What are the different types of digital locks?

Types of digital locks

Digital locks use electronics to protect restricted entrances and are often installed in place of traditional mechanical locks. There are several different types of digital locks, each with distinct advantages. Magnetic locks use electromagnets to close the door, while electric shock interlock uses electromagnetic motors to engage. Common ways to open digital locks include the use of numeric codes, card keys, and biometrics. In general, an electronic lock is a modern security measure for an entrance door and is very convenient from the point of view of usability computer engineering vs computer science.

The magnetic varieties of digital locks, also known as “magnetic locks,” have an electromagnet built into the door frame. A second magnet or metal plate is mounted opposite the electromagnet. When electricity is applied, a magnetic field keeps the door tightly closed. Digital magnetic locks are very difficult to physically bypass as there are no mechanical parts. However, if power is lost, the magnetic lock may become inactive.

Electric security locks use moving parts to keep the door secure. As with the standard boom, the bolt of the electric shock lock slides into the door frame when it engages and prevents the door from opening. While traditional bolts have to be turned by hand, electric lock locks use powered electromagnetic motors to push and pull the bolt. This type of digital interlock usually remains closed even if electrical power is lost.

Digital locks can be activated and deactivated in several ways. One of the most common access methods is the card key. These plastic keys contain an encoded magnetic information strip and are often found in modern hotels. The digital code on the card must match the code programmed in the reader to open the electronic lock. Card keys can be quickly copied or changed and inexpensively replaced if lost.

Digital codes can also be used to access digital locks. With this method, the keypad is located on or near the door. Authorized personnel must enter the correct key sequence to unlock the door. The advantage of a digital code is that there is no physical key that can be lost or stolen. As with the number keys on the card, the number codes can be changed quickly and easily.

Biometrics can also be used to open digital locks. These are characteristics unique to one person and can include fingerprints, eye patterns, and facial structure. The digital biometric lock contains a database of these physical characteristics and will only open if the person opening the door can be identified as an authorized user. Biometric digital locks are usually more complex and expensive than others, but tend to be very reliable.