Biometric Access Control With Face Recognition Technology

RCG Security products distributes some brilliant technology designed for the access control market.

The FxGuard Pro offers the most accurate
facial identification and verification
technology available today. The technology
is user-friendly and highly intuitive with
verification time of less than 1 second.
For added security, FxGuard Pro adopts
dual-factor authentication (right token
and right face). The system is suitable for
access control at public exhibitions and
business & government premises.



• The first facial recognition application that runs primarily on TCP/IP.
• Easy integration with corporate LAN.
• Proven speed and accuracy.
• Cross-platform compatibility.
• Built-in infrared sensor and RFID reader.
• Perfect for access control and time-and-attendance application.
• Facial verification takes less than 1 second.

FxGuard Pro can easily integrate with
corporate Local Area Network (LAN) and
PC workstation or server. It is the first facial
recognition solution that runs primarily on
TCP/IP. This ensures cross-platform
compatibility and users don’t need to install
special software on any PC. With its
user-friendly Web Administration Interface,
clients can easily setup, maintain and access
information in the device by only using an
Internet browser.

FxGuard Pro biometric access
control can help to reduce security
cost with automated, unmanned
entry points. All required software
is embedded in the device and no
dedicated computer is required.
This reduces cost of maintenance.

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HDMI Connection Lock

Not the usual product posting in this site, but still a novel approach to securing those HDMI cords, that sometimes have a nasty habit of falling out.

Designed to work with most HDMI components and most HDMI cords, the premise is pretty simple. The lock uses either a screw or adhesive to stick itself around the HDMI port, forming a sort of outer port that can clamp to your HDMI cord. At $20 a pair, the EZ locks cost as much as some HDMI cords. But then again, if you're spending thousands or tens of thousands on your home theater setup, maybe they're not a horrible investment.

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Help Lock - Restroom Assistance For Mentally Or Physically Challenged

This concept door lock for bathrooms is designed to initiate assistance for people who might be physically or mentally challenged.

The concept is: In the initial setup, you program a time limit—say, 20 minutes—for your future bathroom. From that point on, whenever you close the door and activate the alarm, the Help Lock will sound a preliminary alarm after the allotted time, giving the bathroom inhabitant 30 seconds to deactivate it. After that, the doorknob will initiate an alert call to whatever number you've chosen to enter, whether it be a neighbor or emergency services.


This is a concept that will be released commercially in the near future.

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Is Your Car Remote Broken?

Has this ever happened to you?

Your car remote has broken and you think you need a new one or have it fixed.




Your remote buttons have become worn out due to excessive use?









Ever put your remote and keys in your pocket, after locking your car only to find your car unlocked when you return, possibly due to accidentally knocking and activating the remote?






Have you ever dropped your remote in a puddle and pick it up and it no longer works?









How about an extremely cost effective solution that does what you want quickly and easily?

A Remote Tote!

Installing your Remote Tote is so simple a child can do it!
Just 3 steps:
1. Insert remote in cover.
2. Attach Key Ring
3. Attach Keys



Now Available in Fashion Conscious Colors.

This incredibly effective and inexpensive option could save you hundreds of $$$ in replacement remote controls.

You purchase a tote or case for your cell/mobile phone to protect it, don't you? Why not protect you car remote too?

Contact us for details.
P.O.A.

Foreclosures In The Real Estate Market

Earlier this year, I wrote a post (repeated below) about an article appearing on NPR that accounted how some locksmiths are faring reasonably well during a sad economy. It is often not a pleasure to travel into neighborhoods to perform lock change requests for banks and foreclosure administrators, when you see exactly how many homes and properties remain vacant.



All Things Considered, April 16, 2008 · The mortgage crisis has been great business for locksmiths. Banks need to get the locks changed quickly because people who've just been evicted often take out their anger — or their appliances.

Click on the picture to listen to the article.

It is an unfortunate side effect of the mortgage crisis, but banks and other lenders are forced into these actions as a consequence.
Master Key Systems America, a family owned locksmith and door repair business, serving residents and businesses in the greater St Louis region with unrivalled services and products. Our specially equipped service vehicles are staffed by competent and qualified technicians, who can quickly and economically perform your required tasks, happily and efficiently. For an obligation free estimate, call us on (314)266-1533.

Door Knobs, Locks and Pulls in St Louis MO

For the last couple of years, I have been referring many clients to visit a very professionally set up and run showroom, that displays many assorted high quality brands of locks, pulls, door knobs, and cabinet hardware.

Many people choose to still shop at Lowe's and Home Depot for their hardware, but the professional advice and dedicated specialist displays presented by Locks & Pulls Design Elements located at 9590 Manchester Rd, Rock Hill, MO are second to none in the local St Louis market.

The company is owned by reknowned plating industry professionals Thiess Plating Co., a St Louis icon in excess of 60 years service to the greater St Louis community.

Pictured to the left, are some of the displays you can view in their showroom.









On display, are products from leading manufacturers, including Baldwin, Schlage, Kwikset, Emtek etc.

The extremely wide ranging displays and vast depth of products offered are tailored to the discerning tastes of home owners, remodellers and devellopers.





Visitors to their store often find replacement products for some of the very old hardware found in many of the period homes around St Louis. Many new home builders and renovators find the friendly staff and ambient environment suitable to helping them choose suitable and functional decorative locks, pulls, door knobs and decorative hardware to suit their varied tastes.

