products to suit your unique parameters.

To learn a little more about the technology patented by Meroni Technology, visit the link in the source below.

July 1, 2020

PullBolt - By D&D Technologies




You may be familiar with D&D Technologies, a rather well known Australian manufacturer of the worlds most sought after gate hinge and superior locking technology specified widely, the world over for securing swimming pool gates, commonly known as the Magnalatch.


Another product that has been a central tenet of the shopfront security market for many years is the PullBolt, expertly produced by D&D and has been available in some countries for many years.

As seen in the video above, the product is very straightforward to install and very strong.

Featuring:

  • 316 Grade Stainless Steel Quality
  • Wont Rust, Corrode or Stain
  • Resistant to Hacksawing or Tampering
  • Fits Left and Right Handed Doors and Gates
  • Face Mount or Side Mount Models available


Key operated and lockable open or shut, this small yet incredibly strong security product offers fabulous security for it's competitive cost.

It can be supplied keyed alike, keyed to differ, master keyed and with the key cylinder removeable, you can replace it with a high security key cylinder from a range of different manufacturers.

I have personally installed a number of these during my 35+ years in the locksmith industry and can attest to their strength and usability, first hand.

Available primarily in Australia, we are trying to become a distributor for this enticing product in North America.

Stay Tuned.

(source...)

May 5, 2020

Contact-Less User Interfaces Are Becoming A Part Of Our New Future - Part 2



The impact that voice-recognition technology is having on our daily lives, is becoming more prevalent, given the current pandemic and quantity of smart-speakers currently available.

The above video we shared in a post we wrote almost a year ago and while it is somewhat comical in it's presentation, it does perhaps highlight a potential future that awaits us.

The article we wrote last year, portends that perhaps there are issues with smart-speaker technology today that we are yet to perfect. Given the current times, I suggest that the uptake of more voice recognition technologies may become an even greater part of our lives, that our article did not recognize at the time.

In March 2018, we also wrote about the integration of Amazon Alexa into new housing constructions in Sydney Australia. Perhaps this kind of technology is not too distant from us any longer?

I'm curious to know other people opinions about this subject.



May 3, 2020

Verroo - Unique Security Products For The Worlds New Normal Amid Coronavirus Pandemic

A couple of years ago (almost), a talented 18 year old gave a lecture at Defcon, a well-known hacker conference held annually in Las Vegas NV.

At this lecture he gave a rather interesting expose into the security and perception of security of Knox Boxes, which are used and required predominantly by fire departments across the USA to allow authorized first responders to gain access to private and public dwellings without the need to employ destructive entry methods.





The video is about 20 minutes long and may be of interest to locksmiths. security industry technicians, sales people, maintenance technicians, first responders, home owners, apartment complex managers, basically anyone who might see or have these type of key boxes on or near their properties.

It is especially interesting when you consider the security offerings by various vendors concerned more with selling you their products as opposed to offering you a system that actually offers to protect and secure your property for real. (For some unscrupulous vendors, it's not about your security protection - it's only about profits)

We have written about some of the subjects he talks about in the video....

Credit Cards Used to Duplicate Keys


Medeco - Hmmmmm...


3D Printers Used To Defeat High Security Key Systems


3D Printed Bump Keys


Further to this conversation is my recently acquired knowledge about an Australian company that is the merge between KJ Ross Security Locks, Marget Engineering and Direct Connections in 2015. That new company is called RMD Innovations (you can see their site in the source below).


KJ Ross, I have personally known for about 35 years now, having worked with their safe lock products, their Rosslinear Battery Operated Electric Strike and other lines in their specialty ranges.


RMD have now created significantly improved products for the high security market that update the older Rosslinear Strike (as seen above) and also have begun offering some additional products including a battery-operated strike for rim locks, panic exit devices. standard mortise and cylindrical entry lock-sets. among other products














I am especially interested in these updated product offerings, given the current predicament the world is experiencing with the Coronavirus Pandemic, that has dramatically altered our states of life.

March 11, 2020

Coronavirus - What Do You Do?

This is not an advertisement or advertorial. This is vital and important public information that could save your life!





The current seasonal shift is well underway, no matter what part of the planet you live on.

Of course with the northern hemisphere changing over to Spring/Summer, so come the inevitable virus', colds, flu, pneumonia and other potentially life threatening illnesses.

An often over looked issue, that faces all of us regularly is the transference of potentially harmful pathogens that can occur when differing users might touch or operate a door handle, safety bar, handrail etc. Do you REALLY know who touched the item before you? Do you care?

A little over 8 years ago we wrote an article about the recently released (at the time) blockbuster movie, starring Matt Damon and Gwyneth Paltrow. We included the preview in our article too. (See the article we wrote in October 2011, below).

When you go to a hospital or medical clinic, you hope that the managers of such public places care enough about the health and welfare of their consumers to have policies and rules in place to mitigate any harm potentially caused therein, right?

