The gate, as an element of security for private territory and the property located on it, was always equipped with a locking mechanism. Recently, a combination lock has been increasingly chosen for this role, as a more advanced and reliable iteration of old developments. Let’s figure out what types of these mechanisms are on the market, what features they have, and what parameters to choose the best option for.
Combination locks are increasingly being installed on the gates of private houses. Source moyaograda.ru
Device and principle of operation
Unlike classic mechanical locks, which are opened with a key, code models consist of two different but interconnected parts: the bolt mechanism and the code block, implemented in different ways (for example, with a panel). In any case, to get inside the perimeter, you need to open the gate, and to do this, set a code combination.
The shutter mechanism of code models is represented by two types:
- Cylinder . The working part is the cylinder (core, cylinder) located in the body. It recognizes the key and, if it fits, turns and opens the door. The level of protection depends on the complexity of the larva. If the key is lost, you can change it without touching the case.
- Suvaldny . The housing accommodates several plates (levers). The levers are equipped with shaped cutouts; they can be moved (and the door opened) only with a key with grooves of the desired shape. The larger the lever, the more secure the lock. If the key is lost, the entire lock is replaced.
A type of electric lock is an electromagnetic lock. Source paes250.ru
Based on the method of installation, combination locks on gates are divided into the following categories:
- Mounted . An outdated type of mechanism with low strength and degree of protection; It’s easy to find the code by simply searching through the combinations. Advantages: It's inexpensive, easy to use, and you don't have to carry a key. Most often used in combination with a mortise or overhead device.
- Mortise . Installed in a wicket door, it is characterized by low cost, easy use and maintenance. Unfortunately, it cannot be combined with a remote control system, and the buttons are erased (and make it possible to select a combination of numbers) and often break.
- Invoice . Fixed on the gate leaf, it is characterized by easy installation and reliable operation. Overhead models are mechanical and electronic.
Double-sided mortise-type model Source prom.st
Replacing the code on push-button mechanical products
To recode a mechanical push-button lock, it must first be removed from the door leaf. To do this, use a screwdriver or screwdriver to unscrew the fastening bolts holding the rear panel of the structure to the surface of the canvas.
There are plates inside the mechanism. There are ten of them, i.e. as many as buttons (from 0 to 9). If the encryption combination includes 2 digits, then 2 plates will be upside down. To make them easier to identify, manufacturers cut corners or make small cuts on them.
To change the code, you must first turn over the plates that corresponded to the numbers of the old code, i.e. all 10 plates must be positioned identically. Next, the plates located opposite the numbers of the new cipher are turned over. In this case, the code can consist of either one or 10 digits. After replacing the code, the design panel is screwed back on. The operation of the shutter mechanism must be checked.
Types of blockers
Locking devices on the market are implemented in different ways. They differ in operating principle, complexity and performance characteristics. The choice is wide: depending on your needs, you can always choose either a budget model for a summer residence or an option with additional capabilities (for example, with remote control) for a country house.
Mechanical
A mechanical combination lock for a gate is ahead of other options in popularity. The reason lies in its affordable cost and reliable operation. The range of mechanical models is varied; it contains models of different levels of complexity.
Mechanical type code models are designed to lock wooden and metal gates. To open the door from the outside, you need to press three buttons, and from the inside, press the handle. The design contains rings corresponding to the pins, which, when the code is entered correctly, unlock the latch.
Recoding can be done with the lock installed. Many devices are equipped with a latch that can flip depending on the door design (left-right).
Mechanical combination lock Source katlavan.ru
See also: Catalog of companies that specialize in doors, windows and related work
Electromechanical
Devices that combine a mechanical and electrical unit are popular due to their favorable price/quality ratio. They have the following features:
- They are characterized by reliability and burglary resistance, thanks to which they can be installed not only on gates, but also on gates.
- To get into the courtyard, you need to enter a code on the electronic digital panel; There are options with an additional electronic key (it is applied to the panel).
- Many models are additionally equipped with a conventional (mechanical) key. This is a backup option in case of unstable power supply. The door can be unlocked from the inside with a button or latch.
- On some models, possible problems are solved by installing a compact battery. This will save you from having to run an electrical cable to the gate.
- The electromechanical device works in any frost, resists hacking and allows you to change the code combination.
