Modern technologies enter our lives, gradually replacing old, time-tested solutions. New trends have not bypassed locks either - more and more people are installing electronic versions of them in their private homes.
The electronic lock for the front door is available in various variations. Such locking mechanisms, as a rule, do not have holes for a key and are often hidden from view. You can open them in various ways depending on the specific type of lock - using a key card, key fob, digital or alphabetic code, fingerprints, and even by scanning the retina of a person’s eye. Let's look at the main types of the most popular electronic solutions.
Types of castles
There are a wide variety of electronic locking mechanisms on the market. Depending on the purpose pursued when purchasing a lock, you can choose the option that best suits your specific needs. The following types of mechanisms are distinguished:
- Code;
- Electronic;
- Electromagnetic;
- Electromechanical;
- Biometric.
Electrical, electromechanical, electromagnetic, solenoid, as well as combination locks with an electronic mechanism they work on a similar principle (opened using a card, key, chip, etc.), but have own characteristics unlocking and locking mechanism.
Code locks
The simplest devices are combination locks on the front door. Such options are familiar to almost everyone who has ever seen doors to the entrances of houses with a code mechanism. Instead of a keyhole, a special remote control is used for the key, with which an alphabetic or digital combination is entered. It is very difficult for an attacker to find such a cipher, especially if there are more than five characters in the combination.
There are special devices that allow you to read the code from the device or pick it up. In addition, it is possible to see which numbers are pressed on the keyboard most often - these are the numbers that will be most erased if the keyboard is mechanical.
Code options can be either mechanical or electronic. If we talk about reliability, mechanical combination locks provide better protection against burglary because they do not depend on electricity. Such locks are installed on safes and have proven to be very reliable. Electronic options, although dependent on electricity, are also widespread due to their greater ease of use. If the door opens large number times during short period time, such locking mechanisms are simply irreplaceable.
A mechanical combination lock has special disks that rotate inside the mechanism and are secured by special balls. The code parts are connected to gears that cause the lock combs to move simultaneously when they coincide with the grooves on the disks. Most often, it is possible to recode the code and it can be changed without opening the case.
Combination mechanical and electronic locks have one similarity - opening is carried out using a code. Otherwise, such locks have many differences. Electronic options can be reprogrammed at any time without any effort. Such solutions differ stylish design, can be equipped with a touch screen.
Many additional functions allow you to program features such as delaying door slamming, blocking exits or entrances. There are no mechanical elements, which determines its reliability. Combination locks can be electromagnetic, holding the door using a magnet.
Electronic
The second type of locks - electronic locks. They can be opened in various ways, in particular using a key card (many may have seen such devices in science fiction films, for example, “The Terminator”). The card contains a chip that contains a certain set of information necessary to open the door. If a set of information is copied into another chip, the door can be opened using it.
In addition, such doors can be opened using special equipment. An ordinary laptop, a special scanner and a programmer will allow an attacker to read the code, intercept it, and then use it to open the door. However, to do this you need to be close to the lock, which makes it difficult to carry out actions to intercept the code.
Speaking about electronic locking mechanisms, it should be noted that such locks are either electromagnetic, electromechanical, or solenoid.
Solenoid electronic locks work as follows. Voltage is applied to the coil, which creates a force that forces the bolt into the door frame. Without tension, the bolt comes out of its socket and the door opens.
Electromagnetic locks use a magnet to “attract” the door to the door frame. The magnet turns off when using a key card, entering a code, reading fingerprints, or reading an eye test.
To the benefits electronic locks include the ability to open them remotely, which is really convenient if you need to bring a lot of things into the room when your hands are full. In the case of an electronic mechanism, there is no need to carry a bulky bunch of keys with you; the lock can be opened without a key using a card or a small chip. Such locks can be equipped with additional sound alarm, which is triggered in the event of an unauthorized access attempt.
In addition, electronic locks may not be visible to an intruder (this applies to mortise locks).
