by Locksmith AZ | Jan 22, 2018 | Floor Safe, Keys
Types Of Mailbox Locks
by Locksmith AZ | Dec 21, 2017 | Home Security, Keys
What Are The Top Brands Of Access Control Systems?
When considering access control for your business, you want a security technique that you regulate to allow resources in a computing environment. Access control secures physical (campuses, buildings, and rooms) and logical (computer networks, system files, and data) resources. There are four categories when it comes to access control:
- Role-based access control: Regulates access to resources based on the user’s role within the company. Roles vary depending on the authorization of job, ranking, and responsibility.
- Discretionary access control: The owner approves or denies access via an access policy. In other words, the owner determines object access privileges.
Keeping these types in mind, here are a few brands of access control to look into for your business:
Protection 1
Protection 1 has the highest approval rating when it comes to their customer service. Available 24/7 and provides training to whoever needs to monitor this system in your company. Their platform, eSuite, reports and provides an analytics system that feeds you security data surrounding your business. Protection 1 also has a visitor management feature where you can print guest ID badges to give access to visitors.
ADT
Already one of the top brands in security, ADT offers exceptional access control products such as door readers or keypad readers that require both physical credentials and a PIN code. Perhaps their biggest eye-catching feature is their web browser and mobile app interfaces. The mobile app allows you to nearly control everything from your phone. You can lock/unlock doors remotely, allowing employees who forget their ID’s access.
Kisi
Kisi is all about the modern day organization as they offer cloud controlled hardware, integrating all security systems into your already existent IT setup. All of Kisi’s apps are optimized with about 50,000 on each platform. Kisi’s Reader Pro is a modernized NFC & BLE reader/controller, that is rated one of the most modern door readers out there. It allows secure mobile and card-based unlocks giving you end-to-end encryption.
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For More information about the Top Brands Access Control Systems, Contact Us Today for a Consultation.
by Locksmith AZ | Dec 14, 2017 | Home Security, Keys
Tips to Protect Your Home While on Vacation
Have you ever left for a trip and then suddenly become overrun with the anxiety that you may have forgotten to lock a door or window before you left? So much so that even though you’ve already been on the road for an hour or are about to board your plane, you almost want to turn right around and run back to be sure. It’s a terrible feeling when you’re unsure if your home is safely locked and secure while you’re gone, but here are a few steps to take before you step out the door to help ease those worries.
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Security System
If you are someone who happens to have a security system, notify the company that you will be away. Whether it’s just a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, it’s smart to inform the company and have peace of mind that they’re looking out for you.
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Lock it up
Sometimes the easiest solution is the most forgotten one. Be sure to lock ALL your doors, windows, and garages. Some homeowners love their neighbourhood so much that they’d never expect anyone to break in, leaving their home unlocked all day, every day. However, you can’t think like that. Anything can happen when you’re away and intruders will stop at nothing to break in and take everything they can.
Be sure each of your locks is properly working and, as you walk around the perimeter of the house, to lock each and every entrance. This way as you’re on the road travelling, you’ll remember that you locked that back kitchen door before you left.
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Hide the goods
Anything of great value to you, whether material or emotional, put away in a secure place within your home. Be sure that nothing can be seen from your windows. Put all valuables in a hidden safe or even a secret storage place that an intruder would never find.
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Housesitter
Ask a neighbour, friend, or family member if they may be able to stay at your house while away. Even if they can’t stay all night, ask if they can visit frequently to take in the mail and park a car in your driveway, giving the presence of someone being home.
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Outside spare keys
We all know about the spare key hidden under the doormat. How? Because literally, everyone does it. Or even that plastic rock out in the flower bed that has a ‘secret’ compartment for your spare key. Just do yourself a favour and don’t leave any spare keys outside. Burglars know all the tricks. If someone is watching your house while away, be sure to leave the key with them or even a neighbour.
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Don’t advertise
So you’re all excited about getting away on that dream vacation you’ve been looking forward to all year long. So much so that you want everyone to know about it. So where do you tell them? Probably on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc. But you might want to watch what you say. If someone, even a stranger on the internet, can find out you’re away, then your house is an easy target. Also think twice when using the “checking in” function on Facebook or Foursquare. Then they’ll definitely know you’re nowhere near home.
by Locksmith AZ | Nov 27, 2017 | Blog, Home Security, Keys
The Most Effective Method To Get A Broken Key Out Of The Door
When your keys suddenly break off in your lock chances are that you are going to feel a sense of dread and helplessness. Unfortunately, such instances happen when you least expect, and you shouldn’t have to worry. This guide will explore some of the most effective ways to get a broken key out of the door.
