By: Jimmie Newell
Security
and convenience are usually delicately balanced. If something is secure it isn’t convenient and
vice versa. It’s convenient to leave your keys in the ignition, but it isn’t secure. Keyless access
products offer both aspects in an attractive package.
MECHANICAL KEYLESS LOCKS
·
All pushbutton locks use a code instead of a key to unlock the door. Older mechanical pushbutton
locks work, but they are limited to one working code at a time.
ELECTRONIC KEYLESS LOCKS
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MULTIPLE USERS These keyless locks offer the ability to have dozens or hundreds of
individual user codes. Each user can be added or deleted without affecting others.
·
SETTING CODES Adding, deleting or changing user codes is quick and easy.
Basic models are programmable at the keypad. You can manage large groups of user codes with
software on a laptop or PDA.
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AUDIT TRAIL AND TIME ZONES Some models will keep an audit trail of who used or
attempted to use the lock and when they used it. Time zones can be set up that tell the lock who is
authorized to enter and when they are authorized. Time zones can be set up for specific hours of
specific days, shifts, opening and closing times, or to exclude weekends or holidays.
·
USE EXISTING CREDENTIALS Some units can be equipped to accept various credentials
such as swipe cards, proximity cards or fobs, even your own credit card. This allows the
integration of Stand Alone Keyless products into existing access control systems, without the
expense of changing existing credentials, or added separate credentials for only that lock. This
feature can also allow the use of dual credentials for high security applications.
·
WIRELESS Most stand-alone keyless access units operate on four standard AA
batteries, eliminating the need for costly additional wiring and bulky external power supplies to
activate the unit. However some can optionally be hardwired when battery power is not
practical.
·
EASY RETROFIT Keyless access products are designed to quickly replace existing
lock hardware. The existing holes in the door are re-used and lock designs and finishes complement
the existing commercial hardware in your facility.
·
COMPATIBILITY Keyless locks are made for use with most brands of exit devices,
mortise locks, knob/lever locks, deadbolts, etc. Most units allow for emergency key override. This
feature can be utilized with a restricted (or high security) key or keyed to match your existing
master key system.
·
I/C PREP The popularity of interchangeable core locking systems (BEST-type) fits
right in with these locks. Use your existing control keys and cores to maintain system
integrity.
·
GRADE 1 DEPENDABILITY Heavy-duty commercial locks are rated as Grade 1. Keyless
access products in the market today allow you to meet Weatherproof, Grade 1, ADA and Fire
Life-Safety requirements. Others are rated Grade 2 for use in standard-duty hardware
applications.
Contact
your local Locksmith or other Security Professional for complete information.
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