Archive for Locks

Cam Locks—The Lock You Use Every Day

by George Uliano · Comments (0)
11 Aug

What are Cam Locks?  The fast and simple answer is a small lock that has a “Locking Cam” attached to the back.  Cam Locks come in a variety of sizes, shapes and configurations and prices from about $.80 for a small mechanical cam lock to $150.00 for an electronic cam lock.  Where have you seen or used a cam lock: toolboxes, mailboxes, vehicle glove compartments, vending machines, slot machines, desks, cabinets and lockers, to name a few.

SideWinder Cam Locks

That’s a lot of information in a few sentences.  Let me explain this a little further.  The Locking Cam on the rear of the cam lock is usually made of steel and can be straight, offset or hook.  It can really have any design so that when the key is inserted into the lock and turned the locking cam will lock or unlock whatever it’s mounted on.

Below is a list of some popular cam lock styles:

  • Single Bitted – this is where the key is cut on one side
  • Double Bitted – this is where the key is cut on two sides
  • Tubular – this is where the key has a round or tubular design
  • High Security – these are cam locks manufactured by CobraLock, Abloy or Medeco and have a lock and key design that hold a U.S. patent
  • Electronic Cam Lock – the lock and key are electronic which provide a much higher level of security

Cam Locks are very versatile.  They can be made out of many different types of materials and come in different configurations and sizes.  I will list some of these features below:

  • Can be made of steel, brass, zinc alloy and plastic
  • Come in sizes ranging from 3/8” to over 2” in length
  • Can be constructed so the lock core is removable
  • Can turn either left or right, either 90 or 180 degrees
  • Multiple diameters can be made (the standard is ¾”)
  • Can be keyed alike, keyed different or master keyed
  • Can be made in electronic versions
Cobra 7 Cam Locks

As you can see, Cam Lock is probably one of the most versatile locks ever made.  Over the years, the designs have changed and evolved, the materials have improved, and the security has increased.  One thing has remained the same; all cam locks operate a locking cam: this is the definition of a cam lock.

 Cam Locks are really the Lock you use every day. Locking Systems can help you choose the correct Cal Locks for your application.

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The Cobra SideWinder Locks are Here!!

by George Uliano · Comments (0)
06 Sep

Cobra SideWinder High Security Locks have extreme picking resistance, limited key blank access and over 250 million key code combinations available. Each SideWinder lock has 14 combination locking plates each containing multiple anti picking grooves.

The 14 locking plates align with a sidebar to keep the inner cylinder engaged with the shell in the locked position. The SideWinder Symmetrical key that will work in either direction, making this a very user friendly lock.

ALL at an affordable price.

SideWinder High Security Cam Locks

Cobra SideWinder Locks

Cobra SideWinder High Security Cam Lock has extreme picking resistance, limited key blank access and over 250 million key code combinations available.

ALL SideWinder Locks have 14 combination locking plates each containing multiple anti picking grooves.

The 14 locking plates align with a sidebar to keep the inner cylinder engaged with the shell in the locked position.

The SideWinder Symmetrical key that will work in either direction, making this a very user friendly lock.

  • Comes in three sizes: 16mm(5/8″), 22mm(7/8″), 29mm(1-1/8″).
  • Over 250 Million Key Codes.
  • Anti-Drill Front Plate.
  • Symmetrical Key which will work in either direction.
  • Patented Protection.
  • Tightly controlled key blanks.
  • High Security at very Affordable Prices.

Cobra SideWinder PUCK Padlocks

Cobra SideWinder Locks

The Cobra Lock® Universal PUCK® With SideWinder Lock Cylinder padlock is made of Solid Steel, Stainless Steel, Aluminum and has no visible shackle.

It comes with the Cobra HIGH SECURITY Patented High Security Lock Cylinder. High Security at Very Affordable Prices!

  • Available is Solid Steel, Stainless Steel and Aluminum Body’s.
  • This Padlock is protected by a U.S. Patent.
  • Shackle is not visible, therefore cannot be cut.
  • Comes standard with the Cobra SideWinder HIGH SECURITY Lock Cylinder  (High Security and Patented Lock Cylinder).

