Meroni Nova Locks Used to Replace Peachtree Multi-Point Patio Door Mechanism

 On last Monday, we installed new Meroni Nova locks for a customer who was unable to replace his Peachtree Multi-Point lock system on his patio doors.

The installation process took about 5 hours to complete and involved removing the old Peachtree mechanism that was built into the body of the door.

We supplied Rockwell push plates to cover the large holes left by the old mechanism and installed the new locks to the plates.

The first picture is the completed look.

 To enhance the ambience of the install, we installed a dummy set to the fixed leaf and used the customer sourced strike plates to improve the look.

This second picture shows the dummy installed.

 The customer was able to source replacement plates for his old Peachtree Lock, which we used to cover the holes left by the old mechanism. We installed the Meroni Nova within the replacement faceplate.

 The completed look from inside shows the Rockwell push plates covering the old holes, with the Meroni locks fitted symmetrical.

 The locking knob installed to the operating leaf.

Installing the Meroni mechanism on the operating leaf. All care is taken to ensure precision installation. proper installation is vital to enhancing the required ambience of the fitting.

Finishing work is important. You can see the size of the holes we were required to cover on the fixed leaf (under the drill).

The final result, enabled a simple to operate lock mechanism that suits the color scheme of the interior design of the room.

This is the second Peachtree Multi-Point lock system we have replaced with the fabulous Meroni Nova hardware.

Lockwood 7444 Keyed Pocket Door Lock - Demand Skyrockets

Our Lockwood 7444 keyed Pocket Door Lock is in high demand. We are almost sold out of our current inventory.

This phenomenal product continues to break all sales  records and is keeping us very busy indeed.

The simple installation is proving a hit with builders and homeowners alike. It is designed to fit in a 2-1/8" cross bore, so modifying an existing door is simple. The holes in the door edge are 1" diameter and it is necessary to drill the extra hole below the bolt for the pull handle/plunger.

The factory model is designed for 1-3/8" thick doors. If you intend to install to a thicker door (like a 1-3/4" thick door), currently you are required to countersink the cross bore by at least 1/8" on each side.

We are working on a modification kit that will allow installation to a thicker door, but it is a time consuming process to get perfect. We will not release the kit until it is perfect.

As of this writing we have 6 units in SPDP (Satin Nickel) and 6 units in CPDP (polished Chrome), with new inventory expected in about 4 weeks.

Thank you for continuing to purchase this wonderful product.

Noke - Futuristic Padlock Controlled With Your Smartphone

Kickstarter is well known for being the breeding ground of new ideas. A service where anyone can source funding for almost any kind of project.

Access to capital funding is the most difficult and often stressful issue hampering inventors from proceeding with their ideas. Sure there are wealthy entrepreneurs, who do support ideas from time to time, usually at significant cost to the inventors. Until crowd-sourcing became the new accepted method for sourcing capital, funding took the form of painful, often laborious effort and mountains of paperwork required to prepare and very often resulted in a rejection.

The Noke Bluetooth Padlock is an example of yet another inspirational idea designed to make use of smartphone technology in attempt to make life easier.

Simply pair the padlock with your Bluetooth smartphone for easy and controllable access. This is a system designed to do away with mechanical keys (that I believe is a fundamental mistake).

Removing a mechanical, physical key from a padlock, may seem like a logical step in increasing access control capabilities, but what happens when the internal battery runs down? How do you get your padlock open?

Any electronic product, especially wireless products are open to hacking far more easily than a suitably protected high-security restricted mechanical physical key. Mechanical, physical keys have been used for centuries because they provide quality security protection that is virtually cost-less to run.

A green minded consumer will recognize that the benefits of a non-powered product. The life expectancy of a mechanical product is usually significantly longer than almost any wireless powered product available today.

Will this product take off? Probably, but consumers who desire proper security that lasts, is generally maintenance free and does not require an engineering or electronics degree to understand, will continue to protect the marketplace for many years to come, I suspect.

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Security Alarm Wedge

 

Here is an interesting and extremely inexpensive portable alarm for consumers intent on personal security they can take with them.

A 120db siren that runs on a replaceable 9V battery, the wedge is crafted from stainless steel and polyethylene.

Suitable for travelers or anyone wanting that little extra piece of security, it is wedge shaped with non-slip pads, designed to fit under a door.

When activated, anyone moving the door will depress the stainless steel wedge and trigger the piercing 120db siren.

Yes this is a novelty product that can enhance your security. We expect to offer these in the near future, in answer to demand from discerning customers.

\We anticipate it will cost less than $15.00. 

Coming Soon!

Vier - A New Look At Bicycle Security

 Vier is a new product that is currently seeking funding on Kickstarter.

An unusual looking modified design of the traditional D lock, this idea compacts the product into an easily transportable size providing lightweight yet practical form and function for the bicycling enthusiast.

 The product completely disassembles to allow easy storage in a provided ziplock bag

 As in the case of many D locks on the market, the Vier uses secure, high quality steel in it's construction.

 A functional and compact bag that clips easily under the seat for intelligent stowage is an important feature and factor in bicycle locks.

