Security Lock Upgrades from Mechanical to Electronic

Feb. 2, 2015
Door hardware is becoming multifunctional, combining the lock, authentication, manual control, specialized timing and functionality and communication capabilities into one package

The traditional lockset and mortise lock is true genius. In one assembly, it combines:

  • The latch (or bolt) which is the fundamental means to secure the opening
  • The lock cylinder which by means of a properly cut keys provides authentication of the individual wishing to gain access
  • The user interface (levers or knobs) by which the individual using the opening can control the lock so they can enter or egress the opening.

But mechanical locks do have limits:

  • They can only be used on a swinging door
  • The lock can be only controlled manually right at the door
  • Authentication begins and ends with the lock cylinder and keyway in the lock.

Many security applications these days require more versatility, more control and monitoring features and multiple authentication factors.

Security can be augmented several ways, such layered perimeters around the asset; video surveillance and armed guards. For many applications electrified lock hardware will fills the bill nicely, and integrates well with other security management elements.

Let Us Be Perfectly Clear: From the standpoint of the locking, the only types of locks which use electricity rather than positive latching or extended bolts are electromagnetic locks which use electricity to form a bond between the armature and the magnet to hold the door closed and shear locks which use electricity to generate a magnetic field which creates a interlock and bond between the parts of the lock.

From the standpoint of user interface, there are many variations. If an electrified lockset or exit device is used, the lock is still manually manipulated on the door to retract a bolt or latch. Electric door strikes which fit into the frame and work with traditional locking hardware are fully controlled by applying or removing power, so the door’s operation may be done with a combination of mechanical as well as manual methods. Additionally, the door can usually be remotely controlled, or controlled by external equipment such as access controls and fire alarms.

From the standpoint of authentication, upgrading to an electronic or electric lock opens a wide selection of enhanced authentication to the system installer, including credentials and biometrics.

The trend is that hardware is becoming multifunctional by combining the lock, the authentication, the manual control, specialized timing and functionality, and communication capabilities into one package.

Systems comprised of several discrete components (door hardware, locking device, card reader or other input device, power supply) are also used. Sometime when an existing door is upgraded, existing equipment is used as part of the project. Other scenarios for utilizing some existing components are when the door and hardware are specialized and an electronic equivalent is not available or practical or when the system design has requirements calling for particular discrete components and functions.

The more informed and familiar the locksmith is with the electric electronic solutions available, the better he will be able to offer his clients the optimum solution for the particular application. Locksmiths should be expers in both mechanical and electronic hardware to provide their clients with the best possible system.

The following is a roundup of some of the products progressive locksmiths are using to help their customers upgrade their security.

Adams Rite Aluminum & Glass Door Security

Upgrading mechanical locking hardware on storefronts (also referred to as aluminum and glass) is a frequent requirement if you service retailers or end-users with storefronts. Adams Rite has been long been the prominent supplier of mechanical hardware for storefronts, and has been in the forefront of electrified store front solutions.

With its patented two-way winged technology, the Adams Rite Steel Hawk 4300 Electrified Deadlatch (eLatch) is an ideal electrified no-cut replacement for MS® deadbolts and deadlatches for aluminum and glass doors.  The 4300 eLatch combines mechanical locking hardware with electrified access control while working within standard aluminum entrance door preparations and allows free egress from the inside via handle or paddle device.

The ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 narrow backset deadlatch adapts to any door swing right out of the box. Entry can be via keyed mortise cylinder and/ or electronic access control. The device is fail-secure and is available with optional form “C” latch status monitor. It is equipped with a quick connect plug-in type connector.

The standard 4300 operates on 12, 16, or 24 volt DC power and is rated for continuous duty, which means the lock can be energized for extended periods, for example during retail business hours when free entry may be desired.

The 4300 is interchangeable with MS® Deadlocks or 4500 and 4900 Deadlatches. without stile modifications. A 1-3/4" minimum door thickness required.

The Dual Force 2190 Interconnected Deadbolt/Deadlatch combines the access control capabilities of a latch with the security of a deadbolt in a code compliant solution.

The key retracts and extends the deadbolt (and deadlatch) from either side. With the deadbolt projected, turning the key in either the interior or exterior mortise cylinder retracts the deadbolt, or a simple turn of the inside lever retracts both the latch and deadbolt simultaneously, providing code-compliant, single-motion, panic-proof exiting. Latch holdback feature activated or deactivated by turning key to retract latch and sliding holdback button on faceplate down to hold and up to release.

