Locks and keys have been in existence for centuries. The following are some examples of different types of keying options and how they work:
Different Locks and Keys
Locks that are keyed differently provide one individual key for each locking mechanism and the keys cannot be used interchangeably. For instance, if there were five separate locks, five different keys would be necessary; one to open each device.
Replicate Keys
Locking mechanisms that are keyed alike allow for multiple doors to be opened with only one key. This means that regardless of the number of locks that exist, they can all be opened with the same key.
Master Keys
Locks that are master keyed are designed to allow very specific access levels for numerous key holders. Systems such as this can significantly lessen the number of keys that must be handed out to individuals. Instead, a person can possess only one key that will let him or her access multiple doors, as opposed to having to give a different key to the person for every door he or she must open. This system is highly convenient, as it also allows a different person to be given an individual key that operates only one door. For example, locks can be designed with a master key so that ten doors can be opened with one key, but other keys can be made that only open one of the ten doors. This system is often seen in hotels where each guest has his or her own key to a specific room, but the housekeeping staff can enter all the rooms with the same key.
Construction Keying
This lock and key option uses multiple cylinders that are temporarily operational with a single key, which is usually the case on new construction sites. During the construction process, all cylinders on the site can be operated by one key. After the job is complete, a specific transitional key is inserted in the lock, which changes the access options, ultimately prohibiting the master key that was used during construction to work in the future.
Three-in-One Keying
Three-in-one keying allows a person to change a lock combination without assistance. This is very helpful when a person has lost his or her key, but immediate entrance is necessary. As its name implies, each three-in-one keyed device includes three different keys, which are typically red, yellow and green. Such devices work in the following way: the green key is initially used to open the lock, but if that key is lost, the user can turn the yellow key in the lock and gain entrance. This process in and of itself changes the combination of the lock so that it can no longer be accessed with the green key should the latter fall into the wrong hands. If a similar situation occurs in the future, one can simply repeat the process with the red key, thus rendering the yellow key ineffective.
Flex Control Keys
Flex control keying is similar to the aforementioned option and allows individuals to temporarily permit or prohibit access by simply turning one of two user keys in the locking mechanism. Such systems include four keys, which are blue, white, red, and green. The green allows access, while the red prohibits the same. The white key can be given to someone who is to have permanent access to the lock, but the white key cannot manipulate the system in the way described by the green and red keys. The blue keys are usually designated for visitors who need temporary access. The owner can allow or prohibit entrance to those in possession of blue keys as often as they like without the need to change the entire lock combination.
One-Way Cylinder Keys
One-way cylinder keys are an option that includes one key that can only open the lock, one key that can only secure the lock, and a third key that does both. This option is ideal when the owner wants separate people in charge of locking and unlocking the door, but also wants some individuals to be able to do both. Those interested in learning more about lock and key mechanisms should contact a local locksmith service for more information.