Clipping to the frame and the wheel, while allowing to also clip to a pole or fence is important.

 You can see in the exploded view, that the designer has made an uncomplicated lock system designed to last.

As is typical of many modern locks of similar ilk, the designers have chosen to use a version of the Abloy Disklock Pro springless cylinder locking system. This will enable a higher security factor and also a very low maintenance product.

Check out their Kickstarter campaign and video in the sources below.










Kickstarter campaign


source...

7444's selling fast!

Our Lockwood 7444's are flying out the door. One customer just picked up all my Chrome Plated ones.

Hurry, while stock last!

The Ignition Lock Debacle Is Not Really GM's Fault - More Insurance Companies

It is clear to all concerned by now, that the GM Ignition Switch debacle is one of the most sensational news stories of the year.

Locksmiths who work on automobiles have known of these issues for many years and have informed powers that be, in the recent past.

The reports fell on deaf ears, as usual and only since the reports of deaths have authorities bothered to press the issues with manufacturers.

I do find it interesting that it seems the automobile industry appears to have come full circle, with regard to ignition systems.

When the first automobiles were rolling off the production lines, in the early 20th century, all vehicles had the ignition lock switch mounted to the dash, usually toward the center of the instrument panel. This was significantly easier for people to control and away from the possibility of being knocked by a knee or leg. Many ignition tumbler switches were pin tumbler operating systems and not wafer/disc tumblers. Properties inside the cylinder prevented the accidental knocking and turning off the keyswitch.

It was the advent of the insurance companies that brought about a major change

Keyed Pocket Door Lock - New Inventory

As promised our new stock of pocket door keyed locks has arrived.

We expect this stock to move out quickly, given the number of inquiries we have received.

Click on the first image above left to purchase.

Thanks for your patience.

HM Cowdroy P697 Keyed Double Cylinder Pocket Door Lock - Last One

When we began selling keyed pocket door locks here in the USA, the first model we brought in was the Cowdroy P697.

The crescent shaped lock product sold exceptionally well but we decided that we would discontinue selling the line because it does not meet life safety codes due to being double cylinder (key operated inside and out).

The beauty of the product was that it was straightforward to modify an existing square shaped common pocket door privacy or passage lock to take the Cowdroy.

See the installation instructions 

We have just discovered one last unit in inventory. It is polished brass in color, display packed and comes with 2 keys.

If color is an issue for you and wish to purchase this last unit, please send us an email or contact us for delivery.

$135.00 + shipping.

Sacramento - A New Target For Fraudulent Locksmiths

I was born in Sacramento, California but grew up in Australia. I did travel after my locksmith apprenticeship when I was 22 and decided to stay in Sacramento for about a year and a half. While there I was lucky enough to work for 3 different locksmith companies. Locksmiths were quite a different breed back then and this video news report is sad to see that the scammers have evolved there too. Look, I realize that when you are locked out, you will often call the first company you can find and rarely quibble over the price. I am quite surprised that locksmiths in Sacramento do not value their craft more than $50-$75 for an average opening when you consider the higher cost of living there than in other towns across America. Gasoline alone is rediculously expensive at $3.65 a gallon here in the St Louis region and the average attendance here is $65-$95 during the day for the same service. There are the same scammers here in St Louis that ply similar nefarious tactics to attract customers. The report refuses to acknowledge in any way that the search engine companies are very responsible for allowing advertising of such a deceiving nature on their networks.

It is a loophole that experienced computer hackers can manipulate to the advantage of fraudsters who seal up the lion-share of online advertising everywhere you look.

I choose to let my experience, products and service excellence, speak for itself. We do not advertise for the lockout market but will be there if called upon on occasion, for our account customers. (


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Bicycle Rack Converts To Bicycle Lock - Quickly And Easily

 Singapore based designer Seth Chiam has created his concept bicycle rack/lock conversion system to be minimalist in design yet versatile in function.

This intelligent concept allows the user to cart their possessions on the rack and when required, use the same rack to lock the bicycle to a post to prevent theft.

 The design includes a traditional D lock, that many who ride bicycles are very familiar with and a clamp that attaches to the bicycle seat post, so it is out of the way when you are pedaling along.

 You can see the release mechanism for attaching/detaching the product from the clip. It is key operated meaning no more bulky padlocks swinging freely.

 The product is designed to carry a proportional amount of weight as you can see in the loaded bag in this picture.

Stylish yet functional and lightweight, I think this young man has hit on something that bicycle enthusiasts everywhere will pounce on, when it becomes available.







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Viefe - Kitchen And Bathroom Minimalist Designed Handles

 Viefe Handles are a Spanish Company specializing in unique designs of handles for kitchen and bathrooms.

Pictured here are their new Noma range of minimalist handle designs that might fit with discerning customers intent on a minimalist approach to design and use.

 Available in many colors, this unique product is nouveau, yet stylish, simple to operate, even simpler to install and made from high quality materials.

Different sizes fit different customers requirements.
Viefe also manufacture many other handle designs that are widely sought after by residents across the European continent.

Will we see these designs in North America?

Maybe.


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After Almost 2 Years Of Patiently Waiting - It Is Here Finally!

