This will be my last Blog Post on CobraLock.com.
It has been very successful, but I am not killing it just moving. This blog will now be located at www.lockingsystems.com/blog.
Go there..the first Blog introduces LsiDepot.com our new eCommerce Lock store.
Locking Systems International Inc. is set to roll out its new eCommerce Site….You will see it in the next few weeks.
We have been working on this since June of this year, its been a long hard road to say the least. Before we started this project I thought that you just build a web site put in some products to sell and you have an eCommerce Site. Was I ever wrong! Its true that you have to put up a good looking site and add products, but you have to have very descriptive product descriptions and photos to match. You have to have a credit card gateway, add web site protection, get your own SSL certificate and then you have to market you new eCommerce Site so the customer can find you and these are just to start.
Please look for our new site. We will have an announcement when we go LIVE.
You will be able to purchase most of the products you see on cobralock.com and lockingsystems.com plus much more. Items like padlocks, door locks, cam locks,vending locks, key rings, retractable key retainers to name a few.
OH!! The name of our new eCommerce Site will be:
Locking Systems International (LSI) has designed and manufactured our TufGuard Products to solve a particular vulnerability or to protect a particular machine or item. Below you will see 3 items that we have designed and manufactured and they are used in the vending business. These items are all steel and as you will see they protect a particular item. LSI has the design and manufacturing ability to make items that you can use for device protection. Contact us at: LockingSystems.com.
This first item is what we call the HVV Armored Front and we have been awarded a U.S. patent for its unique design. We were approached by a major Bottling Company to help them solve a problem on their HVV vending machines. The front panel was originally made out of plastic and that created an “Attack” point for criminals. We designed the new HVV Armored Front to be an exact replacement and made it out of solid steel, we then powered coated it for additional weather protection.
We designed our TufGuard Bill Acceptor Face Masks in response from major vending companies. They were having problems with the plastic face masks that are on most bill acceptors used on vending machines. The bill acceptor face mask is the part of the bill acceptor that is visible from the outside of the vending machine and where you put your dollar bills into. These plastic face masks were being pried off in an attempt to get the dollar bills inside the vending machines. We designed our TufGuard Face Masks out of Solid Steel and to be an exact fit onto the bill acceptors.
Our TufGuard T-Handle Cover protects the T-Handle that locks most vending machines. T-Handles house the vending machine lock. When the lock is unlocked the T-Handle “Pops” out and is turned 90 degrees or unscrewed to open the vending machine. These T-Handles are made out of a die-cast zinc alloy and that is where the problem was. The T-Handel and Vending Lock are attack points on the vending machine. To protect both we designed and manufactured the TufGuard T-Handle Cover out of Solid Steel. It fits over the T-Handle and protects both the T-Handle and the vending lock. The T-Handle Cover is secured with a padlock.
Electronic Deadbolt Locks are part of the “Keyless Entry” type of locks. I am going look at three different type of electronic deadbolt locks. All three have a key override meaning that if for any reason the electronics fail you can still gain access with a mechanical override key. The last lock of this review isn’t electronic, however it is still “Keyless Entry” this is done by using a combination lock together with the deadbolt.
The first Electronic Deadbolt Lock we are going to look at is the Electronic Keypad Deadbolt from Master Lock® , this deadbolt comes in single cylinder, which means that there is a thumb lever on the inside. It also has the ‘NightWatch” feature which prevents an intruder from entering, even if they have a copy of the key. Most of the Grade 2 Master Locks have what they call “BumpStop”, this features uses advacnced lock cylinder technologies to resist Bump Attacks. This deadbolt will fit the standard deadbolt mounting hole and comes with a 1″ solid core throw bolt. According to Master Lock, this deadbolt meets ANSI Grade 2 performance standards.
Next is the “Revolution Touchscreen Deadbolt” from Arrow Lock Company. This is a touchscreen access deadbolt with a mechanical key override. It comes with interactive voice-guided programming and can be used by up to 25 different users. The deadbolt moves in and out by the use of a Deadbolt Motor. This Touchscreen deadbolt will fit into standard deadbolt holes and is highly weather resistant. It also comes with an adjustable backset to 2-3/4″ standard and will fit both 2-3/8″ and 2-1/4″ door thickness. The Revolution Deadbolt lock is also ANSI/BHMA Grade 2 compliant.
This next deadbolt lock is very unique, it is actually a Combination Deadbolt Lock by MasterLock® and comes with a mechanical key override. It has an anti-pry collar to resist physical attacks. It will operate with either a key or the convenient three number combination. The Combination Deadbolt has a full 1″ solid core throw bolt and is also has ANSI/BHMA Grade 2 performance.
For additional information go to lockingsystems.com to call us at 800.657.LOCK(5625).
This article will explain what Lockset Grading and Functions are and why this should be important to you.
To start with who sets the Grades? The answer; in the Unites States the grading systems for locksets was developed by the Builder’s Hardware Manufacturers Association (BHMA) in conjunction with the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). This is why you will see ANSI/BHMA written when grading, finishes, functions, etc. are talked about.