As the showroom for Thiess Plating Co, the staff can advise on repair and refurbishing of existing hardware at surprisingly competitive prices.

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Bilock (A Closer Look) Part III

Significant recent inquiries lead me to write todays post. Our signature product Bilock, is starting to make inroads into the US marketplace, probably due to the consumers realizing the superior manufacturing and quality of this amazing and so advanced Australian designed lock and key product.

Yes the product is originally designed and manufactured in Australia, however cylinders for the United States market are predominantly manufactured inside the mainland USA, under license (Connecticut, to be precise).

Many customers today, appear to be concerned about the dwindling economy and labor markets. One certain method to help to sustain the local markets is to buy locally. Buying locally includes purchasing products manufactured in the USA.

As a St Louis Missouri based locksmith company, we proudly offer locally produced hardware products to benefit our clients and attempt to help the local economy.

So, How Much Do Bilock Key Systems Cost?

I'm glad you asked. Master Key Systems America LLC is a licensed USA dealer for Bilock Extreme Security Products and as such advertizes the cylinders and keys at the recommended retail (list) prices.

We offer significant discounts for quantity orders, information that can be sourced upon application.

We charge a standard keying fee per keyhole of $15.00 to build the inner cores and $9.00 per key (initial supply only).

We are happy to supply hardware to anywhere in the USA, but remember, all Bilock systems are permanently recorded in our secure database, to protect the interests of both the client and the manufacturer. Keys can only be reproduced as originals. They can not be duplicated (due to the nature of the product) and can only be supplied after receipt of a suitably and correctly authorized letter of request.

All lock cylinders are keyed in our factory workshops and checked and rechecked by management prior to release to the client. This action maintains the superior quality control and reinforces our guarantee against faulty workmanship.

Further to the manufacturers warranty of 12 months on parts, Master Key Systems America LLC also provides the first two (2) maintenance services (at 6 and 12 months) at no additional charge, only on systems installed by our technicians. This provides the client with a further guarantee on the working condition of their product and peace of mind for at least the next 12 months.

For a confidential discussion about Bilock and the benefits it offers you, feel free to contact us at your earliest convenience.

Society of Professional Locksmiths - Making New Keys

It is sometimes astonishing to find out from many people that locksmiths are more often presumed to make keys for cars.

Locksmiths have been in the business of helping all people with their physical entry systems for thousands of years.

From car keys to house keys to cabinet keys to antique cupboard lock keys to commercial office keys to safe keys, locksmiths have and are regularly helping people to secure their properties, replace lost keys, recode door locks, make new existing keys (without changing locks), install high security key and access control systems, consult and advise on all forms of physical and electronic security protection equipment.

The security protection industry is one of the largest industries in the world and there are many and varied practitioners in the various aspects of the industry.

More often than not, locksmiths have been the stable and trusted profession over many years primarily due to the constant evolving learning curve required to keep abreast of developments.

You can decide to place your trust in the modern/new breed of security professional or maintain the long trusted and tested accumen of the small but high integrity based locksmithing industry.

It is a small industry made up of many talented practitioners. There are those who seek to bring the industry to disrepute but people who trust their local locksmith often find the quality of the workmanship and service, second to none. Trust in your local locksmith is akin to trusting your healthcare professional with your life.

Locksmithing is an art, a craft passed down through the generations. It can be learned, but locksmiths must constantly seek to further their education of the trade in order to prosper and service the demands of an ever changing marketplace.

The new age of the locksmith industry is upon us. Locksmiths who get involved with the Society of Professional Locksmiths, realize that with constant discussion and education, can they hope to provide their customers with the superior services that the past has helped prepare the future for.

The instructors, teachers and respected industry professionals are joining the Society of Professional Locksmiths because it aims to educate the industry and the marketplace together, providing a safer and better life for all peoples.

Crime Report II

This months Crime Report is for the Kirkwood MO municipality. November 1 - 17, 2008.

5 x Breaking & Entering
14 x Property Destruction
1 x Robbery
42 x Larceny
11 x Fraud
9 x Vehicle Thefts

Breaking & Entering is direct evidence of forced entry.

Property Destruction is direct evidence of damage to property by forced entry or other damages to site.

Robbery is direct personal crimes like holdups.

Larceny is "taking and carrying away of tangible personal property of another by trespass with intent to permanently (or for an unreasonable time) deprive the person of his interest in the property."

Larceny includes property entries with no signs of forced entry, including unauthorised key holders.

Fraud is evidence of forgery and other frauds.

Safes

Choosing a safe is often difficult. I have been asked many times over the years to make a recommendation to customers wishing to purchase a safe.

Before making a recommendation, I feel it necessary to ask some specific questions to a customer to help in determining a suitable product to recommend.

Many people do not understand the ratings systems for safes, probably because there is no written industry standard.

In the early 1990's, I worked for one of Australia's oldest manufacturers of quality safes, Kelly Safe Co PTY LTD. (they closed down in 1995, I believe). Kelly safes were considered a staple of the Australian landscape for about 100 years previously. They manufactured impressive quality safes for many of Australia's institutions, banks, high-society clubs, hotels etc.

The increasing competition from foreign products combined with the significant increase in raw materials cost, saw Kelly become less competitive in later years.

I learned much from my short time with them about how to grade safes.

There are many classifications of safes that are determined by each individual country/locallity as suitable for local conditions. The leading tester in the world (most respected) is known as the Underwriters Laboratory.