The locking mechanism is controlled remotely Source domzamkov.com
- Disadvantage: installation, including wiring (and, if necessary, repairs), must be performed by a specialist. The battery needs maintenance and recharging. If you lose your key, a duplicate will be expensive.
Electronic
In addition to the mechanical part, the design of the electronic door combination lock includes a programmable unit. The system operates on the principle of an electric magnet. To unlock the gate and enter the yard, you must enter a password or use an electronic key (in the form of a card).
The password entry panel is implemented in push-button or touch-sensitive form. Some models provide remote control (using a mobile phone application). Thanks to the electronic filling, the device has the following advantages:
- Maximum system resistance to hacking.
- Reliable operation, regardless of weather conditions.
- Compatible with other home systems (with intercom, cameras, security circuit motion sensors).
- Simple and convenient (including remote) use.
Trust the installation to a professional Source strojdvor.ru
The key disadvantage is the high cost of electronic locks - it is impractical to install such a system on a country gate. Another disadvantage is that you need to invite a specialist for installation and maintenance, which means additional expenses. Among other things, you will need to supply electricity to the gate or stock up on a battery.
Operating rules
Some mechanisms may fail when exposed to low temperatures and not open, with the exception of the mechanical code system.
Any malfunctions are eliminated by a special repair service. You can call a technician to your home or remove the device and take it to a service center.
You should not engage in amateur activities and repair your lock yourself, especially for electronic systems. Only an experienced specialist can carry out a competent diagnosis, who will replace faulty components and reinstall the program. Expensive models with a built-in complex mechanism of action are especially difficult to repair.
Advantages and disadvantages
In general, the following features can be considered advantages of combination locks on the front door:
- A sharp reduction in the likelihood of hacking. Modern models do not have traditional keys (which are often lost) and keyholes; the password is known only to family members.
- Safety. You can change your password an unlimited number of times, which increases the level of security. Some models are equipped with protection against code selection.
- Long service life. The design of many models has no moving parts, which has a positive effect on service life.
Unlocking using the keypad Source zamochniki.com.ua
- Ease of use. After closing the gate, the transition to security mode occurs automatically. You can easily change the code combination at any convenient time and an unlimited number of times.
Flaws:
- Human factor. If you lose vigilance, the code combination may become known to third parties. Another unpleasant situation arises if the owners have forgotten the code (this is true for all types of models).
- In severe frosts, the buttons freeze and stick.
- Some craftsmen select a combination based on the wear on the buttons.
Double-sided coded mechanical mortise lock Source prom.st
Principle of operation
The mechanical device is triggered when the door slams, the return spring is charged, the start head is in the bar, and the latch is moved. At the moment the code is pressed, the buttons move the required plates, acting on the lock cage, thereby releasing it. The return spring attracts the lock head to itself; when the button is released, the latch and spring return to their original position.
The electromechanical device is distinguished by a cocked bolt that secures all mechanisms, while the door remains closed. When voltage is applied, the clamps are released, the springs move the bolt under the body, and the doors begin to open.
Nuances of choice
Sales consultants advise choosing a combination lock for the entrance gate, starting with an analysis of the following characteristics:
- Required degree of lock protection.
- Possibility of opening using a magnetic key (card).
- Protection from adverse weather conditions, moisture resistance of the model.
- Ease of use. For example, is there a light indication, the possibility of hidden code entry.
- The seller's willingness to present a certificate of quality and reliability.
It is also necessary to take into account technical issues, for example, the dimensions of the lock; Correlating the size of the lock and the door leaf is especially important for mortise models. If the gate is made of corrugated sheets, problems associated with the material arise. The wave size of the corrugated sheet most likely will not coincide with the size of the lock body. In this case, the locking device is mounted through a mortgage made of stainless steel sheet.
Reliable models are made of high quality steel Source domzamkov.com
The best manufacturers
The scope of application of locks is growing every year, so manufacturers today are also different. Russian locks Sirius and Metteham, and Masterlock made in China have earned more trust.
If you need to purchase a more advanced device with additional functions, pay attention to the Sirius company; more expensive models cost up to 35,000 rubles. but the models have a creative design, rich chrome or gold plated body finish
Suitable for any door, built-in fuse for reliability.
