What Type Of Exit Device Is Right For Your Building?
All properties are required to have the correct emergency exit devices readily available. This is done to ensure that everyone inside the property will be safe at all times. It is a sure proof security measure which plays a very important role in any establishment. Having a visibly clear escape route within the structure is essential for safety purposes. Whenever the need arises, exit devices will help protect people from getting hurt. Depending on the type of building you have, it would need a specific type of Emergency Exit Devices. It is important to choose the most suitable one for your building to maximize its purpose. It’s best to keep in mind that the right choice depends on the exit device’ convenience, reliability, compliance to state regulations and being systematically aligned. Let’s take a look into What Type of Exit Device is Right For Your Building?
WHAT ARE EXIT DEVICES?
The main purpose of exit devices is to promote safety and security within a building. It is strategically located in specific areas of the establishment with the use of an emergency door. It is created to be very easy to use so that in case of emergency situations, people inside the building will be able to exit as quick as possible. Exit devices are also visible even in dark conditions. It is essential not to put any other extra lock or mechanism which might hinder its main purpose or confuse people. Exit bars are usually placed in areas where extra security measures are required. The most common examples of this are places which are vulnerable to loss of valuable products, assets or productive work time. It restricts access coming from the outside. However, a key code is usually required before a person could successfully exit a room or building using it. It is a type of hardware which is a locking device. It consists of a bar placed across which is placed within a particular door. Once the bar is pushed, its door latch responds quickly. This ensures that there will be no delays for exiting during emergencies.
TYPES OF EXIT DEVICES
1. Vertical Cable or Rod
A vertical cable or rod is used to utilize a pair of doors. The latches and rods are usually concealed within the inside part of the doors or surface mounted on the face. The Surface Vertical Rod also known as SVR displays the top and bottom rods starting from the top coming towards the floor. After it’s been pushed, the rods quickly retract to unlock the ends and become released. This allows a person to exit the building safely within just a few seconds. The other type of vertical rod is called Concealed Vertical Rod or CVR. This is usually preferred whenever the owner of the building wants to ensure that the aesthetics looks polished. The CVR do not disrupt the overall door design because it’s hidden from view. It’s a great option to ensure enhanced security while maintaining the door’s beautiful appearance.
2. Rim Device
A Rim Device is one of the most common types of exit devices used in buildings. It is a kind of exit hardware which is popularly known for being cost efficient and reliable. It is usually used for single doors or a pair of doors which have a vertical mullion in between them. In single doors, the strike plate is normally surface mounted on the mullion or the frame. On the other hand, in a pair of doors it is commonly attached to the active door. A double door strike is then mounted onto the inactive door. The rim device is named after the use of a latching mechanism which is taken from the rim locks used in the early 20th century.
3. Mortise Device
Similar to the regular mortise lock, the mortise device is mounted at the cavity or edge of a door. It is highly preferred because of its heavy duty properties which ensure that it won’t get easily tampered. It is perfect for buildings which require the highest security measures. Once a person presses the push bar, its tail shaft also called a spindle begins to rotate and releases a latch bolt. This allows the door to swing open quickly which allows people to exit the building swiftly. It requires a locksmith to be installed correctly because of the labor intensive methods attached to it.
Multiple Vehicles Susceptible To Hacking
According to latest research, a hacker can control your steering wheel or suddenly slam on the brakes at 80 miles per hour. Or they can disable your braking system at slow speeds. No matter how hard you step on the brake the car will not stop. In other cases, they can accelerate your car when driving at slow speeds.
In their demonstration, they used a laptop computer while sitting in the automobile. They did not research remote hacking because another group had already done so. However, that group is unwilling to publish their findings. It is rumored they used Bluetooth systems and wireless networks in 2011 to break into a vehicle’s computer system.
Sounds like James Bond, doesn’t it?
Already we are bombarded with notifications about purchasing antivirus software for our computers. Now we should be on the lookout for the same software to protect our automobiles.
This news sets up a theme for World War III. The new mercenary will be the hacker, who is frequently teased and called a nerd, living at home with his parents and sitting in his bedroom orchestrating an attack. They will be able to immobilize an entire nation by controlling vehicles. At worst, they could take the lives of many by causing accidents on highways and city streets.
