Electronic key
An electronic key is a modern alternative to the more traditional mechanical key, which are small electronic devices that allow you to access and control access without a mechanical key, such as fobs and smart keys. Key fobs tend to be more secure than regular keys, but can be lost, smart keys are effectively fully computerised keys so allow the use of wider internet connected devices such as smart phones.
The Code of practice: Hardware for fire and escape doors, Issue 5, published by DHF and GAI in November 2024, defines an electronic key as a 'device containing credential(s) necessary to authorise operation of the mechatronic cylinder; MC device with an integrated or a remote electronic system, which is to be used with a lock for the purpose of operating the lock and/or detaining elements after verifying the authorisation of an electronic key.'
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Access control.
- Digital door lock market.
- Doors.
- Entry control.
- External doors..
- Fire Door Inspection Scheme.
- Fire door.
- Fire Doors (DG 524).
- Fire.
- Grenfell tower.
- Hinge.
- Home security solutions market.
- How door locks work.
- Installing fire doors and doorsets (GG 86).
- Intumescent strip.
- Mortice lock.
- Mortise vs mortice.
- Noise - doors and windows.
- Outbuildings security.
- Perimeter security.
- Protected door.
- Self-closing device.
- Security and the built environment.
- Security glazing.
- Smoke control door.
- Sneck.
- Types of alarm.
- Types of door
- Types of lock.
- Width of doors stairs and escape routes.
Featured articles and news
UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard V1 published
Free-to-access technical standard to enable robust proof of a decarbonising built environment.
Prostate Cancer Awareness Month
Why talking about prostate cancer matters in construction.
The Architectural Technology podcast: Where it's AT
Catch up for free, subscribe and share with your network.
The Association of Consultant Architects recap
A reintroduction and recap of ACA President; Patrick Inglis' Autumn update.
The Home Energy Model and its wrappers
From SAP to HEM, EPC for MEES and FHS assessment wrappers.
Future Homes Standard Essentials launched
Future Homes Hub launches new campaign to help sector prepare for the implementation of new building standards.
Building Safety recap February, 2026
Our regular run-down of key building safety related events of the month.
Planning reform: draft NPPF and industry responses.
Last chance to comment on proposed changes to the NPPF.
A Regency palace of colour and sensation. Book review.
Delayed, derailed and devalued
How the UK’s planning crisis is undermining British manufacturing.
How much does it cost to build a house?
A brief run down of key considerations from a London based practice.
The need for a National construction careers campaign
Highlighted by CIOB to cut unemployment, reduce skills gap and deliver on housing and infrastructure ambitions.
AI-Driven automation; reducing time, enhancing compliance
Sustainability; not just compliance but rethinking design, material selection, and the supply chains to support them.
Climate Resilience and Adaptation In the Built Environment
New CIOB Technical Information Sheet by Colin Booth, Professor of Smart and Sustainable Infrastructure.
Turning Enquiries into Profitable Construction Projects
Founder of Develop Coaching and author of Building Your Future; Greg Wilkes shares his insights.