Cobra SideWinder Vending Locks

Cobra SideWinder Locks

Cobra SideWinder High Security Cam Lock has extreme picking resistance, limited key blank access and over 250 million key code combinations available.

Each SideWinder lock has 14 combination locking plates each containing multiple anti picking grooves. The 14 locking plates align with a sidebar to keep the inner cylinder engaged with the shell in the locked position.

The SideWinder Symmetrical key that will work in either direction, making this a very user friendly lock.

  • Available with or without Dust Cover.
  • Over 250 Million Key Codes.
  • Anti-Drill Front Plate.
  • Symmetricial Key which will work in either direction.
  • Patented Protection.
  • Tightly controlled key blanks.
  • High Security at very Affordable Prices.

For additional information on our NEW SideWinder Locks please click HERE.

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Categories : cam locks, Locks, Padlock
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Getting Your Security On-Line

by George Uliano · Comments (0)
03 Apr

Is getting Your Security On-Line Safe?  The answer is it depends on what you need and where you get it from.

This past year we all have become more comfortable in getting most things from an On-Line dealer or retailer. Those restaurants that survived this Pandemic did so by transitioning to On-Line order with pick up. Well, the same can be done safely with your locks.

Find out some information about your On-Line Lock Dealer.

  • How long have they been in business?
  • Do they service the locks they sell?
  • Can they custom key your locks?
  • Are they Authorized to sell High Security Locks?
  • Can they design and manufacturer locks and security systems?
  • Do they have an On-Line site, so that you can order locks 24/7?
  • Do they have lock experts on staff that you can speak to?

Security On-Line

In these times the most important question would be the first question, “How long have they been in business”. A lot of people started web only businesses in the past year to take advantage of the Pandemic and lock downs that we had. Most have no idea what they are doing, they are just “Passing Through” product to you the end user.

This may be OK for some types of businesses, but it could mean disaster for you. Only choose locks from someone you trust to be there in the long term. If you call an On-Line Lock, if you can call them at all, can they answer complicated technical questions? There are a few Lock Specialty Companies that can. Locking Systems International is one.

Buying a pre-packaged padlock to secure your shed in the back yard would be OK to order from any On-Line lock dealer or ever a big box store. But if you are protecting something of value or even people like your family only trust a lock company that offers full service not just sales. We can help you with all you security needs.

Getting your locks and/or security from an On-Line dealer can be safe so long as you do your homework on that dealer. Call Us Locking Systems International or go to our On-Line Store LsiDepot.com.

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Benefits of Patented Locks

by George Uliano · Comments (0)
29 Aug

There are many benefits of Patented Locks, most if not all revolve around “Key Control” and physical security. Before we can talk about the benefits, we must answer the question, what makes a lock patented?

Patented Locks

Lock engineers design a lock that is different than others, this usually starts with the key and the keyway of the lock. They look for unique differences in this new design and what are the benefits. They also design physical security into this new lock. This could be the material the lock is made from or how the internal lock mechanisms work.

Once this process is completed then the lock manufacturer applies for a patent at the USPTO (United States Patent and Trademark Office). This process can take two years or longer and there is no guarantee that a patent will be issued. If a patent is issued, then the lock manufacturer can advertise the benefits of this lock as patented.

Patented Locks

Benefits of a patented lock depend on the points and features that were actually patented. Below are some of benefits of a patented lock:

  • Key Control is probably the most important benefit.  This is achieved by designing a key and keyway that is different and unique form anything else being sold.
  • Physical security, this could be construction material, anti-drilling protection on the face or front of the lock and the material of the inner components of the lock.
  • Some locks go through UL and if successful get an UL listing.
  • Environmental protection, some locks are designed and built to withstand, water intrusion, salt and cold temperatures.
  • Electronic Locks, these could have any of the above features and how they communicate with the electronic key and the App. The keyway would be different than a mechanical lock, buy could have unique features that are patentable.