Chinese manufacturers offer different models. Experts recommend Masterlock; its design is similar to a central mechanism consisting of shaped code plates with cutouts for moving the bolt bolt. The greater the number of plates, the more variations of the code; in the device from Masterlook there are more than 2.5 million of them, it is impossible to open the lock.
Briefly about the main thing
The prospect of doing without keys looks tempting, so more and more owners prefer combination locks. These devices differ in shutter mechanisms and installation methods, and according to the locking method they are divided into mechanical, electromechanical and electronic.
When choosing an outdoor device, pay attention to its degree of protection against burglary and negative weather factors; Comfort of use and availability of certificates are important. The greatest capabilities are provided by electronic models that can be integrated into a home security system and work through remote access.
Setting up combination locks
Many owners of apartments and private houses independently install door blocks for entrance and interior openings. Therefore, people are often interested not only in how to install doors, but also in how to install/dismantle and independently configure a combination lock installed on a door.
Coded locking devices are more difficult to crack than standard key-operated mechanisms. Therefore, they are considered the most reliable for protection against illegal entry of intruders into apartments, office premises, other public buildings and premises in which various material assets are stored.
It is recommended to set up any combination lock immediately after installing it on the door. As a rule, such products are provided to the buyer with a code already installed by the manufacturer. Therefore, there are great risks that attackers already know the factory codes from different models of coded shutter devices. Accordingly, after installation, it is definitely recommended to recode the locking system, preferably yourself.
Aspects of selecting a reliable model
Before purchasing a combination lock, it is important to decide what type of device is required. It is better to install a mechanical lock on the door of an entrance or building. It must have a digital panel for entering the combination.
The choice of model depends on the size of the budget. However, other important criteria must be taken into account:
The last point deals with the location where the locking mechanism is used. This could be a street or indoors.
The requirements for the lock are strict; maximum compliance with them is highly desirable:
The lock must come with a warranty card. During the specified period, the device can be repaired free of charge. The electronic mechanism must include a power supply. It is easy to install by yourself if you follow the assembly manual.
Repair
Usually, if you plan to install a combination lock instead of an old locking device, then there are no problems. When the owner decides to change the existing lock to another model, the installation of which requires the creation of new mounting holes, then in the absence of the necessary experience in installing locking devices, it is best not to undertake this on your own, but to entrust this work to professionals.
But you are unlikely to have any difficulties with recoding the locking device. If you follow the instructions included with the lock, you can easily cope with this task yourself.
Opening methods
Sometimes it happens that the code is lost, the factory backup password is missing or unknown. In this case, all that remains is to open or hack it.
Selection
Using the method of selecting a combination of numbers, you can both open a combination padlock and keep it safe and sound for further use. The unlocking method is suitable for a mechanism on wheels and consists of the following series of actions:
- Grasp the lock with your hands.
- Pull it down until its locking shackle is in a taut position.
- Try to determine experimentally which wheel is the hardest to turn.
- Start selecting the code from the most difficult one to rotate.
- Twist it until you hear a faint metallic knock.
- Move on to the next wheels sequentially, following the rules described above.
- Once all the wheels are turned until they click, the locking mechanism will give way and it can be opened.
Combination all-weather mechanical padlocks with a key system can also be attempted to be opened. To do this, you need to examine the surface of the buttons for color changes, abrasions, dirt and other subtle changes. Using them, you can try to find a digital set for the password.
Technical hack
If no means of selecting a combination help, there is a simple but very labor-intensive technical hack. To do this you will need a metalworking tool:
- A grinder or other cutting device for metal.
- Hammer.
- Chisel.
The simplest technical way to break a padlock is to break its metal locking element. To do this, place the chisel at the base of the bow and hit it hard with a hammer. The simplest locking systems can be secured with one or two blows. Branded reinforced locks are unlikely to be broken even with a sledgehammer. The only way to break them is to cut off the bow. However, sawing even with a tool such as an angle grinder is not always technically feasible.
Therefore, the most reliable way to cut a combination padlock, especially if it has impressive dimensions, such as for hangar gates, is to use a plasma gas cutting machine - “autogen”. Naturally, such a procedure is only available to real professionals involved in opening locks and emergency rescue services.