While this possibility seems far-fetched or too distant in the future, technology and software vulnerabilities make it a reality. If you have On Star, it may be wise to check with them to see if they are taking measures to ensure their system can protect you. They are already set up to control your vehicle through a wireless system.
On another front, there are hackers who have figured out how to override the door locks on luxury cars like Bentleys, Porsches, Audis and Lamborghinis. The researchers were planning to present their findings at a technology trade show. Except, Volkswagen obtained a restraining order from the British high court to prohibit the researchers from presenting their findings.
For now, we may safely ride and park our automobiles. Moving forward, we will have to take precautions that have never been considered. On the other hand, it would seem those who drive the old classic cars from the days when computers were not used could be immune to this threat. But it did not just end there. Surprisingly, they found that the number of ways to access private information in the vehicle was parallel to the amount of hacking that could be done online, in a more traditional computer sense of the word, “hack”.
First off, instead of targeting a single car in particular, these hackers might threaten a large group of cars. By monitoring the location of several most valuable ones that make it sufficing to go through all this risk, hackers are able to sell unlocked cars to robbers and thieves. This means they can secretly track cars using GPS coordinates and VIN numbers and then plan to carjack at their leisure and in terms of demand.
Secondly, once a car has a compromised GPS tracking information, its movements can be easily watched and tracked down. Anything you see in movies may be done, since devices that makes it easy to eavesdrop on in-car conversations are so easy with the advance of portable technology. The hacker could also learn about the car owner’s daily lifestyle and exact routines. Even scarier, they will be able to find where the car owner lives.
You may not know this, but hackers can penetrate virtually any phone and access mass amounts of data. This means they can track your car down simply because you have a cell phone in the car. Later they may be able to use the cell phone as a trigger device that disengages the brakes or something even worse. Yes, we’re on the same page, something like blow your car up. Although only very professional hackers will be able to do this, it’s not entirely too impossible Remote exploitation of cell phone devices.
To be clear, although these fiascos don’t happen all too often, the thought is definitely scary because it could happen in the future. To calm your nerves there are a number of ways you can protect yourself. For example, making sure you have a comprehensive car insurance policy that will insure you against theft, replacing your car, car keys, protecting valuables in your car, and other safety measures. Consider installing alarm devices and systems, and get your car checked regularly.
Lose A High-Tech Car Key? Call Your Locksmith!
In previous years, replacing a lost car key used to be fairly simple and straightforward. However, with the rise of advanced technology in today’s society, high tech car keys have taken over the world. Gone are the days when you could simply go to your key cutter to get a key replacement. It used to be priced at around $10 which is considered very affordable. These days, cars have been improved dramatically. Specific changes were made to ensure convenience and comfort for the car owners. Modern car keys provide plenty of benefits. Besides its main purpose of being able to start your car, it can now remotely unlock the doors. This is a good thing as it provides you with an extra layer of security with the use of transponder technology. While all of these sounds well and good, it also comes with some disadvantages. If you lose or damage your high tech car key in any way, you would need to be prepared for expensive replacement costs.
For some reason, car keys have the uncanny ability to disappear inside people’s pockets. Sometimes, it could be stuck in the living room sofa. The advancements in technology have made sure to protect your vehicle from criminals. It is now made to be more difficult for thieves to steal. Basic car keys which were the only ones available in the past have minimal security. It’s only ability to remain safe is because of its unique cut. It used to be very easy to duplicate keys. No special equipment were required back then. Locksmiths would only need to use the same exact machine that they’ve used with other keys. Modern cars all have an electronic key fob. It is also called a transmitter or remote. It plays an integral role as part of the key set. Dealerships usually charge a significantly high amount for electronic key fob replacements. Thankfully, locksmiths offer a great alternative. They sell aftermarket fobs which is readily available for everyone to purchase. It is definitely much cheaper than buying one from your local car dealership. Locksmiths provide the convenience of affordability as well as quality of service.
Most people are not aware about the worth of their high tech car keys. However, everything changes when they accidentally lose it. It usually costs approximately $270 to $740 to get a replacement depending on the model of your car. Additionally, you would also need to spare hours for the ordering and cutting of the key. Coding also takes up a lot of time which means you could potentially wait for a full day. However, there is a solution to this problem. You can call a locksmith to help you with your needs. They are completely legitimate and they provide exceptional quality of service. The best thing about hiring locksmiths is that they can come directly to your location. This gets rid of the hassle of traveling to a dealership when you’re already too stressed out about the situation. Locksmiths affordable a better rate compared to car dealerships. They are your best choice for getting work done efficiently at a competitive rate.