The 2190 is available with electrified trim set for easy integration into an electronic access control system.

The 3080 Series Electrified Entry Trim provides outside activation for doors with any type of Adams Rite exit device. The locked handle is protected from vandalism and forced entry with a breakaway clutching mechanism.  It enables remote activation of the locking function without unlatching the door, making this trim ideal for stairwell and fire doors.

For more information, visit www.adamsrite.com

Alarm Lock ArchiTech

Alarm Lock’s Trilogy was a pioneering product which enabled the conversion from a mechanical lock and key to a hybrid solution which combined the reliability of a mechanical latch, the life safety characteristics of a free egress interior trim, and advanced authentication and keyless entry with keypads, keys and credential controlled entrance. With the introduction of Networx, virtually all the features of a networked hard-wired system were possible without the need for wiring to each opening.

Trilogy Networx Wireless Access Locks, the foundation for the new ARCHITECH locking platform, eliminate door-to-door programming and audit trail retrieval by communicating wirelessly via Ethernet or 802.11B/G, while providing all the popular original Trilogy standalone lock’s functionality. Features include:

  • Quick, easy, economical access system with advanced features & functions, like automatic schedules, event logs and support for 2000 doors and 5000 existing Prox. ID Cards/Badges,
  • No wires to run, and no access panels or power supplies to buy or install.
  • One Grade 1 durable wireless lock per door, installed in about an hour, all communicating to a single Gateway (each gateway controls up to 63 locks), networked to any non-dedicated Windows-based PC.

Architech Series Networx Locks blend advanced wireless access control convenience within any decor in an infinitely customizable designer locking form factor and in choice of trims and finishes, for residential and commercial decors, in standalone, networked or enterprise applications.

They include “future-proof” technology, meaning credentials can be upgraded from mechanical key to electronic.

ArchiTech can be used with wireless encrypted bi-directional gateways or use a wireless RF USB Gateway equivalent. Updates are Wwireless and labor-free; ID changes, scheduled routines, and time/date-stamped audit trail queries can be over the securely made wireless network, on-demand or set schedule.

The emergency lock-lown / unlock option can be accomplished via lock, button, keyfob or server. 

For more information visit www.architechnetworx.com .

Schlage NDE

Walter Schlage is one of the pioneers of the lock hardware and electrified lock industry. He was German born and trained, but once he came to the U.S.A. he began inventing.  In 1909 while he was working for Western Electric, Walter Schlage patented his first invention, a door lock that had the ability to turn lights on and off, sort of the first home automation system.

Around 1920, Schlage left his job at Western Electric and opened his own shop where he developed tools for manufacturing the first lock with a push-button device centered in the door knob. In the early 1920s, Walter Schlage advanced the concept of a cylindrical pin-tumbler lock by placing a push-button locking mechanism between the two knobs. This lock required that only two holes be drilled into the door for installation, a much easier task than installing a mortise lock.

Schlage's new company grew quickly and into larger facilities throughout the 1920s. The company was manufacturing 20,000 locks per month in 1925.

Now part of Allegion, Schlage’s latest solution is its Schlage NDE Series wireless lock with ENGAGE™ technology.  NDE Series wireless locks simplify installation by combining the lock, credential reader, door position sensor and request-to-exit switch all in one unit.

The Schlage NDE is designed to be easy to:

  • Install; requiring a cylindrical two hole door prep,
  • Connect; using cutting edge NFC  technology
  • Manage; using locks management software using wireless technology, and
  • Use; operating just like a standard mechanical lockset while using the latest authentication to grant keyless entry.

The NDE was developed specifically for facilities that want to upgrade to electronic credentials for improved security and efficiency. It is ideal for interior office doors, common area doors, and sensitive storage spaces with a cylindrical door prep.

NDE Series wireless locks utilize the standard ND cylindrical door prep and can be installed in minutes with only a Phillips screwdriver; no need to install additional components, drill holes or run wires to each opening.

ENGAGE cloud-based web and mobile apps make it easy to configure lock settings, add users, and view audits and alerts from anywhere. For advanced capabilities including user schedules, auto unlocks & holidays, NDE Series wireless locks can be managed with software from Schlage’s access control alliance partners.

NDE Series wireless locks can be updated manually at the lock with the ENGAGE mobile app, automatically daily over Wi-Fi 2, or in real-time when connected to an ENGAGE gateway.