So what is Grading? Grading comes in three steps from Grade 1 (the highest) to Grade 3. With performance doubling as you from Grade 3 to Grade 2 and from Grade 2 to Grade 1.
Grade 1: Used in Commercial and Industrial Applications, such as schools, offices, shopping centers. Tested to withstand at least 1 million opening and closing cycles. Latches on door locks to extend 3/4″ from the door, and the deadbolt to project at least 1″ from the door. Can withstand at least 10- 75 ft. lbs. strikes to the knob or lever. Sounds confusing check your front door…it’s make sense.
Grade 2: Used for heavy residential and light commercial such as interior office doors, closet doors, etc. Tested to withstand 800,000 opening and closing cycles. Latches on door locks to extend 1/2″ from the door and the deadbolt to extend 5/8″ from the door. Can withstand at least 5- 75 ft. lbs. strikes to the knob or lever.
Grade 3: Used primarily for residential applications. Tested to withstand 800,000 opening and closing cycles. Latches on door locks to extend 1/2″ from the door and the deadbolt to extend 5/8″ from the door. Can withstand at least 2- 75 ft. lbs. strikes to the knob or lever.
What are Lock-Set Functions? This is the ANSI/BHMA standard that defines what the Lockset is used for. I will explain the most popular.
Entry Lock: Outside knob/lever can be locked by push or turn button inside. Key outside or push button inside releases push or turn button unlocking outside knob/lever, except when push or turn button has been rotated to keep outside knob/lever locked. Inside push or turn button must be manually operated to unlock outside knob/lever. Inside knob/lever always operated outside latchbolt.
Privacy Lock (Bedroom, Bathroom,Office) Latchbolt operated by knob/lever from either side. Outside knob/lever is locked by push button and unlocked by emergency release outside, operating inside knob/lever or closing door.
Passage (Closet) Latchbolt operated by knob/lever from either side at all times. Non locking function.
Storeroom: The latch can be opened by using a key from outside or using the knob/lever from the inside. A key is required to open the lock from the outside.
There are additional functions, however these are the most common. ANSI/BHMA also provide standards for locks finishes, but that is a subject for another article.
Locking Systems International can provide Locksets and Deadbolts in ALL grades and functions for information go to our WEB SITE or call 800.657.LOCK (5625).
The CobraMatic 7 Series Locks are available in cam locks, vending locks and padlocks. All of our CobraMatic 7 Locks are protected by our US patent which includes the unique 7-sided lock front and matching key. The CobraMatic 7 locks are designed so that the USER can change the lock code while the lock is still mounted. The lock can be changed to any one of 8 different lock codes. There is no outward visual indication of what the current lock code is. To change the lock code the USER inserts the “Change Key” into the lock at the position of the current lock code, then the USER rotates the ‘Change Key” to the new lock code. At this point the old lock code and keys no longer open the lock and the new lock code and keys will open the lock.
CobraMatic 7 Locks are only available from CobraLock.com and Locking Systems International.
CobraMatic 7 Cam Locks have all the features of the CobraMatic 7 Locks and are available in 3 different sizes, 5/8″ (16mm), 7/8″(23mm) and 1-1/8″ (28mm). The CobraMatic 7 Cam Locks are protected by our US Patent that covers the unique 7-sided lock front and matching key, anti-drill ball in the lock face to resist drilling.
The CobraMatic 7 Cam Locks provide a higher level of security than regular tubular cam locks.
CobraMatic 7 Padlocks have all the features as our other CobraMatic Locks and are available in either our “Universal PUCK” Padlock or our FLEX Padlock. Both of these padlocks are protected by US patents. Our Universal PUCK padlock and Flex Padlock are designed to accept different types of lock cylinders such as; CobraMatic 7, Cobra 7, Medeco and Abloy, offering you maximum flexibility.
Our Universal PUCK and Flex Padlocks are constructed of Hardened Steel and have Hardened Steel Shackles. The Flex Padlocks come with either a one or two inch shackle that is USER Changeable.
The CobraMatic 7 Vending Lock like the two locks above is protected by a US Patent, that covers our unique 7-sided lock front and matching key. The CrobaMatic 7 Vending Locks provide a Higher Level of security then standard tubular locks. The CobraMatic 7 Vending Locks also come with 8 lock codes that are USER changeable. The CobraMatic 7 Vending Locks fit most vending machines and they also fit into our “Universal PUCK” Padlock. These Vending Locks come in either spring bolt or deadbolt.
The Cobra line of Locks are only available from Locking Systems International. Inc.
Locking Systems International has been awarded a U.S. Patent on one of it’s padlock designs. In total 20 claims were allowed by the U.S. Patent Office. We designed this padlock to accept standard 7/8″ cam locks, such as the Cobra 7 Cam Lock. The difficultly was to account for the slight differences in the tail end (tenon) of the cam lock and the head size differences. This was accomplished by the invention of an Adaptable Cam, that can be adjusted along the tenon of the cam lock.
Our Cobra FLEX Padlock is the result of this patent. It will accept the Cobra7, Medeco and Abloy 7/8″ cam locks. The padlock body as well as the shackle are constructed of Hardened Steel. The shackle is user changeable to either a one inch or two inch clearance. The padlock incorporates a double locking mechanism using two hardened steel locking balls.
