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.

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.

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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. 

Revive - The King Of Lubricant Protection

Many consumers in America love buying American designed, produced and manufactured products, especially products designed to make their lives easier.

About a generation ago (20+ years) a product entered the market in the USA that dramatically altered the motor racing and machinery industries.

This week, we attended to a customer who required some door repairs at their home. The customer was the gentleman (product demonstrator) in the next few videos.

Being in the locksmith and door repair/service business, about 35 years now and having worked on 4 continents, I have used and sought many varying types of lubricants to assist in the longevity of moving parts in door locks, hinges, rollers, springs, hydraulic door closers etc. Many locksmiths and fellow door service professionals tend to use their own preferred types of lubricants, greases or oils that offer long term protections to their customers, their own machinery, vehicles etc.

Revive is a unique product manufactured right here in St Louis Missouri, that has proven itself to mechanics, engine machinists, tool makers, motor racing enthusiasts and many other tradespeople who have found that the product expertly increases the long term viability of their equipment, protects their engines and increases their fuel economy, while reducing the cost of repair and service.

The videos below, we have broken into 3 parts.

The first video demonstrates how the Revive product works and shows it being tested using a unique tester/demonstrator. (When we visited out client, he performed a test on my preferred lubricant that I have been using and recommending for 25 years+)

The second video continues the demonstration and has some testimonials from users of the product.

The third video displays an onsite demonstration in a machine shop/mechanic to show the benefits of Impact Grease with Revive














A few years back we had written some posts about another lubricant product Promagic Lubragel that has enjoyed many thousands of views and a stunning number of requests for more details. I know the patent holder and original manufacturer, who has not produced the product for a while now, but this product Revive, looks to me, to be an even better product.


For purchase options and further details about the products, check the source below...


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Ross BLE Safe Lock - A Mechanical Key Operated Safe Lock with Bluetooth Access Control Included

I first met Keith Ross about 32 years ago when I was an apprentice locksmith working for one of Australia's leading locksmith companies.

He is an affable chap who is an old school engineer and specialty security product manufacturer that has built a highly respected reputation around Australia, many parts of the southern hemisphere and gradual penetration into the markets of the northern hemisphere.

KJ Ross Security Locks began it's life in 1951 and grew to become one of, if not the most highly respected names in the Australian Security Lock industry.

Their wide range of products are all designed and manufactured in Australia and continue to be produced there today, despite the potential for cheaper manufacturing alternatives elsewhere.

The Ross BLE Safe Lock option, is one of their newer products recently released to market and is seeing significant traction in the safe manufacturing industry.

This great product offers increased security alternatives to commonly found digital lock products, you may see in other safe product offerings.

The body of the safe lock is comparable size to other manufacturers technical specifications, meaning it can be retrofitted in place of many other brands of safe locks.

The unique difference with the Ross BLE Safe Lock is that you can control the lock using your Bluetooth enabled Apple iPhone (Android compatibility is in development).

The product is totally off the grid and does not use the internet or cloud to store any data. This is important, given the increasing data breaches we hear about constantly in the news. All authorised users and ekey data is completely stored within the PCB controller itself.

The product is stand alone and operates using two (2) 1.5 volt batteries that can be replaced easily. the legendary Ross Six (6) Lever mechanical key lock system is incorporated within the product too (a necessary feature when batteries go flat) It uses a unique wave key design that is almost impossible to duplicate. The product also comes with an escutcheon plate and a wave key insert that installs into the dial combination spindle hole of the safe door.

Operating Features

• This model provides a proprietary multi-layer security encryption with rolling code to eliminate unauthorised access.
• Comprises an advanced self-defence protocol.
• Contains intelligent anti-hacking controls and counter-measures.

The Administrator App

• Profiles the way the lock is to be opened by its endorsed users. Operating modes include –
• (Manual) that requires an ‘Unlock’ button to be pressed on the smartphone, or
• (Pin-Secured) that requires a PIN to be entered on the smartphone. The ‘eKey’ profiling feature includes –
• Distribution of ‘eKey’ profiles to all users granted access to the lock.
• Profiles an ‘eKey’ prior to its distribution by granting a date and/or time profile that defines the time-frame in which the lock can be opened.
• An ‘eKey’ is distributed as a steganographically encrypted SMS attachment that is unique to that user’s smartphone.
• An Audit Trail display facility is provided.
• Instigates the purchase of additional ‘eKeys’.
• Has the provision to store (96) ‘eKeys’.

