Digital locks (digilocks) provide a quick and simple way to lock/unlock a door without a key. Another name for this is keyless access control. In certain circumstances, it is the best and most appropriate access/security solution. For example, a digital lock is a great way to secure a door that is regularly accessed by a high volume of people. It removes the hassle of trying to keep track of a large number of keys and who has access to them. Ensuring correct installation is important. That is why we strongly recommend using a qualified locksmith to fit them.
1. Mechanical digital locks
Pushbutton digital locks first appeared in the 1960s. Although initially, these types of locks were primarily for access restriction, they have continued to evolve to this day. Today’s pushbutton digilocks offer a robust, low cost solution for a number of access and security applications. Most people will be familiar with this type of lock. It consists of a keypad that is used to manually input a pin code. Entering the correct code opens the lock allowing the door to be opened. One of the advantages of this type of digital lock is that it doesn’t require a power source.
2. Electronic digital locks
Electronic pushbutton locks entered the commercial market in the 1980s and have evolved rapidly in line with the explosion in digital technology. Electronic locks come in a multitude of guises. Here are a few examples
- Keyfob door locks (although you could argue that it is just as easy to lose a keyfob as it is to lose a key!)
- Touchscreen(access code) door locks
- Biometric (e.g. Fingerprint or Facial recognition door locks)
- Bluetooth or RFID door locks
- Smart door locks (using a lock app on your mobile phone)
These locks do require a power supply e.g. battery or mains.
Benefits of digital locks
- Lost key issues become a distant memory (although lost keyfobs may still be an issue)
- Very suitable for high footfall areas. They reduce the cost and hassle of supplying multiple keys and improve access/exit times. Ideal for factory/office entry and exits etc.
- No more broken keys in locks
- Easy out-of-hours access for approved persons, no calling a keyholder out etc.
- Longer lasting. Pushbutton entry systems are not subject to the same repetitive behaviour as turning a key. This means that pushbuttons generally last longer than their key counterparts.
- Easy to change the code e.g. when an employee leaves
Liberty locksmiths is an affordable highly rated locksmith serving customers in Glasgow and the surrounding towns.