As stated above of all the benefits of a patented locks the key and keyway are the most important.  As I have said in the past, “you must control the key to control the security”. This means that the key blanks must be controlled at the factory level. Usually this type of key needs special key cutting machines to cut them. These machines must be controlled also at the factory level.

The price of these locks is usually higher than off the shelf locks. I think that it is easy for you to see why a lot goes into developing a patented lock.

For additional information on our Patented Locks please contact us at Locking Systems International

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Skimmers at Gas Pumps

by George Uliano · Comments (0)
31 Jul

Recently NBC News did a report on the increase of Gas Pump skimmers. According to this report they are showing up at more gas stations across the country. So what is a gas pump skimmer? This is a device that is placed inside the pump. It usually goes between the card reader and the rest of the pump. The access panel is unlocked, the card reader is unplugged and the skimmer is plugged into the reader with the remaining cable plugged into the other end of the skimmer.

So the question is how do the thieves get the gas pump panel key in the first place? The majority of pumps in the market place use an inexpensive lock. These locks have been in use for so long there is no longer any key control. This is changing very rapidly. Pump manufacturers are installing high security locks on their pumps. This will increase key control and help prevent thieves from opening the card reader panels. The keys that the thieves have will no longer work on these high security locks.

Many gas stations and convenience store chains are being pro-active by changing the locks on their current pumps, rather than waiting until they purchase new pumps.

So how does the consumer know if the pump is secured with the new high security locks? The average consumer doesn’t know. This can be helped by the gas station posting signs saying what they are doing to prevent skimming. Until then the consumer should be smart about where they purchase gas. Try using pumps that are well lighted and close to the attendant’s line of sight. If you don’t feel comfortable you could go inside and pay. Look at the pumps themselves; do any panels seem loose? Some stations put security seals across the panel. Are they there and not broken?

Medeco Cam Lock

You should also consider using a credit card rather than a debit card. If you use a debit card a thief can empty your bank account. Credit cards offer more protection, the major one being that they are not attached directly to your back accounts. I have written about using debit cards in the past, this is just another reason why I am not a big debit card fan.

It appears over the next few years gas pump security will increase quickly. Companies like Locking Systems International are helping both manufacturers and gas stations to secure their pumps as fast as possible.

For additional information and help choosing the right security for you, please contact us at: Locking Systems International.

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Voice Activated Door Locks

by George Uliano · Comments (0)
29 Apr

We are all seeing more Voice Activated Door Locks bring advertised and being sold. By Voice Activated I mean they can be controlled by Amazon, Google or Apple devices. Such as “Alexa” unlocked the front door or “Hey Google” lock the front door. So how do these devices work?

The basic lock is remarkably similar to electronic locks, which I have discussed in past Blogs. The difference is that these locks have built in capabilities to communicate with voice activated controllers. They will usually communicate with either Bluetooth, WI-Fi or both. Bluetooth will be used to open or lock the lock; it will be controlled by your smart phone. Like all smart or electronic locks installation is particularly important. It must be installed so the mechanical action is exceptionally smooth and there is no binding. The motor inside these locks are not as strong as your hand as was the case in all mechanical locks.

These voice activated door locks can be set up to temporally allow someone in on a one-time basis, such as a cleaning service. They also have a tracking capability with history, so you can determine who entered your house and at what time. Great for making sure your teenagers come home on time!

For controlling the lock from your smart controller this will usually use WI-Fi. You could set up a routine where if you said goodnight “Alexa” a routine would start that shut off the lights, locked the doors and maybe give you a weather report. It is endless on what your routine could be. All of this controlled by your voice.

Controlled by your voice can also be a problem. So, if a burglar came to your front door and said “Hey Google” unlock the front door, would that door unlock? It is particularly important that for any device such as a thermostat, door lock, alarm system, etc. that they can only be controlled by your voice or the voices that you authorized. Another way would be to set up a secondary authentication like a security code that the smart controller would have to hear before activating. Most of these have the capability to learn voices and only respond to those voices.

