Prox cards. Electric strikes. Door releases. What do all of these terms have in common? They’re related to door hardware. Whether you work with doors regularly, have employment in the locksmithing industry or simply want to increase your practical knowledge, knowing these terms can come in handy.

Let’s review 10 door hardware terms that you might not know. 

1. Access Control

This is a broad term that basically describes the device that controls access to your doors, gates or wherever else you place them. Often used by businesses, these utilize smart technology to function and are usually powered by electricity or batteries. They can be accessed by several devices and methods, which we’ll cover below.

2. Prox Cards

Also known as “proximity cards,” these devices use advanced technology to access and unlock both door and gate entry systems. It gets its name from the fact these cards have to be in close proximity to the access control panel for them to trigger unlocking the door or gate. Note that these cards depend on signals, which could get interrupted if anything is between the card and access control panel.

3. Card Swipes

These are also known by a variety of other terms, such as key card door locks, card swipe door locks and card reader door locks. These are similar to prox cards in that many models allow you to swipe the card in close proximity to the access control panel for it to open. Other models include additional access options such as combinations, fingerprints, card slots and standard key slots.

4. Touchless Access Control

As you’ve seen above, access control provides several options for locking and unlocking doors. Another entry method is the touchless version, which can be anything from a panel that detects hand movement to panels you unlock with your phone. This can provide peace of mind about the spread of germs and also utilizes the latest technology.

5. Button Keypads

These are what you usually find at most businesses. They are usually composed of 12 buttons, though the number can vary depending on your desired complexity and aesthetics. Using a simple combination on the keypad, you can unlock whatever door it’s installed on.

6. Electric Strike

This is the part of the lock that enables the electric release of the latch or bolt. It’s triggered via an electric signal, which can be sent through prox cards, phones, hand waves or whatever method you choose for the access control panel.

7. Electric Solenoid

This is what actually powers the motor to open the lock when it’s triggered. There are a couple of other ways to accomplish this (e.g. magnet), but the electric solenoid relies on an electric current to lock and unlock the door. It’s important to note that these electric solenoids often have a fail-safe option that unlocks automatically if the power cuts off. (Though fail-secure door hardware options are also available.)

8. Electric Motor

As you can glean from the above information, the motor powers the lock. An electric motor is powered by the electric solenoid and works with the strike plate and signal-sending device to lock and unlock the door it’s installed on.

9. Battery Keypad

If power isn’t an option on the door you want to secure, a battery keypad might be the best option. These act similar to button keypads, but they use batteries instead of an electric current to operate the solenoid, motor and strike. It’s clearly important to replace these batteries regularly to avoid access problems.

10. Door Release

These are a simpler type of door access control in that they only require a button to release the door. If you’ve ever seen one of those “push to exit” buttons at a hospital or another facility, you’ve seen a door release.

This is just a sampling of the door hardware terminology out there. If there are other door hardware terms, technology or replacement options you’d like to know about, visit any of our Dallas-Fort Worth A-1 Locksmith locations today!

What level of security is right for your business? Does it vary by industry? Which security solutions are needed and which are optional? We cover all of these questions in this blog post.

     1. Industry

Certain industries require more security solutions than others. For example, if your business is primarily a digital one or focused on e-commerce, you might need more cybersecurity protections than a storefront with mainly in-person shopping. Likewise, an IT company might not need as many cameras or smart locks as a retail location. Take a look at other companies in your industry and see what solutions they’re using. Then, consult with a professional locksmith to see which commercial security options are right for you.

     2. Budget

Your finances may also dictate your commercial security decisions. The good news is that there are different levels of security with everything from surveillance systems to door locks. You can add more features and conveniences with a higher budget, but even low-cost security solutions can be a big benefit to your business. Review your budget and allocate accordingly.

     3. Need

Certain companies or businesses might also have different needs, depending on the part of the country they’re located in and/or a history of security issues. Dallas-Fort Worth has a variety of suburbs with different crime levels and, as a business owner, you likely already know the amount of protection that would be ideal. Or, you might have a history of untrustworthy employees and need to invest in a master key system. Take a step back and consider what you really need when it comes to commercial security and then take a closer look at your best options for protecting your business.

