Locking systems are divided into five categories:
- Keyed-alike system
- Central locking system
- Master key system
- Central master key system
- General master key system
Keyed alike systems use only a single key. Every lock in the locking system can be opened with a single key, and there is only one key type for the system. This means that all cylinders are assigned the same code. A classic cylinder lock, which works with spring-loaded pins, has a code depending on the pins used. This code is contained in all locks in the locking system. This means that the entrance door, the room door, even the locker or larger padlocks can be opened with one and the same key.
Central locking systems are defined by the fact that all existing keys can open the central locks. In a locking system designed this way, the key can open its own lock as well as the central lock. This is used, for example, in apartment buildings. The front door or the basement are central locks; they can be opened with any apartment key. However, the apartments can only be unlocked with the key assigned to them. This means that tenants can access the house and their apartment with only one key, but not their neighbor’s apartment. Central locking systems are also called Z-systems for short.
At Master key systems Each lock is usually assigned a specific key. The keys are not interchangeable. However, there is a master key that can open all locks. Such locking systems are found in schools, for example. The key for the classroom cannot unlock the main entrance.
But the caretaker can open and lock all rooms, including the entrance, with just one key. The abbreviation for the master key system is HS system. A combination of a Z system and an HS system is the so-called Central master key system. This combines the characteristics of both locking systems. There is a master key that opens every lock, just like with a master key system, but there is also a central lock that can be opened with any key. This type of locking system is useful, for example, in a hotel. Hotel guests can use their room key to open their room and the entrance door. The entrance door has the central lock. Room service, on the other hand, has the master key, which grants access to all rooms and therefore fits all locking cylinders. The abbreviation for this locking system is “Z/HS system.”
At a General master key system this is a particularly complex version of the master key system. The principle is very similar: there is a key for every lock, and one master key can open all locks. However, with a general master key system, there are different hierarchies of master keys. Such locking systems are installed in universities and large office buildings. Let’s assume the building belongs to a large company. For example, there is a master key that opens all doors and remains in the hands of the company manager. The head of the research department has access to all rooms in the research department with their master key, but not to the marketing department. The head of this department, on the other hand, only has access to the marketing department with their master key, but cannot unlock any locks in the research department. Perhaps the marketing department is very large and a distinction is made between online, print, or the target country. In this case, these areas could again form subcategories. The head of marketing opens all locks in the marketing department, the head of the online marketing department only has access to the doors in their department, and the actual marketing employee can only use their key to lock and unlock their own office. The abbreviation for the general master key system is GHS system.
Amper Locksmith Service: Your Reliable 24/7 Locksmith
Amper Locksmith Service is your experienced and reliable partner for all questions related to keys and locks. Has your door closed and the key is still in your apartment? Simply call the professionals at Amper Locksmith Service; we are there for you around the clock, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. We open your door non-destructively and at a low, fixed price, which we guarantee. Perhaps you don’t need a non-destructive door opening, but would prefer a professional lock replacement? We are your experienced and reliable partner here, too. We are happy to install an entire locking system. For most people, it is much more convenient to be able to use the same key for every window instead of carrying a whole bunch of keys just to open the door for a quick vent.
Many, especially high-quality locks, will definitely make your property more secure against burglars. To ensure your locking system is a sound and efficient solution, we’re happy to assist you with its design and implementation. We’ll work with you to make your home as burglar-proof as possible. Just give us a call, and we’ll work with you to put together a security plan that’s tailored to your needs!