In recent years, we have seen the need for high quality commercial locks become more necessary than ever. Added security is needed in private businesses, government buildings and healthcare facilities and financial institutions. When it comes to these commercial settings, there are two electrified devices that are used; electric strike locks and magnetic locks. First Lock & Security Technologies is here to talk about the features, differences, benefits and potential drawbacks that come with these types of devices.
Fail Safe or Fail Secure Locks
There are several considerations that should be made when choosing the right electrically activated devices for your buildings. First and foremost, you will need to determine what door these locks will be on; the exterior doors, interior doors or a fire rated door as well as the purpose for the door. Another consideration is whether they are fail-safe or fail-secure. Fail-safe means that power is required to lock the door and when power is cut, the door is automatically unlocked. Fail-secure means that power is required to unlock the door and when power is cut, the door remains locked.
Electric Strike Locks
When you choose an electric strike for your building, the standard fixed strike of the lock will be replaced with an electronically controlled strike. This means that a device will be used to trigger the strike plate and release the bolt to unlock the door.
– Advantages: An electric strike lock is able to be controlled by someone inside the building. This means that there is less delay in operation. These locks can also be used with a door that has an automatic opener. This lock has the ability to be fail-safe or fail-secure.
– Disadvantages: These locks are complex and will require the help of professionals to install them. They are also visible to whoever is opening the door which can make them more susceptible to tampering. Another drawback is the fact that if they aren’t matched just right with the hardware located on the door, they may not be secure.
Mag Door Locks
Mag locks work a bit differently than electric strikes. They work independently from the mechanical door latch using an electrical current that passes through an electromagnet to create the magnetic bond between the armature plate on the door and the door frame. A device is used to cut electromagnetic power and unlock the door.
– Advantages: Mag door locks are easy to install and a reliable way to lock your doors. The lock is quickly released when the power is cut so you can count on an unlocked door right away..
– Disadvantages: If you experience a power outage, you can have a security problem because the door will be unlocked. This problem can be mitigated with a back-up battery power supply. There is no fail secure option with a mag lock.
Commercial & Residential Locksmith Services in San Mateo, Belmont, San Carlos, Redwood City, Woodside, Portola Valley, Menlo Park, Palo Alto, East Palo Alto, Stanford, Mountain View, Los Altos Hills, Sunnyvale, Cupertino, Santa Clara, Campbell, Saratoga, Los Gatos, Monte Sereno, San Jose, Milpitas & Los Altos, California
If you are looking for the best locks for your commercial buildings, turn to the experts at First Lock & Security Technologies today!