I'm sure you have seen and continue to see many private and public places include a pump bottle of hand sanitizer near a restroom and often signs posted inside a restroom requiring employees to wash hands prior to handling food or after using the facilities. This modern day policy stemmed from the outbreak of the highly contagious H1N1 virus that threatened many thousands of people all across the planet. Luckily the quick action of governments worldwide and especially the CDC in America, stemmed the threat, but not before thousands of people, animals, birds etc, were slaughtered or died.


While the COVID-19 Virus is well hyped in the media right now, it is vital and imperative that everyone be diligent to protect everyone.

It is your responsiblity and mine. My life and your life is at stake.

Here is the article and preview of Contagion....


Contagion




Just last week my wife and I went to see this movie. I found it to be one of the most entertaining suspense filled films I have seen in ages.

It stars Matt Damon, Gwyneth Paltrow, Kate Winslet, Lawrence Fishburne and a gaggle of other big name stars.

The storyline involves a woman who returns home to the USA from abroad who has been in contact with someone who passed on a virus to her. Anything or anyone she came into contact with seemed to also contract the contagious virus.

To make a long story short, many millions of people become infected and die before a cure is found.

The realism in this fictional movie was astounding. The film director makes the audience feel that the whole scenario is entirely plausible and probable.

The recent bird flu and H1N1 virus' that the world contracted in the last couple of years, makes this film even more realistic and topical.

Why do I post this review here?

I am the exclusive USA importer/distributor of the sensational Serrature Meroni brand of locks and door and cabinet hardware from Italy. Serrature Meroni, a few years ago introduced a unique line of inventory that includes especially designed anti-bacterial polymer door knobs. These handles minimize the potential impact of transferring disease between people.

Virtually all people touch a door knob to operate a door at home or work or the doctors surgery or a hospital or any other public building, in order to enter or exit a room or the building. All people rarely consider the likelihood of catching and spreading germs from unknowingly touching a surface that a possible infected carrier has also touched.

Remember when those recent well known virus' (Bird Flu and H1N1) were breaking news all over the media? Pharmacists, grocery stores and merchants everywhere suddenly began selling notoriously huge amounts of hand sanitizers and similar products. Many institutions enacted strict policies forcing people to use hand sanitizers as often as possible and some even required employees to wear face masks to minimize the potential spread of airborne diseases.

The realism of the movie Contagion, made me think about how easy it would be to spread disease.

But thanks to forward thinking companies like Serrature Meroni, we can now rest easier with the assurance that forward thinking home owners, hospital management, doctors surgeries, chemical research laboratories and other concerned proactive people, are taking steps to protect their customers, staff, friends and families from the potential deadly side effects of unknown or even known virus'.

December 14, 2019

ADI Block Lock - Total Security Bolt Protection Unrivaled The World Over


This is the top security ADI Block Lock made by ADI Security, an Australian manufacturer of superb security products originally founded by Brian and Peter Preddy and being bought out by Locksmith Supply Company a few years ago. Locksmith Supply Company are the original Locksmith Industry supply house that has provided hardware, machinery and tools to the locksmith industry in Australia for almost 100 years. 

We recently brought in (to USA) a number of these specialty lock products for use as custom security products for our clients needs. We are negotiating with LSC to become an exclusive distributor for this product line in the USA.

We brought in their through fix bolt version with some extended bolts, which are particularly useful for doors or cabinets where the frame construction may be wider apart than standard frames.

We will post some images and a video of our installation in a follow up post.

As expected, quality security products like these are not cheap. Quality costs a fair price. These ADI products are very good quality. I have personally installed many of their varying products over the last 35 years in the industry and attest to their strength and reliability.

We have also written about some of ADI's other products over the last 10 years, like the ADI Cap Lock, a product designed for tradespeople like plumbers and electrians who often carry long rooftop containers on their vehicles to transport pipes, cables, rods etc that are too long to conveniently carry inside their secure vehicles. The Cap Lock secures the end of the tube, protecting from theft and unauthorized access.

Another of ADI's products we have written about is the Slim Line Patio Bolt, an especially designed and constructed product that is super strong and able to be used on narrow frames of doors or gates. Like other ADI products, the Slim Line Patio Bolt also uses an oval key cylinder that can also be converted to many differing brands of high security restricted key cylinders, like Bilock, Abloy Protec, Medeco, Schlage Primus, C123, Multilock among other brands (consult your local restricted key system provider for compatible restricted key cylinders to suit)

We welcome inquiries from interested consumers and fellow security professionals, who may find a use for these fantastic security products.


December 12, 2019

Triteq Lock And Security - Leading American Vending Security Manufacturer

Triteq Lock and Security Inc, are a local St Louis Missouri owned designer, manufacturer and distributor of the leading electronic vending machine and cabinet security products, that are proven as the top echelon of products in their genre.




In the informational video here, you can see a well produced explanation of the benefits that Triteq products provide.

Incorporating modern technology, including keyless remote access, cellphone access, audit trail and simple to operate access control management, this local American company are producing the most innovative products and services that are protecting their clients vending machines, secure cabinets, refrigeration equipment and related products.

Selecting American made security products, interests many/most local customers and users who understand the continuing benefits that buying local, stimulates and protects American jobs and their own security requirements while enjoying timely, paramount local American backup and support.