     4. Company

Finally, the locksmith or security company you choose to partner with for your commercial security can have a big impact on your ability to successfully deter crime. Security and locksmith companies can vary drastically when it comes to expertise, customer service and product or service offerings. A-1 Locksmith has been serving DFW since 1949 and is proud to be a reliable, trustworthy and fair locksmith company. We would be happy to work with you to help you figure out the right security options for your commercial business.

If you’re interested in additional commercial security advice, stop by any of our DFW-area A-1 Locksmith locations today.

Whether you have valuables in your business, new employees or you simply want a little more peace of mind in your life, here are some security solutions to help you better monitor your business in Dallas.

Access Control / Digital Locks

Whether you need to monitor or control access to something as small as a supply closet or as large as an entire office complex, an access control system has you covered. With an access control system and digital locks, you can control when locks give access to employees and control which employees have access to them. You can customize your system based on your needs and your budget. At the end of the day, access control systems and digital locks give you more control over your business, even when you aren’t there yourself.

Intercom Systems

Wireless intercom systems these days give you visual or audible insight into what is going on at your business’ access points. Whether it’s the front entryway, side doors or the back office, installing intercom systems lets you control (and be aware of) who is going in and out of your doors… all while letting you keep the focus on the variety of important daily activities you have as the business owner or manager. There are several feature and upgrade options for intercom systems as well, so the functionality likely stretches well beyond what you picture when you hear “intercom.”

Security Cameras and Surveillance Systems

Finally, security cameras and surveillance systems are the most obvious solution for monitoring your Dallas business, but almost every business deploys some level of security cameras and surveillance simply because they’re dependable. Thanks to today’s technology, you can enjoy advanced features like biometric systems and locks, full proxy card access, motion tracking, night vision, high definition, recording and more. Of course, cameras and surveillance systems have enjoyed many technological advancements so, at least for base models, these are more affordable than ever, so any business owner in Dallas can afford better monitoring.

If you’re interested in improving the security of your Dallas business, call A-1 Locksmith at 972-284-7500 for a consultation today.

Take access control systems, for example. Did you know you can control access to everything from a supply closet to an entire office complex? Or that access control systems don’t have to be expensive? Let’s take a look at five things you might not know about access control systems and why they might make sense for your Dallas-Fort Worth business.

1. They Take Security to Another Level

For starters, you might not even know what an access control system is. Access control systems can range from electronic deadbolts with keys that are programed to open a lock at specific time ranges to full proxy card and access logging systems. All of this gives your DFW business top-quality security in a way that regular door locks can’t. 

2. They’re Not All Expensive

Again, access control systems can range in complexity, so they can range in price as well. “Access control” simply means controlling access to areas that allow some users in while keeping others out. People have been using simple, affordable access control systems for years. Once you determine your budget, you can find an effective access control system that meets your DFW business’ needs.

3. Top Companies Use Them

Several well-known businesses in Dallas-Fort Worth and beyond use access control systems and other high-security solutions. For example, the City of Arlington, AAA, Burger King, The Cheesecake Factory, Taco Bueno, Chipotle, The Salvation Army, Little Caesars, the City of Dallas, Walmart, DFW airport, Baylor Health Care Systems and Zoës Kitchen all are happy corporate clients of companies like A-1 Locksmith Security & Safes that sell and install access control systems and digital locks.

4. Brands Matter

You don’t want to trust the security of your Dallas-Fort Worth business to a generic brand or a brand that can’t be trusted. When it comes to access control systems, brands matter. A few of the best access control brands are ASSA Abloy, BEST Access and Mul-T-Lock.

5. The Possibilities Are Endless

Lastly, your access control system can be personalized to fit your DFW business’ needs. The right access control system installer will ask the right questions to recommend the perfect solution for you. There is no “one size fits all” solution when it comes to access control systems. At A-1 Locksmith Security & Safes, for example, we’ll make sure to identify what your real needs are, what you want to protect, how much control you need and what areas of your business to limit access. The possibilities really are endless.
If you’re interested in an access control system for your Dallas-Fort Worth business, give the A-1 Locksmith Security & Safes team a call at 972-284-7500 or visit one of our DFW locations today.

