Commercial Lockout Service

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Smartphone Locks

Each day smartphones seem to do more and more such as from reading a fingerprint in order to access certain apps on the phone, or even be used like a credit card to pay for something at the store. Nowadays, smartphones are capable of unlocking locks. Smart locks that are managed and operated by smartphones are becoming more and more popular especially on residential and some commercial applications.

Locks as a purpose to secure doors for businesses and homes have been in used for thousands of years. However, the form of operating them has changed significantly. Since the biggest disadvantage in managing keys is the fact that they can be easily misplaced, copied, or stolen, key-less entry locks have become an appealing security solution. Key-less entry locks will normally come in a form of electronic type locks which will be operated by a keypad interface or access card systems which will be difficult to bypass. Another advantage of having a key-less entry lock system is the fact that it can be easily adjusted and changed in case there is a security threat that has been recognized.

Locks that are operated and managed by smartphones work a little different than the standard key-less entry lock systems. Right now, smartphone locks are mostly popular on residential properties and require a special app to be downloaded to the smartphone or even the tablet in order the be managed and operated. Depending on the type of lock and manufacturer, some will use WiFi network in order for the smartphone to interact with the lock while others will use Bluetooth technology.

There are many models of smartphone locks that come with unique features that intended to make the life of the user much easier as well as increasing the level of security. There are several models in the market that are equipped with a small camera that has the capability to take a picture of any individual who will attempt to unlock the door. This can assist in better access control as it can alarm on any unauthorized access. Other models may have the option to be unlocked over a network connection by an authorized user remotely.

For more information about smartphone locks for your home or business, contact NorthWest Locksmith Portland (503) 825-2124.

Residential Lockout Service

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Commercial Property Electronic Locks

With today's technology, there are many unique innovative products in the market that help improve our quality of life. Security has been a major part in the progress of technology. Nowadays, there are many types of electronic locks that are provide ultimate protection and advance features.

Electronic type locks will normally will not be operated using a key like the traditional mechanical lock but by an electric current. There are many references in the market to electronic locks but the most common type is a smart lock. These can usually be found as a standalone complete unit that is incorporated with a lock or can be combined with an access control system where it will control all the locks in the property. An access control system will give better control in the property security as keys or access rights can be easily added or removed. The added benefit to that is the fact that the locks will not have to be re-keyed in case of a security breach. In addition, most access control systems allow user audit which help to keep track on users accessibility throughout the property.

An electronic lock operation is simple and can be defined using a simple magnetic key card to allow access or even a fingerprint if a bio-metric form of electronic lock is being used. The type of electronic lock being used in a business property will depend on the the property's security needs. Many commercial properties such as banks and government buildings which require high level of security are now using bio-metric form of electronic locks.

Europe seem to be ahead of the curve when it comes to incorporating electronic locks in commercial properties. Many businesses there are now using advance electronic locks that has multiple mode feature. The different modes can be set to control the lock system on the door in a way that on certain hours only the latch would be required to be unlocked in order to access the property where else on other hours both the latch and the deadbolt (if equipped) will need to be unlocked to gain access. This does not necessarily mean that both form of locking mechanism will share the same access key mechanism.

For more information about increasing the level of security of your business property with electronic locks, contact NorthWest Locksmith Portland.

Automotive Key Make and Programming Services

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Frozen Door Locks

Although Portland does not considered much of a colder city in comparison to Seattle or other places in the Northwest that usually see snow frequently, it does endure colder temperatures during the pick months of winter. Along with colder temperatures, some weather related inconveniences may occur as well such as bad road conditions, and frozen locks as well!

It can be a frustrating experience coming home from work only to be denied entering your home because the lock on the front door got frozen. A locksmith will be able to assist in these types of situations in addition to provide a solution to the problem making sure it will not occur again. However, on some scenarios of frozen locks, you could try resolve the situation by yourself without having to call a locksmith.

When it comes to the lock on the front door of your home being frozen because of the colder temperatures outside, all that needs to be done is bringing some heat to the lock. First, it is important to remove the ice around the cylinder and key-way. Once the ice is out of the way, the key can be inserted without much difficulties. The cylinder internals may still be frozen a bit, so inserting and removing the key few times might help clear some of the ice from the inside. Be careful not to force anything as the key might break inside the cylinder.

If the situation seem more worse that it is, heating the key is the second option. If you have a lighter with you, it could be the easiest way to heat up the key. If no lighter is available, you can try by improvising something with your vehicle such as starting the vehicle and placing the key under-hood somewhere that will heat up quickly. Once the key is hot, you can try inset it an play with it inside the lock cylinder which should do the trick. The cause of the locks getting frozen during the winter could be moisture that penetrated the lock during the summertime. Lubricating the lock before it gets cols outside should take care of the moisture and anything else that might bind the lock during the winter.

For more information about locks, lock repair and maintenance, contact NorthWest Locksmith Portland (503) 825-2124.

Schlage Primus

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