Well, after 2 years of patiently receiving updates from the company, of unexpected delays, of production issues, of inferior components, of re-coding of software, our Crowd-Funded Lockitron product has finally arrived.

We received a 3-pack, in Bondi Blue, Obsidian Black and Pearl White.

We will attempt to video the unboxing of the product in a later post and hopefully capture the installation to an apartment door  on video soon too.

We already have 2 units sold to customers (who we are please have waited patiently for almost 2 years for this product, that they will be able to use with their iPhones) and hopefully (if the product lives up to the hype) receive significant more orders in future.

Lockwood 7444 Keyed Pocket Door Lock - New Inventory Expected ~ July 1

Our Lockwood 7444 Keyed Pocket Door Lock is still beating our anticipated sales numbers in ever increasing amounts.

The last batch we received May 19, 2014 we sold out in 3 weeks.

The next batch we will receive ~ July 1, 2014 and this will include a limited number of Privacy and Passage versions too.

Unfortunately, we do not accept pre-orders for this very popular product, because it sells out so rapidly. Not because we cannot, but because the overwhelming popularity  caused us to rethink our marketing strategy.

We will receive an increased quantity of the Satin Pearl (Nickel) color, together with a small amount of the Chrome Plate in the 7444 version (keyed). We are also expecting a number of the Passage version (7450) in Satin Pearl (Nickel) and also about 4 of the Privacy version (7400) in Satin Pearl (Nickel) also. This directly means you can have identical hardware for double sliding pocket doors, maximizing security and ambience simultaneously.

The Satin Pearl (Nickel) is the most sought after color and subsequently the most difficult to keep in stock.
This increased supply in our July delivery, we expect to be able to keep up with demand a little longer.

We will only bring the Chrome Plate color in the keyed version (7444).

Our modification kit to allow easy installation to a 1-3/4" thick door is still in the process of production and testing. Assa-Abloy Lockwood have confirmed their intention to NOT release a factory version for bigger doors.

We thank you for your understanding and apologize for the delay.

Locks Of Love Bridge In Paris Collapses

The Pont Des Arts Bridge in Paris was closed earlier this month due to an unusual problem. You may have heard or seen the news stories about this particular bridge that has attracted lovers for a great many years, where they seal their love and lock it to the fence with a padlock and toss the keys into the Senne.

The bridge fence collapsed under the sheer weight of too many padlocks clipped to the fence. Luckily no one was injured and contrary to many calls to remove the eyesore, authorities have chosen to maintain the fence and attraction in the "City Of Love".

There are many similar bridges that can be found all over the world, but apparently the one in the above video is the first.

For a list of other bridges of similarity see Wikipedia . Find a locations list for the USA After the jump.

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Dream, The Impossible Dream....Power To Burn. Yeti Saves The Day.

The Yeti 1250 Solar Powered Generator is not directly a security product or equivalent item that i usually write about in this blog.

However, being a professional locksmith tradesperson, with a mobile service vehicle and an array of machines and power tools that I require to use onsite, I need to run that equipment in my truck and sometimes away from the truck when there are no other power sources available.

I currently use a wired-in inverter to power my machines in the vehicle and this usually requires me to run the motor to keep the secondary battery I use charging.

I have been searching for a cost effective alternative to installing a professional truck generator that feeds directly from the gas tank (~$7,000 Installed) and this may well fit the bill.

It's not that i run a lot of machinery constantly, but my work truck gets pretty warm inside during summer and i would like to be able to have a refrigerator and air conditioning unit/fan that i could run separately from the vehicles power system and also enjoy the ability to operate power tools without having to run long extension cords.

As you can see in the promotional video above, there are multiple uses for this fantastic device. I think I have found the perfect item for my holiday wish list.

Arguably, this product could be an assist to any site that might want to run CCTV cameras remotely, like in a field (nowhere near available power) or to provide the power for a remote gate or door without digging trenches for running cables to grid power. So, perhaps you could use it as a backup power supply for security products?

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Beach Vault - Keep Your Belongings Safe/Hidden This Summer

Kickstarter is one of those crowd-sourcing companies that matches inventors/producers with investors. Not just the VC investors who fund tech start-ups like Facebook, Twitter etc, but everyday investors like you and me. People who look to contribute to a small start-up's endeavor to produce a useful product or service that will provide us with some real benefits.

One new product I found recently is currently in it's Kickstarter foundation mode, called the Beach Vault. As shown in the above marketing video, it is a simple yet intelligent solution to keeping your belongings secure while you enjoy fun on the beach.

I personally think they should add a key or combination lock function to it, but that's just me.

What do you think?

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Lockwood 002 L Rim Mounted Deadlatch With Lever Handle

This is the Lockwood 002 L deadlatch. It is a very sought for product by users demanding top quality physical security protection on entry doors. It is especially common for commercial doors like fire escapes because it is held to the door with 4-6 steel screws and the strike plate is also very secure. Options include steel frame strike plates, open in strike plates, open out strike plates, mechanical digital entry interfaces, medium/high security key cylinders.

The product is available in satin nickel, polished brass, brown and polished chrome.

