All throughout history locking mechanisms been wrapped in mystery and awe. With the precision of a surgeons hands and the skill of a magician, the modern locksmith takes years of training and real world experience to become a master locksmith. In many parts of the world local regulations require certified locksmiths to be accredited through engineering colleges or the like. In the high-tech world of today it is more important than ever to select the most appropriately trained locksmith for your particular needs. If you ever need a locksmith will you know what to look for?
These-days, with advancements in modern technologies, the locksmith industry is more challenging than ever for the professional locksmith to keep theirs locksmithing skills up-to-date. With ever-changing locking technologies, techniques and tools to get the job done the locksmith of today has to stay fresh by constantly refining their locksmith abilities and by keeping up with the latest trends in locking mechanisms.
The following is a refresher list of locking mechanisms for seasoned locksmiths and consumers alike:
Combination Locks:
This type of keyless lock is commonly found on bicycle chains, luggage and padlocks. Combination locks typically contain three or more rotating dials and are preferred by many people because combination locks do not require a key to be opened.
Deadbolt Locks:
Deadbolt locks are the most common type of lock found in The United States. Usually used in conjunction with a door knob, the deadbolt lock has proven to be built strong and is a popular way to secure doors commonly found on homes and commercial properties.
Electronic Locks:
This type of lock utilizes an electric current to open the locking mechanism instead of a key. Electronic locks are typically used with digital or analog access control systems to operate the lock or can be found using combination pads incorporated within the lock.
Electromagnetic Locks:
Otherwise known as “mag-locks”, these types of locking mechanisms utilize magnets in order to lock and unlock the doors that they are installed on. With the potential to resist thousands of pounds of force electromagnetic locks are pretty much fail-safe.
Mortise Locks:
This type of lock is common in most 1st world nations because of their durable construction, compact design and ease of use. Typically found on luxury homes and in affluent regions of Europe, the mortise lock offers elegant design simple installation.
Keycard Locks:
If you have ever stayed in a modern hotel then you are familiar with keycard locks. Keycard locks utilize plastic cards similar to that of a bank card that stores digital information. When the card is inserted into the lock the door will open.
Padlock Locks:
All throughout most of history the padlock has been preventing theft and vandalism. Made with multiple metal plies and hardened steel, the padlock has withstood the test of time and just about any abuse that you can throw at it.
Time Locks:
Found most commonly on bank vaults, the time lock utilizes a locking mechanism that incorporates a timing device to open the lock at predetermined times. Time locks were created to prevent would-be thieves from opening a lock.
You are only as secure as your weakest point of entry and no locking mechanism is a sure way to lock up your valuables because in the end locks only keep your friends out.
When it comes to purchasing a lock always remember that the lock that you are purchasing is only as secure as the compartment that is being locked. A good rule of thumb is to purchase a lock that matches the value of the items being stored and the container that is being locked up. And never skimp on quality of lock because of cost because if what you are locking up is worth keeping locked then you might as well feel confident knowing that you are secure.
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