FAQ
FAQ
Lock & Key Questions
NO. In most cases, we re-combinate existing locks with new keys at a fraction of the cost.
NO. Most lock shops and hardware stores will duplicate those keys UNLESS the keys you have are protected by US patents. We recommend MEDECO to protect you from unauthorized key duplication.
In most cases, YES, unless you have pick resistance locks. Picking tools and instruction is readily available on the internet. If you have questions or concerns about your lock vulnerability, A&B Security does provide site surveys free of charge.
NO. Master-keying a lock increases the likely hood of being picked or bumped. Master-keying is intended for convenience purposes only. In those situations, electronic access control is a better alternative to master keying.
Questions on Safes
This will depend on the type of safe you have. If you purchased your safe at a local hardware store, it is most likely not burglary protected. Most consumer safes are constructed with sheet metal and a dry powder cladding that provides fire protection to some degree only. Burglary protected safes are constructed with plate steel and hard plate that protects the lock and bolt work. If you are unsure what kind of safe you have, call or email one of our security experts with the manufacturer and model of your safe.
Although wall safes can be a good hiding spot, they typically don’t provide much in the way of burglary or fire protection. The walls in most construction are 2 x 4’s and drywall which offer very little in the way of fire protection. As far as burglary protection, it does not contain steel protection.
As a rule of thumb, we recommend any safe under 1,000 LBS be bolted to the floor.
Electronic locks and mechanical locks provide the same amount of security. Electronic locks provide a faster, more convenient access and are also very useful for people with eye sight issues.
Questions on Electronic Security
With the current security systems that we provide, all are communicating cellular other than a landline.
Control and Automation of Doors or People. EAC systems provide real-time reporting of who accessed a door and when the door was accessed. Doors may be automated to auto-unlock and relock based on time of day. People’s access can be restricted by date, day, and or time recording all transactions. Some businesses may be required to have an audit of their facilities to comply with the regulations of their industry.
Not entirely. Keys can provide an override in the event of system failure. However, these keys are generally not distributed and only held by management/owner personnel.
There are several types of credentials that can be used and/or mixed together for the same system. The most common types are the standard Proximity Cards or Key fobs. These can still be duplicated at most big hardware stores, we recommend SEOS credentials that can’t be duplicated. Biometrics are becoming quite popular and have proven to be very reliable. This technology can come in Fingerprint readers, retina readers, facial recognition, and combinations of both biometric and physical card/keyfob.