Key Extractor
A key extractor is one of the best solutions to removing a broken key. Most people wouldn’t think of having such a tool, but when your key breaks off, you can easily purchase it on select hardware stores or online for a few dollars.
To achieve desirable results when using an extractor, you need to place it along the keys bitting inside the keyway. In doing so, you will hook the key’s teeth with the hook on the extractor. Once the keyway is placed along the bitting, all you’ve got to do is to turn and pull, and your key should be out. It’s important to note that the extractors come in different variations and you need to pick the design that best suits your need.
Super Glue
Although this technique might seem counterintuitive, it will only work if the edge of the key is visible. If you want to get out your key, you need to take a small match or wire and add glue. Exercise cautious when doing this because too much glue may harm the lock and not having enough will prevent the key from sticking.
Also, you need to hold the wire/match edge against the key when applying pressure so that you don’t push the key further into the lock. Most importantly you need to wait for the match/wire edge and the glue to bind before you can pull.
Tweezers
While tweezers might seem like the best alternative when removing your key, they can end up worsening the situation if you don’t take the necessary precautions. When using tweezers, you need to ensure that they can open wide enough to fit on the side of the key. Given the warding that’s present on most keyways, your average tweezers won’t fit. Also, take note that Tweezers work best if there is part of the key protruding from the keyhole.
The Jigsaw Blade
If you don’t prefer buying a specialty key extractor you can design one using a jigsaw blade, but this only works with a mini hacksaw blade. When using the jigsaw all you need to have is a thin piece of metal that can fit together with your key. Alternatively, you can break the blade with nose pliers since it makes it easier to insert the serrated edge.
This allows the blade to go in easier and also hook on the key easier. With a turn and pull your key should be out and if this doesn’t happen on the first attempt, you need to try again. This method will come in handy if you have the means to travel to a hardware store or you have some blades lying around.
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For any of your locksmith needs Contact Us Today and we can help!
by Locksmith AZ | Nov 21, 2017 | Automotive Locksmith, Blog, Home Security, Keys, Locksmith
Residential Lock Repair in Arizona
Sadly, many people are familiar with the term “deferred maintenance”. They usually find out about it when they defer something long enough that it finally breaks on them at a very inconvenient moment and turns what was an annoyance into a serious problem. House keys can be like that. They work just fine for years, but gradually they wear down a little bit so you have to jiggle them in the lock when it’s cold, or hot, or just when you don’t insert the key exactly the way it likes to be inserted.
In any event, the day comes when jiggling doesn’t work at all anymore, and the dreaded reckoning with deferred maintenance lands in your lap. Even with keys in hand, you’re locked out of your own home– but how is that possible?
It’s possible because the lockset in your door has a number of small moving parts, particularly a series of small pins and springs that move when your key is inserted into the lock. Over time, dust and grease can build up to the point where these parts won’t move as they are supposed to. They can also wear down or break so they won’t move at all. They could even work perfectly but your old key has been used so may times that it has worn down to the point of no longer being functional. In any case, your key doesn’t turn in the lock and you are going to require the services of a qualified residential lock repair technician to get things moving smoothly once again.
Now you might be wondering why you should fix your current cranky lockset rather than just buying a new one. The answer is actually quite simple. First off, you will need a locksmith to get your door open for you anyhow. Next, you would probably prefer paying to fix one lock or one key rather than paying to have all of the other door locks in your house replaced so that your one house key fits them all. Also, fixing one malfunctioning lock uses a lot less of the planet’s resources than buying several new sets– so you can save money and the planet at the same time.
As one the Valley’s premier residential lock repair specialists, we can get you into your home as fast as possible and at the lowest cost as well. We will arrive at your home with all of the tools needed to get you inside right away. In addition, we also stock our vans with a full assortment of everything else that might be needed in case your old lock is, in fact, irreparable. No matter what you may need to get everything working smoothly once again, or at what time of the day or night you might need us, we can make it happen for you.
So give Arizona Locksmith a call at (602)344-9599 or Contact Us and we will dispatch one of our service vans to your address as soon as possible.
by Locksmith AZ | Aug 25, 2017 | Automotive Locksmith, Blog, Keys, Locksmith, Phoenix
The Future Of Keys And Car Security
Ah, 2017. Based off of the vision films like “Back to the Future” had for this decade, we should all be flying around in our cars and running around in hoverboard gangs. Unfortunately for us, we haven’t quite achieved the progress the visionaries of the eighties believed we would. However, there have still been major advancements in technology across the board, including improvements in the realm of keys and car security. One of the biggest innovators in this field is Tesla, the company trying to make the daily use of electric vehicles by the average American less of a novelty and more of a reality. Along with their innovative car designs, the company has developed a brand new system used by their vehicles for locking, unlocking, and protecting your car.
