It is inevitable that many key locks are being replaced with more secure methods of entry. Most of these new locks fit over the existing locks and can be installed quickly by a locksmith or handyman. Many cars are now keyless and are operated by remote devices and fingerprints. It is almost impossible to pick a keyless lock.
Keyless locks have been used for decades in government buildings, businesses and other places where a multitude of users makes quick and easy entries and exits necessary.
Door locks on houses now can be opened with smart cards, electronic keypads, digital tags and fingerprint scanners which can be programmed to recognize hundreds of fingerprints. You can still open the lock with a key or a pass code if necessary, and some of these locks run on batteries, in case of a power failure.
Smart cards have circuits imbedded inside that send and receive data, but the cards can wear out. If your smart card chip is damaged, you will need to buy a new one. Digital tags are smaller than smart cards and use the same technology.
Fingerprint scanners are also called biometric locks, and this technology has been around for a long time, just not for home security until recently. When you press your fingertip or thumb to the thermal scanner, an image is taken and analyzed, and your identity is instantly confirmed. One disadvantage of fingerprint locks is their high price. As time goes by this technology should become more affordable for the average homeowner.
Keypads are very convenient, but if the same set of numbers or letters is punched in repeatedly, over time these codes can become obvious, so it is advisable to change your keypad code frequently to maintain the level of security in your home. You can also scroll through the keypad to keep track of the time and date of anyone who has used the keypad.
In addition to making your home or vehicle safer, keyless locks also help elderly or disabled people by making entry much easier.
If someone wants to leave his or her home for an extended period of time, the entry codes can be disabled to stop anyone else from entering. The homeowner can also provide temporary, traceable entry codes for short-term visitors, renters or others who only need access for specific periods of time.