The User App

• Engages with the ‘eKey’ access profile when it comes to opening the lock. Features include –
• The ‘Open’ activation period can be set from (1) second to a (4) minute time-frame.
• An automatic re-lock occurs at the end of this activation period.
• A low-battery warning feature is included.

MSDS

Keith is an awesome fellow and produces his products in Knoxfield Victoria Australia (I grew up in Victoria).

KJ Ross Pty Ltd also produce a number of other well deigned and manufactured security products, some of which we have sold here in North America in the past.

Products like:

The 600 Series weld on safe lock

The 700 Series that is designed to easily replace most standard 3 wheel dial combination locks using the existing spindle hole without need to modify the safe door.

The 102 series  (which incidentally, I use on the safe I built from scratch during the third year of my apprenticeship in 1987)

And many other unique products.

see the site in the source below.

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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?

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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.

Walmart To Offer Free In House Delivery Including Stocking Your Fridge

A new service by Walmart, introduced this week is set to compete with Amazon for home deliveries of products ordered. Except that Walmart will have their couriers unlock your door, enter your kitchen, open your fridge and stock your purchased groceries on your behalf.

All you have to do is install a wifi operated lock to your entry door, give permission to Walmart employees to enter your home and to stock your fridge.


That all sounds wonderful, doesnt it?

Amazon introduced a similar service last year after successfully merging their acquisition of Ring and Bleep into their company, We wrote a few articles about Amazon Key and related services here.

Are you owner or resident,willing to allow people you dont know, permission to enter your home when youre not there, have access to your kitchen and pretty much the run of your house?

Are you prepared to pay the increased insurance premiums that will no doubt be incurred?

Even if these companies compel their employees to wear body cameras, so you can view them as they enter your private home, are you really going to open yourself to the privacy concerns?

Modern technologies are great in idea and sometimes in practise. But some ideas are just plain silly.
As a locksmith security specialist, experienced technician and appraiser, I continue to explain to my customers the pitfalls of some modern electronic battery operated security products. Many will agree with me once they understand the potential security and privacy concerns.

I often discuss with clients about their current push button battery operated deadbolt they may have fitted. In many of these discussions, the client points out that, after the third or fourth time replacing the batteries, they will go back to using the mechanical key. The most common reason, is they did not expect the regular and repeated need to replace batteries, adding significantly to their cost of their chosen product. Combine this with they being locked out of their residence when they least expect it and still requiring to call a locksmith to pick their lock open due to not carrying their key.

Electronics do indeed improve our quality of life. But at the exhorbitant cost of a ~$250+ electronic lock, that is more prone to power failure, weathering, house and door movement etc, requiring increased maintenance over the mechanical products that have been around for hundreds of years, the cost differences alone, one might think to keep using and relying on maintenance free security.

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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.









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ERA Bolts Makes Securing Unusual Doors A Painless Yet Simple Exercise

 A project we completed this week for a medical surgery was to help them comply with modern HIPPA codes that many AHJ's (Authorities Having Jurisdiction) are requiring medical surgery centers, across the country to comply with.

The call was received to find suitable and cost effective locking solutions to secure cabinets in patient examination rooms that hold drugs and supplies that need to be secured from unauthorized access.

Also requested was a solution to secure a set of double doors on a closet used for the centers computer server. The double door closet was unusual because the doors had been split in two, effectively creating four (4) separated leaves. We suggest this was done to minimize the space being used inside the server room, which also doubled as another patient examination room.

Era Bolt Installed Into Upper Leaf

Installing the ERA bolt, which is a door security bolt that uses a standard STAR type key and mortising it into the bottom of the upper door, allows a simple method for connecting the top leaf to the bottom leaf.

The upper leaf on both sides already have roller bolts that hold the top leaves into the steel door frame.

The ERA bolt is a simple install into the bottom of the upper door on both sides.

Chiseling The Strike Plate Into The Bottom Leaf

The bottom leaf of each door already had flush bolts installed to connect the bottoms to the floor beneath, so all that was required was a simple solution to connect top and bottom leaves.
Many other technicians choose to use surface mounted barrel bolts that sit on the inside surface of each door and while this is a simple and cost effective solution also, it means a user is required to reach around the rear of each door to operate the barrel bolts. The ERA bolt solution allows front operation using a standard key and is painless to perform easily.