Tesla Key Designs
The new design implemented by Tesla completely eliminates the need for keyholes in the doors or even the car itself, helping to promote the security of the car by eliminating a few of the potential access points for car thieves to break in through. It also makes it a more convenient product for the consumer, eliminating the need for metal keys entirely and allowing them to operate remotely at all times when it comes to locking and unlocking doors and popping the trunk and hood of the car.
AZ Locksmith is a leader in the industry and can do a mobile key fob programing for you meaning we will come to you, call us today!
by Locksmith AZ | Aug 11, 2017 | Automotive Locksmith, Keys, Locksmith
Unlocking a Car Door Without a Key
We’ve all been there. That horrible, slow motion moment when your hand grasps your car door and begins to swing it shut, all while your brain is screaming at your arm “STOP! THE KEYS ARE INSI—” *click*. When you find yourself in this situation, don’t be too alarmed! There are a couple of methods that you can use to gain access to your car without having to call in a locksmith, ranging from the bizarre (ever heard of the tennis ball technique?) to the highly professional utilization of an inflatable wedge.
Right off the bat, let’s start with that tennis ball technique! Apparently, you can drill a small hole through a tennis ball, place that hole over the keyhole in your car, and squeeze, forcing the air out of the ball, into the keyhole, and opening the door. This technique has been met with a great deal of controversy, as it worked for some people and failed others, prompting the Mythbusters themselves to give it a whirl!
Next, we’ll move on to a more common technique using a metal coathanger. This technique is especially popular due to the ready availability of coat hangers, whether they’re bought from a nearby store or pulled from your own coat closet. Watch the video for more information.
Finally, the most heavy duty technique that won’t cause damage to your car requires a bit of forethought, as you’ll need to purchase an inflatable wedge. With this method, you slide a plastic wedge in between your door and the frame of the car to create space for the inflatable wedge, then slide in the deflated wedge and begin to inflate it, slowly creating a gap between the frame and door and allowing you to slip a coat hanger or similar tool through the door to open it up.
After giving all of these options a try and still not having any luck don’t forget to call your local Phoenix locksmith!
by Locksmith AZ | Aug 4, 2017 | Blog, Keys, Locksmith, Phoenix
Key Fob Programming
It’s happened to all of us. You’re in a giant hurry to get to that meeting or rush those kids into their after school class, lock the car, and return later only to discover that, once again, you’ve locked your keys in your car. Unless we have a family member or friend nearby with a spare, we normally rely on the abilities of a locksmith to get us back into our vehicle. While locksmiths are excellent at this type of work, there are other tools in the locksmiths’ arsenal that they can utilize to help their clients. One such tool is the ability of the locksmith to program a new keyless remote for your car, allowing you easier access to your vehicle at all times (especially when loading up the groceries). All it takes is one short call to set up an appointment and you’re on your way!
While it’s within the wheelhouse of a locksmith to program keyless remotes, it’s also within the realm of possibility for any client to do it themselves. Depending on the year, make, and model of the car, it may be possible to program without the use of special tools. That being said, most newer model vehicles require a skilled technician using a diagnostic tool to reprogram the car’s computer, communicating with it through the ODM port and allowing the technician to make changes to the remotes, keys, and a number of other functions. If this should be the case, our skilled technicians would be delighted to assist you in the programming of your remote.
However, if you own an older model car, you may be able to make the modifications yourself. In order to check whether or not you are able to make these changes without the assistance of a locksmith, we recommend that you utilize www.programyourremote.com. This website will not only inform you as to whether or not you are able to program the remote yourself, it also contains the instructions and helpful tips on how to do so. Most of these remotes are available for purchase online, but be sure to purchase the remote from a reputable company and check that the FCC code imprinted on the back of your current remote and your new remote match.
by Locksmith AZ | Jun 23, 2017 | Automotive Locksmith, Emergency Locksmith, Home Security, Keys, Locksmith, Mobile Locksmiths, Phoenix
Hiring a Professional Locksmith in Phoenix Arizona
Losing keys, locking ourselves out of our homes or cars are some of the things we never wish to happen. It, however, happens at times more than once leaving one really frustrated. In such an emergency, you might want to try breaking the door or picking the lock, but as a professional locksmith in Phoenix Arizona, we have seen DIY locksmithing go wrong far too many times.