We in the locksmith trade, as harbingers of security protection for well over 4000 years, continue to source the latest and greatest security advancements on offer, to protect the interests of our customers.

Triteq Lock and Security Inc products, are providing the types of security products demanded by commercial and industrial customers, who desire to protect their investments while providing the services to their users.

Look no further for a great American Security product manufacturer, who has only your individual interests in mind.

(source...) 

November 25, 2019

Master Key Systems Explained - How To Design Your Master Key System

Today marks 10 years from when we wrote an article about Master Key Systems and we revise that post today and include it here for your pleasure.....


We wrote (November 25, 2009):



As a blog author and locksmith, as a business owner and statistician, I keenly watch the results using Google Analytics, of the search terms people use while attempting to gather knowledge that may help them to be more aware when purchasing products or services.

I am noticing a significant number of searches recently about master keying although, it may be due to a cardinal lack of understanding about the principle.

It seems that many searches recently are from people who assume that all deadbolts are master keyed. This is simply not true. It is a fallacy.

A deadbolt, or any other lock for that matter, must be purposely master keyed.

There are no pre-fabricated master keys for residential or commercial deadbolt locks.

In bygone years, manufacturers of some bit-key type mortise deadlocks, did produce some of their ranges with a purposely designed flaw allowing for a "skeleton" key to operate. This skeleton key was often referred to as a Master Key.

There are some manufacturers of coin machine locks or cam locks, that routinely produce their locks to be master keyed. The primary benefit in using master keyed coin or cam locks is for commercial situations like an office complex that uses on-site maintenance to minimize the quantity of keys a janitor or other service person can be required to carry. (source...)


Many of the same things we wrote about 10 years ago are still true today.

We here at Master Key Systems America LLC/ St Louis Locksmiths are proud of our continuing longevity in the locksmith trade, currently just a tad over 35 years in the business.

We are lucky enough to have worked on 4 different continents and been exposed to many differing types and styles of key systems, that all have their benefits (and issues) for users in their respective regions.

We are one of the leading Bilock Extreme Security Dealers in the USA, having offered Bilock for the last 14 years, locally,

We have worked with the product regularly since 1983, when we first entered the trade. The product was first made available about 5 years prior.


We explain to customers when designing their master key systems, that our preferred method of creating their system requires establishing a list/spreadheet of doors in their property that they want to operate by key.

We usually survey the premise and will often mark all keyed doors with an individual number often on the hinge or inside of the door frame.
This enables each door to be recorded individually. We will often include details like, hinge location/size/make, door hardware (type of lock), color, kickplate (if required), strike plate type etc.
This allows us to immediately know what the original door products are, if ever asked in future. And allows us to know immediately which keys operate which doors.

On the spreadsheet, we will list each door and it's number across the top of the graph, separated into columns.

We will list the names/employee number of key holders in the left side column.

We will then check the name under the corresponding door each person requires to access.

This simple method allows us to accurately design each system and account for all users.

We prefer to offer all our master key systems using Bilock because it is a restricted keyway that is protected from unauthorized duplication. This means no one can get a key copy without the written permission of the designated authorized signatory. This prevents too may keys being out there and not accounted for. No one can get another key made without the owner/manager's knowledge and permission.

We color code all our Bilock keys for simpler identification. We also emboss the system number, key number and issue number on each key, that means each key is an original and NOT a duplicate.

The method of designing a master key system is important to control access to areas required and dramatically improves the security of a premise.

We still like to recommend mechanical access control key systems because they are virtually maintenance free, require no reliance on batteries or electricity, are significantly cheaper than electronic products and are specifically designed to last 25+ years.

Should you wish to know how master key systems can benefit you and your security, feel free to contact us or your local legitimate locksmith for more personal detail. 

August 20, 2019

Gate - All-In-One Wifi Deadbolt



The world of Smart Locks, sees a new entrant to the market with an all-in-one product that allows for WiFi control, smart phone control, temporary user codes, video door bell and intercom, mechanical key operable all in one small and unique footprint that looks classy while maintaining a high level of security.

Gate is available from a range of suppliers, the product is priced at the upper end of the range of similar offerings.

The product is available in 3 distinct service plan options.

2-Year Premium Plus Service plan sells for $349. It includes 1 lock and 2 years unlimited Premium Plus Service which includes:


  • Receipt Of All Notifications
  • Real Time Video Streaming
  • Real Time 2-Way Audio
  • Remote Lock And Unlock
  • Unlimited Admin/Permanent Access Control
  • Unlimited Scheduled Access
  • 30 Day Video History
  • 30 Day Video Sharing
There is also a 1 year Premium Plan which is effectively identical to the Plus plan but only allows for 10 users on scheduled access and 5 days worth of video history storage and sharing.

The basic plan offers no scheduled access control and up to 4 permanent users, FREE.

It is an interesting idea I think. One that might meet certain users needs.