NDE Series wireless locks with ENGAGE technology are also compatible with most proximity and smart cards including aptiQ™ and aptiQmobile.™

For more information, visit www.allegion.us

BEA Maglocks

Maglocks offer a locking solution for upgrades as well as for openings with unusual requirements such as gates and sliding doors. They provide failsafe locking which can be adapted to doors which might otherwise not be suitable for conventional latching hardware.

BEA offers one of the most trusted lifetime warranties in the industry on its line of Maglock solutions and offers a full line of complimentary accessories to outfit a multitude of applications.

Creating an extremely powerful magnetic bond, the Maglock line ensures security without emitting any residual magnetism that could adversely affect other components of the door. 

Each BEA Maglock is enclosed in a rugged steel frame and can be used for security doors in both single and pairs, gates and other applications where additional security is desired. These solutions include a remote status LED on all 600 lb and 1200 lb models, a 0 – 90 second hold open timer (for relocking) and a bond status relay that offers either Normally Open or Normally Closed options.

  • UL Listed
  • No special tools required for installation
  • Installation hardware included for typical applications
  • Zero to 90 second hold open timer typically used for relocking 
  • Bonding status relay output offers either Normally Open or Normally Closed output
  • Efficient screw terminal interface for access to relay output
  • Status LED included on 600lb and 1200lb models
  • Zinc plated steel plate is corrosion resistant

For more information, visit www.beasensors.com

Securitron iMXDa

The Securitron iMXDa Magnalock® with All-In-One Exit Delay iMXDa helps prevent peril to persons (e.g. patients) and property loss (i.e. theft) for businesses at emergency exits. An attempted exit triggers an alarm and causes a brief delay before the lock releases, giving personnel time to respond before an exit may occur.

This product is ideal protection for memory care wards, hospitals, dormitories, airports, child care facilities and retail or warehouse environments. It can be used on out- swing doors; installation requires no alteration or replacement of existing fire-rated or non-fire-rated latching hardware.

Holding Force is 1200 pounds and it is designed for indoor use only.

Features include:

  • Fully integrated delay and detection features for fast installation of delayed egress system
  • Easily adjustable door movement detection from 1/8" [3.2mm] to 1" [25mm]
  • Bracket mounted for ease of installation
  • Automatic dual voltage - no field adjustment required
  • Permits free egress in emergency situations
  • Efficient, low power usage
  • Compact 12-1/2" length can be used with most door closers
  • BondSTAT magnetic bond sensor – Patented (MBS)
  • Easily visible LEDs indicate status on secure side of door
  • Advanced intelligent microprocessors provide alarm options and trainable door movement detection to minimize false alarms

Configurable settings include:

  • Nuisance alarm times - 0 to 3 seconds
  • Irrevocable delay times - 15 or 30 seconds - user selectable
  • External bypass delay times - 0, 5, 10, or 15 seconds
  • Post alarm reminder - user selectable
  • Bypass expiration alarm – user selectable
  • Manual relock or delayed automatic relock (BOCA) - user selectable

Holding Force is 1200 pounds and it is designed for indoor use only.

For more information, visit www.securitron.com

Farpointe Readers

The Farpointe P-640 Patagonia high security reader supports popular proximity card and tag technologies with an integrated keypad for two-factor high security verification applications. The proximity card reader features an expanded eight-inch read range for increased convenience as the user enters a PIN  on the keyboard. The P-640 Patagonia proximity card reader and keypad  carries a lifetime warranty.

The unit features tamper-proof and weather-resistant epoxy potting to avoid problems with dust, mist or water. Since many of the P-640 units are slated to be used outdoors or in dusty environments, the proximity/keypad combination is designed to meet IP67 certification.

The P-640 mounts directly to a standard North American sized wall switch box or any flat surface.

Based upon proven contactless digital radio frequency identification (RFID) technology, Pyramid Series Proximity® readers interface with a wide range of electronic access control systems by complying with the Wiegand communication protocol. They offer value-add features such as MAXSecureTM and fleaPowerTM, and can be ordered to support several proximity card and tag technologies. Additionally, Pyramid cards and tags are passive devices, eliminate maintenance by requiring no battery, and can be ordered to support several proximity reader technologies.

MAXSecure is a security feature available with Farpointe’s Pyramid Series Proximity line and Delta Contactless Smartcard Readers. MAXSecure integrates a high-security handshake, or code, between card, tag and reader to prevent credential duplication and ensure that readers will only collect data from MAXSecure coded credentials.