Losing a high tech car key can be really frustrating. Your car is an important part of your daily life. You use it every single day to get to different places. Thanks to the expertise and qualified experience of locksmiths, it is now more convenient to have your key replaced. Locksmiths are able to cut and code they key right on the spot for most car models. They’ll also have the right equipment and parts on hand so they can get the job done efficiently. If you’re on a really tight budget, they also have another option for you. Auto locksmiths always carry genuine keys with them. Additionally, they also carry around stock market keys. These are keys which may have a slight difference from the original. They work the same as regular high tech key replacements but they’re more affordable. Most locksmiths also have diagnostic tools with them at all times. It will be able to effectively reset your car’s computer if you lose two cars keys. So the next time you lose a high tech car key, remember to call your locksmith immediately.
Cars That Most Locksmiths Replace Car Keys For
| Buick Cadillac Chevrolet Chrysler Dodge Ford GMC Hummer Jeep Lincoln Mercury Oldsmobile Plymouth |
Pontiac Saturn Acura Audi BMW Daewoo Daihatsu Honda Hyundai Infiniti Isuzu Kia Lexus |
Mazda Mercedes Mini Mitsubishi Nissan Rover Saab Scion Subaru Suzuki Toyota Volvo |
Hacking Vehicles – Is Smart Keys Really The Way To Go?
In modern vehicles, keys do a lot more than just to unlock and lock doors. Nowadays a signal from an incompatible key-fob may trigger an alarm or even disable the vehicle’s engine altogether. This way, if an individual enters said vehicle without a compatible ignition key, they will not be able to steal the vehicle. For individuals who refuse to go through the hassle of pushing a button each time they wish to open their vehicle’s door, there are several options that are available. Many automotive manufactures are switching the systems they produce to utilize smart keys.
Resources:
AZ Car Keys
wisegeek.org
clonemykey.com
What Are Smart Keys?
Smart keys are essentially a component of a computerized system which uses microchips and sensors to unlock the doors as well as to start a vehicle without the utilization of a key. Smart keys themselves are typically shaped more like plastic cards, as opposed to actual keys. By utilizing a smart key system, all a driver needs to do is to walk up to their car and the vehicle’s door will unlock automatically. Once they person is in the vehicle, all they have to do is to press the ‘Engine Start’ button to get the vehicle moving, without having to physically turn a key. In essence, as long as they have the smart key on them, regardless if it’s in the vehicle or in their purse or pocket, the engine will start. This in itself presents a wide variety of benefits to the consumer such as a higher level of convenience for example. However, the technology that the system consist of presents a variety of dangers that consumers need to be aware of as well. While the benefits of utilizing smart keys and wireless ignition systems are well known, let’s take a look at some of the little known dangers that consumers may not know of.
How Do Smart Keys Work?
In a nutshell, by utilizing radio signals, smart keys send encrypted signals to the vehicles lock and engine components to each other over very short distances.
Hacking
One of the biggest concerns that are associated with smart keys, is the fact that hackers can essentially hack the signal that transpires between the smart key and the wireless ignition system to unlock the vehicle and steal it. A prime example on how this could happen was demonstrated by a research team from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology. The team conducted a test to target the weakness in common smart key fobs from some of the most well known manufacturers in the industry. During the test, the research team was able to use an antenna to amplify the signals between the smart key and the vehicles unlock mechanism and were able to break into the vehicles. Basically, let’s say that a vehicle would not be unlocked if the smart key was at least within 5 feet of the vehicle, by utilizing two sophisticated piece of hacking devices they were able to amplify that signal to 30 plus feet. What their research demonstrated was that the whole concept of hacking smart keys was practical and feasible.
Could Be Easily Replicated
The research team also noted that the hack could be replicated fairly cheaply, by utilizing devices that cost less than $1,000. They also proclaimed that since all key-less entry systems utilize the same basic design as mentioned before, the same kind of hack that they perpetrated could work on millions of other vehicles as well. However, on the flip side many experts also proclaim that consumers can make it harder for individuals to hack their smart keys by removing the batteries from their key whenever they aren’t using them, as well as to place them inside a case which blocks electronic signals.