Satin Nickel is the most commonly purchased color finish. the large lever handle makes use by physically challenged people significantly easier and complies with all life safety/building codes for egress.

Simple/straightforward to install, this version of the perennially popular Lockwood Rim Deadlock range continues to lead the world in high quality mechanical and physical protection products.

Priced at the upper end of similar competing brands, the Lockwood 002L is not cheap because it is constructed from high-grade aluminum, steel and hardened steel properties.

We currently have a few units available for purchase.

We are installing these to rear access doors for shopkeepers intent on beefing up the security and ease of use of their rear entry/exit.

Contact us for your demonstration.

Lockwood 7444 Keyed Pocket Door Lock Is a Hot In Demand Item

Yet another sales record broken with this fabulous product.

Demand is so strong for the Lockwood 7444 keyed Pocket Door Lock, we barely receive inventory before it goes out the door.

The last batch we received May 2nd, is almost sold out completely.

We have 2 left in Satin Pearl (satin nickel) and 5 left in Polished Chrome.

I know the reason why.........

Lockwood is a well known Australian manufacturer of high quality door hardware products, selected by commercial, residential and industrial customers due to their reliability, superior product quality and easy to use and operate functions.

There are few choices in the cavity/pocket door lock arena that offer similar quality and effective security and convenience like this product.

We also will be receiving the passage, privacy and passage latching versions too.

Many people have double pocket doors in their abodes. I have been receiving numerous inquiries for suggestions to easily secure these doors too. I suggest that using the Lockwood 7410 passage lock, which is the identical look of the keyed product without a key, installing it to the other side, in line with the keyed version. Instead of installing the plunger pull in the center of the lock, install the strike plate from the keyed version. This will allow you to have a uniformed look that is identical on both doors. You could then install the plunger/pull in another location either above or below the lock and will allow you to still withdraw the door from the cavity easily.

D&D Technologies LokkLatch Magnetic - Superior Lock System for Almost Any Gate

We have mentioned D&D Technologies quite often in this blog and continue to sing the praises of this fabulous Australian engineering company.

The lock pictured above is another improvement on their already vast range of gate security products and hinges.

D&D Technologies are manufacturers who are renowned for working with the locksmith industry to design, construct and tailor superior, intelligent lock systems aimed at improving our ways of life.

Check out the video above and visit your local locksmith for more information.

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GoKey - Battery Backup, Smartphone Charging, Bluetooth Finder, Sync Cable - The All In One

GOkey Indiegogo Campaign Video from Go Devices, Inc. on Vimeo.


A new product has recently started funding on a crowdsourcing page that might be the extra boost many of us smartphone users are challenged with.

Check out the video above and see why this is yet another idea that makes our lives a little bit easier.

It does look a little bulky, I think. And given that many car keys on our keyrings are recommended to not carry extra weight (thanks GM), I'm not sure this really appeal to the masses.

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New Award

What is this award?

	The 2014 Best of HomeAdvisor Award WINNER
Master Key Systems America, LLC has been selected as a winner of the 2014 Best of HomeAdvisor award.
You have been chosen because you exemplify quality work practices, premier service, and are a valued resource for home improvement excellence. Only the top pros in our network have been honored with the Best of HomeAdvisor award. (source...)

New Inventory - Lockwood 7444 Keyed Pocket Door Lock

We just received new inventory of the fabulous Lockwood 7444 keyed Pocket Door Lock.

We have both colors available at this time.

As we informed previously, the manufacturer was forced to increase their prices due to unfavorable exchange rates and the increase in manufacturing materials cost. We are forced to increase the cost of the item, as a consequence.

The new price is $120.00 each.
Standard ground shipping via UPS is $22.00 (3-5 days, lower 48).

\We apologize for the delay and we expect this new inventory to sell out very quickly, so if you have been waiting to order, please get your order in quick to avoid delay. Thanks for your understanding.

To purchase, click on the picture to the left.

ChargeKey - iPhone, iPad, Android Charger To End Them All

The Chargekey by Nomad, is a beautifully produced and high quality mobile device charger that has recently gone on sale in the USA and Europe.

This intelligent creation provides that ever necessary accessory that we (who use smart devices) seek to have accessible at all times.

I see it everyday. Many people out and about using their phones but forgetting to bring their spare charging cable with them.

Dont worry, now you just connect it to your keyring (that is if you still carry a keyring?!?).

$29.00

But where do we plug it in? Why are there not more USB ports around the place?
Actually there are some establishments that I know of in my area that offer USB ports connected to power allowing you to bring your own charging cable to recharge your smart device on the fly (more on that in another article).

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Forever Lock - Bicycle Security Product Evolution - Where's The Keyhole?

The video above shows a new product that may be the answer to bicycle protection, enthusiasts are seeking.
The Forever Lock is a uniquely designed bicycle D lock that has cleverly hidden the keyhole.
Perhaps it is a little convoluted to operate the first time, but essentially the principle appears to be sound. You cannot find the keyhole without damaging the unit and the key is hidden when operating. Is there a more secure solution of it's kind?