Personally, I am not enamored with many battery powered smart locks, because batteries fail at the most inopportune times and weathering (shifting door frames, house settling etc) is an all too common occurrence with todays changing climate,

July 25, 2019

Tascent - New Distributor For Leading Iris Scan Technology Provider

Access Control Moves Into The 21st Century And Beyond - Post Revisited








We recently traveled abroad and during our travels we notice certain security enhancements in various airports and train stations. Perhaps it is a quirk of ours, but everyone has their own fascinations about things. Mine just happens to be security products and security technology.

I am pleased to see that more and more facilities are beginning to adopt and adapt to the constantly changing world around us. I have seen, on this last trip, iris scanners, like the one here and also an increasing number of facilities using Salto - Inspired Access Control solutions


We originally posted this article in September 2010 and February 2015 was our most recent update before today. We continue to see a great many views of the page. There is absolutely no doubt that advancing technology is influencing many significant parts of our daily lives and with new products from Tascent like the one pictured here, we will soon be seeing this advanced wizardry in everyday use.

The AOptix InSight™ VM (now Tascent) iris recognition system takes the qualities that make the originalInSight system so extraordinary and wraps them up in a new form factor that is compact and visually appealing.
It is functionally the same as the original InSight system and delivers the same unprecedented capture volume, 2 meter standoff distance, and advanced imaging and image quality metrics for outstanding ease-of-use, throughput, and matching accuracy. The VM also relies on the same deployment-tested communications interfaces, maintaining a focus on ease-of-integration and standards compliance for biometrics and ID management, IT infrastructure, and physical access control.

Form and Function

The InSight VM’s new shape isn’t just about looks. At less than 9 inches wide and deep, the VMis uniquely well suited to applications where footprint space is at a premium. We've created a system for end users, integrators, and architects that is purpose-designed for applications including:
  • Immigration control programs, especially sleek installations at immigration counters
  • eGates or expedited, automated immigration programs
  • Checkpoint booths
  • Government and corporate access control including turnstile, revolving door and standard door installations
Now, the power of the InSight iris recognition system is available to open up a new range of applications.

View the source below to visit the company's site and see a video of just how the unit works.


I suggest that the reality of total secure access control, using iris recognition technology is upon us. Perhaps the Star Trek future is becoming a reality?

I can see many positives in this kind of system, especially for companies requiring secure access to controlled locations, like vaults, computer rooms, drug storage facilities, hospital bacteria free zones, even the presidents office.

What do you think?

June 27, 2019

Smart Speakers Are All The Rage Today Except....



We have written numerous articles over the last 12 years about locks, lock systems, safes, master key systems, doors, repair techniques etc.

Curiously, smart speakers like those offered by Amazon, Google and others have certainly made many of our lives significantly easier but they are found wanting too, as the above video, comediclee shows,

We posted the above video to our social networking pages and are seeing increasing views and likes from our viewers.

It does bring up a topical discussion though and one we feel is important to our readers here too.

Some of the articles we have written about new age smart locks can be seen here

In the above video, the man returns home only being unable to gain entry. Smart locks, for all their good intentions, suffer from many issues that should be considered prior to purchase.

Issues that can include:

  • Poor Battery Life
  • Weathering
  • Low Security
  • Hardware Failure
  • Increasing Insurance Premiums

Poor Battery Life

Many of today's smart locks operate using 4 AA batteries. We suspect manufacturers decided to use these low power systems due to their extremely cheap price points. 
I find repeatedly, customers often calling for locksmith services where their batteries have failed and they either do not have their mechanical over ride key available or their product has no mechanical key over ride function

It's not just digital smart locks. We are also seeing increasing calls to open safes, where battery failure is a common symptom. Often there are additional issues besides poor battery life including internal wiring not lasting or corroding that contribute to other issues where just replacing dead batteries may seem like a simple fix.

Weathering

Weathering is another common pitfall that occurs repeatedly with battery operated smart locks. Often, once installed the lock will operate efficiently for sometimes 3 months before the user may need to replace batteries. But even correctly installed locks suffer from earth movements that affect the correct alignment of doors into their frames. This will often make operating the deadbolt too difficult for the motor inside the product to correctly throw the bolt. People may leave their homes expecting their door to lock behind them automatically, whereas they are often unaware that the product failed to adequately lock and secure their doors.

Other weathering issues rarely considered include, many digital smart locks are installed to external doors or prime entry doors, Sure the batteries might be on the inside but the keypad will be outside and naturally affected by changing weather. In some regions high humidity can cause internal  components to attract condensation. The water can make internal electrical components to short circuit. Also, when the weather patterns change to cold conditions, the freezing air and rain etc can cause batteries to wear down faster.

Low Security

Many manufacturers, to compete in the global marketplace, decided to use lightweight materials in the construction of their products. Security and access control are some of the reasons some people choose battery operated lock systems. Why anyone who cares about their families security and peace of mind, would choose to spend ~$195+ for a poor quality digital door lock, that is designed to fail within (often) 2 years, puzzles me!

Remembering that it is often all about price, how much is the security and ease of use worth to you?
Often consumers may spend hundreds of dollars on clothes and shoes or thousands of dollars on furniture, electronics or art only to secure their homes with cheap lock systems, It doesnt make any logical sense.