It’s important to always hire a professional to do the job. Professional locksmiths do much more than letting you into your house or car. They understand the underlying challenges, complexities, and pre-requisites involved in different types of locks.
Here are more reasons why you should consider hiring a professional locksmith:
Whenever you call for emergency locksmith services, professional locksmiths make it their business to respond quickly regardless of the hour. With reliable locksmiths, you can have the peace of mind knowing that you won’t be stuck with your car key troubles at isolated areas at odd hours. So, whenever you are locked out from your car, house or business, a professional locksmith gets you the help you need in the shortest time possible.
Improved Security
With crime on the rise, it is essential to have your locks assessed by a professional locksmith. They will do a security audit of your home and location and make recommendations designed to maximize your safety. If your premise has been broken into and a burglar has damaged your locks, the professional will carry out necessary repairs to make sure your property is secure.
Cost Control
To avoid the steep key replacement costs charged by car dealers, consider hiring a professional locksmith. Going to a dealer to get a new car key might require having your car towed to the dealership for them to create your new ignition keys. An auto locksmith will come to your location with the proper equipment to open cars quickly, without damaging them at reasonable prices. High-quality security systems by reputable locksmiths can also reduce the amounts of insurance policies you pay helping you save a lot in the long term.
Trained for Safety and Efficiency
Hiring a company with professional locksmiths will guarantee high-quality services as they are trained and skilled to handle any lock with maximum safety. Many of the emergency locksmith companies hire professionals that are certified and approved by regulators and industry bodies. Using non-professionals exposes you and them to various risks that range from injuries to accidents and poor quality outcome that may make your property or car more vulnerable.
Right tools and Components
Although some lock problems are easy to diagnose and repair, it is necessary to have the right tools and equipment to get the job done easily. A credible locksmith will be fully equipped with the latest appliances to ensure the work is done perfectly. They stay updated on the latest models and their unique security features and advice on what may be the best fit for your security needs and budget.
Warranty and Reputation
Professional locksmith companies are concerned about their reputation, as even the smallest incident could affect the way they are perceived by their existing and potential clients. They, therefore, strive to uphold the highest standards to maintain a good reputation. Besides that, they are willing to offer a warranty for their services which means you can hold them responsible in case the replacement becomes faulty.
Getting a quote for a Professional Locksmith in Phoenix Arizona
If you feel that any of these situations would pertain to you, then do not hesitate in contacting AZ-Locksmith today to set up an appointment for a professional locksmith in Phoenix Arizona and get into your locked property.
by Locksmith AZ | May 3, 2016 | Keys
Hire a Specialist for BMW Automotive Keys
You may lose or misplace your original BMW keys, you may get locked out of your car or you may have a malfunctioning BMW key. You may be aware of the problem or you may be clueless. Regardless of that, the experience can be frustrating. Despite being extremely cautious with your keys, there may be that odd instance when you wouldn’t find them or you would know for certain that they are lost or misplaced. Don’t indulge in anxiety during such circumstances. Hire a specialist for BMW automotive keys.
BMW keys are unique. You need technicians who are trained and experienced to cut and program keys, and that too at the location where you are. You may realize that you have lost or misplaced the keys when you are at home, work or you may get locked out of your BMW on the road. We would reach out to you and get the problem fixed onsite. We don’t need to tow your car.
We also specialize in supplying and programming keyless entry systems. Your keyless entry remote may malfunction. It may not work due to some problem in the remote or some errors in the sensors of the locks. There may be some mechanical or electronic problems. We can address both and more. Even if your push to start ignition key is not functioning, we can attend to that as well. Other than fixing these keys and locks, we can also supply new BMW automotive keys.
You may own a BMW 3 series, 5 series or 7 series model. It could be any BMW model you own. We have the specialization, the relevant experience and also the tools to work on BMW automotive keys. Once you give us a call, we would immediate send a trained and experienced locksmith. You could also schedule an appointment if that works better for you. For the record, we offer roadside assistance and emergency locksmith services.
Call Arizona Locksmith for your new set of transponder keys! (602) 344-9599
We have the resources to cut and program keys at your location. You may not have the original key for reference, you may be locked out, your ignition may be damaged, the key may be physically damaged, the transponder key may not work or you may have a problem with the immobilizer, we would attend to the problem and have it fixed. We offer 24/7 emergency services so whenever you need our solutions we are just a phone call away.
by Locksmith AZ | May 3, 2016 | Automotive Locksmith, Keys
The expertise of transponder key programming.