The Lockwood 7444 Keyed Pocket Door Lock Is Very Popular

Our very popular Lockwood 7444 Keyed Pocket Door Lock is selling so fast we are barely able to keep up with demand.

We received our last delivery from Australia on April 4th and sold out completely in 19 days.

We have new inventory expected to arrive next week. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

We will have both Satin Pearl and Chrome Plate in new inventory.

Demand is also increasing for the Lockwood 7400 Pocket Door Passage Set and also the Lockwood 7450 Pocket Door Privacy Set and we will be stocking these items soon too. (Non-Keyed product will be marginally cheaper, but they look identical to the pictures of the keyed product without a keyhole - of course).

GM Ignition Switch Recall Part

Here is a picture of the part that fails in the ignition switches of GM vehicles, as listed in their recent recall of millions of vehicles.

GM dealers mechanical workshops across the country are preparing to be inundated with the backlog of repairs to rectify this serious flaw that has resulted in accidents and deaths on American roads.


The issue with the $0.57 part is that when it fails, often due to the weight of keys on a customers key ring, it can switch off the vehicle electrical system and computer, while the vehicle is in motion, affecting airbag safety, brake systems, fuel injection and other connected vehicle electrical systems.

Many automotive locksmiths around the world, continue to repair/replace faulty ignition locks across a wide variety of vehicles, not just GM, due to wear caused by customers having too many keys and other attachments on their vehicle key chain.

The expected deluge upon GM and Chevrolet dealerships will likely send customers nutty for a while, especially considering other vehicles (not in the recall) still require to be serviced, maintained and repaired also.

We choose to not offer automotive locksmith services (apart from unlocking vehicles) at this time. Not because we are unable to perform the skilled part of the job, but because we feel that many of the current service technicians in our area are undervaluing their jobs (They dont charge enough).

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Yelp Reviews Found To Be Misleading and Prejudicial.

In the source below, you will find a copy of a letter from the United States of America, Federal Trade Commission in Washington DC, Assistant General Counsel Dione J. Stearns, to Angus Loten, a reprter with the Wall Street Journal, following Mr Loten's FOI (Freedom Of Information) Act inquiry into a number of reports about misleading and prejudicial reviews being found on the social networking site, Yelp.

In the letter (dated March 18, 2014), the FTC representative informs about over 2000 complaints received at the FTC since 2008.

While the record of the complaints is not tabled in the letter, the reporter outlines the nature of the complaints in his article, after which apparently Yelp's share price took a nosedive.

The particulars of the article include the following excerpt...

"A steady stream of business owners have gone on record, including in the Los Angeles Times, claiming that Yelp threatened to display negative reviews more prominently if they didn't pay for advertising. Yelp also deals with constant posting of fake reviews by business owners or companies, a practice called “astroturfing,” that have created additional controversy."


As a locksmith business, we take great pride in maintaining excellent reviews online that are all verifiable through third party sources. We were recently a victim of false reviews posted at Yelp

Already Deadly in Africa, Could Ebola Hit America Next?

In recent days there have been numerous news reports about the deadly Ebola virus spreading maliciously throughout Africa.

The article in the source below, gives an example of how this deadly disease can spread so easily and because the world is quickly becoming too small for deadly diseases like this to be contained easily within borders.

Apparently an outbreak of Ebola occurred in a Washington DC suburb in the last few weeks. Luckily it was contained quickly but the issues about deadly virus' continue to be front and center news that potentially can affect all of us.

The spread of disease is all too common today, as the last few years have shown us with H1N1 and Avian Flu and H4N1 being the most well known and talked about.

Minimizing potential disease infections and spread is a very serious challenge for medical centers, hospitals, aged care centers, hospices, hotel, schools, child care centers, gymnasiums, swimming pools and almost any public building. Many of the businesses and institutions mentioned employ quality janitorial staff who expertly maintain and clean railings, doors, bathrooms, handles and shared public facilities.

But many handles can still transfer deadly bacteria that can contain germs of the kind that spread diseases very easily and are used by very many patrons of establishments between times that the janitorial staff perform their cleaning routines. It is not possible to prevent the transfer of microbial and infection borne diseases all day every day, is it?

Well, thanks to the fine Italian manufacturer Serrature Meroni, it is. Meroni have been at the forefront of handle design for many years and continue to produce award winning designs. Their Combina and Pigio handles are especially designed with anti-bacterial properties that directly disperse infectious bacteria and other potentially harmful virus' .

Any facilities manager realizes just how important the safety and health of staff, patients, visitors, residents and children is to the efficient and continued running and management of institutions as mentioned above.

We at Master Key Systems America LLC appreciate that the health and well being of all peoples is vital and important to continued happy existence and are proud to offer the fabulous Meroni Anti-Bacterial handles to the the North American market.

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Lockwood 7444 Keyed Pocket Door Lock - New Inventory Arrived Yesterday

I decided not to post another picture of our most popular selling product. Suffice to say, we just received our next supply of the Satin Pearl (satin nickel) product.

We have a few units to go out that were back ordered before we will be updating the purchase page.

Thank you for your patience.

