Mechanical digital lock
The Code of practice: Hardware for fire and escape doors, Issue 5, published by DHF and GAI in November 2024, defines a mechanical digital lock as 'A lock that is operated by a keypad with buttons set to a pre-determined code. Entering the correct code operates the lock.' They may also be referred to as a key pad lock or coded lock.
Mechanical digital locks have the advantage over standard mechanical locks in that they do not require a physical mechanical, electrical or magnetic key to open the lock and are therefore useful where access might be required by a higher number of users. For example such locks might be used in holiday accomodation, as entrances to commercial buildings, warehouses for various delivery workers, for internal doors between restricted areas as well as for lockers, cabinets and safes.
They are relatively common and easy to install. Such locks may also be installed as part of a smart locking system which is controlled by a device, smart phone or app, as a fail safe in the event that the smart lock malfunctions, still allowing entry through a mechanical key code pad.
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