All cars manufactured and launched after 1995 have transponder keys. Unless you have modified an old car, one manufactured before 1995, to have specially made transponder key, you don’t have to worry about transponder key programming.
Transponder Keys: Explained!
The term ‘transponder’ essentially means a transmitter and a responder. Hence, transponder key acts as the communicator responsible for sending and receiving signals from an immobilizer installed in the car. The engine control unit has an immobilizer which works like an electronic security device. When turned off, it allows you to start the car. When turned on, the immobilizer will prevent any ignition. Transponder key is the tool that turns the immobilizer on and off. The practice of using an immobilizer is primarily to discourage and prevent auto thefts. The contemporary automobiles cannot be hotwired as in the old days because of the transponder key.
Transponder key may look very similar to a normal key. It is the door key and the ignition key. While transponder keys are state of the art and they are much more durable than ordinary keys, yet they can go kaput or malfunction from time to time. Physical damage, electronic or software issues along with a range of facilitating factors can render a transponder key unresponsive. If that happens, you need transponder key programming.
Transponder Key Programming: Explained!
Transponder keys are essentially metallic keys with chips. They may have the same kind of contours, teeth and physical features as state of the art keys and in addition to that they would have a chip that can hook to the system of the automobile with the help of the exclusive software of the manufacturer. When transponder key chips don’t work or if there is a problem with the software, you would need to get it fixed. In most cases, it is the transponder key that gets damaged due to some reason or fails to connect with the immobilizer. That’s when you need transponder key programming.
Combining analog and digital technology, transponder key programming may involve physical repairs and replacing the chip, attending to any bugs or issues that may be plaguing the chip and the connection with the software and it could be some simple installation or upgrade issues as well.
Specialized Transponder Key Programming
Our expertise in transponder key programming transcends brands, models and manufacturing year. Whether you have lost your original key or you need a minor issue to be fixed, you need a new key made or the present key remedied; we can help with all kinds of transponder key programming.
Automotive locksmith business in Peoria and Phoenix specializing in transponder key programming.
If you live in Peoria or Phoenix Arizona then you will be happy to learn that we are the areas leading provider of transponder key programming services. We want you to choose AZ Locksmith as your automotive locksmith and transponder key programming service. Call now. (602) 344-9599
by Locksmith AZ | Apr 22, 2016 | Keys
You probably did not know this about automotive keys.
There’s no denying that cars have a major role in our life and that’s exactly why we need to make sure that we take care of them properly. One of the best steps in keeping your car running properly is having a good set of automotive keys and even some spare ones as that’s how you can make sure that you can always drive your car without a problem. But do you know how many types of car keys are there? Here’s a quick rundown that will help you figure out the amount of automotive keys that can be found in the US:
Transponder keys
These keys are complex as they integrated a computer microchip which is electronically coded and also embedded in the plastic body. The tech was first created in 1995 and since then it has managed to integrate quite a lot of value because the code in the microchip is automatically seen by the car as you use it. That’s what makes the car run and without it or with a fake key, the car will just fail to run. Even if there are transponder key programming requirements, the reality is that the transponder key is very useful and safe.
Remote control key
As you can expect, remote control keys are designed in order to help you open and close your car but also start the engine remotely. They are more expensive when compared to others in this list, however their main benefit is the fact that you can open up the car from afar and that does offer an immense value. However, the issue here is that this type of keys uses batteries and that’s what makes it less trustworthy when compared to other models on the market.
VAT key
This particular key type is basically a key that integrates an anti-theft system. Basically the entire system comes with a resistor chip that is added to the car key for extra security. Replicating the resistor chip is close to impossible and that’s what makes the VAT key one of the best and most secure choice.
Laser cut car keys
It’s a great and very secure type of car key that uses laser precision in order to cut the key. Not only is it very efficient but it also delivers an amazing value all around even if it’s a little expensive, however the added security is well worth it.
Mechanically cut key
The mechanically cut car key is very common and inexpensive, however the problem is that one can easily duplicate it. So yes, it is affordable but not that secure, which is why upgrading to another, more secure one is a good idea if you care about security in the first place.
As you can see, there are multiple types of car keys out there. Don’t hesitate and check out all of them, as they do help you obtain some amazing results. Depending on your needs and safety concerns, you can opt for any of them, but do focus on a specific budget and see the model of your car, then it will be easy to find the one that suits your needs!
Ask AZ Locksmith to become your Phoenix locksmith company!
Specializing in keys cut for residential, commercial and automotive applications. Our locksmith business guarantees our services and are the best in Arizona. Call now. (602) 344-9599
