Locksmith & Security Terminology
ANSI : American National
Standards Institute. This is an agency that sets standards for door
hardware and locks.
Access Control : Any
device that only allows entry to an area by certain people. They may
accomplish this with card readers, fingerprint scanners or other methods.
Backset : The
measurement from the center of the lock to the outside edge of the door.
Most commercial doors have a 2 and 3/8 inch backset.
Barrel Key : This is the old fashioned
antique style key.
Blank : An uncut key that a locksmith
uses to make a key copy.
Bow : The handle portion of a key.
Cylinder : The part of the lock where
the key is inserted.
Deadbolt : A locking device that cannot
be opened without the key after it is engaged. It cannot be pushed back
in.
Grade : The durability and security
rating given to locks by the ANSI. Grade 1 is the highest rating and Grade
3 is the lowest rating.
Impression : A method of making a key
for a lock when the original has been lost. A key blank is inserted into a
lock and filed down little by little until it fits the lock.
Key Code : A code used to make a
duplicate of a lost key. Sometimes found on a lock or on a vehicle.
Key Retaining Lock : A type of lock
that holds onto the key until the user relocks it.
Keyway : The grooves in a key blank
that make it different from other types of key blanks.
Master Key : In a building a key that
operates all locks. The individual locks may use different types of keys
but can be opened with this one master key.
Original Key : The key that originally
came with a lock.
Progression : A method of making a key
in which the locksmith will make a series of keys to try on a lock.
Re-Key : Disassembling a lock and
replacing the tumblers. This makes old keys useless.
Restricted Key Systems : A system where
keys cannot be reproduced.
Strike : A metal plate installed on the
door frame. The locks bolt or latch will enter the strike when closed.
Transponder Keys : An automotive key
that sends a signal to the vehicles on board computer allowing for the
starting of the vehicle.
Valet Key : An automotive key that only
allows access to the door lock and ignition. It will not open the glove
box or trunk of a vehicle.
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