Combination locks do not require the constant carrying of a key, which, moreover, is easy to lose. The scope of their application is growing every day, as is the popularity of various models. And this is not only locking the front doors of houses, entrances or technical rooms. Combination locks protect suitcases, safes and bicycles left in the parking lot.
Device advantages
The mechanism, like a regular lock, is used to protect a specific object. How is it different from a key device? The code model does not have a keyhole, and it cannot be opened with special master keys, which allows you to save a person's property.
The cipher product has the following advantages:
- reliability - opens only by dialing a combination of several numbers known to the owner;
- anti-vandalism - resistant to mechanical damage and hacking;
- strength - all parts are made of high quality steel;
- frost resistance - withstands sudden changes in temperature and prolonged cold;
- anti-corrosion - the case is made of stainless metal, which allows it to be used even at high humidity;
- lack of a key - you can not be afraid to lose it and do not need to constantly carry it with you;
- group use - opening by several people who know the code.
Features of the structure of the mechanism
The code lock device includes a locking block. A cipher is set on the code receiver or dialer in the form of a disk, buttons with numbers or several rotary circles.
A special control system (on electronic models) or features of a mechanical device verify the correctness of the code and allow you to open the lock.In electronic locks there is a power supply unit and a back-up system.
Varieties of code devices
Depending on the modification, the locks are:
- according to the method of installation - overhead, mortise, hinged;
- in shape - level or cylindrical;
- according to the method of locking - with one type-setting disk, with several turntables, push-button;
- by device type:
- Mechanical - it is not possible to open with a master key, but there is a big drawback. If the user has forgotten the code, then opening the lock will bring problems. More often, these are simple hinged models that are suitable for gates, bicycles, suitcases, it can be snapped into place in one motion;
- Electromechanical - reliable devices contain mechanical and electrical elements. Large-scale mechanisms require electricity to operate, they are suitable for warehouses or gates of large companies. Expensive models are installed in a mortise or overhead way, and if a power outage occurs, the lock can be opened with an ordinary key;
- Electronic - devices with an electronic control unit open after setting the desired combination on the display. Mounted cheap models are easily hacked and cut down. Overhead, more expensive mechanisms also have an increased level of security. The most expensive mortise models have the highest protection against burglary and a level of reliability. But their installation requires special tools and professional skills.
How to choose the right combination lock
Variety in price and many types of modifications make choosing the right mechanism somewhat difficult.Before buying, it is important to take into account several basic selection criteria - how valuable is the object that you want to save, the features of the operating conditions of the mechanism - is there a supply of electricity, features of the external environment, how much does the model cost.
Small hinged mechanisms, which can be supplemented for convenience with a long cable, are usually used when flying on a suitcase, for the safety of bicycles, scooters. Such locks are best used for outbuildings - garages, sheds, closets. Usually there may be no electricity in the premises, besides, simple models do not require complex installation, they are quickly hung and removed.
Complicated crossbar constipation is distinguished by cost. The case opens and inside there are code pens, with the help of which passwords are reassigned at home. By rotating the discs, a sequence of numbers is set that opens the lock.
The service life of the device reaches 15 years. At the same time, force breaking, the possibility of drilling or removal with a stethoscope is close to zero. All protective functions are performed reliably, and the device is designed in such a way that the owner can close the doors from the outside and from the inside.
For the protection of residential buildings or office premises, electric mortise devices are used for the safe. Standard mechanical locks, for the most part, have already been studied by criminals and open with ease, especially when there is time for it. In addition, electric models have fewer moving parts, making them less likely to break.
However, if you choose a mechanical mortise lock, give preference to disc models rather than push-button ones. Over time, the buttons begin to sink, the pressing efficiency decreases, and the lock breaks.If such a lock is installed in a multi-storey building with a high traffic of people, the buttons are gradually erased, and the lock code is easily determined from them.
Door electronic models have another advantage. The control panel can be placed away from the main locking unit. It is difficult to hack something that is not clear where it is located and it is not clear how it works.