Voice activated door locks are an evolving industry, as they get smarter, they will become more secure and will be able to more closely communicate with your smart controller. You will also see (AI) artificial intelligence play a bigger role in household security.

Contact us at Locking Systems International for additional information.  

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Key Rings Provide Key Control

by George Uliano · Comments (0)
29 Mar

I have written blogs and articles in the past regarding Key Rings and what they can do to protect your keys. In this article I will explain how Key Rings can help you control your keys.

It doesn’t matter what type of lock you have, it can be the most secure lock money can buy, if you can’t control all your keys then you have no security. Control means that if you purchased 10 keys with your locks, can account for all of them? If you conduct an inventory can you put your hands and eyes on all ten keys. If not, then you have lost control of your keys and you must decide to either rekey these locks or replace them. Either of these options would be more expensive than the key rings below.

Lockable Key Rings:

Lockable Key Rings - Tamper Proof Key Rings

These generally have a lock on the end of the ring. This lock is usually a high security lock that provides its own key control. The flexible ring is constructed out of high grade flexible stainless steel. They are also available in solid rings. Both come in various sizes. Once keys are put on the ring it is locks and the keys remain there until the lock is opened again. If a key is broken, part of it remains on the ring for accountability.

Tamper Proof Key Rings:

These key rings are locked with a special tool, once locked they cannot be reopened again. The only way to take the keys off is to cut the ring. They are available in either solid or flexible key rings in multiple sizes. They both have a unique serial number to provide tracking and to attach to a person, which provides accountability and they are lighter and easier to carry.

Both key rings will provide the key control outlined above. It always amazes me how people and companies spend many hundreds of dollars on locks but forget the most important part the Key. The key rings mentioned above are more expensive than regular hardware store type rings, but ask yourself how important is your key control?

These types of key rings are only available from specialty lock distributors such as Locking Systems International. We can provide the correct type of key rings for your application. We also have the capability to properly make the locks for the lockable key rings.  

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Security Check for 2020

by George Uliano · Comments (0)
06 Jan

It’s time for your Security Check the new year. In January every year I write a Blog to help you think about your Home, Electronic and Personal Security. In 2019 new advances in electronic locks and Alexa® and Google® Assistant trying to help us with our everyday lives.

Home Security:

Purchase Locks On-LineMake 2020 the year that you invest time and money in securing your home. Do all your doors have deadbolt locks? What about the door going from your garage into your house? ALL doors going into your house should have quality locks and you should know who has keys. You must maintain key control. Does your home have an alarm system? They have come down in price consider getting one installed this year.

Locks:

Security CheckDoor locks made big advancements in 2019. Most of these came in the way electronic locks communicate. Physically these locks should be up to the standards of at least a Grade 2 lock. The manufacturers have made it easier to set up and control electronic locks with your smart phone or through your smart assistant. It is now easier to control these locks from a distance through Wi-Fi. Later this year I will be writing a Blog detailing the new advancements in electronic lock technology.

Smart Assistants:

Security Check your Smart assistants like Alexa® and Google® Assistant are appearing in more devices, such as smart lights, speakers, thermostats, electronic locks, and automobiles. These are just a few, there are many more. I don’t think that this trend is going to stop. They are getting better at understanding humans and anticipating what us humans want. I believe that these advancements in smart assistants are good. They will spear head advancements in AI. We just have to make sure that we control and secure smart assistants. They mostly work through Wi-Fi, so make sure that your Wi-Fi is secure with a strong password. Make sure that your routers, modems and switches have been configured with strong passwords that you have provided. If you don’t want them listening for their wake command, you can always shut them off. They all have an on/off button.

Make sure that you all travel safe, especially if you go out of the United States. Always leave your itinerary with someone back home, along with copies of your passport and drivers license. Buy travel insurance that can help pay for any medical emergencies or emergency transport back home. And finally, be aware of where you are, if your gut tells you not to go somewhere, don’t go.

As usual if you require additional information your can get our contact information HERE.

