Keyless Entry Goes Home
from the as-long-as-my-house-doesn't-honk-and-flash-lights dept
These days, it seems sort of old fashioned to think about putting a key into the door of your car. I don't think I've ever used the keys to my car to actually open the door. The keychain has a fob that has keyless entry, which is just easier all around. More cars are starting to show up with keyless ignition systems as well (the Prius, for example), so that all you need is the fob in your pocket and you can start the car up automatically. So, why is this only happening in automobiles? It sounds like some home lock makers are starting to move in that direction as well, working on systems for keyless home locks. Right now, they're the basic keypad variety, which are already pretty common as a way to open garage doors, but they say it's only a matter of time until you can open your front door with a key fob, just like your car. Of course, considering that the system used in the keyless entry systems for cars was recently cracked this might make some people nervous -- until they realize that their existing door locks are probably easily picked in seconds with pretty simple equipment. Besides, if you combine keyless entry systems with new sensor networks and home automation systems, you could be alerted the second anyone even unlocked your front door when it probably should remain locked. Still, my only request should such a system be built is that when I click on my key fob to lock my front doors, I'd prefer that the house not honk or flash its lights -- though, having the front light turn on when I unlock the door wouldn't be a bad idea.
Thank you for reading this Techdirt post. With so many things competing for everyone’s attention these days, we really appreciate you giving us your time. We work hard every day to put quality content out there for our community.
Techdirt is one of the few remaining truly independent media outlets. We do not have a giant corporation behind us, and we rely heavily on our community to support us, in an age when advertisers are increasingly uninterested in sponsoring small, independent sites — especially a site like ours that is unwilling to pull punches in its reporting and analysis.
While other websites have resorted to paywalls, registration requirements, and increasingly annoying/intrusive advertising, we have always kept Techdirt open and available to anyone. But in order to continue doing so, we need your support. We offer a variety of ways for our readers to support us, from direct donations to special subscriptions and cool merchandise — and every little bit helps. Thank you.
–The Techdirt Team
Reader Comments
Subscribe: RSS
View by: Time | Thread
EZ technology
My parental units are building a new house this year and are placing numerical keypads on all the doors & garages as well as the barn.
[ link to this | view in thread ]
No Subject Given
Not to go off topic, but this is what is wrong with ... of all things ... Homeland Security.
We should pass a law that would remove locks from the doors of our homes - or failing that, outlaw windows.
Locks on doors create a FALSE SENSE of security; but no real security; and cause us to NOT CREATE real security.
Many people are killed each year inside their homes because of this mass illusion.
A lock doesn't even slow down a criminal; few would take the time to pick a lock. Much easier to just jiggle door handles until you find an unlocked one; or better yet, toss a rock through the nearest window.
This thinking is exactly why you see blue-haired grandmothers being searched at airports; and why terrorists have no problem taking over airliners with box cutters and flying them into locked buildings.
[ link to this | view in thread ]
No Subject Given
Or, walk into any Lowes/Home Depot in the last five years and buy one. They are great.
As an aside: Is there any way to get mainstream terminology to separate "Keyless" into two parts: Those that require a fob, and those that only require a code? I've had both and much prefer the code only. The fob is a tiny bit easier than the traditional key in that it doesn't have to be placed into the lock... but you still must posses it. The code is always with you (barring brain damage).
[ link to this | view in thread ]
Garage Door Openers...
As someone else said, easier to find an open door soft target, or break an obscured window, force a back door, and so on.
Key fobs are suspectible to jamming, a serious problem near some military bases and possible anywhere at times. This can't be easily solved since many fobs operate on frequencies for which the military has priority. Keypads seem more reliable in most every way, and usually allow temporary secondary codes for visiting friends/relatives or boy/girlfriends who may not last. Avoids sweating the whole "swapping of keys" nonsense.
[ link to this | view in thread ]
remote control deadbolts
Been using for a couple of years now. Highly recommended. Hunt around for a price of ~$100.
No fussing with keys, just reach into your pocket/purse and push the button. Whir, whir, door unlocked.
Plus, an LED on the inside lights when locked, so you can tell in the dark if the door is locked.
http://www.nokey.com/kwikacdeab.html
[ link to this | view in thread ]
Keypad Home Locks
I haven't carried a house key for years. I have a car key but that's only for the ignition.
The 'latest and greatest' I've seen are home door locks with fingerprint recognition doing away with the keypad.
[ link to this | view in thread ]
No Subject Given
[ link to this | view in thread ]
Keyless Entry for the home
Saw your article on the net. QuickLock, developed by Mason & Co. Pty. Ltd, has been around for the past six years with a keyfob remote control. It can be utilized with any type of door locking system and can even automate existing locks.
Also, with the QuickLock system, it is flexible enough to interface with other types of systems, such as home automation systems, existing garage door systems, and conveniently turn lights on.
It is a hard-wired 12V system so that any home handyman can install it, and has high-tech code hopping security to stop would-be thieves.
Should you require further info, please do not hesitate in contacting me.
Regards,
Adrian Mason
[ link to this | view in thread ]
Re: Keyless Entry for the home
[ link to this | view in thread ]
Re: Keyless Entry for the home
The locks are numerous from high security, energy efficient electronic multipoint locks, electronic deadbolts, electric locks, magnetic locks and electric strikes.
The four button keychain remote can control any number of entry systems, lights, garage doors, gates, etc, so unlike the car, you can get your existing automated home locks onto one easy to manage system, and no batteries to replace on locks. You can even connect to door locks to your smoke alarm or fire alarm so the door automatically opens for your family's safety.
[ link to this | view in thread ]
Re: Keyless Entry for the home
Thanks,
Jean
[ link to this | view in thread ]
keyless locks
[ link to this | view in thread ]
I HATE KEYS
Jeremy Walpole
[ link to this | view in thread ]