Electronic security systems are becoming increasingly popular. This direction is actively developing both in the segment of professional security systems, and in the niche of household locking devices. The confidence of developers in the prospects of such devices is reinforced by the understandable desire of the consumer to make the protection of their home more modern and effective, as well as the growing popularity of the idea of smart housing. As a result, the market is replenished with various offers of devices working in conjunction with radio modules, smart cards and mobile devices. But the most technologically advanced is considered a biometric lock, the operation of which is based on the principles of personal identification of the user through the recognition of unique features. However, there are many factors that restrain the demand for such systems.
Features of biometric locks
The main difference from traditional mechanisms is a different way of selecting an “active combination”. To open a conventional mechanical lock, you must use a key with a suitable tip design. With all the shortcomings of this approach, it is by far the most popular among lock manufacturers. Fingerprint biometric locks recognize their owner, without requiring the use of additional keys, cards and special signals. It is enough to bring a finger to the working surface of the device with a touch coating, and the door will open.
Since each person has a unique papillary pattern on his hand, the likelihood of unauthorized entry in the same way is practically eliminated. Another thing is that in terms of the strength of the structure itself, such a device is in equal positions with conventional locks. Nevertheless, manufacturers are striving to endow the biometric lock with higher reliability properties, not forgetting the corresponding design, which emphasizes the modern filling of the system.
Main characteristics
In size, such devices correspond to conventional locks. The special characteristics of this particular type of system include the number of stored fingerprints, the type of scanner, as well as the reaction of the device to a series of erroneous opening attempts. In the standard version, such a lock can take into account 100 “working” prints, which is enough even to protect the office of a small company. A very important characteristic refers to the type of scanner. In the interests of economy and convenience of technological implementation, a biometric lock is often based on the optical principle of data reading. But this option has vulnerabilities, since the use of dummy will open the lock. For this reason, manufacturers often reinforce such locks with code and mechanical security systems, and also use other types of scanners - for example, ultrasonic and silicon. As for the reaction of the lock to failed attempts to open it, the panel usually becomes unavailable for several minutes and turns off.
Varieties
To date, this class of locks is not so widespread that it was possible to identify obvious signs of segmentation. Nevertheless, there are traditional separation of devices according to the installation method and purpose. As for the installation, the most widespread is a mortise biometric lock on the door, which, however, has some features in terms of installation. There are overhead models, but in this case it is important to carefully approach the power structure, since this is the weakest point of such protection methods. It cannot be said that they are weaker than mechanical counterparts, but attackers in such cases initially focus on the complete dismantling of the created barrier.
Signs of classification can be noted in the nature of the appointment. On the market there are also special models designed for installation in door frames, as well as devices for safes. I must say that the first option is more common, as safes with a biometric lock do not yet enjoy the due trust from the demanding consumer.
Additional functionality
Most of the auxiliary options and various additions that are implemented in such locks are in no way connected with the principle of biometric recognition. It can be fire detection sensors, repelling sirens, extended autonomous power capabilities, as well as combined safety modes in the form of an addition to other types of protection. In other words, the device can also work as a means of signaling - the main thing is to initially calculate probable threats.
Biometric Lock Manufacturers
One of the leaders in the segment is Samsung, which produces functional and reliable devices with an original design. Of particular note is the Ezon SHS line. This is a Samsung biometric lock, which has a high-strength thought-out design, a password entry system, and the ability to connect an external power source. The only thing that can confuse a demanding buyer is the thin pins in the design. But, as the manufacturer notes, they effectively cope with their function and are able to withstand serious physical hacking. ZKTeco locks are also quite well known to specialists, among which are devices of the L5000 series. This product is good in that it provides a high-speed recognition algorithm. The devices are equipped with an ergonomic OLED screen and an RFID card reader, which increases the degree of protection.
The nuances of installing biometric locks
By and large, the installation scheme corresponds to the classical principle of installing mortise locks. In any case, the output is the same configuration. But there are some features of the installation of electronic systems. To begin with, it is worth noting that the installation of a biometric lock involves the creation of two large holes through which individual parts of the structure will interact. High accuracy of marking is also necessary - usually to facilitate this task, manufacturers accompany the kit with the lock with double-sided stencils that can be used in working with left- and right-side door leafs. The final step is the assembly operation. The mortise unit and the outer part are connected to the connectors of the internal locking system using flexible wiring.
Price issue
The high cost of such devices is one of the factors that hinder the advancement of biometric technology to the masses. Nevertheless, many are willing to pay substantial money for providing high-quality and modern protection. So, the initial level is a biometric lock, the price of which is 10-15 thousand rubles. This is followed by systems provided with good functionality and additional options. The highest class of biometric models costing from 20 thousand rubles. represent devices with increased resistance to mechanical stress and a large number of prints that are recorded in memory. Of course, traditional mechanical systems are much cheaper, while it may even be a comparison with the premium segment.
Conclusion
With all the temptation and attractiveness of electronic protection systems, they are not yet able to fully occupy all the niches where classic devices are presented. This is confirmed by the biometric lock, which has a number of significant advantages, but has not yet received serious distribution. The lack of interest on the part of consumers is caused not only by fears of new technology, which is proposed to be entrusted with the most valuable thing - property safety. The desire for such acquisitions is rather discouraged by the price tag, which in some cases is several times higher than the cost of conventional locks.