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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Seasons Greetings

We close Tuesday to travel for Thanksgiving. We will return December 3. We thank you for understanding and bid you and yours health, wealth, happiness and familyhood!

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. 

Statement on Fingerprint Recognition Issue

A little over 6 years ago we wrote an article about issues with the fingerprint sensor affecting Apple iPhones.

The article here explains some of the pitfalls of biometric fingerprint technology and the ease in which some biometric fingerprint scanners can be hacked.

Just yesterday, Samsung made us aware at MWC 2019 (Mobile World Conference) of a simple hack through their new flagship S10 Galaxy phone that defeats the security protocols embedded within.

Similarly to other older known issues with competing brands of fingerprint sensors, used in door locks, safes, vehicles, time clocks etc, the hack involves simply covering the phone screen with a cheap and widely sold screen protector.

The hack can occur when already enrolled fingerprints are stored in the system but by using a screen protector, the sensor becomes "smudged" leaving the product susceptible to virtually any fingerprint.

It has been well know throughout security industry circles (for a great many years) that many fingerprint scanners can be defeated by simply covering the sensor/scanner in clear sticky tape. This effectively stores the last used correct fingerprint and mimics it too easily, by just using any finger on a taped sensor.

Samsung released a statement about 15 hours ago that you can read in the source below.

Will you trust your home or office security or even the security of your cellphone to a vulnerable fingerprint sensor?

Apple decided to remove the fingerprint sensor from their products in subsequent models for the proven, significantly more secure facial recognition technology that is much harder to compromise.

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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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Door And Window Sensor - Not An Alarm

An interesting product that has merits in this IoT era is the Mirabella Door and Window Sensor.

This small but powerful product is specifically designed to inform when the link is broken. Unlike an alarm sensor, that triggers a siren and/or communications to an alarm monitoring company, this sensor is designed to communicate through your homes WiFi system to inform you that the door or window has been opened.

The obvious advantages of this are simple. Know immediately when your children arrive home. know immediately when a door or window is opened, when it typically shouldnt.

Simple. wireless security that is cost efficient and noiseless.

Locks and deadbolts keep your doors and windows secure, alarms are designed to inform that a condition is occurring and make a loud noise. Alarms do not protect, just inform. Sensors do the same thing without the inconvenience of an alarm or paying a monthly alarm monitoring contract.

The Mirabella Sensor is wireless, local, noiseless and connected, to keep you aware of conditions without the pain of false alarms, monthly monitoring fees, police attendance invoices for false alarms etc.

Wireless electronic security at a fraction of the cost of alarm systems (that effectively do the same thing - except cost a lot more)

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Airlock - Tire Pump And Bike Lock Merged

 Continuing on the bicycle lock subject.....
Here you can see a new product currently on Kickstarter that combines a typical bicycle air pump with a bike lock included all in the one product.

A great idea that not only respects the frame of your bike with its size and shape but also doubles to secure your bike when you are not riding it.

Pumping your tire from completely flat might take about 200 strokes to get it pressurised correctly but having the same product also be able to protect your bike from theft, seems like a no-brainer,

The few parts required to build this product contribute to an affordable cost and a low weight ratio while generally fitting in place of most bicycles existing air pump. The hardened cable doubles as the air tube and is locked by a secure keyed cylinder when using it for security.

Available through Kickstarter for only $50, get in now before it goes viral and skyrockets in price.

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Bicycle Locks - Comparison List

The information below is based on a reader-supported website where the site may earn affiliate commissions.

We here at Master Key do not earn anything from the information and present the content for informational purposes only.

You can view the complete details about the products in the source below.



According to Coolest-Gadgets, a reader supported website, the best bike locks of 2019 are as follows.

Best Overall: Onguard Brute
This U lock has been voted as the readers choice number one overall best U lock in its category for overall strength, security and ease of use.

Premium Choice: Abus Bordo

A clear choice for readers/users but probably not equal to the security of the Onguard Brute, is the Abus Bordo Folding Lock.