The questions I like to ask my clients are:

1. What approximate cash value of personal documents, jewellery, bank notes etc are you looking to secure?

This determines what grade of safe would be suitable for the contents.

2. Approximately how big (dimensions) would the individual pieces of content be for storage?

This determines the necessary internal dimensions of the recommended safe.

3. Are you looking for Burglary Protection, Fire Protection or both?

4. Would you prefer a bolt down facility, free-standing, on castors, wall-mount, floor mount, vault etc?

5. How much are you looking to spend?

The most important question is question #1, because this separates the designations of safes from each other and directly guides a professional to make the most suitable recommendation.

In California, the CDOJ (California Department Of Justice) uses the following terms:

California Department of Justice Burglary Rating (CDOJ)

Regulatory Gun Safe StandardsDOJ regulatory standards require a gun safe to meet either:
All of the following requirements:

1. Shall be able to fully contain firearms and provide for their secure storage.
2. Shall have a locking system consisting of at minimum a mechanical or electronic combination lock. The mechanical or electronic combination lock utilized by the safe shall have at least 10,000 possible combinations consisting of a minimum three numbers, letters, or symbols. The lock shall be protected by a case-hardened (Rc 60+) drill-resistant steel plate, or drill-resistant material of equivalent strength.
3. Boltwork shall consist of a minimum of three steel locking bolts of at least ½ inch thickness that intrude from the door of the safe into the body of the safe or from the body of the safe into the door of the safe, which are operated by a separate handle and secured by the lock.
4. Shall be capable of repeated use. The exterior walls shall be constructed of a minimum 12-gauge thick steel for a single-walled safe, or the sum of the steel walls shall add up to at least .100 inches for safes with two walls. Doors shall be constructed of a minimum of two layers of 12-gauge steel, or one layer of 7-gauge steel compound construction.
5. Door hinges shall be protected to prevent the removal of the door. Protective features include, but are not limited to: hinges not exposed to the outside, interlocking door designs, dead bars, jeweler’s lugs and active or inactive locking bolts.

or All of the following requirements:

1. Is listed as an Underwriters Laboratories Residential Security Container;
2. Is able to fully contain firearms;
3. Provides for the secure storage of firearms.

BURGLAR SAFES:

Burglar safes are usually made of solid steel plate or a combination of solid steel and composite fill material such as concrete. These safes are divided into categories based on the level of protection delivered and the testing endured. Here we will discuss only seven classes: B-Rate, U.L. RSC Rating, B/C Rate, C-Rate, U.L. TL-15, U.L. TL-30 and TL-30 X6.

B-RATE SAFES (ALSO U.L. RSC, RESIDENTIAL SECURITY CONTAINERS):

B-Rate is a catchall rating for essentially any box with a lock on it. The safe industry had an unwritten standard of ¼ inch body, ½ inch door. As steel prices (and shipping costs) increased manufacturers tried many things to reduce their costs. No tests are given to provide this rating. When buying a B-rate safe, look at things such as lock work, hard plates, and relocks.

U.L. Residential Security Container rating (RSC) - This UL rating is based on testing conducted for a net working time of five minutes, on all sides, with a range of tools. See U.L. TL-15 and TL-30 descriptions below for "net working time" description.

B/C-Rate Safes

This is a catchall rating for safes with at least a 1/4" steel body, 1/2 inch door PLUS additional 10 or 12 guage metal layers where composite fire resistant material is also deployed. No tests are given to provide this rating. Look at the lock work, relocks and other features when making your decision.

C-Rate Safes

This is defined as a ½ inch thick steel box with a 1-inch thick door and a lock. As before, NO tests are given to provide this rating. Look at the lock work, relocks and other features when making your decision.


The Underwriters Laboratory information:

Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL) Ratings
http://www.ul.com

TL-15

Safes given a U.L. TL-15 rating have all passed standardized tests defined in UL Standard 687 using the same tools and usually the same group of testing engineers.Construction Requirements

• U.L. listed Group II, 1 or 1R combination lock.
• 750 lbs. minimum or comes with instructions for anchoring in a larger safe, concrete blocks or on the premises where used.
• Body walls of material equivalent to at least 1" open hearth steel with a minimum tensile strength of 50,000 P.S.I.
• Walls fastened in a manner equivalent to continuous 1/4" penetration weld of open hearth steel with minimum tensile
  strength of 50,000 P.S.I.
• One hole 1/4" or less, to accommodate electrical conductors arranged to have no direct view of the door or locking mechanism.

The label means that the safe successfully resisted entry (i.e. opening the door or making a 6" square opening entirely through the door or front face) for a NET working time of 15 minutes using "…common hand tools, drills, punches hammers, and pressure applying devices." Net working time means simply "when the tool comes off the safe the clock stops". There are over fifty different types of attacks that can be used to gain entrance into the safe. Usually they will try only 2 or 3 based on what they know about the product, and they know a lot.

TL-30

Construction requirements are identical to the TL-15 above. Tests are essentially the same as the TL-15 tests except for the net working time. Testors are allowed 30 minutes and a few more tools (abrasive cutting wheels and power saws) to help them gain entrance. The label signifies the testors were unable to open the door or make a 6" square opening entirely through the door or front face within 30 minutes. Keep in mind these engineers have the manufacturing blue prints and can disassemble the safe being tested before the test begins to see how it works. They know their stuff. TL-30 x 6 - The TL-30 (30-minute) test is conducted on all six (6) sides of the safe.