Dormi - Dont Throw Away your Old Android When You Update, Use It As A Baby Monitor or Security Listening Device

Dormi is a product for the modern era. Y'know, most of us who use smartphones, update them every 2 years at the end of our contract.

There are recycle programs out there, but why not, instead of disposing of, selling or recycling your old phone keep using it but as a baby monitor (or any listening device actually).

Dormi is an app for Android that does exactly that. All that is required is to download the app to 2 Android devices and pair them.

There is no need to have a telephone network connection on your old phone because Dormi uses the WiFi feature built into most existing Android phones. so there is no extra phone line cost involved.

The added ability to communicate back with your child, if necessary means you may not even have to get up and tend them.

Unobtrusive and silent, it works in the background oblivious to the surroundings. It may even make a potentially secret listening device if you so desire.

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Carlock - iPhone And Android Vehicle Tracker Made Simple

 Trust the Europeans to come out with a sensational smartphone compatible product that enables real time GPS tracking of your most prized possession - your vehicle.

This absurdly intelligent idea to use the OBD (on board diagnostic) port, found on just about every modern day vehicle and connect a small (almost hidden) dongle that operates on the GSM network (AT&T or TMobile), install the appropriate app from either Apple iTunes or Google Play and you suddenly have a super intelligent vehicle monitor.

The system works using the GSM (Global System for Mobiles) telephone network, where the dongle houses a mini SIM (Subscriber Identification Module) card that you can purchase from AT&T or T Mobile on a prepaid plan.

 Plug the dongle into your OBD port, usually located under your dash and it receives its power from there.

Install the appropriate app from your network provider to your iPhone 4, iPhone 4S, iPhone 5, iPhone 5S running on both iOS 6 or iOS 7 platforms. Android 4.0 smartphones and up.


Currently available across the European Union, the plan is to release the product to the USA and Latin American markets toward the end of 2014.

The product is designed to work straight out of the box, which means no learning curve is necessary for any person to install, use and operate the Carlock. Because the product is plugged into the vehicles OBD port, it constantly trickle charges the built in battery, yet doesnt affect any of the vehicles operating systems. 

The product will come with a 2 year warranty. See the source below.

(Source...)

Lockwood 7444 Keyed Pocket Door Lock - Demand So Strong, We Sold Out Quickly

I apologize for yet another post and picture of the Lockwood 7444 Keyed Pocket Door Lock but this product continues to defy all our sales records.

We are now sold out of all colors.

New inventory is not expected for another couple of days (of the Satin Nickel) and we expect that most of them will be gone next week, due to covering back orders and the speed in which this product sells.

It is not that we are unhappy selling them, but keeping up with demand is a challenge.

We apologize for the inconvenience and hope you will continue to visit our site often to keep abreast of the latest news.

Thanks for your understanding.

Is GM Guilty Of Misbehaviour?

There has been much talk across news media in recent weeks about General Motors and their knowledge, since 2001 of a fatal problem with the ignition switch in a number of vehicles they produce.

This issue relates to the recent recall of over 1.5 million vehicles with faulty ignition key switches.

An article in yesterday's St Louis Post Dispatch (see source below) highlighted GM's knowledge about the problem since 2001.

Summarized from the Post Dispatch, "In that environment, basic components could take low priority, such as the ignition switch that GM sourced for Ions, Cobalts and other models. The right to manufacture the switch had been won by Dublin, Ireland-based Eaton Corp., according to documents from a wrongful-death lawsuit filed against GM. Delphi bought Eaton’s switch division in 2001.

Inside that switch, which cost as little as $2 to $5 to produce, was a spring loose enough to allow the ignition to switch out of the “on” position when bumped, a risk that would grow if the key was weighted by a heavy ring, GM has said. The turned key would then shut off the engine and power steering and disable the air bags.

The fatal flaw in the ignition switch, which GM now says its engineers discovered in 2001 while developing the Ion, has spurred the automaker’s biggest crisis since its 2009 bankruptcy and bailout."

As a locksmith, I choose to not work on automobiles at this time for various reasons. This revelation from GM is further disturbing to the locksmith industry I suggest, because there are many automotive locksmiths who are called upon to make keys for GM vehicles. In making a key for a GM vehicle that has one of the faulty ignition switches, if the customer has an issue, post locksmith service, usually they will claim warranty from the locksmith and most reputable legitimate locksmiths will honor their labor to the customer...

Lockwood 7444 Keyed Pocket Door Lock - Price Increase

Due to unfavorable exchange rates and increased materials cost, the manufacturer in their infinite wisdom are forced to increase the cost of this especially popular product.

We have not determined the new price yet for the product, but we anticipate a 15% price increase will be necessary.

We are currently sold out of the satin pearl color option as it is the most popular requested option.

We have about 15 units left in polished chrome that we will maintain at our original price of $115.00 + shipping. Compared to other competing products in this class, the Lockwood 7444 keyed Pocket Door Lock is still the most competitively priced option for use on pocket/cavity sliding doors.

If you are not concerned about the color, hurry and order today while the current price remains!

We are expecting a new delivery of the satin pearl option in about 2 weeks time. We appreciate your patience and thank you for your understanding.

