Electronically controlled locks – the key facts

Electronically controlled locks are one of the most effective ways for commercial entities to boost their security and therefore peace of mind.

After all, when choosing between a standard mortice lock and more advanced options, it makes sense to opt for the one that utilises the best of modern technology – especially where the protection of important assets and business data is concerned.

But what are the main things to know about electronic locks before making a purchasing decision? Here’s an overview of commonly asked questions.

What are the main things to consider when selecting an electric lock?

There are many things to consider; from security levels to compatibility with the type of door but life safety should be the first – is the lock tested and rated to match other components used, what is the lock strength, is a fire rating required, should the lock be fail safe or secure.

What are electronic door locks?

Electronic locks are operated via an electrical signal usually from a managed device where users can easily be added or deleted as required (e.g. access control, intercom or similar system) instead of the need for physical keys which can be lost, stolen or copied. As well as providing a higher level of security they can be used to manage multiple door or site requirements and can be connected to alarm systems to automatically unlock for escape or lock for security.

What types of electronic locks are there?

There are many different types of electromechanical lock available, including code locks, electric solenoid bolts, electric strikes, electromagnetic locks, electric mortice locks, and more.

What is an electromagnetic lock?

Electromagnetic locks (or maglocks) are made up of two components, an electromagnet and an armature plate, a strong magnetic flux is created when the armature plate is in contact with the energised electromagnet which locks them together.

Will magnetic door locks still work during a power outage?

If power is removed from a magnetic lock it will ’fail safe‘. If security is favoured over escape (i.e., unmanned, alternative escape route available etc) a battery back-up could be added for continuous operation. 

What is an electromechanical lock?

Electromechanical locks are locks that are operated by means of electricity. They come in many forms and work in association with a variety of access control systems.

They often combine the features of a mechanical manual lock (i.e. key operated bolt/latch) and can be electrically controlled by a signal from management systems. They include electric strikes, motor locks and solenoid locking bolts.

Why do people use electromechanical locks?

It makes sense for many commercial entities to use electromechanical locks because of the high level of security they provide. Out of a standard mortice lock and more advanced options, the lock that utilises the best of modern technology is likely to be the best option.

Electromechanical locks often provide features for secure daytime controlled entry via access systems but also mechanical features that provide a night-time deadlock or similar function, which are often high security rated.

What does fail safe, fail secure mean?

'Fail safe' also known as – fail open, fail unlocked & power to lock (PTL)

'Fail secure' also known as – fail closed, fail locked & power to open (PTO)

A fail safe lock is disengaged when power to the lock is removed via mains failure, fire, or management system, ensuring the door is unlocked for escape. When power is removed from a fail secure lock, the opposite happens: it becomes engaged, meaning the door is locked for security.

What locks should I use for high security that will remain secure doing a power outage?

The best locks for high-security areas are electric mortice locks. Here at ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions, we offer two types of electric mortice locks: motor locks, where an electric motor opens or closes the lock bolt, and electric handle-controlled locks, where the lock can also be overridden for escape with a handle. Both are installed into a pocket cut into the door leaf and require connection to a power supply.

What is most commonly used on a unoccupied building such as an office block at night?

This could be both electromechanical or electromagnetic locks:

·         Magnetic lock whilst occupied (fail safe) but combined with a higher security mechanical night lock that when physically thrown would not fail safe when the building is empty.

·         Electromechanical locks may have an electronic latch but a mechanical hook/bolt lock for night time locking.

What is most commonly used on a occupied building such as a block of flats?

Both electromechanical and electromagnetic locks can be used, risk to life would out way security so generally, a fail safe lock for easy escape would be specified, often an electric strike or magnetic lock would be used.