The is not a typical U lock as it folds up to a compact form and uses a dial combination mechanism.
Manufactured by leading German manufacturer Abus Security, the product is backed by the solid reputation of one of Europe's longest surviving security product manufacturers.

Foldylock is another variation on the Abus Bordo except that this one is key operated.
I decided to post this one as I really like the look of it compared to others in it's genre.
It is a more compact product that is also lightweight but extremely strong.
Here is what it looks like attached...

The compact yet nouveau take on a U lock appears well made and easily attached/stored on your bike when not in use. It's lightweight is a strong pro in my opinion that doesn't strain the weight of your bicycle and looks cool too.

Kryptonite bike locks have cemented their reputation for quality offerings backed by their significant longevity in the bike lock manufacturing business and their latest New York U-Lock is no exception.
They improved their designs to include 4-point locking and strengthened shackle and a heat resistant coating.

My personal favorite from this reader-contributed list is the Wearable Hip Lock.

This unique design is not attached to your bike while riding, meaning it doesnt get in the way like many other types of bike locks can.
Designed to wear around your waist, you can understand the definite advantages in such a product.

The product may be limited to only 44 inch waist lines, but this should encourage you to ride your bike more often (jk).

It is easily applied, see...

The close shackle padlock is designed to prevent bolt cutter attack. The shrouded body protects from smashing/grinding.


For more information on these and the other recommended products visit the source below.

(source,,,)

Rental Car - Fail (Locked Out)

A rather interesting article hit my desk this week that made my eyes and ears prick up.

In recent years, I have been posting here about my feelings regarding many of these modern day IoT (Internet of Things) products and services that i feel are rather insecure and problematic.

It is no secret that the IoT industry has made significant impacts on consumers, industry and life in general, but the industry is still in it's infancy and much to the dilemma of consumers, far too many issues and problems are arising with all this "connectivity".

The article from The Atlantic current affairs publication, describes the authors issue with their recent Zipcar rental car, where they drove into a region NOT covered by cellphone or wifi connectivity,

You see, for the Zipcar system to work, the vehicle requires to be in a "connected" locality.

The Zipcar system, provides a proximity card to access the vehicle or an app on your mobile phone, that allows you to open, enter and start the vehicle you are renting.

But what happens when you are no longer in a connectable location?

By being unable to communicate with the Zipcar technology hub, the renter was locked out of their vehicle. And even if they were able to unlock the vehicle, they would not be able to start it and drive away.

While some may perceive this to be a security blanket to protect the company from vehicle theft, the inconvenience to the renter is maximised. If you are in an inconvenient location, where cellphone access is non-existent or wifi connectivity doesnt exist, what do you do? If cellphone service is unavailable, how do you call for help?

Then, to make matter worse, the renter managed to find a landline to call Zipcar who nicely agreed to waive their fee, but suggested waiting for a tow truck or cab to pick them up. They were in a location where no cab would attend. The tow truck arrived after a while and towed them to an area where there was cellphone connectivity. They were able to unlock the vehicle but it would not start.

An episode that appears to be becoming commonplace in todays IoT connected world.


Another example also mentioned in the article describes, coincidentally a similar issue that happened to (curiously) an IoT expert. He rented a Zipcar to go to the J Paul Getty museum, parked in the underground garage and when he returned, his cellphone had no connectivity and consequently he couldnt operate his zipcar either.

The pitfalls of modern technology are becoming all too common today. Many consumers understand and appreciate the benefits that IoT technology can bring and this has made an impact in the consumer marketplace. But at what cost? When conventional non-connected technology that has worked flawlessly for generations is replaced by nouveau modern technology that has been rushed to market too soon before being tested adequately, perhaps we are better served by maintaining some of yesterdays proven technology that is usually cheaper and longer lasting and significantly easier to maintain.

In my business, technology is also seeing ineffiencies and pitfalls. I continue to sing the praises of mechanical security technology because it is so much cheaper and better quality than many electronic offerings.

