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Over time, the current draw and the size of the electromechanical solenoids improved. As solenoids became small enough, cylindrical locks became available electrified. Electrified locks are available with Fail Safe and/or Fail Secure electromechanical solenoids.

This choice determines the condition of the lock mechanism. A Fail Safe operation electromechanical solenoid unlocks the door lock and a Fail Secure operation solenoid keeps the door locked when power is turned off. More important are the door monitoring capabilities, which include REX (Request to Exit), latch and deadbolt monitoring, lock cylinder monitoring and door position monitoring capabilities. The features depend upon the lock manufacturer and the model.

The first standalone (without wires) battery operated electromechanical lock was introduced in the late 1980s with a number of other lock manufacturers introducing their models. The inclusion of a circuit board-equipped lock provided many new ways to control access. These battery operated locks did not require any external wiring, external power source or multiple components for installation.

Over the years, a number of different function standalone, battery operated electromechanical locks have been developed. In addition to the cylindrical, mortise and exit device application, companies such as Adams Rite, Sargent and others have introduced their version of the narrow and medium stile aluminum/glass door compatible locks that are designed to operate the Adams Rite style of deadbolts and deadlatches.

The advantage of the standalone, battery operated electromechanical lock was having all of the components in one unit. Battery power eliminated the need for wiring. Standalone eliminated compatibility issues and technical support problems as well as warranty issues. If there is a question or problem with a standalone lock, only one telephone number needs to be called to the lock manufacturer for technical support.