Types Of Locks

• Standard Key Lock- This is still the most common locking device used; the protrusions on the side of the key are called wards. Wards restrict the set of keys that can fit in the keyhole; inside the lock is a set of pins. The pins are all different size and widths, once the key is inserted the pins move up and down, once the key is fully inserted the end of the pins inside the mechanism are all aligned, the pins are able to be rotated, therefore opening the lock.

• Remote Key Lock- This is normally used in cars and garage doors. The keyless system is battery operated and is normally a small radio transmitter. When you push a button on the keyless fob, the fob sends a code to the receiver, (inside the car/ Garage) built into the lock mechanism which is tuned to the exact frequency the transmitter is using (usually 300 or 400 MHz for modern systems) once the receiver receives the frequency it activated the powered mechanism to open the door.

• Combination Locks- This was originally used in banks and high security locks, but have more recently been produced for padlocks. This locking system works by having a set sequence of numbers or symbols which is needed to open the lock. Some combination locks use a single rotating dial which interacts with several discs, others have a set of rotating discs with symbols/ numbers on the wheels which interact with the locking mechanism or through an electrical Keypad.

• Electromagnetic Lock- This system is used in large buildings or entrances to rooms/ buildings. This system works by sending an electrical supply through loops of wire to produce a magnetic field, when the electric field is activated; the magnet is activated and attracts the metal plate on the door, making the door impossible to open. Once the power supply has been stopped the magnetic power does not exist, making the door easy to open.

• Keycard/ Key fob Lock- This system is a more modern system being used in credit cards, drivers licences and wireless access key fobs,

These work reading digital data on the magnetic strip, this is a handy way of tracking who is in the building and when they gained access as it can be linked to a computer and the data can hold anything, like Name, Identification number or the team they are working in.

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