With the impending economic doldrums the world may be facing shortly, are you going to rely on IoT technology and battery powered products that are (arguably) designed to fail in two years, or will you continue to benefit from mechanical technology that stands the test of time with low maintenance?

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Closed Until September 3.

Family commitments require us to close until September 3, We apologize for the inconvenience and thank you for understanding.

Safes Are The Logical Alternative To Weapons Safety And protecting All Residents And Citizens Without Altering Gun Laws.

As talks rage on in America about the Great Gun Debate #GreatGunDebate, perhaps educating Americans about gun safety might make a topical subject, worthy of inclusion in educational institutions and across wider society in general.

Americans really do not like being compared to other countries, especially when it comes to life liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

The second amendment to the USA Consitution has repeatedly come under fire from many opponents to the basic right of all Americans, produced during a time in American history when possessing and carrying a gun was an almost necessary fact of life, due to all ranges of varmints, critters and (#RedCoats) others wanting to destroy the fabric of a burgeoning young nation.

I personally grew up, living in regions where firearm safety and security is/was a very important and vital aspect of society.

I fully support the individual right to choose for oneself. And this notion extends to not just firearms, but healthcare, abortion, religious freedoms among other pursuits.

A recent article in Inverse.com exposes the statistics about guns and suicide rates among Americans.
The article, "Controversial Approach To Gun Safety Links Gun Storage With Fewer Suicides" explains statistics  compiled through 2017 and published in 2018.

"The paper presents evidence that military personnel who might have had recent thought of death or self-harm, were significantly less likely than their peers, to keep firearms in their homes. But among those who did keep firearms in their homes, those with a history of such thoughts were only about half as likely to store their weapons safely"

In the survey, which involved data on 1,652 active-duty military personnel collected over 37 months, “safe storage” meant unloaded and locked up. Military personnel at high risk of self-harm were unlikely to store their weapons in this way.

The increasing amounts of shootings and mass murders in this country certainly identifies a mental health issue among a number of "supposedly" licensed and registered weapons owners and also the increasing numbers of non-registered and licensed weapons users. This argument augers well for governments to implement weapons storage ordinances,

Many locksmiths and safe manufacturers, distributors and resellers have deliberately trained in safe knowledge and product knowledge aimed at better protecting all residents from the nastiness of weapons theft, availability and ease to obtain.

Some countries require all weapons purchasers to store their weapons in government approved safes and cabinets, often with a separate lockable cabinet or drawer within, for the separate storage of ammunition.

Such ordinances contribute to the growth of the safe and security products industries, while providing basic protections for the general public, who can appreciate such rules aimed at protecting life.

While altering any constitutional amendment requires a constitutional convention, ratification by a majority of states and approvals of the justice system, the likelihood of such communal agreement in a timely and effective timeframe, is ambitious at best.

In the short term however, weapons owners can protect their investments, their families and their friends and acquaintances, by being pro-active and choosing to secure their property in high-security safes and security cabinets. Consulting your local professional locksmith is a great first step to learning about the wide range of products currently available to protect life and the lives of your fellow residents, while complying with the current laws and without changing or adding to existing weapons rules, laws and ordinances.

See the article in the source below.

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Gate - All-In-One Wifi Deadbolt

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

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

The product is available in 3 distinct service plan options.

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

• Receipt Of All Notifications
• Real Time Video Streaming
• Real Time 2-Way Audio
• Remote Lock And Unlock
• Unlimited Admin/Permanent Access Control
• Unlimited Scheduled Access
• 30 Day Video History
• 30 Day Video Sharing

There is also a 1 year Premium Plan which is effectively identical to the Plus plan but only allows for 10 users on scheduled access and 5 days worth of video history storage and sharing.

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

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

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

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Platinum Safes - A Unique Australian Safe Manufacturer And Distributor

We recently wrote an article about the Ross BLE Safe Lock Option, that we are seeing increased views of, thanks.

Today we are writing about another colleague and true professional safe manufacturer and distributor of some of the finest safes available in the Australian market, Platinum Safes.