Magnetic locks
Magnetic lock- one of the most common types among the devices under consideration. An electromagnet is installed on the front door, to which voltage is applied. If the voltage is removed (for example, when entering a code, or when using a chip), the door opens. An example of use is the same intercom doors. It should be noted that if a certain force is applied, the door can be opened without a key. The physical effort must be greater than the force of the magnet (it is virtually impossible for a person to create such a load on the door).
Magnetic locks can be of two types - holding or sliding.
The first option is presented on the market in the version of a rim lock. It is usually installed on top part doors, has a certain reliability against burglary, but is not difficult to open for an experienced burglar.
The second option is more reliable. When the lock is closed, special protrusions fit into the locking bar, which ensures a stronger fit of the box to the door leaf.
Magnetic locks can be installed everywhere - from entrance doors to interior doors in an apartment. They are reliable, aesthetically pleasing, protected from corrosion, and durable in use.
Locks that combine both electronic and mechanical mechanisms
An electromechanical lock can be installed on the entrance door of premises where serious protection against burglary is required. An electric motor is built into such mechanisms, which drives the locking device. If the electricity is turned off, such a door will still be closed and can only be opened mechanically- using a key.
The advantage of this type of lock is that it is easy to open. Mechanical locks require constant carrying of a key; the mechanism often jams, the key can get stuck in the keyhole and break.
Electromechanical type locks can be installed hidden, which contributes to a more aesthetically pleasing attractive appearance doors. The service life of such locks is much longer than that of conventional mechanical structures, which is due to the absence of the need to constantly use a key.
It is also possible to open doors remotely, which is convenient in places where visitors often enter.
These options also have disadvantages. First of all, cost. In addition, electricity must be supplied to the lock. Thus, installation is more complex compared to mechanical analogues.
Biometric
Technologies are developing very rapidly indeed. Ten years ago, consumers did not even think about the possibility of installing a biometric lock on their door, but today everyone can touch the future.
The biometric recognition system allows you to identify a person by his fingerprints, as well as by scanning the iris of the eye. There are also options that can recognize a person by his face, or combined systems, scanning both the retina and the fingerprint (fingers).
The advantages of such locks include the ability to identify each person entering with the ability to view the visit log. Only those whose details have been entered into the system will enter. This feature allows you to provide access to the premises to one or more people whose data is programmed into the device. Biometric locks can be classified as electric locks, since they cannot work without electricity.
So, an electric lock allows you to get significant advantages when using it. You can install such solutions on the front door, doors between rooms in non-residential buildings, interior doors, doors to entrances apartment buildings, wickets. The variety of options and breadth of application have made electric locks very popular, they really deserve the buyer's attention.
One of the options for protecting a room door or fence from unauthorized opening is to install an electromagnetic lock. Such a device is installed directly on the door, and it is controlled remotely using an electrical signal. Electromagnetic locks are very popular due to their high reliability and work perfectly both indoors and outdoors.
Design and principle of operation of electromagnetic locks
Although electromagnetic locks different manufacturers may differ in design, but their operating principle is the same. The door closes and opens due to the presence of an electromagnet inside the device. You can control such a locking device by pressing a button or by entering a special code.
The quality and reliability of the lock will depend on the strength of the electromagnet used. The larger it is, the more securely the metal plate holding the doors is fixed.
In the event of a sudden power outage, the electromagnetic lock will not be able to fulfill its intended purpose, so it is recommended to additionally install standalone source power supply or a regular mechanical lock.
Reliability of door fixation electromagnetic lock depends on the holding force of the built-in magnet
To provide reliable protection home, industrial enterprise or territory, to control an electromechanical lock must be installed independent source energy. If the main power is turned off, the system automatically goes into offline mode, so the safety of the home will not be threatened.
The operating principle of an electromagnetic lock is simple and clear. Main part with magnetic device is fixed directly on the door frame and is powered from a DC voltage source. The locking plate is attached to the door leaf. When power is applied, the electromagnet is activated and the strike plate is attracted to it, thereby ensuring reliable locking of the door. When you press the button that controls the lock, the power supply is turned off, after which the plate moves back, allowing the door to open.