Locking Systems International Inc. proves once again that it is not a “Me Too” Company, with four U.S. Patents and other designs in the works. LSI can design and manufacturer products that stand up to the scrutiny of the USPTO.
Contact us for all for security and design needs. Contact Information.
After designing and manufacturing our Cobra Cam Locks, Cobra Vending Locks and Cobra Padlocks we were approached by different companies asking us to manufacture items for them. After looking into this we discovered that this was something that we are good and and could do. We have the capabilities to manufacture items made of different types of metals such as steel, brass and aluminum, we can also manufacturer in plastic (injection molding).
After a request to manufacturer something, we start to gather information, such as what the item is, the material to make it from, the quantity needed and their time line, we ask for a sample or drawing, then we turn that into our construct drawing. We send that drawing to the customer for approval after approval we make samples and send them to the customer for comments, after final approval we start the manufacturing process.
The items below are a very small sampling of the custom products that we developed for our customers:
In this first example our customer wanted a way to match up his keys with the items that his locks are mounted on. We already manufacture “Key Covers” for our Cobra tubular keys so we came up with “Lock Rings”. These rings come in the same colors are our key covers. The locks goes through the ring before it is mounted to the machine. When our customer goes to one of his machines he matches the color of his key cover with that of the lock ring he instantly knows the correct key to use. This shows our ability to manufacture in plastic.
In this next sample our customer wanted a way to protect the inner workings of a gas pump. We made this item out of steel and used “Powered Coating” to paint it. It is locked using a standard T-Handle with and standard vending lock such as the Cobra 7 Vending Lock. This device comes in two parts attached to each side of the gas pump, with a steel shaft going through the gas pump connecting the two together. This shows our ability to manufacture in steel and our ability to Power Coat.
In this next sample our customer wanted a way to lock security screens attached to windows. We made this out of zinc alloy in a die cast process, then coated in polished chrome. We had to design a unique key and lock to match, neither being commercially available. This process took a few revisions to get the lock operation correct, once correct the manufacturing process started and our customer is using this product to sell his screens as no one else has a screen lock like this. This show our ability to manufacture in zinc alloy, die cast and use different coating.
For other examples you cane go to our web site LockingSystems.com
Small Format Interchangeable Core (SFIC) locks have in use for a long time. They are very popular in their ability to fit into many door locks and deadbolt locks, their main feature is the ability to “Remove” the SFIC cylinder or core with what is called a Change Key or Core Key, a new SFIC lock cylinder with a new key code can be installed into a lock body without removing the lock from the door. The only skill necessaryis the ability to put a key into a lock. The SFIC cylinder comes in many different keyways including a electronic SFIC cylinder.
One of the most popular SFIC replacement cylinders are made by Arrow Lock Company. They supply a variety of replacement SFIC locks and keys for the BEST brand as well as their own cylinders and keys, including restricted keyways. The Arrow SFIC cylinder is available in either 6 or 7 pins and can be keyed different, key alike or masterkeyed. They are constructed of solid brass with a reinforced sleeve design with user choice of face color.
KeyMark X4 by Medeco offers patented protection in a SFIC standard format. The X4 offers superior masterkey capabilities. patented key control, lifetime warranty on the keys, solid brass construction and key flexibility. The X4 uses the standard A2 pinning systems and is available in either 6 or 7 pin cylinders and can replace most standard SFIC cylinders. The face of the lock is raised to prevent key breakage.
The Nexgen XT is a retrofit to replace mechanical SFIC lock cylinders with electronic SFIC lock cylinders in all SFIC housings. No need to hard wire as the Nexgen XT supplies all power through the rechargeable key. Software can provide access control and audit capabilities through both the cylinder and the key. Web programming allows for flexible system management and cell phone communications is available to program the key remotely. Lost keys can be immediately programmed and put on the unauthorized list, thereby preventing that key from opening a door.
All of the above SFIC lock cylinders are available from Locking Systems International.
I have blogged in the past regarding Key Control when talking about High Security Locks and in general lock security. In this blog I will show you the best ways to account for the keys themselves. Why is accounting for the keys so important? Let’s say that you purchase some locks and you also ordered 10 keys. So far you can account for the keys from your Supplier to your door. At this point you start to hand out keys to employees and keep a few for spares. From here on out Key Control can get away from you if you don’t do something to account for the keys.
We all want to assume our employees are honest, however when an employee “looses” a key is it really lost, does he have a partner, am I still collecting all my money or is my building really secure? Below are some ways to secure your keys. For additional information please Contact Us.
KeyKop:
Locking Systems International (LSI) can supply a lockable key ring we call KeyKop They come with the Medeco High Security Lock Cylinder to secure the keys on the key ring. Only the person with the proper key can open the KeyKop, thereby securing all the keys on the ring.
Tamper-Proof Key Rings:
Tamper Proof Key Rings from LSI have a permanent seal that cannot be opened once it is sealed with the special sealing tools. All key rings have a unique serial number for tracking. Once crimped it will provide a smooth service to move keys around the ring. Tamper Proof Key Rings are available in solid or flexible rings.