Other Considerations

When you begin the search for a safe it is a good idea to speak to your insurance agent and see if a particular type of safe will reduce your insurance costs. Many times you can justify the additional expense of a higher security safe because of the premium reduction. Remember no safe is burglar proof, you are buying time. The longer it takes to break in the greater the chance to be caught, and thieves don’t like to get caught.

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10 Things You Didn't Know About UL's Safe Testing

1. The best safecrackers in the business never steal a penny. They work for UL.
   
   
2. UL has been testing and certifying safes for more than 80 years. The first safe tested for burglary resistance was in 1923 and the first bank vault in 1925.
   
   
3. Chisels, wenches, screwdrivers, power saws, cutting torches, crowbars, abrasive cutting wheels, jackhammers, even specified amounts of nitroglycerin are just a few of the "tools" UL technicians use during a safe attack. The idea is to test safes to worst-case scenarios. They use tools that could be found at any construction site or hardware store. They also analyze blueprints as if the burglar might have blueprints of the design and attack its weakest points to evaluate the safe for certification.
   
   
4. UL's safe attack tests are conducted by a two-person crew. The object is to create an opening large enough to withdraw "valuables" (anywhere from 2- to 6-square-inches on a safe and up to 96-square-inches on a vault), activate the locking mechanism so the door opens or to cut as many bolts from the door as necessary to pry it open before the time specified in the rating requirement expires.
   
   
5. Safes are rated for their resistance to attack against specific tools for a set period of time. There are a dozen different ratings, everything from ATM machines, to gun safes to bank vaults. For example, a safe that bears a Class TRTL-15X6 rating, which might be found in a jewelry store, should resist a hand tool and torch attack for a minimum of 15 minutes. A TRTL-30X6-rated safe, which would protect important documents or store money, should withstand an attack for 30 minutes. The ultimate safe rating-a TXTL60-should withstand an hour's worth of attack that includes the use of 8 ounces of nitroglycerin.
   
   
6. Because of the size and weight of certain safes and vault doors, it is not always practical to have the product shipped to UL's laboratory locations. UL's burglary protection staff has traveled to destinations such as Japan, France, Israel, England, Finland, Taiwan and India.
   
   
7. In addition to burglary protection ratings, UL also rates safes for their fire resistance protection. Class 350 safes protect paper documents, Class 150 safes protect magnetic tape and photographic film, while Class 125 safes protect floppy disks. In addition to the Class Rating, safes obtain an hourly rating for fire resistance-anywhere from 30 minutes to four hours.
   
   
8. Another cool test UL runs on safes is an impact test. This test simulates a safe falling though multiple stories of a building-resulting from a fire that has weakened the structure. After the safe is heated to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit in a furnace, it's raised three stories and dropped onto a pile of bricks. In order to meet the requirement, the safe can't pop open. Temperatures inside can't rise to above 300 degrees Fahrenheit and sample papers left inside have to be readable.
   
   
9. The specialized suits you sometimes find technicians wearing are not just for show. Their entire ensemble, including protective coat, helmet and gloves, protects the crew against the adverse effects of sparking. After all, safety can't be taken for granted, even within the walls of UL.
   
   
10. Safes are just one of the 19,000 product categories that UL tests and certifies. While UL's burglary protection team cracks combinations, shatters glass and fires .44-caliber bullets at body armor, other UL engineers and technicians keep busy testing everything from TVs, coffee makers and holiday light strings to fire extinguishers, medical CAT scan equipment and building materials.

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What Brands Of Locks Do You Recommend?

Being in the locksmith business, I am obviously asked often for recommendations on types and brands of hardware.

Having been in the industry for over 25 years, does not necessarily make me an expert, but having used and installed many different brands over the years, I do have my favorites.

Previously to the last 3 years, I worked in the USA almost 20 years ago and the products available back then were significantly better quality than what is generally found today.

Recently, I have been quite impressed with the Cal-Royal brand of products. In fact my signature product Bilock, uses a Cal-Royal brand deadbolt as it's choice of hardware to re-brand with the Bilock name because of the superior quality of manufacturing, the ease of installation and the aesthetic finishes of the trims.

Pictured here, is the HIL series residential entrance kit.

Meets ANSI A156.2 Series Grade 2 requirements "UL" listed for 3 hour doors 6-pin solid brass "C" keyway standard

Unique individual spring on exterior and interior side of lever to prevent lever sag Simultaneous retraction on both latch and deadbolts from inside by turning the lever in a panic-proof exit situation

Pictured here, is the Genesys Series commercial lever sets.

Meets or exceeds standards of BHMA/ANSI A 156.2 Series 4000, Grade 1 requirements Standard 6 pin solid brass "C" keyway "UL" listed for 3 hour fire labeled doors Extra Heavy Duty Cylindrical Lever Sets (Clutch Style)

Thru-bolted assembly through door with separate spring cage for each lever Featuring CLUTCH System, free turning handle to deter breaking of the handle Key removable outside lever for fast rekeying

Pictured here, is the M series commercial mortise lock.

Rust-proof heavy duty 2 3/4" Backset lock case Individual spring to prevent lever sag, easily reversible Forged brass lever handles exceed requirements of ADA Auxiliary latchbolt

Armored front plate conceals lock mounting screws 1" Throw Heavy Duty Deadbolt with Anti-Saw Hardened Pins Heavy Duty 3/4" latchbolt with anti-friction latch, easily reversible Heavy duty stopworks

There are many choices today when selecting hardware for your applications. This is but one choice worth considering.