Internal structure
Electromagnetic lock consists of the following elements:
To power almost any electromagnetic lock you need constant voltage 12 V. It may change slightly, but this is not desirable. If the voltage decreases, the holding force of the electromagnet decreases and the reliability of the lock also decreases. When the voltage increases, the winding overheats, which can lead to its failure. High-quality modern electromagnetic locks consume only a few watts, so their installation will not greatly affect the overall energy consumption.
Advantages and Disadvantages
U electromagnetic locks There are many advantages, which explains their great popularity:
- long term service - on average 10–15 years. Ensured due to the absence of moving parts;
- large selection of models. They can be mortise, overhead, tear-off or shear;
- high reliability. Such a lock cannot be picked using drilling or a master key;
- opportunity remote control door opening/closing process;
- possibility of installation on any doors, including metal, plastic, wood, glass;
- simple installation and maintenance;
- minimum power consumption - approximately 3–5 W;
- ability to work both indoors and outdoors;
- affordable price. A simple electromagnetic lock with a hold of 180–300 kg retails for 1000–1500 rubles.
Like any other type of lock, this one has locking device and its shortcomings:
- dependence on the availability of power supply in the network, therefore for reliable operation such a lock must be equipped with an autonomous power supply;
- higher cost than mechanical lock, which is justified by significantly greater reliability and ease of use;
- the need to have certain skills to work with electrical networks for self-installation.
Types of electromagnetic locks
According to the type of design, electromagnetic locks are:
Depending on the method of opening the door, locks can be:
The choice of electromagnet holding force will depend on the type of door leaf:
- For internal doors A holding force of about 200–300 kg is quite sufficient;
- for massive metal doors such force should be greater - 350–500 kg.
By type of application, electromagnetic locks are:
- individual. Such devices are installed in private houses, apartments, offices, etc.;
- public. They are used in shops, offices, banking institutions, entrances, etc.
Locks with controller
To provide control of the electromagnetic lock and the ability to connect additional equipment to it, such as a reader, card or key fob, opening button, buzzer, a controller is installed on it. To protect the controller from the negative effects of external natural factors, it must be placed in a special protective housing.
Electromagnetic locks with a controller are highly reliable, so they are usually installed in rooms where high demands are placed on the lock. It could be entrance doors to any room, fire and emergency exits, etc.
An electromagnetic lock with a controller is installed in a room where high demands are placed on the locking device
Modern locks with a controller have the following characteristics:
- light and sound indication;
- locking when selecting a key;
- memory capacity of 500 or more keys;
- protection against freezing and jamming;
- non-volatile memory;
- programmable door opening time - 1–15 s;
- high voltage protection at the input;
- the ability to copy memory from/or to a computer.
Electromagnetic holding locks
The peculiarity of holding locks is that their installation does not require special precision and they are easy to adjust. The main advantage of electromagnetic holding locks is that their operation is practically not affected by the condition of the door. Thanks to his simple device and reliability, such locks have become widespread and are usually used in places where there is a large presence of people, when it is necessary to frequently close/open doors.
Typically, retaining locks are installed at the top of the door, which can lead to unwanted deformations on light and fragile panels. In addition, their design is susceptible to the phenomenon of residual magnetization. Therefore, experts do not recommend using retaining devices on canvases that open inward or in both directions.
Installation of the holding lock does not require high precision and is easy to adjust
Slide locks
This lock works by moving a flat anchor. The main advantage of such models is that they can be installed inside the door frame or leaf. The disadvantage of such structures is the need to accurately maintain the gap between the interacting parts of the lock.
The sliding lock can be installed inside the door frame
There are several basic parameters that you need to pay attention to when choosing and operating a sliding electromagnetic lock:
- shear load, it can be from 100 to 1200 kg;
- holding strength;
- degree of security (secrecy);
- residual magnetization - when opening the door, the force should not exceed 2 kg. If this value is greater, the lock needs to be repaired.
