Kwikset SmartCode: Keyless Technology At Your Fingertips

Feb. 2, 2012

"No more worrying about keys.  The convenience of keyless technology is now available at your fingertips. " That is the message Kwikset is using to introduce the new SmartCode locksets.  These Kwikset locks solve the lost or forgotten key question with a system which is easier and faster to use, compared to locating and inserting a mechanical key.

Kwikset SmartCode keyless entry locks contain five numbered buttons and a sixth button which Kwikset describes as a "lock button". Each of the numbered buttons contains two numbers such as '12', '34', '56', etc.   Owner-programmed code numbers can be from four (4) to eight (8) digits in length.

Two different code numbers can be programmed into the SmartCode lock. This allows building residents to use their existing opening code while a second code can be issued to allow short-term users such as relatives or workmen to have access to the building. The second code can be quickly changed as needed while the users of the primary existing code are not affected by any secondary code changes.

Kwikset SmartCode locks are available as lever sets or deadbolt locks. Our sample is a deadbolt version which has a motor-driven deadbolt. Unlocking from the inside of the door is done manually by turning the thumb turn.  Locking and unlocking from the outside can be done automatically by an electric motor. As the last number of a correct code is pressed on the keypad, the electric motor swings into action and retracts the deadbolt. The deadbolt can either be optionally set to automatically relock after 30 seconds or the lock button can be pressed after the door is closed and the bolt will be moved by the electric motor into a locked position in the strike plate.

Electronics can provide additional options and Kwikset SmartCode locks takes full advantage of the possibilities.  A slide-up cover is located on the inside trim. Beneath the trim is a switch panel with four miniature switches. Switch #1 can set the indicator light on or off.  When set to the 'on' position, and with the lock in a locked position,  an LED light will flash intermittently red and orange every three to five seconds. If the lock is in an unlocked position, the LED will flash green every five seconds.  If switch #1 is set to the 'off' position, the LED will only flash to indicate a low battery situation.

Switch #2 controls an automatic locking feature. When the switch is set 'on', the SmartCode will automatically lock and extend the bolt 30 seconds after the lock has been unlocked.

Switch #3 enables the Audio function when the switch is 'on'.  When enabled, a beep is sounded each time a button is pushed. This is helpful to indicate that the user has fully pushed each button of the combination. If continual series of beeps are heard while the resident is at home, it is an indication that some mischief is occurring outside their door. 

Switch #4 has no function at this time.  SmartCode keypad buttons can also be momentarily illuminated for night operation by pressing the centrally located 'lock' button.  Lighting is then provided and each button is easily identified. 

In case of a low battery condition, the interior LED will flash red every five seconds. A battery case is located on the top of the inner lock trim. The battery case is easily removed for  replacement of four AA Alkaline batteries.  According to Kwikset instructions, based on an average of 15 operations per day, the Alkaline batteries should last for over a year. 

A key-operated lock cylinder is also provided which can be used for unlocking if necessary.  SmartCode lock cylinders are equipped with Kwikset SmartKey technology for increased pick and bump resistance.  SmartCode lock cylinders are another added sales feature.            

Home Connect Technology 

Home automation systems are becoming increasingly important to residential owners. As an added feature, SmartCode locksets are designed to operate as part of a home automation system.  Kwikset Home Connect Technology allows home owners to lock or unlock doors via remote control such as from a web-enabled mobile phone or from a secure internet connection.  Other home automation integration options include using the technology to disarm an alarm system, set home lighting or adjust climate controls or automatically unlock a Kwikset SmartCode lock in case of fire, depending on the system capabilities.  The Kwikset SmartCode locks operate with Zigbee or Z-Wave RF protocols.  While the Kwikset SmartCode lock must be connected to home automation systems installed by professional trade dealers such as Alarm.com, Control4, Homeseer, SmartHome.com  and others, the Home Connect Technology is an important additional sales feature when discussing Kwikset SmartCode products with your customer.

Programming User Codes 

Slide the inside cover upward to access the interior switch panel. Two user codes are permitted.  Any excessive delay while programming will cause the unit to beep twice. This will require restarting the programming sequence.

To program the first user code: 

1) Press the button marked "program button" once.

2) Using the keypad, enter a 4- to 8-digit code.

3) Press the 'LOCK" button to save the code.

4) Extend the bolt by pressing- the "LOCK" button.

5) Enter the new code number. The bolt should retract. If the bolt does not retract, repeat programming sequences 1-4.

To program the second user code:

1) Press the button marked "program button" twice.

2) Using the keypad, enter a 4- to 8-digit number.

3) Press the 'LOCK" button to save the code.

4) Extend the bolt by pressing  the "LOCK" button.

5) Enter the new code number. The bolt should retract. If the bolt does not retract, repeat programming sequences 1-4.

Lock Installation

The Kwikset SmartCode deadbolt requires a minimum crossbore hole diameter of 1 1/2". An adapter collar is included for cases where the SmartCode deadbolt is replacing an existing deadbolt lock which used a 2 1/8" crossbore hole. A 1" edge bore hole is required to accommodate the deadbolt unit. If the crossbore hole is 1 1/2" diameter, additional door material door may have to be removed to allow clearance for the cranklever to fully rotate. Typical substantial Kwikset retaining screws anchor the inner and outer trim to the door and no additional retaining screw holes are required. The deadbolt unit is easily adjusted by a half turn of the housing from 2 3/8" to 2 3/4" backset as needed. Strike plate location will not have to be changed if a SmartCode deadbolt is replacing an existing deadbolt lockset.  

Installation of a Kwikset SmartCode deadbolt is identical to the installation of a traditional deadbolt except for routing of the wiring.  With the bolt in the extended position, install the adapter if necessary, route the wire harness below the deadbolt unit and insert the cylinder tailpiece through the bolt unit.  Next, carefully insert the wire harness through the lower hole in the inner mounting plate and install the two retaining screws. Test the key for smooth operation before proceeding.

Attach the wire harness to the connector on the inner trim. Make sure that the wire harness is aligned properly along the opening in the housing, align the turn knob and tailpiece, then place the interior assembly against the inner door surface. Install two trim retainer screws through holes in interior housing. 

The SmartCode automatically learns the door handing. Begin the learning procedure by pressing and holding the 'LOCK' button on the keypad.  While holding the 'LOCK' button in, install the  battery case holder into the top of interior trim. When the unit begins to operate, release the 'LOCK' button.  The SmartCode unit will take approximately 20 seconds while moving the bolt several times in order to automatically determine the handing.  Wait for an LED on the interior trim to flash green and an audible beep to sound which indicates the learning process is complete.   Slide the interior assembly cover down to complete the installation. 

For more information contact your local locksmith distributor or, www.Kwikset.com , 800-677-5625.