However, many security analysts proclaim that while the whole concept of key hacking is not really a big worry right now, it will inevitably become a bigger problem in the future, due to the fact that the thief would be able to get into the vehicle without leaving a sign of forced entry which in itself is very alluring. To make things worse, unless there is a sign of force entry most insurance companies will not cover theft related incidents due to the fact that if they can’t find any evidence of a forced entry, they have no choice but to sum up the incident as just another situation of negligence.
Protecting Against Garage Door Malfunctions
Homeowners often underestimate the importance of garage door service. As a homeowner, you need to service your garage door periodically, just as you need to service your car for its long life. Here is 7 step guide on how to keep you garage door functioning and protect your door from unnecessary break-ins.
Resources:
www.columbusgaragedoorpros.com
homedepot.com
Step 1:
To start with, look for metal tracks. Have a look at the underlying mounting brackets. During garage door service, you might need to tighten the bolts and screws that fit the brackets with the walls. The tracks need to be observed for any occurrences of crimps, dents or flat spots. In case of any spots, they can be made smooth with an hammer, rubber mallet or even a block of scrap wood. In case the tracks are damaged beyond repair, they need to be replaced.
Step 2:
Check whether the tracks are properly aligned. Ideally, the horizontal tracks slants slightly down forward. The direction of the tilt should be towards the back of your garage. For roll-up door, the vertical sections of the track should be perpendicular. If you find that the track is not properly aligned, loosen the hardware that holds the mounting brackets. Thereafter, tap the tracks gently in order to position them correctly.
Step 3:
Thirdly clean the garage door tracks with an household cleaner to remove dirt and grease. The rollers need to be cleaned properly. After clean up, thoroughly wipe both the rollers and the trackers to make them dry enough.
Step 4:
Lubricate the door tracks and the rollers. Use garage lubricant sprays or even a powdered graphite in case of tracks. For the rollers, use the normal household oil or even a silicone spray, both of them works quite well with garage doors.
Step 5:
If you find loose hardware, tighten them. In case of swing-up doors, have a look whether the spring is well mounted. If not, tighten its screws. In case of roll-up doors, look at the hinges. Tighten loose screws, if any. Take the time to check out the hardware on the door and the track system. In some cases just a loose hinge can cause all the trouble. If there is anything that needs to be tightened, do it. Also, replace hinges on the door if you think they may be the problem. The door opener itself should be checked out as well, since it could be the problem. It may need to have some new batteries placed in it. However, you may need to totally replace the garage door opener as well. If it does need replaced, make sure it’s compatible with your door.
Step 6:
Take some time to look at the springs. Many doors have tension springs on them, and you will want to make sure that these springs are in good shape. Sometimes they just need to have the tension readjusted so that they work just like they should. If you find that the tension springs are in poor condition, it is usually a lot safer to ensure they get replaced. Checking out the pulley system associated with the springs is important as well. You’ll want to make sure it’s in good shape, and if not, then make sure to replace it. If you only have one tension spring right in the middle of the track for your door, and you think it may need to be replaced or fixed, make sure you get a professional to help.
Step 7
If you see that the garage door is not working right, check and see if you can do something to fix it before calling for professional help. A professional garage door company has the tools and experience to test all the critical aspects of your door, including balance and force. A pro can give your garage door a tune-up and fix any damaged or worn components at the same time. Experts recommend having professional service at least once each year, just prior to the extreme seasons of weather. If possible, have your overhead door serviced professionally in both spring and fall. With just a little attention to garage door maintenance, you can rest assured that your door will provide reliable and safe operation all year-long. However, if you do need a new garage door, make sure to have a professional come and install it.
The Cheapest Solution When Keys Are Locked In The Car
It’s highly recommended that you ensure that you have your car keys with you before you close your car doors; however, in some cases you can forget and lock the keys inside the car. What should you do in such a scenario? This is the cheapest solution when keys are locked in the car that should put into use:
Resources:
Aurora Locksmith
homedepot.com
walmart.com
Use a shoelace
You should use the shoelace to open the door. You should start by tying a slipknot in the middle of the shoelace and work the string into the door. You should then pull the loop tight around the lock and pull up the lock to unlock the door. When you unlock the door you will be able to access your keys.
