It wasn’t that long ago that a locksmith was simply known for rekeying homes, duplicating keys, opening safes, and installing deadbolts. While every locksmith still performs these important jobs, their industry has been truly changed by technological security breakthroughs in every facet of their business.
From automotive key fobs and residential keyless entry to commercial Bluetooth systems, today’s locksmiths are truly working in the digital age. Successful locksmiths have adapted to the ever-changing world of vehicle anti-theft systems, automotive fobs and transponder keys as well as wireless security and access control systems, to name just a few.
Automotive
Starting around 20 years ago, laptop computers became a necessary investment for locksmiths to run key code software to assist with opening the early anti-theft entry systems in many vehicles. It was the beginning of the “chirp, chirp” sound of a vehicle being opened remotely; however, a key still started the car.
That changed as the transponder key (which has a computer chipset in it) started replacing traditional keys for not only locking a car but starting it as well. It’s worth noting that the key portion of the transponder key looked nothing like a traditional key with all the notches and cuts. This too required special duplication equipment.
The transponder key has had many iterations and has evolved to what is known today as the key fob. For more than a decade, keyless ignition, or “push to start” buttons, have become prominent among auto manufacturers and require a fob in close proximity to start or open the vehicle. These fobs are different for every automobile manufacturer. Additionally, no single locksmith technology investment will address every auto manufacturer’s fob on the market today.
Most consumers like the option of not having to pull out their keys to start or open their vehicle. However the cost to replace the fob is much more than a traditional key. Fortunately, locksmiths can replace these fobs at prices much lower than the dealer for the exact same quality. Additionally, the locksmith comes to you, saving you time and money.
RESIDENTAL
Residential security has also entered the digital age and not just through doorbell systems like Ring or placing security cameras around your property.
Using a bluetooth app on a smart phone allows control of front door deadbolts through proximity, just like a key fob. People can also opt for keyless entry through a digital keypad. There are advantages and disadvantages to opting for one of these systems but overall they have become very popular.
Locksmiths set up these systems with the customer through phone apps and wireless connectivity in their home. They also have to know the ins and outs of the multitude of fingerprint and keypad locks available on the market today.
COMMERCIAL
Commercial enterprises were the first to adopt high tech entry systems. Digital key cards became prominent in the late 1980’s in large corporations. It is now common for many small and medium sized companies to use some sort of access control system. These use the latest technology and modern security systems to integrate with door access control systems. These sophisticated systems greatly improve a building’s security and limit access, allowing a business to restrict certain areas and protect valuable assets.
Access control technology is used to open doors, gates, barriers, and more. They also keep track of who enters the building and are ultimately designed to keep away intruders.
SUMMARY
In order to keep up with the changing security landscape in automotive,residential, and commercial, locksmiths have had to invest in computerized laser key and high security key cutting equipment, programming tablets, and other computerized tools which allow them to program new fobs as well as originate laser cut keys. They also must continually educate themselves on the ever changing world of high-tech security.
While every industry has had their own evolution adapting to technology through automation and the internet, locksmiths have had to meet the challenge of roughly 50 percent of their business moving into the digital age. Affordable Locksmiths in Medford has stayed up to date on the cutting edge of security. Give us a call for a free estimate or locksmith service. We are happy to handle any type of locksmith job you may have.