Hardware Failure

Like mentioned above, "the pain of poor quality lasts longer than the pleasure, cheap price provides"

Or

"if you only want to pay peanuts expect to get monkeys"

Consulting your local trained professional locksmith before purchasing locks or other door hardware would be your best approach, in my opinion. Locksmiths have deliberately chosen to train to provide customers with quality offerings aimed at making your lives easier and secure.

You trust your mechanic to fix your car, You trust your electrician to keep your lights working. You trust your plumber to keep the water flowing. Doesnt it make perfect sense to trust your locksmith to keep your home secure?

Increasing Insurance Premiums

An often overlooked issue that many purchasers of digital door locks rarely consider is how installing a digital door lock might affect the amount of insurance you pay.

A number of companies including Walmart, Amazon and others are embarking on delivering groceries and purchases made online to homes and entering your homes to deliver, stock the fridge etc. These new services are attempts to deal with the porch theft phenomena that has resulted in recent years with the expanding delivery markets, While this practise might be considered more secure and more convenient, are you really willing to open your private abode to persons you dont know?

Insurance companies are salivating at the opportunities presented by allowing access to your private dwellings from people who "don't belong".

Also, many digital door lock users will give each user a code. How sure are you that any person is not sharing a code? How would you know if someone who is not authorized, enters your home?



Mechanical keys provide much more immediate security than digital locks because you must have and use a key to operate your lock. Besides the significantly cheaper cost of mechanical products, no requirement to replace batteries ever, even the ease to lock your door if weather affects your installation, you are better protected by using a key to access your property.

This article is primarily about digital battery operated products. Many commercial systems are significantly more expensive for good reason. They are made with higher quality components, often use stronger batteries or are hard wired to mains power. You see many commercial installations that use card/fob access control systems where you simply present your credential to a user interface. These are deliberately hard wired systems, because they last much longer and work continuously without having to maintain batteries.

April 10, 2019

Keyless Security Has Turned The Corner - No External Interface Means Nothing To Attack


VL464 Versatile Deadlock
Pictured here is the fabulous Versatile Deadlock from Outlocks, the distributor of Knock-N-Lock technology, we have previously discussed here over the years.

Knock-N-Lock technology is an upmarket Israeli designed and manufactured, high-security lock system that is virtually impregnable.

Why?

Because there is no external keyhole. No keyhole means nothing to attack.

This version of the deadbolt lock is available in hardwired or wireless (battery) operated versions.
It is rather industrial looking but is extremely secure because a would-be attacker will have no knowledge of it's location inside your door.

All Knock-N-Lock products operate with the use of a unique external keyfob

This keyfob is the only way to operate the product.

Following is a video that explains the unique locking system uses and how the technology works.
We have been receiving numerous inquiries from customers lately desiring the highest form of security, due to attackers finding methods to beat virtually all other systems they have installed.




There are a number of products made that we can show you after the break.
All operate with the use of the unique fob.

The product is in use in many Asian countries and is finding traction in North America too.

Tellcard Systems EGT - Awesome Standalone Commercial Digital Access Control Product

 The Tellcard EGT is one sensational product. I have fitted 2 of these commercial digital locks of late and they not only look very professional, they are simple to fit, straightforward to program and easy to operate.

I found these products on recommendation through The Society Of Professional Locksmiths, an organization of like minded professional locksmiths, where I am a founding member.

Tellcard offered a promotion a while back to get their products further into the market. Initially I was shy, but thought "why not".

And I'm very pleased with the end results. But more importantly, so are my customers.
 Inside view is as important as outside view, in my opinion because this is the point of view everyday users will see all the time. The Tellcard EGT houses a battery pack that is easily accessible meaning replacing batteries is a simple task.

Life expectancy of the battery pack with typical use (20,000 operations) in a year is about 12 months.

The extra nice feature of this product is that it is not only operable by battery. It also includes connections within for hard wiring, which means you can also hook it up to your internal alarm system and enjoy mains power without requiring to replace batteries. If power fails, the batteries will be your back up power to maintain access control.
 The particular fitting of this unit was to an existing door where someone had previously installed a handle and separate deadbolt. (You can see where the lazy installer used a knock in bolt instead of a correct wooden door installation bolt) This is the outside view of the application.

We were required to drill 2 additional holes, 1 just below the crossbore hole (deadbolt) and one a little farther below where the original commercial lever or knob would have been.
The inside view shows a clearer image of the original holes where the commercial lock once sat.

The end product and fitting, in the first image above displays a beautiful product that fits with the buildings decor and maintains a uniformity with other products in the building.

We also master keyed the mechanical key cylinder in the lever to allow for the building manager to enjoy unfettered access without having to have multiple differing keys for all doors in the building.

Learn more about Tellcard Systems by clicking on the link the source below.

The Society Of Professional Locksmiths continues to grow in stature and offers unique training and fraternity for aspiring locksmiths, click the link above to learn more.









(source...)

March 26, 2019

Continuous Hinges _ Not Just For Aluminum Shopfront Doors






We are often called in by homeowners to find cost-effective solutions for door repairs.

