Access control and keypad locks in Seattle

A keypad lock opens with a code. You can change the code when someone leaves instead of collecting keys, and nobody gets locked out because a key was left at home.

An access control system lets you decide who can open which door. People can be added or removed without changing any lock, which is what makes it useful for offices, storefronts and buildings where staff change.

With a master key system, each key opens only the doors it should, and a master key opens them all. It works well alongside access control on the doors that still use keys. See lock rekeying for setting one up on existing locks.

A person presents a code, a card, a fob or a phone at a reader. A controller checks whether that person may open that door at that time, releases the lock, usually an electric strike or a magnetic lock, and records the entry. On the inside, a push button or a motion sensor lets people leave freely.

Decide what each door does when the power goes out. A fail-safe lock opens without power, which keeps exit routes open. A fail-secure lock stays locked, which suits storerooms and other doors that must stay closed.

• How many doors, and which ones.
• How many people need access, and to which doors.
• What the doors and frames are made of, and whether there is power near them.
• Whether you want codes, cards or fobs.

For door closers, commercial locks and other door hardware, see commercial locksmith.