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Lego Safe

You might think that a Lego safe would be easy to open. Maybe just remove a few bricks and you’re in. But that’s not the case with this thing, the cutting edge of safe technology. The safe weighs 14 pounds and has a motion detecting alarm so it can’t be moved without creating a huge ruckus. The lock takes five double digit codes to open it. That's into over 305 billion different combinations. It even boasts an electronic status display showing the numbers as you turn the combination dials. When you enter the combination, the door electronically opens itself. It’s a great place to store all of your valuable geek stuff. Check out a video below.

Biometric Voice Activated Safe

Yes! This is a novelty item. Especially for the holiday season.

Just say the word! This ultra-secure, high-tech safe only opens at the sound of your voice.

• Uses voice-recognition technology
• Prompts you for biometric verification
• Identifies the sound waves of your voice
• Door opens automatically
• Provides hands-free access
• Alarm sounds when someone tries to physically open it
• Features a handy shelf and drawer

Keep your secret treasures secure in this cool, cutting-edge safe.

Ages:	8 +
Batteries:	Requires 3 AA batteries (not included)
Dimensions:	5.75" L x 6.5" W x 7.75" H
Weight:	1.4 Pounds
Made In:	China
Made Of:	Plastic
Model Number:	0205606
Gift Box:	Available

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Kwikset SmartCode Signature Series

Kwikset have just released this new elegantly designed combination/key deadbolt lock using the recent Smart Key cylinder product.

The Smart Key cylinder product is so designed to mimimize the threat of key bumping that has gained much notoriety in society today.

This new design does not require the additional hole drilling that some other (more expensive) brands require.

You can plainly understand the benefits of this product. No need to hand over a key to your cleaner or tradesman, simply give them a code for entry.
When their task is completed or they are no longer in your employ, simply change or delete their code.

Available in Venetian Bronze, Lifetime Brass and Satin Nickel.

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Bilock (A Closer Look) Part II

Pictured below is Bilock's Rim cylinder. This is the type of cylinder that you will see used for surface mounted locks like panic exit devices, gate locks etc.

Here you can see the technical drawing dimensions of Bilock's Rim cylinder.

Pictured here is a typical application of Bilock's Rim cylinder.

Bilock Rim cylinders sell for about $125 each.

Bilock (A Closer Look)

Interest in Bilock products certainly seems to be increasing, at least for me. I am seeing a significant increase in stock movements, which leads me to write todays piece.

Pictured to the left is Bilock's Schlage cylinder. This cylinder is designed to retro-fit in almost the entire range of Schlage products.

Schlage products use varying length and style connecting tail-pieces, to suit their broad range of products. In the residential market, the cylinders are generally all the same with varying types of connecting tails for the different models of deadbolts and entrance locksets.

Bilock's unique ability to design it's cylinders, maintaining the highest standards while using original hardware, offers customers a significant advantage and savings by negating the need to replace the hardware.

Example: Yesterday, I was called to a property to change locks. The customer required restricted keys to prevent unauthorized duplication of keys. All existing locks were Schlage brand. I was able to maintain using the existing hardware and simply replace the inner cylinders only, maintaining the existing character and aesthetics and significantly limiting the expense normally required for new locks. Result: 100% Fully secure, bump proof, pick proof locks with keys that can only be created after receipt of a correctly authorized letter.

Pictured to the left are the technical dimensions of the Bilock Schlage style entrance cylinder.

Bilock Schlage type entrance cylinders sell for about $70 each.

RoboDog Portable Guard Dog

This excellent product would appeal to apartment dwellers who desire the protection that an animal can provide but without the food bill and cleaning or walking that needs to be done for it's upkeep.

The Robo-Dog Barking Alarm Kit simulates a real, angry dog barking, making it the perfect watchdog for anyone home alone. Use the included Keychain Remote to scare off intruders at the touch of a button!

Product Uses

• Use Robo-Dog to scare off prowlers
• Protect your home while you are on vacation!
• Take it with you! Renters this is an excellent security system for you! It moves with you!
• Use Robo-Dog while you're away!

Product Features

• Built -in X10 transceiver !
• 100 foot range
• Adjustable Volume
• Includes 3 "Beware of Dog" window stickers
• 30 second auto turn off
• Keychain remote control

$59.99

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Types Of Locks Part II

Many people are unaware as to the differences between residential and commercial lockset backsets.

The "Backset" is the distance between the edge of the door and the center of the keyhole.

The diagram below shows what I mean:

The two common backsets are:

Commercial = 2-3/4" (2.75"/70mm)

Residential = 2-3/8" (2.375"/60mm)

Many latches and bolts (commonly referred to as "backsets" in the trade) are available in adjustable lengths for the residential market.

Commercial backsets are supplied in as above, standard. Should you require a different backset length, you need to be very specific when you order.

There are also various times when a 5" (127mm) backset will be requested. These are usually for significantly more expensive and better quality mortise vestibule type locksets, although some residential brands also manufacture these lengths. Likewise, you can specially order backsets that enable "center of the door" fittings. This enables a residential door to have the handle positioned in the center of the door. Sometimes the aesthetic appeal of a center mounted handle, can add significant value to the look of a door.