Modern electronic models are equipped with touch panels. Their disadvantage is that a constant current source is required. Such locks are most often installed in apartments and offices.
How to install a lock
Depending on the characteristics, the combination locks are installed in different ways. Some require tools, professional skills or even a call to a specialist, others will require a little free time and a drill.
- Overhead type - simple installation with fixing the control unit housing to the door. On the jamb there is a response block with crossbars for locking the door. Everything will take about half an hour.
- Mortise mechanical lock will require more time. First, marking is made with a pencil or marker of the place where the body and fasteners will be located. The recesses are prepared with a chisel and a drill. After the installation of all parts.
- Electronic mortise lock - first you will need actions similar to installing a mechanical model. In addition, you need to connect the control unit to electricity.
Please read the accompanying documentation carefully. It describes the features of the operation and installation of a particular model. If there is no necessary information on how to install the mechanism, do not invent your own method, study the manufacturer's website or an authorized dealer.
We have compiled detailed ratings of popular types of combination locks. They will help you make the right choice among a wide range, tell you what to look for and which company's devices are better.
The question of where to buy a quality product is very individual. When ordering in the online store, code locks will cost less. However, it is worth remembering that it is better to purchase goods from a trusted seller. In case of breakage of the mechanism, it can be exchanged or returned with minimal financial losses.
Rating of quality overhead code locks
METTEM ZKP-2
The mechanical model is very popular and is installed in many entrances of high-rise buildings, closed institutions and territories. It can be located both on the right and on the left side of the door leaf. From the outside it is unlocked by pressing a certain set of numbers.
From the inside there is a convenient lever for opening. When the door is closed, a single bolt enters the grooves automatically locking it. Weight is only 1250 grams, dimensions - 58 * 98 * 175 mm. The cost is 989 rubles.
METTEM ZKP-2
Advantages:
- can be ordered online;
- simple design;
- installed on any door;
- supports more than 1000 encoding options;
- low price.
Flaws:
- Buttons wear out over time.
Selock Code 25A
The anti-vandal case is made of galvanized metal material. The mechanical model is installed both on the street - on entrances, gates, gates, and on the doors of internal premises. Withstands temperatures from -40ºС to + 50ºС and high humidity up to 85%.
According to buyers, the universal device is mounted with a screwdriver and a drill on left-hand and right-hand blades. Suitable for metal or wooden doors.If necessary, the code changes quickly. From the inside, the lock is closed with a turntable. According to customer reviews, the mechanism is simple and reliable. The cost is 4500 rubles.
Selock Code 25A
Advantages:
- simple model;
- does not depend on external conditions;
- durable body.
Flaws:
- buttons deform over time;
- cannot be opened with a mechanical key.
Rating of popular electronic combination locks
Selock Keypad
The electronic device is suitable for installation on metal and wooden doors and operates autonomously from 4 AA batteries. The service life of the kit, according to the manufacturer's description, is 10 months. In case of a critical decrease in the charge, the device starts to warn with a sound signal when opening.
The case is protected by a galvanized coating and withstands all weather conditions. You can open it using the cipher typed on the panel, key fob, control panel. The device with the function of "night blocking" and notification by a siren.
The small mechanism is easy to install with a minimum set of tools on left- and right-hand blades. The kit includes step-by-step instructions in Russian. It spells out how to change the code, how to install the mechanism with your own hands and the rules of care. The average price is 14,500 rubles.
Selock Keypad
Advantages:
- high autonomy;
- three types of keys;
- weatherproof housing;
- extended functionality.
Flaws:
Kaadas K9
The electronic model is suitable for any type of door - right-handed, left-handed, metal or wooden with a thickness of 38 to 90 mm. The control unit supports the Bluetooth and Z-Wave communication protocol and is controlled by a touch screen.
The lock is opened with a code of 6-12 digits, a fingerprint (up to 100 users), a card (100 people), a mechanical key, a smartphone. The steel body is complemented by a touch screen with tempered glass. The model is distinguished by ease of installation and reliability of the three crossbar mortise part. The cost is 35900 rubles.