We really have been impressed with this forward thinking company for using modern professional manufacturing techniques to create competitively priced safes that physically protect your cash, documents or jewelry.

The state of the economy today is prompting increasing numbers of people to prefer to keep their cash and valuables at home or the office as opposed to financial institutions, often because the ridiculously low interest rates, combined with fees, provide little to no return on investment. In fact, many financial institutions actually charge you a fee to access your own money.

Improved security options, like the products produced by Platinum Safes mean that you can expect super-high quality protection of your cash and valuables, within easy (and virtually) cost-less, easy reach.

The ages old "store cash under the mattress" idea is not a feasible and secure alternative to a impressive quality security protection container especially produced using high-quality locking products from KJ Ross and la Guard.

Competitive value at competitive prices with a wide dealer network across Australia. What more could you want?

For more details about their range of products, please view 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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We Are Back

A big thank you to all our customers and friends for their understanding, while we were recently away for a family emergency.

We are back and open for business.

Thanks again.

Danny & Esti Golman-Gurvis

Closing for Family Commitments Abroad

We are closing due to family commitments abroad.
We apologise for the inconvenience and thank you for your understanding

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.

(source...)

Door Repair - Replacing Broken External Frame Part

 We havent written in our blog for over a month, although we still have been busy with projects.

One project we completed recently, was for a returning client that requested a door repair.

A powerful wind storm had taken hold of his storm door and the door closer failed because the screws that hold the bracket to the frame were not long enough to effectively hold the door to the frame.

The result is what was pictured here, the frame breaking in half, exposing the poor workmanship that contributed to the problem.

 You can see in this second image, where the door frame broke away from the rest of the frame and the exposed hole in the top corner underneath the brickwork.

When we arrived initially to survey the project (free quote), we advised the client that the usual practise was to completely replace the door and frame.

The client inquired as to the cost and we informed them that the average cost in the St Louis region was between $1500 and $2400 depending on the selection of replacement door and frame.

The average cost for a standard external door and frame (no glass window in door) in this region, at discount hardware chains like Menards can be ~$480-$700 depending on color, style and preference. Average installation by a trained and qualified technician can be ~$800 - $1200.

 Notice the shape of the protruding cinder blocks and brickwork.

You can also see how the original door frame is constructed,

The use of round wooden splints to connect the outer part of the original frame to the other section of the frame displays the 'cheapy" construction of an average door and frame.

 This image shows the bottom portion of the brickwork and cinder blocks and the threshold.

The client did contact a few other door installers at our advice to compare costs and called us back because we were the only ones to offer a solution that did not require complete door and frame replacement.

Our cost effective solution was to provide a single piece of hardwood 4x4, custom shaped onsite to the shape of the brickwork and cinder blocks, enabling complete coverage of the exposed cavity.

Because the house was still settling and the foundations shifting (after 50+ years since original construction), the door cavity was crooked and we were required to carefully carve the inside of the hardwood piece to accurately fit around the different protruding bricks and cinder blocks. We used our orbital saw, our power file and hand chisels to expertly carve the inside of the new piece to the required shape of the fitting.

We then attached the outer piece to the inner existing frame with 4" countersunk wood screws and embedded them deeper into the new hardwood single piece, so we could fill the holes after and provide a satisfactory look.

We made sure to have enough length to shape around the threshold too, but the shape of the brickwork still revealed a significantly different size gap at the bottom from the top.

The finished result is not perfect, but significantly improved from before and much longer lasting.

Way more competitively priced than complete door and frame replacement, the total end cost to the client was $870 including all parts and labor.

We caulked around the top and sides of the new trim and frame with water-resistant Silicone caulk (to protect from future wet weathering).

We suggested the client to paint the frame themselves at their convenience (as we are not professional painters). 

An interesting yet time consuming repair, that saved the client a lot of money and looks and operates great,

Remembering back to the beginning of this post, where we mentioned about poor workmanship often being a cause of future issues......

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

and

"the pain of poor quality lasts long after the pleasure of cheap price is obtained"

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.