Often a home owner may be trying to sell their property and an inspection reveals items that require to be fixed before a sale can take place.

The images below show a basement door on a 100+ year home, where the door butts up against the cinder block foundation wall. this door opens inward and as you can see, the top of the door hits the floor joist, not allowing the door to travel fully.

The home owner had attempted to simply replace the hinges, but their attempted repair failed because the wood in the frame was rotten and the screws wouldn't hold.

Typically in this situation, the recommended solution would be to replace the entire door and frame. that can be a costly endeavor, especially because many similar situations require custom made doors and frames, that are often quite dear.



 The first image shows the door detached from the frame at the bottom and you can see the top of the door is taller than the floor joist.
 the second image shows the external side of the same door.

You can see that the old door is in a state of disrepair and the hinge at the bottom has nothing to screw to.

We could have simply moved the hinge higher to a new location, but we couldn't be sure that the wood was not also rotten there too.

Our solution is a long term fix because the continuous hinge we installed (which is more often used to repair shopfront aluminum doors) comes with a 50 year warranty.
The completed installation of the continuous hinge, required us to cut about 4" from the top of the hinge.

The continuous hinge is screwed on like a typical piano hinge, in that it applies completely along the edge of the door and frame.

The correct installation of a continuous hinge ensures long term use. they are held to both door and frame using about 10 screws on each leaf. We installed it to the surface of the door and frame, which allowed us to screw into fresh (not rotten) wood.

The finished result looks great and the door works easily like it should.

Total time for repair ~2 hours.



Continuous hinges are not cheap. But quality products are often pricey and come with sometimes lifetime guarantees.

We continue to install increased quantities of continuous hinges to shopfront aluminum doors, where the top and/or bottom pivots wear quite quickly. A continuous hinge is the most cost-effective and simple repair method for many single door applications and the products are not limited to just shopfront aluminum applications.

Contacting your local locksmith would be your first stop in getting quality professional door repair services, with technicians that can advise the different options.

March 5, 2019

Battery Operated Lock Products Found Wanting - Are You Aware Of The Pitfalls?

There are many and varied brands of wireless digital door locks currently in the wider market. Many of these products we have discussed in this website and picture here. Many of the pictured products here operate on small batteries, either AA, AAA, 9V or even watch cell batteries. The market is quite vast with many of the leading manufacturers in the world also producing a wireless battery powered product to corner some market share too.
 I think it is somewhat interesting, having traveled abroad recently, that not as many European countries appear to share the fascination for wireless battery powered locks, quite like the USA.

I remember traveling to Canada a few years ago and noticed very few instances of wireless digital locks installed on residences and buildings there too.
So, this begs the question as to why there appears to be a consumer fascination for these electronic gadgets, especially in the largest market in the world, the USA.
 Having recently returned from abroad, I noticed that hardwired digital lock systems and access control products appear to be more favored there. Hardwired products offer significant longevity and advantages to wireless battery operation, but essentially there is never, ever a need to have to replace batteries. Replacing batteries, while an inconvenience, is a hidden ongoing cost, rarely considered by consumers.
 There are also a great many and varied commercial products in the wireless genre that continue to come to market, offering increased access control and some also include audit trails, among other desired traits. These products too require constant and never ending battery replacement to ensure correct and continuing operations. Often there will be a maintenance manager or janitor employed in a building responsible for replacing batteries and keeping every thing working normally. And when a product fails, it is often because lax maintenance is responsible. Batteries are not replaced timely enough and staff find themselves locked out, through no fault of their own.
 Some upmarket commercial access control products of the wireless variety are very good quality and offer some advantages to mechanical keyed systems, but they too require constant battery replacements to ensure continued operations.
There are some very interesting and quite good looking products that are quite functional on offer across the world. many also use remote fobs to lock or unlock and, of course, these remote fobs require batteries replaced too. The hidden costs are not discussed by manufacturers or retailers and many consumers are in the dark about the longterm disadvantages of having to constantly replace batteries.
 We have been selling the wireless battery operated electric strike, here for a few years now, but this product is not immune either to the continuing need to replace batteries.
We are also the North American distributor for the fabulous Meroni line of lock products and even their digital battery operated product requires continual battery replacement for continued operation,

 The issues listed above about battery life are not the only problems plaguing the wireless lock industry. Many brands also use motor driven deadbolts that require the door and frame to be in perfect alignment so the bolt can enter the strike and frame. If there is door movement or weathering, frames can move and impede the natural locking/unlocking of your product. Other use issues occur due to poorly installed doors. Most doors found in America today, on residential homes and even some commercial dwellings are built from wooden doors and frames, often installed using short screws in the hinges to attach to the frame.
 The IBC (International Building Code) accepted and gazetted by many American localities, demand that the height of the operating door handle be 36" from the floor. When the original building code was written by the Army Corp Of Engineers in 1949, the average height of an American Adult was 5'6" tall, while today the average height (male/female) is 5'10" tall.
 Understanding a persons height is important because the average door is about 6'8" tall in North America. In many other countries, people install their locks significantly higher. The reason is simple. The lower the handle, the likelihood of you pushing down on the handle is higher and that continued downward pressure contributes to door sagging. The half inch screws in your hinges cannot take the weight of the door combined with constant pushing down on the handle, so the door drops. You often see this by the rubbing of the upper portion of your door on the frame and a wider gap at the top on the lock side than the gap on the hinge side. Also, sometimes your door will drag on the floor.
 I do a fair amount of commercial locksmith and door repair work and often see these electronic battery operated locks in the field. I often ask my customers as to their happiness with the products. Many, who have been using them for quite some time, have realized that the chore of constantly replacing batteries is becoming far too common and often and they make the choice to remove batteries altogether, preferring to go back to the mechanical, maintenance free key lock system.
 So what do i recommend?