Classic wire hanger trick
This trick works on both vertical and horizontal locks. While it’s very effective in these locks, it usually doesn’t work with newer or luxury vehicles. This is because these cars have many electrical wires that can be easily damaged in the process.
If your car is old you should get a hanger and bend it so that it’s straight and looks like a fishing pole with a hook on the end. You should then slide the hanger in between the window and the weather stripping while taking care not to scratch your car. You should move the hanger until you are able to hook the door mechanism. When you find the pin for the door mechanism you should hook it and pull it up.
Pick the lock
Here you need to find a safety or straight pin and then lubricate the lock. Once the lock is fully lubricated you should insert the pin into the key hole and wiggle it around until you hear the lock open. If you can’t find a safety pin you should use a straightened paper clip.
Find access through the trunk
If you have locked your keys inside the car and your trunk is still open you should try to access the keys by crawling through the trunk. When you open the trunk you should find the emergency cord. The cord usually opens the trunk to the inside of the car. Once open you should crawl into the inside of the car.
These are some of the tricks that you can use to retrieve a key that has been locked inside a car. If you are unable to retrieve the key you should highly consider hiring the services of a professional locksmith. To avoid similar incidents in the future it’s wise that you have a spare key.
If you try all these tricks without success, what do you do now? Fortunately, you don’t need to get upset and frustrated any more if you find yourself in this position. Just take advantage of the auto locksmith services available to you. They’ll get you out of this predicament in no time, and they often provide 24 hour services.
Auto locksmith services
They are the experts who have the specialized computer software and advanced tools needed to take care of all your auto lock problems. Licensed auto locksmiths are the most reliable and offer the following 3 services for your assistance:
- Replacing stolen keys – Locksmiths are equipped to replace stolen vehicle keys without the need to change the vehicle’s lock. If your car keys get stolen the locksmith erases your stolen keys from ECU, the locks are then re-coded with new combinations and replaced keys are provided to you. This reduces the risk of your vehicle being stolen, no matter who has your old keys!
- Replacing lost keys – Locksmiths have blank keys that are easily cut by an advanced key cutting machine. This task can be carried out even when you are at the roadside. Computer software is then employed to make sure that the newly manufactured key perfectly fits the vehicle lock. Once the key is re-manufactured, it is coded with the ignition lock or vehicle door. Don’t forget, if your car has an immobilizer system only a programmed key will open your car. The newly manufactured key is then reprogrammed according to the ECU of your vehicle.
- Vehicle entry – If you are stuck outside with your car keys locked inside, simply give a call to the expert locksmiths who will soon gain entry into your vehicle without causing any damage. No matter if your keys have to be retrieved from any car model, ignitions skilled locksmiths know what kind of techniques work best which car models.
Spare keys for smart people
If you want to make sure you don’t get caught in any of these predicaments you can act smart and have spare vehicle keys made in advance. Latest computerized techniques, utilized by expert auto locksmiths, can copy the keys of most vehicles. This not only reduces any hassle that you might have to face due to stolen or lost keys but is also a very cost-effective and time saving practice.
Do you have your area’s auto locksmith expert’s number?
These experts are available both for those in the motor trade and the general public. The emergency help made available by these experts is usually highly commendable. So, make sure that you always have the number of the auto locksmith experts of your area in order to avoid any unnecessary inconvenience and frustration. Now, you can enjoy care-free motoring without worrying about your keys.
Types Of Kwikset Locks
Kwikset is a leading provider of different types of locks and hardware products in the industry. This is clearly evident from the fact that they design and make available electronic locks, Master key alternatives, Kevo, the re-key technology as well as smartkey padlocks coupled by the fact that this manufacturer has branches in various prime locations such as Australia, Victoria and even New Zealand.
Just so you can have an idea of what exactly makes this manufacturer one of the industrial leaders, below is an overview of the main types of Kwikset locks. Thanks to North Glenn Locksmith for all the help.
a. Light Commercial Door Locks
This type of Kwikset locks is designed for use both in heavy duty residential building as well as for fairly light commercial application such as in warehouses, cargo terminals as well as pantries just to mention a few. One of the best thing about them is the fact that they are available in various finishes e.g. Antique brass finish, Antique Nickel, Satin Nickel, Polished brass, Venetian bronze, Satin chrome, polished brass finish, polished chrome finish.
