What is electronic locking?

Let’s start simple. Locks are devices that secure some kind of door or entryway in order to control which individuals can gain access. There are a huge amount of different types of locks in the world, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Most people are familiar with mechanical locks, like the ones usually used on the exterior doors of houses. These are controlled by a physical key or lever which activates a release mechanism inside the lock.

Meanwhile, electronic locks are controlled by electric current. There are different types of electronic lock which use different methods to secure the door. These include magnets, metal catches, and motorised bolts.

What are the advantages of electronic locks?

There are many benefits to using electronic locks instead of mechanical locks. For example, as there is no physical keyhole in an electric strike or magnetic lock, so the lock cannot be picked. Electronic locks are also automated, whereas someone must remember to secure a traditional lock, leaving a greater potential for human error.

Electronic locks are designed for use with access control systems. These might be online or standalone systems. The primary benefit of access control is that it makes it simple to ensure that only authorised people can enter restricted areas. It is expensive and time-consuming to cut new keys for every person who needs one, and difficult to keep track of who has which keys. With electronic locks and an access control system, users and their credentials can be easily added, changed, or removed.

A further benefit of electronic locks is the monitoring and visibility than it offers. When a door is opened by a traditional lock and key, there’s no way to tell who used it and when. Electronic locks can be monitored, and an event log maintained to track exactly who is going in and out of areas at particular times.

Why choose electronic locking?

    • Lock cannot be physically picked

    • Automatic locking – less risk of human error

    • Only authorised people can enter

    • Better visibility and monitoring

    • Time and attendance tracking

    • Visual deterrent to criminals

How do electro-magnetic locks work?

Electro-magnetic locks consist of two main parts: an electro-magnet and an armature plate. The armature plate is attached to the door leaf itself, while the magnet is attached to the door frame. When power is applied, and electric current runs through the circuit, the magnet turns on and creates a powerful magnetic field. The armature plate is strongly attracted to the magnet, and this attraction force holds the door closed. When power is removed, the magnetic field drops and the door can be freely opened.

Electro-magnetic locks are particularly suited to emergency exits and fire doors which have to allow free exit in an emergency, and glass doors which cannot have electric strikes fitted

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