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Categories : Electronic Locks, Locks
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Lever Lock — The Standard in Door Locks

by George Uliano · Comments (0)
21 Jul

The Lever Lock is now the standard lockset for commercial applications.  Knob locks were replaced with levers, hence the name, Lever locks.  These locks came about due to ADA regulations and laws.  They are now the only door locks used in commercial applications and are finding their way into residential applications.

This is activated by pushing or pulling down on the lever, this will release the latch and open the door.  They will accept many different types of lock cylinders such as; high security and SFIC lock cylinders.  The Lever lock has been upgraded many times over the years.  They are available in electronic, push button and biometric packages providing unlimited access control.

Lever Lock

The lever itself created many challenges for manufacturers such as the outside lever breaking due to excessive force.  When the door is locked the outside lever will not move, people were pushing down on the locked lever causing the lever or inside locking mechanism to break.  This problem was solved by redesigning the lock mechanism so that when locked, the outside lever will move down freely; however, the lock latch will not activate to open.  Most commercial lever locks are designed to ANSI Grade 1 standards, which is the highest.

Features of the Lever Lock:

  • Standard door lock for commercial applications
  • Available in mechanical, electronic, push button and biometric versions
  • Available in many different types of finishes
  • Meet ANSI Grade 1 and 2 specifications
  • Protection of the lever handle with OverDrive™ technology
  • ADA compliant

Lever Lock Functions Available:

  • Entry Lock Function
  • Privacy Function
  • Passage Function
  • Storeroom Function
  • Classroom and Intruder Classroom Function

In residential applications, lever locks are mostly used for interior doors such as bedrooms, bathrooms and closets.  Unlike commercial lever locks, the locks used in residential applications are designed with an eye toward design.  They are also available in more finishes than with commercial lever lock applications.

The next big thing for lever locks and locks in general could be RFID (radio-frequency identification) and Bluetooth technology.  These would operate very similar to the same technologies available in vehicles.  The key fob would be on your person, when you approached the door it would either unlock directly or it would wait would a secondary code to get inputted on a keypad on the lock or near it.  This is known as two step verification which is being used today for passwords on some financial web sites.

For additional information please contact us at: lsidepot.com

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Battery Operated Door Locks

by George Uliano · Comments (0)
21 Apr

Yes, the title is correct.  You are probably asking yourself are these types of locks secure, what happens if the battery goes dead?  These are all good concerns, but consider this; if they can make cars that are completely battery operated, door locks should be easy and they are.  In this Blog I will discuss door locks which have battery operated electronics and use a touch pad.

Every Battery Operated Door lock must have mechanical components and this is very much the case in Battery electronic door locks.  Below are some of the features for the mechanical portion:

  • ANSI/BHMA grade 1or 2 certified lock
  • Weather resistant
  • Key override or at least some type of external secure override
  • ADA compliant door levers
  • Should fit into a standard door prep

The lock itself is usually controlled with a touch pad with numbers that look like the touch pad on a telephone.  This is where the user will enter their code to operate the mechanical portion of the lock.  Once the user code is entered and verified as a good code a solenoid or small motor is activated that moves a locking latch out of the way.  The user can now turn the knob or push the lever down to operate the lock.

There is usually one “Master User” that adds or deletes the other normal users.  There can be from 5-50 users depending on the manufacturer.  

Other features can include the following:

  • One time use code (used for service people)
  • Lockout Mode (can lockout a particular person or user code)
  • Passage Mode (allows passage from both the inside and outside)
  • 4-15 digit user code
  • Backlit keypad
  • Audible feedback when pushing a number on the keypad

There is a visual and audible warning when the batteries are getting low; batteries are standard 9 volt or AA type.  If the user ignores these warnings the batteries will eventually die, when that happens a key override is usually available.  The key override is built into the mechanical portion of the lock and it looks like any mechanical door lock.

These types of locks can be used in either a residential or commercial environment.  The grade 1 type locks will usually be used for commercial buildings and the grade 2 for residential.  For a better understanding of the differences between grade 1 and 2 you can search for a previous Blog that goes in detail: “Lock Grades and Functions”

For additional please visit us at Locking Systems International.

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