In addition to the above, they are also certified by the American national standards institute and the builder hardware manufacturers association of course that is besides satisfying UL’s fire – rating standards and the ADA safety standards. It is equally worth noting that they are sold under three main brand names: metal interconnect, Kingston and carson.
b. Electronic Locks
This type of Kwikset locks are operated by touch screens or better yet electronic keypads. They also have back up key ways plus most of them are characteristic of designs which only allows for their opening (or use) only after entering a strictly personalized access code. One thing which makes them stand out is the fact that they can be locked simply by the touch of a button. available in polished chrome, Venetian-bronze, satin nickel, polished brass and satin chrome finishes, these types of locks are sold under eleven brand names.
c. Door Knobs
These types of kwikset locks are mainly designed for use in ordinary private residential houses. One of the best things about them is the fact that there are also specific designs which are made to compliment any interior home décor. available in the life time polished brass finish, the Antique brass finish, the antique nickel finish, the polished brass, satin chrome, satin nickel, venetian bronze, iron black finish, rustic bronze finish, the polished chrome finish and the rustic pewter, these types of locks are presently on sale under nineteen different brands.
d. Deadbolts
These types of Kwikset locks are mainly designed to offer protection to homes from break-ins, burglaries, arbitrary trespassing, unauthorized entries and theft. They are available in a plethora of styles and security grades. Sold in Thirty two brand names, these locks are available in the following finishes: Antique brass, Satin nickel, polished chrome, satin chrome, venetian bronze, rustic pewter finish as well as iron and Fob finishes.
e. Handle Sets
These types of locks are mainly designed for use in the front door entry hence the reason they are fitted with extremely secure deadbolts and varied stylish handles. sold under thirty brand names, these locks are available in 11 finishes namely the antique brass, satin nickel, satin chrome, polished chrome finish, rustic bronze finish, polished brass finish, antique nickel, venetian bronze, iron black finish and rustic pewter finish.
In addition to all of the above information about the different types of Kwikset locks, it is also important to note that the products come along with warranties mainly aimed at retaining customers with the sole purpose of long term loyalty building.
Types Of File Cabinet Locks
Do you need a new lock for a file cabinet? Is it highly classified information that you need to protect in a business setting, or do you simply want to keep a few paper files locked up in the home? Depending on the answer to these, and other questions you have, customers are going to have different options to consider when choosing from the different types of file cabinet locks. These are a few lock systems to consider for file cabinet systems at home or in a commercial office. Big thanks to southglennlocksmith.com for all the useful info.
Tubular cylinder lock –
These typically fit the hole in the cabinet system most offices use. The lock is a long cylindrical shape which is opened using a round key. The bar inside the system latches to a portion of the cabinet’s interior, which provides the security, and keeps the system locked in place when not in use.
Lock bar –
A second option to consider when choosing locks for your filing cabinet is the lock bar system. These are typically installed to the cabinet’s exterior and are opened/closed using a traditional padlock for security. A great benefit with these systems is that it can replace a central system, allowing you to place one on each of the doors on your cabinet. If there are several drawers, this allows you to have a dedicated lock/key system for each of the drawers.
Electric lock systems –
Probably the most secure option, and these are typically used in commercial settings where highly classified information needs to remain classified. A code is used to open the locking mechanism in these lock systems. Another benefit is that you can set various codes, for different individuals in the office who should have access to the system. Further, many systems will replace the code lock each time the cabinet is opened/closed, which means no two codes are going to be alike.
Padlock –
A simple padlock can be placed on the exterior of your file cabinet if you have an older system, or something which simply has a circular edge or finish. You can set a code with padlocks or you can purchase a traditional key padlock system to use on your filing cabinet. Depending on the level of security sought, there are several different styles of padlocks from which you can choose, providing higher or lower level security, to protect the files which are contained in the filing cabinet you plan on placing the padlock on.
Again, the decision to invest in something more sophisticated such as an electronic lock system is one which most business owners are going to choose, versus a homeowner who requires low level security. Regardless of the level of security or type of documents you need to secure, and depending on the type of system you have in place, there is more than one option available to consider when choosing a new lock system. These are among the most popular options to consider, regardless of whether you are placing the locks on a home or a commercial filing cabinet system which is in place.