Kaadas K9
Advantages:
- simple installation;
- three crossbars;
- several types of keys;
- the possibility of mass use;
- durable body.
Flaws:
Rating of popular mortise locks
Selock Code 20V
The mechanical model in an anti-vandal case is suitable for metal and wooden doors. It can be installed on the front door, street gates. The device withstands operating temperatures from -40ºС to +50ºС.
Installation of the lock does not require professional skills and tools. Can be installed on both the right and left side of the door. Opened only with a password consisting of 4-8 digits. Movement weight 1200 grams, dimensions 16*42*142 mm. The price is 4500 rubles.
Selock Code 20V
Advantages:
- anti-vandal case;
- does not rust;
- simple installation;
- withstands difficult environmental conditions.
Flaws:
- buttons deform over time.
Selock Code 20S
Double-sided locking involves the installation of code panels on both sides of the door. It is opened only by typing a cipher, which can be changed if necessary. The code includes from 4 to 8 digits.
Can be installed on both exterior and interior doors. It is convenient to use for gates, since it is impossible to open it by sticking your hand through the bars. The small body is made of zinc alloy and can withstand large temperature fluctuations. The cost is 6000 rubles.
Selock Code 20S
Advantages:
- simple installation;
- second code panel;
- stainless body.
Flaws:
- buttons are deformed;
- for conversion, you need to open the case.
Rating of quality bicycle combination locks
Anti-theft lock, art.427
An inexpensive anti-theft model is a durable metal cable in a plastic sheath, closed by a code mechanism. The chain is 88 cm long, which allows you to attach a bicycle with it and prevent a criminal from stealing it. 4 code discs securely store the desired combination of numbers. The cost of a bicycle lock is 493 rubles.
Anti-theft lock, art.427
Advantages:
- low price;
- simple mechanism;
- long rope.
Flaws:
HRS Security Rope 02
U-shaped anti-theft novelty is made of durable metal. Case dimensions are 40*120*220 mm, weight is only 850 grams. Encoded using four rotating discs. The internal space of the case is additionally protected by a cover. The cost is 1700 rubles.
HRS Security Rope 02
Advantages:
- durable construction;
- protective cover for the code mechanism.
Flaws:
Rating of quality padlocks with a cipher
Standers, Zam/steel
A small popular model with three code discs is intended for personal lockers or utility rooms. Dimensions are 14 * 41 * 43 mm, weight - 120 grams. Made from an alloy of copper, aluminum and zinc. The hinge is made of durable chrome steel. The case does not have a key hole, so the lock is difficult to pick. The cost is 253 rubles.
Standers, Zam/steel
Advantages:
- budget model;
- reliable body;
- possibility of recoding.
Flaws:
MasterLock One 1500 IEURDWHI
The hinged device of the French manufacturer weighs 200 grams, the width of the case is 55 mm, the diameter of the hardened steel bracket is 7 mm, and the length is 27 mm. The metal case is covered with white varnish for long-term operation. The safe mechanism has a patented closing technology. A secret combination is set on a single disk. The cost is 600 rubles.
MasterLock One 1500 IEURDWHI
Advantages:
- varnish coating for protection;
- modern closing technology;
- reliable body.
Flaws:
Tips for the care and operation of the code mechanism
- Periodically, approximately once every 6 months, change the code.
- Be sure to change the code after repairs carried out by hired workers, if the code is lost, after the tenants leave the rental housing.
- Try to remember the cipher, not write it down. If recorded on paper, keep the notes in an inaccessible place.
- Be sure to turn off the power before changing the electronic lock.
- Mechanical elements should be looked after as usual - lubricated and prevented from clogging.
- Even the best models require regular maintenance as recommended by the manufacturers.
- Do not make independent changes to the design, strictly follow the step-by-step installation instructions and do not do repairs yourself. In case of malfunction, contact a repair shop.
Follow these simple recommendations, keep your cipher in strict confidence, and then the combination lock will protect your home or other property as much as possible.