Wafer Lock Reading Goes High Tech

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Created: August 3, 2011

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Desk lock key
Desk lock key
Desk lock
Desk lock
Wafer fourth from tip
Wafer fourth from tip
Wafer third from tip
Wafer third from tip
Wafer second from tip
Wafer second from tip
Wafer closest to tip
Wafer closest to tip
Five wafers depressed
Five wafers depressed
LED adjustment and still image switch
LED adjustment and still image switch
Reading desk lock
Reading desk lock
Keedex software
Keedex software
Wafer reader connected to laptop
Wafer reader connected to laptop
Closeup view, wafer reader
Closeup view, wafer reader
Probe assembly
Probe assembly
Closeup view, focus adjustment
Closeup view, focus adjustment
Wafer reader
Wafer reader

The wafer tumblers are usually read from back to front, depressing all of the wafers. Slide the probe forward slightly in order to see only the rear most wafer. Look for a depth number possibly stamped into the wafer. Depending upon the wafer tumbler manufacturer, the number may be positioned vertically, the same as the direction the wafer tumblers move or they may be positioned horizontally. Some manufacturers use both positions for different depth wafers. If the wafers have depth numbers, the job is simplified.

If not, the depths of cut can be determined by reading the height of each wafer tumbler’s ledge in the “rest” position. The probe is used to provide visual access to the wafer tumblers being read, keep the forward wafer tumblers depressed, as well as determining the focal length. Once the rear tumbler has been read, pull the probe forward to release only the next wafer tumbler. Read this wafer tumbler. Continue pulling the probe slowly forward until all of the wafer tumblers have been read.

Note: Use previously read wafer tumbler positions at rest to help gauge the visible forward positioned wafer tumblers. Sometimes the forward wafer is lower in the at rest position, which can help to determine the depth of cut for both.

Originate a key using either the determined depths of the cuts or use half cuts when uncertain. Half cuts provide more depth of cut options, which can be helpful.

The purpose of reading a wafer tumbler lock is to open the locked cabinet, desk, etc. Once the lock operates once, the actual depths can be determined by using basic impressioning methods.

The Keedex stock number is USB-WR.

For more information, contact your local locksmith distributor or Keedex, 510 Cameron St., Placentia, CA 92870. Telephone: 714-993-4300. Web Site: www.keedex.com.