Coded electromagnetic locks
Their main difference from other types of locks is the presence of a code keypad, which may also have a card/key fob reader. Thanks to this device, you can open the lock in several ways:
- by dialing a special code;
- by dialing code + card;
- card or keychain.
The combination lock, like other electromagnetic models, meets fire safety rules, since when the power is turned off, the door automatically opens. Since there are no rubbing parts in the design of such a lock, it has a long service life and is usually installed in rooms visited by 20 or more people per day.
The electromagnetic combination lock has a keyboard for entering the user identification code
When choosing an electromagnetic lock, you need to pay attention to the following criteria:
- Type of door leaf.
- Terms of Use. If the lock will be used outdoors, it must be protected from the negative effects of moisture and not be afraid of temperature changes.
- Installation method.
- Availability alternative source nutrition. If it is not possible to provide autonomous power, then in the absence of electricity the lock will automatically open.
- Holding power. The larger and more massive the doors, the greater the holding force of the electromagnet should be.
Video: overview of different types of electromagnetic locks
Installation of an electromagnetic lock
If you have basic plumbing skills and can work with electrical circuits, then installing such a lock yourself is not difficult. Before you begin work, you need to decide on the following parameters:
- how the canvas and the box are located - the box can protrude or be flush with the canvas;
- whether the doors open inward or outward.
The most common option is when door frame It has a protrusion from the edge of the canvas when closed, 5–6 cm wide and it opens outward. In this case, problems with self-installation an electromagnetic lock does not occur, but first you need to purchase all the necessary tools:
The installation process of an electromagnetic lock is divided into two stages: installation of the strike plate and the magnet itself. The sequence of work will be as follows:
- Installation of the strike plate. Usually, the electromagnetic lock kit includes a template for its installation along with the strike plate. First, they decide on the mounting location - it is necessary that the bar hits the electromagnet when the door is closed. After this, a stencil is applied to the door leaf and holes are made for the bolts. Then using fastening elements fix the counter plate, and install rubber washers between it and the canvas. The strike plate must be able to move slightly; this is ensured by rubber washers, with the help of which it can occupy the required position relative to the electromagnetic lock.
The strike plate must precisely align with the electromagnet when the door is closed, so it is installed on rubber washers to allow adjustment
- Unscrew the locking screws on the lock. Using the hex key that usually comes with the lock, unscrew the screws securing the lock bar.
The fastening strip is used to fix the lock on the door using bolts; it is supplied screwed to the body
- On the canvas opposite the counter plate, mark the place for mounting the magnet.
- Flat mounting strip The lock is securely fixed to the box.
The lock bar is fixed to the frame using self-tapping screws
- The magnet is attached to the bar in the reverse order - first using a hexagon, after which the locking screws are screwed in.
An electromagnetic lock is fixed to the bar installed on the box, and then the locking bolts are screwed in
- Check for correct installation. The doors should close tightly, and the lock should not hit the striker.
- Connect power and other electronic components in accordance with the diagram in the instructions.
All connections of the components of the access control system, under which the lock will operate, are made according to the diagram included in the kit
In the case when the doors open inward and the leaf is flush with the frame, special mounting angles must be used to install the lock.
Video: installing an electromagnetic lock with your own hands
Repair of electromagnetic locks
Although the electromagnetic lock has a long service life and high reliability, like any other equipment, it can fail after a while. The main factors that can lead to lock failure:
- human - improper operation of the lock;
- natural - negative impact external factors, which leads to damage to wiring and fasteners.
The main failures of an electromagnetic lock are associated with weakening or loss of the holding force or with the appearance of residual magnetization. The force may disappear due to a break in the wires that supply power to the lock, a breakdown of the power source, or a failure of the electromagnet coil.
The main malfunctions of the electromagnetic lock and how to eliminate them:
- Coil repair. To check the functionality of the electromagnetic lock coil, you need to use a tester. The resistance should be several tens of ohms, it all depends on the model and power of the lock. If the resistance does not correspond to the parameters stated in the instructions, the coil is replaced, and if the block is monolithic, then the entire magnet.