I'm glad you asked.
I always ask the customer why they want a digital door lock in the first place.
Most simply desire the convenience of not having to carry a key and that they cannot be locked out if they have a combination.
I then ask how often they have had to replace batteries.
The most common answer I get is, "once every 2-3 months, sometimes more".


 When I press a little bit further, the clients who might have had them for longer, often indicate that after the fourth time replacing the batteries, they simply go back to using the mechanical key.

This indicates to me that many customers are now using their you beaut $250+ wireless battery operated door lock identically to when they simply had a mechanical key. Many keyed door locks cost significantly less than $250+, so that is a clear indication (to me) that they are not receiving the value for their money.
 With WiFi and Bluetooth and NFC components being included in many later models of battery operated door locks, there is more requirement for power to be able to use the products. Why would you rely on batteries constantly to power these power hungry products? Batteries can only last so long, no? And often they will fail when you least expect them or require them.
As to my recommendations on products that can offer the best of both worlds, you might consider the Kaba Powerplex digital door  lock that uses an electro-mechanical power module embedded within, that when the handle is turned, the unit powers up enough juice to enter your combination. No need to ever replace batteries yet still the convenience of electronic combination entry.
Certainly not cheap. Quality products cost more of course, but the Kaba Powerplex delivers where other products fail.

In the next week I will be repairing a customers back door mechanical door lock. They initially requested another electronic deadbolt for the convenience of not having to carry a key. (my service call that day to them was to unlock another digital door lock that wasnt operating. It was of course a flat battery) I recommended that they install a mechanical key box like the Supra brand wall mounted heavy duty mechanical digital key box to the cement wall outside their home and place their operating key inside. That way they can maintain the original lock on the door and still enjoy the convenience of not having to carry their key, for the paltry cost of about $35 plus installation.

The choice is yours. I'd be interested to hear your comments in the box below. Comments are subject to moderation.

Home Advisor (formerly Service Magic) Testimonials And Sites That Recommend Us

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Testimonials

Danny was very professional and friendly at the same time. He not only gave me the quote and fixed the exterior door and explained his work. He was prompt and upfront about the work and did the work. He came in time took care of it on the same day. (Sasheethn K St Louis MO) June 2018d out problems but assured not urgent. Please feel free to have Danny pass out my number for my total experience review 314-351-5553

Charlie M. (St Louis, MO) November 2015


Danny was pleasure to meet and was very knowledgable. He explained several lock replacement options but I decided none of them were a good fit for a storm door, however, I did replace a lock on my entry door with a type of lock I had never seen before. I would highly recommend this company.
Patricia J (Bridgeton, MO) March 2014
They were prompt and showed up when he said he would show up. He knew his stuff. I had ordered new handles and he was honest enough to say that we don't need them that he can fix the doors and he did. Made me lock and unlock my doors to his satisfaction so that I knew what to do. Am very, very pleased with the service and cost.
Joyce K (Glencoe, MO) May 2015

Showed up on time for appointment. Was very knowledgeable about the project and offered a solution beyond what I asked to be done.
Stephen G (Chesterfield, MO) May 2015


Daniel was right on time, assessed the problems I had with two doors, made the repairs, and explained what caused the problems to begin with .... He is a "door expert" and a true professional. I highly recommend him.

Vince V (St. Louis MO) May, 2015




Danny was fabulous! He went over my concerns and he provided me with more than a fair quote. He was there when he said he was going to be there. I would highly recommend Danny. Cheers!
Denise S (Imperial, MO) May 8, 2014

Hired Danny to re-key locks on "new" house purchase. He advised to replace with new deadbolts & door knobs on 3 entry doors instead which I agreed with. All doors have 1 matching key & the safety of excellent quality product & workmanship. He also added new strike plate to door frame to complete project.. I recommend as your 1st & only call to a Locksmith.

Denise F (St. Louis, MO) April 3, 2014


Danny was very helpful in solving a pretty complex problem involving many lock.
Scott C (Eureka, MO) March 27, 2014




Needed patio door track to run smoothly. Arrived early, fixed door and explained what he was doing during repair. Quick and easy. Door works great, my wife will now speak to me, and I've become a better dancer.

Mike W. (Arnold/Oakville MO) July 2013


The owner spent a longtime with me on the phone helping diagnosis the problem. He was on-time, friendly and helped resolve my issue. I will definitely use him again!