Types Of Locks Part I

Determining the type of lock you have on your door can greatly assist your locksmith professional to determine the better course of action for repair or replacement of the hardware on your doors.

Understanding the differences between lock styles is fairly simple and easy for anyone to distinguish.

We will try to describe some of the popularly found lock styles in this and future posts, to assist customers wishing to source for repair or replacement products.

These are the commonly used cams found on the back (rear) of most threaded mortise cylinders. Identifying this cam on your cylinder requires you to remove the cylinder from the door.

This is a brief diagram of a standard mortise type cylinder found in commercial and residential vestibule mortise locksets. The critical measurement here is "C", where by the length of the cylinder determines the width of your door.

It is necessary to remove this cylinder from your door, to be able to determine the correct length. Standard lengths are 1.125" & 1.25".

Special order cylinders can be purchased in longer lengths if required.

Making Keys To Cars

Many locksmiths across the world are often called upon by customers to duplicate or re-create original keys for cars, trucks, buses, motor homes, prime movers, motorcycles and other motor driven equipment.

Since 1995, many automobile manufacturers have included advanced security features to their products, in an attempt to provide their customers with state of the art protection, reduce incidence of theft and also to provide advanced diagnostics information for mechanics and repairers.

When the auto industry started evolving, many customers found themselves only able to duplicate modern auto keys at their respective dealerships. Not Anymore!

Thanks to the excellent research and development of companies like Advanced Diagnostics, locksmiths across the world have been able to purchase suitable equipment to enable the duplication and origination of automobile keys.

There have also been many advances in the locksmith industry in relation to the ability to make keys for cars without the need to remove lock cylinders. Tools like EEZ Readers, Determinators etc, reduce the need to dismantle doors or ignitions, significantly speeding up the time required to perform key origination requests.

Many locksmiths posess the ability to code cut keys to customers providing the original keycode for their vehicles. But, the greater majority of customers never recorded the original keycode information after initial purchase, causing increased expense when the need arose to make new keys. In recent times, many automobile manufacturers have started to produce their vehicles without keycodes embossed on the lock cylinders and dealers usually only maintained records for up to 5 years.

A new law is about to come into effect in California next year thanks to the efforts of the National Automotive Services Task Force (NASTF), that will require all dealer representatives to provide 24 hour keycode assistance to customers. The sticking point in this new legislation is that only approved locksmiths (ALOA members) and other specific trades, will be allowed to access this information. No doubt, the ability to access vehicle codes will impact the industry with likely increased prices for the purchase of code information, there are a few locksmiths who will never require the codes because, the level of training they have completed will enable them to provide services to customers in spite of the attempted industry regulating efforts of NASTF.

When customers seek new keys for their vehicles, I recommend they seek out a qualified locksmith professional with the appropriate transponder programming equipment, who can offer services only a properly trained technician can perform.

At Locks210.com, we consider ourselves reasonably proficient in many locksmith duties and tasks, however we are not currently suitably qualified or equipped to provide the expert assistance necessary to perform automotive key manufacturing requests.

We strongly recommend the services of our colleague Patrick Chapman of St Louis Lock & Key (314)494-2510.

If you are located in Vancouver, British Columbia or the surrounding area, we have absolutely no hesitation in recommending Mike Behr of Behr Lock Inc (604)880-9891.

If you are located in the Winnipeg, Manitoba region, we strongly recommend Darren Ingleson of Wildwood Lock & Security (204)791-7911.

Animal Repellant Device

There are many and varied forms of security. Many people may think that a security device is designed to protect from human intruders.

While this is true with locks and alarm systems, CCTV and other sensors, sometimes people also intend to secure or protect their gardens from unwanted pests or animal intruders.

Enter the Bell & Howell Animal Repeller.

This intelligent device is a stand alone, battery powered sensor and alarm that emits a high pitched sound inaudible to humans, but truly disturbing to animals.

This type of device might be the perfect gift for the avid gardener who wants to protect the precious roses or vegetable crop from wild animals.

At $29.95 it's a steal.

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Motion Activated Owl Sensor

Not necessarily a security device but this unique product might have some security features for helping ward off animals or pests in your yard.

You could also use it as a Halloween prop.

A motion sensing alarm that sounds and looks like an owl.

When it detects movement within 4-6 feet, owl turns its head to look and lets out a loud, lifelike “hoo hoo.” It can also be set for head movement only. Life-size and made of durable, weather-resistant polyresin. Can be mounted (hardware included). Uses 3 AA batteries (not included).

8" w x 7" d x 16" h.

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Wireless Key Locator

This ingenious device is the perfect gadget for people who constantly misplace their keys.

Never lose your keys again
No more morning panics—just press one of the color-coded buttons and wait for the loud alarm to sound, showing you where to find your keys.

Works at a range of 60 feet
Do you tend to lose your keys in the couch, under the bed, on the kitchen counter? It doesn’t matter, the Wireless Key Finder will find them up to 60 feet away, through floors, walls, even sofa cushions!

Specifications

Includes two colored key fobs Uses two AAA batteries (not included)

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Crime Statistics

Living in the St Louis Metropolitan area, I thought it might be advantageous to develop a monthly report here, listing the quantity of robbery, break and enter and theft statistics reported to police departments in various metropolitan localities.

It is my intention to display a new report monthly, based of information obtained by participating police agencies.

I will not list the actual addresses but I will try to give numbers of instances in Robbery, Burglary, Theft and Alarms.