- Residual magnetization. It appears when the capacitor breaks down, which serves to create damped oscillations when the power is turned off, removing residues magnetic field. To eliminate such a breakdown, you need to connect a 25 V capacitor in parallel to the lock terminals. For most locks domestic production a capacitor capacity of 220 μF is sufficient, and for foreign-made models the capacitance can be from 220 to 1000 μF and is selected individually.
- Coil break. This malfunction can be eliminated by replacing the coil or restoring its functionality in specialized workshops.
Video: electromagnetic lock repair
If the electromagnetic lock has been installed correctly, then usually no problems arise during its operation. You just need to stick to simple rules equipment care:
- During operation of the lock, it is necessary to periodically check the condition of the plate. Under the influence of moisture, plaque may appear on it, which leads to a weakening of the holding force;
- It is recommended to periodically check the fastenings of the lock and strike plate. Over time, under the influence of loads, the screws may weaken, so they must be tightened periodically;
- When using a lock with a controller implemented as a separate device, you must have a master key. It is used to encode cards. It is recommended to store it in a mounting box, this will avoid coding problems that arise when one of the users loses the access card. It is recommended to place the controller itself in a sealed bag to protect it from moisture.
From the moment when people came up with the first door, for the same amount of time they have been puzzling over how to secure these doors from intrusion uninvited guests. Locks have existed for a long time, and their design and mechanisms have remained virtually unchanged, but new technologies have gone far ahead, which is reflected in the improvement of locks. Combination locks have appeared recently, but have already gained great popularity due to their simplicity and increased reliability compared to conventional locks. Crack the code door lock much more complex than a regular mechanical one.
Setting up the code yourself is not difficult. To do this, you do not need to have special technical knowledge, but just read the instructions carefully. The main advantage of any combination lock is that you do not need a key to use such a lock. Instead, a special set of numbers is used - this cipher is the key for the combination lock. Let's take a closer look at the types combination locks, how to install and configure them yourself.
All combination locks are divided into two types: padded and mortise. Padlocks usually used on utility doors and production premises, and mortise ones - on entrance and interior doors. In general, they differ only in the method of installing the lock. Also, all combination locks are divided according to the method of controlling the locking mechanism. There are mechanical and electronic (or magnetic) locks.
Mechanical combination door lock
Mechanical locks, in turn, are classified according to the type of device. They come in push-button, roller and rotary types. Button code mechanism most common in mass use, for example, on entrance doors. A combination mechanical door lock is perhaps the most budget option code lock. But it has one significant drawback: over time, the buttons tend to wear out and become stuck, so it will not be difficult for an experienced burglar to pick up the right combination. But there is an advantage that the code can be easily changed without changing the entire device. Roller and rotary mechanical combination locks are mainly used on the doors of safes, safe deposit boxes, and cases. The main advantage of mechanical combination locks is that they do not require a key or duplicate, and access to the entrance is limited to only those individuals who know the code combination.
Combination mechanical lock device
The peculiarity of mechanical combination locks is that they do not have a keyhole, which ensures high reliability and reduces the likelihood of hacking. Using a specific coding of cylinders or rollers built into the lock, you can customize the key code yourself or change the factory settings. Install mechanical combination lock Can be used on any door – metal, plastic or wood. Installing the code is also easy to do with your own hands. In this case, the thickness of the door leaf should preferably be at least 3 cm.
Instructions for installing a combination mechanical lock with your own hands:
- we determine the width of the canvas and select a suitable locking mechanism;
- we mark the point where the lock and code panel will be installed;
- Using a drill, we make holes in the door leaf for the lock body;
- attach the code panel;
- we assemble the lock mechanism;
- we install and fix all prefabricated parts of the mechanism;
- We set up the code combination and check the device for serviceability.
Electronic or magnetic combination door lock
Electronic combination locks can also be divided into 2 types: electronically controlled push-button and magnetic combination locks. In addition to the push-button code, the electronic combination lock also has a remote electronic control. This type of lock is often used in intercoms and on entrance doors with security automated point passes, but can also be installed on interior door. has a special magnetic key or a card on which is stored code combination. This type of lock is considered the most secure, since it is quite difficult to crack such a magnetic code.