Of course, like anything else, each type of system has various benefits and drawbacks, all of which should be considered before purchase and installation. If you are interested in adding extra safety to your home or business, make sure to understand the specifics of these three most popular types of security access control systems before you make the final decision.

Card Access Systems

Perhaps one of the most commonly utilized security access control system involves the use of security cards that can be swiped to open the door. Once the access card is placed in front of the scanner, access is provided to the user and the door is then unlocked.

Naturally, this is a convenient way to eliminate the need for keys, and one that makes it significantly more difficult to overcome by burglars than a traditional lock. And keycard access can be granted or revoked remotely; as such, if you lose your card, there’s no need to worry about it ending up in the wrong hands. There is one drawback, however; if the scanner malfunctions or breaks altogether, access will be permanently denied to everyone until it is fixed.

Keypad Systems

In addition to card readers, keypads are also commonly seen adjacent to locks on homes and businesses. And, in general, these are extremely reliable; the door will only be unlocked once the correct sequence of numbers or letters is pressed.

Naturally, one downside to this is relatively evident; if the keypad number becomes common knowledge, it entirely defeats the purpose of the access system.

Biometric Scanners

Finally, with the recent popularization of biometric scanners, a number of companies have utilized this technology to work in conjunction with locks. And this type of system can be highly beneficial, as access is only given to those with a certain fingerprint, for example, the replication of which is nearly impossible.

But while fingerprint scanning can be highly accurate most often, difficulties may arise if the person’s finger has a substantial injury, or if the scanner or the finger is dirty.

Contact a Locksmith with Questions

Are you considering installing a security access control system in your home or business? The best way to make the right choice is by enlisting in the help of a locksmith. At A-1 Locksmith in Dallas, we have experience installing and maintaining security access systems, and are happy to work with you today.

But when considering the business’ future, many owners often overlook the importance of consulting with an expert who can help ensure the safety of the company’s physical assets; specifically, a locksmith. A-1 Locksmith teams with businesses large and small to be a critical partner in the development of their enterprise. While the topic of a locksmith often comes up on an as-needed basis it is a good idea to be prepared for this inevitable need and have an established partnership with a local commercial locksmith.

Protecting Your Physical Location

In addition to offering emergency services for those locked out of their homes, cars, or businesses, locksmiths offer a variety of other forms of assistance that may significantly improve the safety of your business’ most prized assets. For one, a trained locksmith can recommend and provide you with a high-quality safe to store your most precious valuables, either on-site or in another location. Furthermore, locksmiths are often experts on the topic of security systems; as such, if you have other valuable assets, within your business’ building, you can turn to a trained locksmith who can suggest a lock and security system that will provide you with unparalleled protection. Of course, the security system may offer the traditional experience of a lock-and-key mechanism; or, if you have multiple visitors entering and exiting throughout the day, your locksmith can help you select a security access control system using a swipe-card instead.

Access control, CCTV, exit alarms and lockouts are just a fraction of the services a commercial locksmith can perform for your business. Indeed, a good commercial locksmith can be one of your business’ most important allies.

Avoiding Scams in the Future

In addition to the aforementioned benefits offered by conducting business with a reputable Dallas/Fort Worth area commercial locksmith, developing a relationship with such a security professional can help ensure that you avoid falling prey to any scams in the future, should you need emergency services.

Imagine, for example, a situation in which you are locked out of your building, or cannot find the keys to the safe you recently installed. And further, imagine that up until this point, you have not had any contact with a professional locksmith. Here, you are faced with the prospect of calling a stranger to come to your building and render services, which may often times be sensitive to your business. Considering that some business locations may house thousands or even millions of dollars worth of assets it is imperative that you have a trusted, bonded and insured locksmith to better safeguard your interests.

Opposed to scrambling to find a commercial locksmith in an emergency situation, we invite you to contact us at A-1 Locksmith for all of your commercial locksmith needs. We offer both preventative and emergency services for businesses in the Dallas area, and have been doing so for over 60 years. Whether you’re locked out of your business, need lock rekeying or replacement or you need the best security system on the market, don’t hesitate to call.