EDIT 3/21/14 We only have 10 units left in Polished Chrome.

Price Rise Season Is Again Upon Us.

It is unfortunate that price rises are a natural part of life in a capitalist economy. Due to increasing costs of raw materials and shipping and taxes, many companies are forced to increase their prices to remain solvent.

Listed below, are some companies that have announced price rises effective immediately.

Olympus Lock

Dynalock

Schlage (Commercial & Residential)

Von Duprin

LCN

Ives

Glynn-Johnson

Steelcraft

Schlage (Electronics)

Dexter Brands

Belwith

Not all companies are announcing price rises at this time. Our Meroni product line continues to maintain 2012 price structures. The fabulous Meroni products service the residential and commercial markets with their wide range of specialty door hardware, handlesets, cabinet locks, door closers and specialty Automotive security solutions .

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Meroni Nova Entry Set Replaces Broken Peachtree Citadel Multi-Point Entry System

 We were recently called to one of our returning customers to provide a solution to secure their patio entrance door.
They had been using a Peachtree Citadel Multi-Point entry system on this door for many years, however the product had not worked for about the last 7 years, easily.

These doors and all the windows around the room used surface mounted, raised Venetian blinds that caused them to have to reverse the lever handle on the inside of the door, to be able to use the door. This was rather unsightly and as their children grew, became a handling issue that eventually caused the lock mechanism to break.

Having performed our services for them in the past, they called me to see if i could fix their latest issue where the lock had completely stopped operating from the outside too.

On my initial attendance, in which we always offer a free estimate, we determined that the entire unit be replaced. Unfortunately Peachtree Citadel Multi-Point locks of the particular vintage are no longer made. We were able to source a supplier who could provide us with a new lock, but the entire mechanism requires to be removed to be able to fix it.

We offered a solution that would work far better and they would regain use of the inside of the door with a normal type handle that would work easily with the raised Venetian Blinds already fitted to their door.


We were still required to remove the old Peachtree Mechanism, not a simple task and could then install a Meroni Nova N13 Entry set to their door. We removed the faceplate from the Peachtree lock, intending to reuse it and used large push plates in polished brass on both inside and outside to cover the old holes left by the old hardware. The Meroni Nova lock uses a push button to pull the latch back, so there is no knob to turn or lever to pull. This action means that they can operate and lock the door easily while maintaining aesthetics.

The pictures above are deliberately large to allow you to click on them for a close up view.

It took about 4 hours to complete the project, but the customer is ever so satisfied and we workers are pleased with our efforts too.

Rip Off Artists And Con Men Continue To Proliferate Across The St Louis Region

About 4 years ago, the Missouri Attorney General was instrumental in catching a gang of crooks deliberately scamming consumers by impersonating locksmiths.

That particular gang became well known across the country for willfully ripping off unsuspecting consumers.

The locksmith industry is one of the oldest industries in the world. There are a small number of qualified locksmiths across this country who still do business with ethics and morals, but they are seeing the trade brought to disrepute by sheisters bent on ripping people off.

In June last year, #ABC's The Lookout played a segment where they caught and filmed the leader of the scam operations, who has since escaped the country without paying fines and taxes owed.

But the scammers continue to trick customers into using them with nefarious search engine tactics. In fact, if you type "Locksmith Your City", replacing "Your City" with the name of your town, and press search, you will be bombarded with ads that point you to these companies.

(after the break, we will list some of the companies and their websites. we'd appreciate anyone reading this article to list other scammer companies in the comments) All comments are subject to moderation.

Electronic Locks - Wireless Or Wired Are Not A Very Green Oriented Product

 It seems that wireless or wired electronic locks are all the rage today in this rapidly progressing tech-electronic age we are in. Products like the Lockwood 001T, pictured here use a battery pack to offer keyless access control options.

But in recent years, many discussions continue to be held about green, ecological alternatives that cause no drain on power or grid electricity supplies.

Many customers seem to be considering the use of wireless battery powered products or even hard wired lock systems to add so called "convenience" to their lives.

While it is understandable that some systems can add convenience and access control to our homes and offices, the available products are not really "green" alternatives.

 The August Lock, came out a little while back, offering the ability to have a keyless/smartphone connected access control solution.

The product is very intelligently designed and may offer concerned customers the alternative they are seeking, however it is worth remembering that batteries require replacing every so often. What happens when your smartphone battery has run out? What happens when the products battery pack loses power?
How do you operate the product without a mechanical "keyed" back up?

The increasing evidence of smartphone theft and the quantity of known hacks, presents problems that many consumers may not have considered.

 At least Kwikset, are including their mechanical "keyed" cylinder in many of their Bluetooth and wireless battery powered products, even though the Kwikset Smartkey product has a poor track record of quality and is too easily compromised.

The Kwikset Kevo product was released last October. It is a Bluetooth, battery powered deadbolt that can be operated by a connected Bluetooth device (smartphone). It also comes with the Kwikset Smartkey cylinder, enabling a mechanical backup solution, even though there are many published records of the Smartkey problems, in the news.

Certainly there are many and varied options for wireless, keypad controlled, keyless solutions, but the quality of manufacture still leaves much to be desired in terms of quality and sustainability.

