Here at Federal Security Technologies, one thing we never want to do is forget where we came from, that’s why the family history story is one of the things at the forefront of our website. So along with being an integration company and a security company, we also still perform locksmith services such as cutting keys, opening locks, replacing lock hardware and so on.

FIRST— Let’s discuss the security of Keys and their uses in facilities, residential complexes, or businesses with multiple levels of access. The diagram to the right, is an example of a typical key hierarchy at a hypothetical place of business. First, we have a Grand Master Key; the GMK opens every door in the building. From there heading down to each Master Key; they keys that open all the doors in specific sections of the building. And finally each key that opens a specific door is called an Operator Key.

In terms of an apartment building, each tenant would have two operator keys, for their own door. The property manager would have a master key that opens all the tenant doors, and there could be another master key to open the storage room doors, etc. A grandmaster or would then be in the hands of the owner of the property to open all doors. If there were multiple buildings in the complex, that is where a Great Grand Master would come into play, opening every door in each building.

Keys systems can become more secure with Restricted Key Systems, restricting who has the ability to duplicate keys. Now for a question; TRUE OR FALSE? Keys labeled 'Do Not Duplicate' cannot be copied without your permission.

FALSE!

Unless you have a unique proprietary or patented restricted key system, there are no laws to protect you from anyone indiscriminately duplicating your keys.

Best Access has been in business for as long as the Clark’s have been fixing locks and cutting keys. Best actually invented the Small Format Interchangeable Core in 1921, and still makes them today…

SFIC Type Key Cylinder platforms are a great choice for apartments, condos, schools, dormatories, or anywhere you need restricted access to keys. The other benefits are the ease of changing locks, and the fact that the format fits into existing doors.

Now, the Medeco XT is a complete electronic locking system providing Controlled Access, Accountability, Physical Security, and System Management. It doesn’t need a power source as it is powered by the rechargeable electronic key that opens it.

What makes this investment so invaluable is that all “re-keying” is done electronically. So personnel changes, updates or removals can be done through the programming of the key. It controls who has access, where they have access, and when they have access.

The Medico XT key has a non-volatile Memory Storing 2,000 Audit Events (Key uses). Meaning you can look into the last 2,000 uses of the key to make sure the key isn’t be used improperly.

One of the Lock and Key services we utilize are small format interchangeable core lock types…

An interchangeable core or IC is an adaptable locking key cylinder. Unlike a standard key cylinder, which is accessible for combination only via locking device disassembly, an interchangeable mechanism relies upon a specialized "control" key for insertion and extraction of the essential (or "core") combination components.

"Small format" interchangeable cores are in a figure-eight shape that is standard among lock manufacturers. For reference; "Large format" interchangeable cores are of varying sizes.

Another great company that has three progressively more secure SFIC key systems is MEDECO, from ASSA ABLOY.

Since its inception in 1968, Medeco has been a pioneer in the locking industry and a trusted partner to provide enhanced security and accountability solutions. Along with many other solutions; Medeco offers three SFIC cylinders; the Medeco B, the Medeco X4, and finally the Medeco XT digital lock.

The Medeco B, is your standard SFIC lock, comparable to a BEST lock, and are an economic and efficient solution to re-keying needs. Medeco B retrofits existing systems, significantly reducing installation time. This type of core can be Masterkeyed but does not have to be.

If extra security and restricted key access is more of what you need, then the Medeco X4 system might be right for your facility or business. Medeco X4 is well suited for facilities with high turnover of employees, or residents such as fast food restaurants, convenience stores, apartments, office buildings, schools, and hospitals.

From this point, with Electronic Locks, we start to blur the line between a regular lock, and access control systems…

ASSA ABLOY also has bacteria suppressing door knobs, handles, levers and pull bars…

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