Chris C (Lake St Louis, MO) July 2013


I had a very pleasant experience with Master Key Systems. They came out, did the job (which took longer than expected) and they did not change the price they quoted me. Now, I am not certain that it was a great value for the money because I don't have a comparison, but they did what they said, when they said, for the price they said. Enough said!!!

Antonio B (Saint Louis, Missouri) March 2013


Professional.. Upfront about charges. Fixed the sticky door within 20 minutes. I will recommend Master Key for exterior door issues.
Muthu R (Ballwin, MO) July 2012


Danny was a master craftsman, knowledgable and professional. I will be calling on him again in the future as well as passing on his services to friends and family.

Marsha L (Saint Louis, MO) July 2012


Danny was excellent! I called him on a Monday to fix a sliding glass door. He happened to have the exact part we needed (and it was not an easy find - we had looked everywhere) and he came over Tuesday evening. He stayed until 8:00 until the job was done, and cleaned up afterwards. He was courteous, professional, and efficient! I could not be happier!

Rachel P Maryland Heights, MO (July 2012)


He did an excellent job. Got there on time and quickly solved the issue. Was very pleasant and explained the situation and how to keep the door from sticking in the future. Would definitely use Master Key LLC again!

Neil F. (Saint Louis, MO) April 2012


Danny was very friendly and knowledgeable, although his apprentice seemed to do most of the work, Danny kept an eye on him to make sure it was done right. He had very reasonable pricing for re-keying.
Greg D (St Louis, MO) October 2011


He was extrememly fabulous and helpful and did a wonderful job. He was very professional.
Shannon M. (Arnold, MO) October 2011


Growing up spending so much of my time in Italy, the uniqueness of the Nova Classico left quite an impression on me. To be able to have and enjoy them in my own home here in the states is a nostalgic indulgence I'm enjoying beyond words. Thank you Danny for coordinating this transaction.

Joseph M (Chicago, IL) September 2011





great job. hired on the spot and he did job right then at great price

Ron B (Arnold, MO) July 2011







I searched the internet and found your services. I received three phone calls within several days. A service call was scheduled. Two gentlemen arrived promptly, analyzed the problem and fixed it.
James & Florenc M Saint Louis, MO July 2011

The repairman was on time and did an excellent job of fixing a very stubborn door lock. He was persistent and cleaned up the work area afterwards. I would use this service again.

Brenda F (Saint Peters, MO) June 2011


Danny at Master Key Systems has succeeded in making the purchasing of our Meroni door locks, from Italy, an absolute breeze. Even though I live in Australia with a 16hr time difference and was ordering door knobs from Italy that weren't in stock, the whole process was faultless. Danny was prompt and efficient with all his emails and made sure we had covered every possible variable so that the product I received was exactly as required. I would have no hesitation in recommending Danny for your next purchase.
Patrick Carr (Canberra, Australia)


Your product really helped because I needed to secure a nurse's station adjacent to a waiting room and needed a pocket door. Unfortunately, no real options were available to lock a pocket door effectively that would keep me compliant with HIPAA and secure an area that stores medical supplies. This was vitally important as this particular waiting room was for "waiting detox patients". Thank you very much.
Randall R The Fritz Clinic (Birmingham, Al) March 2011


Danny was very polite and knew what the problem was and how to fix it. He also gave me some information about other issues that could arise with my door and locks. Will hire again if I ever need that type of work done.
Jason M Imperial, MO March 2011




I had an exterior basement door that dragged when opening and closing. The hinges were not fitting properly and the door frame had shifted, probably due to the age of the house.The screwswould not go far enough into the wall without hitting stone...even using a special drill bit. Dan worked a long time drilling and sanding to shore up the door as best as possible. I know it will never be perfect. He could have easily sold me a new door and the same issue would happen. He was honest, thorough, and did an excellent job without charging me a fortune. I'm satisfied with the door now. If you want an honest, experienced man, Then Dan is the man

Roger M Saint Louis, MO March 2011


I purchased the Cowdroy P697 Pocket door lock with key over the internet. I emailed questions before my purchase and was provided with the answers quickly by return email. The purchase was quick and easy and the lock was shipped immediatly. Installation is quick and easy. But you do need to convert millimeters to inches (use the internet) in the installation instructions. And the lock looks great and works great. I will do business with them again. THANK YOU

Ed D (February, 2011)





Who Are We?





Welcome to Locks210.com.
This site is to inform about historical and modern approaches to Keys and Physical Security products and services.
Locks210.com, established in 2006, offers residents and businesses of St Louis Locksmith premium quality products and services. As the Premier Bilock Extreme Security Dealer in The Mid-West,
Our conveniently located workshop and service vehicles are uniquely designed to offer trade qualified, bonded, insured tradespeople with knowledge and experience spanning multiple countries and product lines.

Shipping and Returns

All products are sent in manufacturers condition.
All products are subject to sales tax where applicable.
All products are dispatched within 10 business days of remittance.
All products are subject to manufacturers warranties.
All products returned within 30 days, will be 95% refunded less shipping.
Prices are subject to change without notice.
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