The first area reported is Maryland Heights, MO. 30 days 9/23/08 - 10/23/08



62 Alarm reports - Burglar in house
10 Break and Enters
4 x No Force Entry
5 x Forced Entry
1 x Attempted Entry
27 Property Crimes
14 x Damage to Private Property
3 x Trespassing on Private Property
6 x 1st Degree Property Damage
1 x 2nd Degree Property Damage
3 x Damage to City Property
1 Robbery Report
60 Theft Reports
23 x Motor Vehicle Related
2 x Coin Machine Thefts
10 x Building Related Thefts
9 x Passing Bad Check
2 x Identity Theft
14 x Other
5 Motor Vehicle Thefts.


Being in the physical security industry, it is astonishing to discover the quantity of reported crimes. One has to wonder about all the non-reported crimes too.

As a locksmith professional and physical security equipment provider, Locks210.com installs many state of the art products that are designed to protect from crimes of these nature.

To find out how we can help you to protect your property from potential crimes, contact us for an obligation free assessment.

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Why do Car Keys Cost So Much?

I recently came across an article, in another locksmiths website (C&R Mobile Locksmith - Belleville Il), that explained the story of car keys as it relates to modern times.

There is a little history of car keys, a little explanation of why original manufacture or duplication of keys costs so much and some of the theory behind the introduction of these keys.

A former ALOA representative also chimes in to explain why locksmiths also tend to charge relatively high prices for duplication or original manufacture.

At the time of the article (2002), it was not uncommon for some locksmiths to have paid in excess of $50,000.00 for the suitable equipment required to provide services to requesting customers. Today, it is substantially cheaper to purchase the modern equipment necessary if a locksmith were to consider adding auto-transponder keys and services to the inventory of products, but even so, the prices for making duplicates is considered astronomical. The prices for originals (if you have lost yours, say), is through the roof and sometimes in excess of the monthly car repayment.

If you want to read the entire article, click on source below.

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Locksmith Services Pricing - A Little Bit Of History

As a St Louis Locksmith, I am often asked about pricing and costs and why they vary greatly between companies.

I recently came across an article first written in June 1989 for The New York Times, that described the process and prices that various locksmiths charged for their specialized services at that time.

Being 20 years later, it seems that many of the prices have reduced or barely increased, all the while, cost of materials, cost of living and wages have all increased in comparisson.

Many customers, even today, continue to perform price checks to compare different companies services and products.

June 1989 Article in The New York Times

Given the current economic doom and gloom, it is great that most of the locksmith industry continues to maintain considerate pricing of their goods and services.

Strikemaster II - Product Selling Fast

I must admit I'm not surprised that more people are ordering this fantastic product as it truly saves people money, time and effectively secures their homes.

Demand is strong and I am finding the need to order in increasing quantities.

Another customer suffered a break in where the exact purpose of the strikemaster was designed for. The door, being of solid construction and very good quality, the lock being of reasonable security and aesthetics, did their job properly, but the Jamb (where the door closes into) was made from light grade pine that was 1" x 2" in size. It broke with a small kick from a burglar and almost completely shattered the door frame.

The customer had inquired as to how much to get the whole frame replaced, elsewhere, before contacting me. My solution was the most economical and most aesthetically pleasing, negating the need to replace all the carpentry. The client saved 100's of dollars on the job as a result.

In many customers homes, their actual front doors (or back doors) may be constructed using metal casings (on the door itself), but the actual jamb (where the door closes into) is usually made from wood. Whilst the door may be reasonably strong enough to withstand an attempted forced entry, the jamb is usually not. Enter Strikemaster II.


Locks210.com is pleased to make this product now available to residents and businesses in St Louis.

StrikeMaster II offers a unique and innovative solution to prevent burglars from entering your home, StrikeMaster II strikes-back instantly. Its patented strike plates make the door casing virtually unbreakable.

The easiest way for a criminal to get into your house is just too kick-in your door! The FBI says every 12 seconds a home is invaded by going right through the front or back door. Open your front door and look at the dead bolt plate. There is one inch of soft wood protecting the safety of your home - your door casings can not protect you from a thief kicking your door

How much does a StrikeMaster II cost? $109.95 plus shipping/handling and installation.

A former police officer was recently quoted. "I am a retired Chief of Police with more than 30 years in law enforcement and security and have investigated 1000's of residential burglaries and domestic assaults that were due to the crashing or kicking in of the doors at the home. .... I am proud to announce that I have seen an amazing new product called the StrikeMaster II. This is inexpensive and stronger than any would-be homicidal maniac, I promise... the security market has finally produced a product that is better than locks and alarms. I highly recommend this product on all your outside doors at your home." - Donald Purnell CLL, CFE, Director of Security, Sentry Watch, Inc.

