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Helpful Locksmith Terminology & Information

Locks, Keys & Security Terminology:

• Rekey: changing a lock so that a different key may operate it
• Cylinder: a complete operating unit which usually consists of the plug shell, tumblers, springs, plug retainer, a cam/tailpiece or other actuating device, and all other necessary operating parts
• Tumblers: a movable obstruction of varying size and configuration in a lock or cylinder which makes direct contact with the key or another tumbler and prevents an incorrect key or torque device from activating the lock or other mechanism
• Restricted keys: adj. of or pertaining to a keyway and corresponding key blank whose sale and/or distribution is limited by the lock manufacturer in order to reduce unauthorized key proliferation
• Key code / code by key: a key cut to a specific code rather than duplicated from a pattern key. it may or may not conform to the lock manufacturer’s specifications
• Master key: 1. a key which operates all the master keyed locks or cylinders in a group, each lock or cylinder usually operated by its own change key, 2. v. to combinate a group of locks or cylinders such that each is operated by its own change key as well as by a master key for the entire group, 3. n. an automotive key which operates all or most locks on a vehicle where there is also a valet key employed
• Change key/operating key: any key which will properly operate a lock or cylinder to lock or unlock the lock mechanism and is not a control key or reset key
• Grand master key: the key which operates two or more separate groups of locks, which are each operated by a different master key
• Keyed alike: adj. of or pertaining to two or more looks or cylinders which have or are to have the same combination. They may or may not be part of a keying system
• Keyed differently: adj. of or pertaining to a group of locks or cylinders, each of which is or is to be combinated differently from the others. They may or may not be part of a keying system
• Knob lock: a lock having a spring bolt moved by a knob or knobs, and a deadbolt moved by a key
• Lever lockset: a cylindrical or mortise lockset that is operated by turning a lever handle as opposed to turning a door knob
• Keying system / master key system: 1. any keying arrangement which has two or more levels of keying 2. a keying arrangement which has exactly two levels of keying
• Core key / control key: 1. a key whose only purpose is to remove and/or install an interchangeable or removable core 2. a bypass key used to operate and/or reset some combination type locks 3. a key which allows disassembly of some removable cylinder locks
• • IC core: An interchangeable core or ic is a compact keying mechanism in a specific “small format” figure-eight shape. Can be easily changed or swapped out using a core or control key
  • Door closer: a device designed to regulate the closing of a door automatically by various means
  • Concealed door closer: a door closer that is installed in such a way so as to make it invisible or concealed
  • Transponder key / chip key: an automotive key that contains an electronic chip to increase its security – a key with an electronic component which can convert a radio signal into an electrical current enabling the key to transmit a unique code back in return
  • Proximity key / prox key: an electronic key that communicates with the vehicle computer by wireless radio frequency
  • Keyless remote: a lock that uses an electronic remote control as a key which is activated by a handheld device or automatically by proximity.
  • Latch guard: a device that is installed near the lock’s latching mechanism on the unsecure side of the door, it protects the latching mechanism from jimmying or tamperings, making the door more secure
  • Keyway: a term that refers to the pattern of grooves on the side of a key or inside the lock that allows or restricts a key from entering into the lock cylinders

  Some terms sourced from: http://ccbed.ccb.state.or.us/webpdf/ccb/publications/dictionary.pdf