There’s a new lock in town

Recently, Arrow Lock introduced a new touchscreen lock, called Revolution, that combines the function of a cylindrical lockset with a new design appealing to the iPod generation.

Using a touchscreen above the door handle that is similar to those on high-tech mobile devices, a door can be unlocked by entering a simple code.

“This dramatic makeover of the traditional lock-and-key set with today’s technology provides a much-needed update to a product that’s often taken for granted,” said Tom Harris, Arrow general manager.

The lock can be used indoors or outdoors and can fit into existing key systems. It also comes equipped with an emergency override and battery backup to ensure it works all the time.

If necessary, a key will open the lock as well.

In addition to appealing to those who enjoy high-tech gadgetry, it’s also ideal for locks with multiple users, such as at apartments, offices, stores, schools, churches and hospitals.

“With the Revolution, security professionals no longer have to worry about lost keys or bulky push-button locks housed in unattractive boxes,” Harris said.

Just the right touch is needed to unlock the Bio-Matic by iTouchless. The weatherproof, fingerprint-recognition door lock can unlock and automatically open a door within one second.

It can be unlocked by 150 fingerprints, 78 passwords or two backup keys. Simply slide up the protective cover and place your finger on the scanner. Fingerprints can be easily added or deleted, as necessary, without any additional equipment.

Fitting into standard door locks, the Bio-Matic is powered by four AA batteries that should last for about 15,000 entries.

It retails for $300 and comes with a two-year warranty.

According to Dave Albert, vice president of business development for Black and Decker Hardware and Home Improvement, which manufacturers Kwikset locks, smart-key technology such as Revolution and Bio-Matic and are significantly more secure than standard pin and tumbler technology found in ordinary locks.

Not only are the locks themselves changing with the times they are becoming more technologically savvy, gaining the ability to be integrated into home security and automation systems.

“If you think about it, it’s pretty crazy that security systems and locks don’t talk to each other,” Albert said. “While security systems can tell you if a door is open or closed, it can’t tell if the door is locked.”

Kwikset’s new remote access control solution, SmartCode with Home Connect Technology, can be integrated into home security and automation systems allowing homeowners to check on the status of their door locks from computers and mobile devices and without having to physically check the lock itself. It also features a motorized deadbolt.

“Now if you forget to lock your door and you’re already 20 miles away at work, you don’t have to call a neighbor or friend to come lock your door — you can do it yourself just with the push of a button or the click of a mouse.

“It’s even more compelling at night when watching TV in bed,” he said offering a typical scenario he encounters on a regular basis. “Just when I get comfortable, my wife asks me if I locked the door and I have to get up to check it. Now, I can call up a screen on my TV to check if the alarm is set. I can also dim the lights,” he said.

This interoperability from locations throughout the home or outside the home are dependent on high-speed Internet connections, which Albert says can be found in between 60 and 70 percent of homes nationwide. It allows users to perform multiple functions with the same code, such as unlocking the door and disarming the security system.

The remote access system has a suggested retail price of $349 and is sold in conjunction with home security and automation programs. And like the Bio-Matic lock, it is powered by four AA batteries, eliminating the need for any hard wiring.

Despite the advantages, Albert said it may take some more time for people to feel “completely comfortable” without their keys in hand. “But it will absolutely eliminate need for key.”

For more information about Arrow’s Revolution lock, visit www.ArrowRevolution.com. For more information about the Bio-Matic by iTouchless, visit www.itouchless.net. For more information about Kwikset’s SmartCode with Home Connect Technology, visit www.kwikset.com/accesscontrol”>www.kwikset.com/accesscontrol.