In the first image above, you can see we installed a lever storeroom lock to match the upper door. Use of the locks individual key is required to open the lock and the handle cannot be left unlocked.
rather than simply providing the operating key to the authorized computer server technician, we decided to install a Supra mechanical combination key box to the metal frame of the door, to house the operating key. This onsite container means that the server technician is not responsible for possessing the operating key and potentially losing it, requiring the lock to be rekeyed. A user with the combination can access the mechanical key box onsite to operate the door lock. This also offer a significantly inexpensive option to battery operated door locks that require the constant need to replace batteries.

Supra Mechanical Combination Key Box Installed To Door Frame

The actual original request was to install cupboard locks to selected cabinets. We used CompX Double Door Hidden Cupboard locks to provide simple security to double door cabinets and simple cupboard locks on cabinets in each patient examination room.

View the attached link for more details on the simplicity and effectiveness of the CompX double door locking solution

How To Secure A Double Door Cabinet Using Only One Lock 

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.

Meroni Nova Colors And Functions

In answer to a recent customer inquiry about some color finish options, to replace the locksets installed on their doors at home about 20+ years ago, we decided to put together actual live images photographed ourselves in our home studio light box. Not being professional photographers we hope the images below sufficiently display the actual colors you will see if you fit the lock sets to your doors at home or the office....

Click on the image for larger pictures.

 This color finish is Nickel Aluminum finish

Code: N11 Passage Set
Color NA

Also available in N12 Privacy (bathroom) function

 this finish is PE or Pearl Grey (off white)

Code: N11 Passage
Color: PE

Also available in Privacy (bathroom) function

 Interior view

 This image displays the US2B Satin Stainless Steel color

Code: N11 Passage
Color US2B

Also available in Privacy (bathroom) function

 inside view

 This is the white handle with black buttons

Code: N12 Privacy
Color: BO White

Also available in Passage function

 This image displays the N12 Privacy in GG Gun Metal White

Code: N12 Privacy
Color GG Gun Metal White

Also available in Passage function

 inside view

 This image displays the N12 Privacy (bathroom) function in Gun Metal Grey

Code: N12 Privacy
Color: GW Gun Metal Grey

Also available in Passage function

 Inside view

 This image displays the N12 Privacy (bathroom) function is satin brass ALIA (brass buttons and face caps)

Code: N12

Color: US4 ALIA

Also available in Passage function

 inside view

 This image displays the N12 Privacy (bathroom) function in US4 Satin Brass (with black buttons and face caps)

Code N12
Color US4 Satin Brass

Also available in Passage function

 inside view

 This image displays the N12 Privacy (bathroom) function in US26 Alia, Polished Chrome

Code N12 privacy
Color US26 Alia (chrome buttons and face caps)

Also available in N11 passage function

 inside view

 This image displays the N12 Privacy (bathroom) function in US26D Satin Chrome

Note that the color is very similar to the first image above although it is slightly different.

Code: N12 privacy
Color US26 Satin Chrome (with black buttons and face caps)

Also available in N11 Passage function

Inside view


















The colors displayed above are just some of the available colors we have in stock.
We also have Red, Yellow, Blue, Green, Brown, Polished Brass and others.

Many of the colors listed above can also be special ordered in:
N13 - Keyed Entry Version
N14 - Hotel Room Function (outside handle without push button) key only releases latch, inside handle always unlocked for emergency escape,
N15 - Double cylinder (key unlocks from either inside or outside),
N17 - Entry (key unlocks outside button, inside always unlocked),
N20 - Fixed Dummy Knobs (like for a cupboard door that doesnt require locking),
N21 - Outside fixed knob (no button)
N24 - Hotel Indicator Function (outside knob without push button, unlocked only by key; inside thumbturn activates occupancy indicator if provided)\

Normally, all Meroni hardware is custom built to order.
Be aware that there are varying length latches: 60mm (2-3/8"), 70mm (2-3/4"), 80mm (3") and 127mm (5"). latches are available in round ended or square ended faceplates, rebated (rabbited) version, most latches can be ordered with a security deadlatching function too.
Also, there are varying styles and colors of roses too. The standard rose (pictured in the images above) is black nylon. Other roses are available in black metal, satin stainless steel, polished chrome plate, satin brass, brown, antique brass (corinthian).

We do have sufficient stock of most colors in privacy and passage function.

Prices vary based on your custom requirements, contact us for individual pricing.

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.