There are numerous testimonials to the quality of this product. One in particular is:
"On the 16th of May, 2005, our home in Chicago was broken into by thieves who shouldered/kicked their way in, through 3 separate doors, one entry and two apartments. A considerable amount of valuables and memorabilia were stolen, including identity theft. Upon observing the 'ease' of entry by these thieves, we set about investigating door protection measures on the internet.
After observing a very graphic video on the 'Safe Home International' site, we ordered the StrikeMaster II for overnight delivery, with the caveat that we would do a 'real-life' test after installation. My installer naturally had his doubts, as I asked him to kick and shoulder the door, after the product was installed. He asked me who would pay for the door frame repair 'in case it didn't work as advertised,'I said I would be responsible, since the safety of our family and property was of utmost concern. I weigh in at 240 lbs and I 'shouldered/kicked' the door three times, without it's failing. My installer, who closely approximates the LARGE individual in the graphic video, had at the door next. He shouldered it twice and kicked it last, his size 11 shoe imprint is still on the back door, although the wall seemed to 'bow in,' the door did not budge. My installer came away convinced, and I came away satisfied, that I made my Family and my Home that much more secure.
The cost/benefit ratio as well is definitely in favor of the StrikeMaster II in comparison with other devices currently on the market. To say that we are more than pleased with the results we obtained from the product, as well as it's support, would be an accurate assessment. -APA Chicago"

Deadbolt Tough As A Tank

This sensational new product is built from high-grade materials, enabling it to stand up to some of the toughest and roughest attacks.



The AP501 Advanced Protection Security Deadbolt uses new technology that has been rigorously tested to meet the highest standards.

Zinc-Alloy and Steel construction. Fail-safe weatherproofing. Locksmith and lockpick-proof Tag Key. Weighing over 6 pounds, we call this lock "Tank Tough".

	Incredibly Weatherproof The lock is fully functional in sustained temperatures of -35 degrees Fahrenheit, and up to +130 degrees Fahrenheit. Waterproofing allows it to resist rain and moisture of tropical storm proportions.
	Incredibly Fast Momentarily hold your Tag Key key to the lock, and the deadbolt releases - no key holes, no opportunity to be picked.
	Incredibly Easy Easy to install, impossible to take down. The AP501 is specifically designed to adhere to North American door standards, so in most cases, the AP501 will simply replace your existing deadbolt - the only tool you'll need is a screwdriver.

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Supra Key Box

• Trusted by real estate agents for over 40 years
• Easy access for friends and family
• Provides scheduled access for cleaning
personnel, pool service, household maintenance
and unattended deliveries
• Securely mounts to most flat surfaces with
4 screws provided
• SURFACE MOUNT UNIT
• WEATHER RESISTANT METAL within
Titanium Color
• WEATHER RESISTANT, HIGH IMPACT
PLASTIC BUTTONS

$40.00

Sound Proof Doors

THX has more uses then just making a starship battle sound awesome you know. That’s why THX has partnered with Serious Materials to develop some new sound proof doors. The QuietHome soundproof doors are the 2 1/4-inch thick THX-certified doors that claim to be a full 85% acoustical improvement over any other sound proof doors.

How does it work? QuietHome Doors incorporate Serious’ proprietary viscoelastic polymer-based constrained layer damped system, a multi-layer design and advanced seals throughout the door edge. The doors are made up of stainable wood, and come in a pre-hung door package. You wouldn’t want to just replace your front door with it. Well, maybe you would if you are super loud. Your neighbors would appreciate it. But it’s designed for high-end home theaters, commercial studios, offices and conference rooms etc. The doors will cost you $2,500 and will block out so much sound your neighbors will think the place is vacant.

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Master Ipod Security Case

iPods are Hot!

iPods and MP3 players have quickly become some of the most popular and widely used portable media players with people of all ages. Their frequent use while people are on the go and are less attentive to their surroundings – and the visible white ear buds – have made them an easy target for would be thieves in urban areas, on campus, and on public transportation systems. Without built–in anti–theft deterrents or subscriptions, iPods and MP3 players are left fully operational if stolen.

Your iPod Security Solution

With these factors in mind, Master Lock^® created the iPod iCage™, a locking skin for protecting your iPod player. The iCage creates added security and convenience to your media player with a lightweight metal skin, scratch resistant cover, and set-your-own combination lock and cable. Most iPod users purchase a skin for scratch protection – why not buy a skin that adds a convenient security solution as well?

The following statistics are a few years old, but with the quantity of Apple products and other MP3 players ever increasing, so is the quantity of crime related to these devices. And dont forget the unreported instances.

iPod Theft Statistics

National statistics are not detailed enough to tell how many robberies involved iPods, but statistics from New York, Washington, DC, and the San Francisco Bay area show that iPod thefts were responsible for a significant fraction of increased crime in those areas. Things got so bad in New York subways in 2005 that warnings were posted that read "Earphones are a giveaway. Protect your device.”

• Washington D.C.
  
  • From January through April 2007, 30 iPods were stolen from Metro customers. iPod thefts totaled 34 in all of 2006, and just two in 2005. (Washington Metro Area Transit Authority)
  • 2007, robberies of iPods on the Metro alone account for approximately 4% of all robberies in the city, compared with well less than 1% of robberies in 2005.
• New York
  
  • In the first three months of 2005, major felonies rose 18.3% on the New York City subway — however, if cell phone and iPod thefts are excluded, felonies actually declined by 3%,
• Washington
  
  • March 21, 2007, exact numbers in Seattle are hard to pin down, but the latest police figures show 135 iPods have been stolen, many by force, over the past 3 1/2 months.
• San Francisco
  
  • There were four reported iPod robberies in 2004, 102 in 2005, and 193 in 2006.
  • 2004-2006, iPod robberies accounted for 23% of the increase in robbery in the entire city over that time.
• Los Angeles
  
  • Police statistics indicate that robberies of iPods and cell phones are up 34 percent this year, accounting for about 1,700 of the city’s 8,000 total robberies. (LAPD November 9th, 2006)
  
  
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