Many manufacturers continue to bring out ever increasing product options to whet the appetites of consumers.

But not too many are including the necessary mechanical keyed component as a backup.

I realise that many customers are impressed with the ability to grant access to certain people and then change that access on the fly, but the use of electronic products is not a "green" consideration, is it?

Magna Latch Series 3 - New Visibility Indicator

Magna Latch products are well known worldwide for their specialty security products designed for swimming pool gates and fences.

We have talked about Magna Latch products by D&D Technologies before.

This new design continues the products world leading design and construction while improving demanded visibility. D&D Technologies consulted the market, asking what their customers wanted. In the greater majority of responses, instant visible knowledge of whether the gate is locked or not, is the most desired option.

This Australian designed and built product has served swimming pool owners worldwide for over 20 years.

The locking system has also been updated to allow for key cylinders that can be swapped with other brands of keyways, like Schlage, Yale etc. This means that high security key control systems can be added to pool gates, simply and cost effectively.

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The Fabulous Hooply Manufacturing Facility In China

The Fabulous Hooply Manufacting facilities located in China, uses state of the art technology and practices to create their sensational line of high-security lock products and door hardware.
As shown in the video, the product line is exceptionally well made and offers one of the widest varieties of style and security available in todays market.

We are pleased to become known as a representative of this sensational product line in the USA.

Unlike other stateside companies, who choose to offshore their manufacturing in attempt to save costs, Hooply have always designed and built their products in China, but tailored them for the worlds market.

We have mentioned some of their products already in this blog and intend to write more individual articles about different pieces in their range. Stay tuned!

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Repairing Sliding Patio Doors - An Increasing Call For Our Expertise

We typically receive a large quantity of requests to repair sliding patio doors for many customers.

Many of these requests come from the popular Home Advisor network.

Just yesterday in fact, we attended to repair a 30 year old door in use at a customers home, where the front wheel was missing completely.

There were no remnants of a disintegrated wheel anywhere inside the track, underneath the door and I cannot explain how the door was working all these years.

Getting the door off the track easily is/was very difficult and we were on a limited time schedule due to the customer requiring to pick their kids up from school.

Thinking outside the box (which we have to do quite often), enabled us to devise a simple and quick repair that, while not a perfect solution, holds the door higher at the front of the track and allows it to ride smoothly and the door can now be locked and operated much more easily, until the customer purchases a complete new door.

The solution we came up with was to install a small right angle bracket to the bottom of the frame, with the angle resting under the door. We lubricated the track with Teflon based lubricant thoroughly and the door now slides easily and lines up nicely to be able to lock.

Keyed Pocket Door Lock Will Soon Work With Thicker Doors Using Easy To Install Modification Kit - Exclusive Supplier

Our fabulous keyed pocket door lock is especially designed for 1-3/8" thick doors.

Until now, that is.

We are in the final stage of production of an expansion kit that will allow you to use this fabulous lock on 1-3/4" thick doors.

You can now even get cylinders that will allow you to re-key to Schlage (or almost any key-way) 6 pin tumbler key-ways.
We were the only dealer in the USA until recently, but we are the only dealer with the modification package allowing installation up to 1-7/8" thick doors without the difficult modifications offered by other dealers.

The modification kit will be able to be purchased in almost any brand key-way, so you will be able to use Schlage, Yale, Kwikset, Sargent or just about any restricted key or high-security key control systems like Bilock, Primus, Abloy etc.

We are the exclusive manufacturer of this modification kit. It is not quite ready for public release but we expect to make it available in about 2 months.

To maintain our exclusivity on this modification kit, we will not be tabling our technique for using this fabulous product on thicker doors, much to the angst of our wannabe competitors.

EDIT 2/22/14: Lockwood just informed us of a price rise of 15% for the product, effective immediately. This may have to be carried over to our next inventory orders. If you want this product, now is the time to order it prior to the expected price increase.

Clay - Introducing Cloud Controlled Wireless Access Control

Clay are proudly introducing a Salto inspired access control solution across Europe, the UK and Australia.

This intelligent access control solution will work with just about any type of mortise or rim lock, narrow style frames and padlocks.

The intelligence of the Salto systems is being heralded across the world as the new frontier in keyless access control solutions.

We say keyless, although you still need to carry a fob, if you are an authorized entrant. Remote control from any platform, be it Android, Apple iOS, Windows, Linux etc allows for cross platform operation that minimizes inconvenience, allows you to use an app to control your systems so that you can still let in your technician or plumber or anyone you choose, without actually being at the location yourself.

There is a fabulous video on the company's site that I encourage all to view, to better understand how it works. Visit the website in the source below.

Salto, have been mentioned in this blog before and are slowly becoming a major player in the hotel arena and other industries intent on maximizing control of their locking hardware systems.

The intelligence is in the handle not the lock and because of this, there are many options available to the customer.

We anticipate becoming a local dealer of the fabulous Salto - Inspired Access Control systems in the near future. We have already recommended numerous enquirers and owners of CISA hotel access control systems to upgrade to Salto. (No word on the North American release dates)

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