The magnetic combination lock device operates from an electromagnetic pulse transmitted remotely to the control panel. However, a magnetic lock has its drawbacks. When the power supply is turned off, such a lock is either blocked or disabled. Therefore, it is important that the magnetic combination lock on the door has its own source uninterruptible power supply or the possibility of manually unlocking the lock.
How to set up a combination lock on a door with your own hands
For safety reasons, it is recommended to clean the front door at least once a month. This is an easy and fast process, with built-in secret mechanism and understanding its action. To reconfigure the lock cylinder coding yourself, you do not need to disassemble the entire device again. For this purpose it is used special device, which acts directly on the secret part of the lock and is inserted through a special socket in the front part of the door. When reconfiguring, the door must be open, and all crossbars must be extended all the way. You need to turn the key clockwise, then insert a new key and hide the bolts inside using the new key. If the operation was successful, the lock will only respond to a new key or code. If you have doubts about the correctness of the actions, it is better to contact a locksmith who will tell you how to properly handle the lock.
A set of electromagnetic combination lock for equipping one access point with a metal, wooden or plastic door.
Purpose and benefits
The kit allows you to equip an entrance or interior door with an electromagnetic lock that can be opened from the outside by entering a code or presenting a card/key fob with an RFID tag. An exit button is installed on the inside, opening the door without a code or cards.
The main advantages of the electromagnetic combination lock kit:
- Fast and easy installation. Everything you need is already in the box.
- The ability to combine the user identification method: code or card, or enable double authorization: code+card.
- Easy setup and reliable operation.
What's in the box
- Electromagnetic lock for 180 kg with a convenient corner for installation on any types of opening doors made of wood, metal and PVC. The main installation method is in the upper position.
- Code panel with support for cards and key fobs of the Em-Marine system. The controller is built-in panel. We included 10 key rings with a key ring in the set. The code panel has a call button. The procedure for its use is described in the instructions for the device.
- Exit button with overhead installation method.
- Power supply with enough power to power all devices in the set.
When installing a code on a code pad, it is better to use two or more combinations to ensure even wear on the keys. This will make it more difficult for an attacker to guess the code.
Additionally, you need to purchase wires to connect the lock and exit button with code panel. Our managers will assemble and configure the kit if necessary.
You can buy a set of electromagnetic combination lock in Moscow in the online store Technical Laboratory. Don't waste time selecting devices. Order a ready-to-install kit at the lowest price.
In all centuries, the question of how to protect your property from unauthorized intrusion by criminals has been relevant. Due to the high increase in robberies, in lately locking devices are used everywhere: they are mounted on the doors of utility rooms and offices, storage facilities, on door leaves hotels and supermarkets.
The electromagnetic combination lock is an invention that appeared relatively recently. It is a device that provides high degree protection due to the fact that to open it it is not enough to have a magnetic key - the user must also enter personal code, which is known only to a narrow circle of people who are entrusted with entrance to the premises.
If you need to install a lock on the front door of your apartment, please note that it is not used for these purposes. They are suitable for rooms where a large number of people pass daily. A significant advantage of the device is that you do not have to spend money on repairing breakdowns; due to the lack of interacting parts, such structures rarely become unusable.
Electromagnetic lock with code: advantages
It is imperative to take into account the fact that such locks require timely maintenance. As a rule, such work is performed by specialized companies that install devices. If you decide to install a similar lock on your entrance doors, over time it will be possible to create an intercom system that will allow you to communicate with visitors and control the circulation of people in the room. Magnetic lock with code panel provides maximum protection from robbers and vandals - opening it will require a lot of effort. For convenience, such devices are installed with door closers. This is a special design that allows you to automatic closing doors behind the person entering the room.Combination locks are still relevant in that if the code is pressed incorrectly, the door is automatically locked - in this case, a person will not be able to enter the room even if they want to. 
Electromagnetic combination door lock is a modern technology that allows the user not to worry about his safety and the safety of his property!