Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Latch-key Kids: The New Digital Generation



If you are over the age of 30, chances are your image of a latch-key kid consists of a lanyard with a key around a child’s neck. If said child forgot their key or misplaced it in their locker, they waited on the front porch or at a nice neighbor’s house until Mom or Dad came home. In the new digital age, there are more options that provide a better overall solution for the latch-key kid. In fact, this latch-key kid can now be called, latch keyless.

With the state of our economy many stay at home parents are dusting off their suits and briefcases and returning to work. This means more latch-key kids. If this sounds familiar you have probably thought of how to handle the situation. You may have provided our child a key and figured that the garage door code entry keypad was a good back-up.

Most garage door openers, code entry keypad or not, are not very sophisticated and very flawed. The ideal solution is a digital upgrade in the form of an Access Control Keypad and Electric Strike lock. There are various systems available depending on your overall needs. A simple Access Control Keypad, such as the DK9520BL, can be purchased along with an Electric Strike Lock for well under $100.

The DK9520BL Access Control Keypad, and others like it, provide you with the flexibility to program 100 different user access codes. So, if the cleaning lady comes on Wednesday and the neighbor occasionally waters your plants, you can accommodate for that. Your manager code allows you to assign and control all of the users. Once the appropriate code is enters, the keypad activates the Electric Strike and unlocks the door.

The addition of an Access Control Keypad such as DK9520BL also offers you other conveniences. Say you have a night out with friends and return in the dark. There is no need to fumble for your key or try to see the lock in the dark. The DK9520BL is backlit, making it easy to identify the numbers and enter your designated code.

For less than $4 more, you can upgrade to the DK9522BL which works exactly the same, but has a 2 relay output. The DK9522BL enables you to assign user codes to your front door and maybe your security system, or kitchen door. Like the DK9520BL, it can be upgraded with other devices to suit your needs. The most common upgrade for both home and office is the Momentary Exit Button Switch. Depressing the button allows for quick emergency exit. Place it near the entrance or hidden from sight.

Access Control comes in many forms and you don’t need to stop at a single keypad. There are several more advanced systems that allow you the ability to screen visitors at your front door with two-way voice communication and provide access either via your home phone (even cordless) or a simple Interphone. Depending on your specific needs, the sky is the limit.

If you would like a free consultation or to find out more about a specific product, visit our website at http://www.iluselectronics.com/ or send us an email at sales@iluselectronics.com

Additional Applications for an Access Control Keypad



  • Vacation home access (no need for lost keys, more security)

  • Access to staff or maintenance people

  • Home Nursing Care

  • Access for pet sitters/dog walkers

Note: This blog entry, like all of our entries, is for information only. If you are not well versed in installation, please hire a professional. ILUS Electronics is not responsible for improperly installed equipment. If you would like our technical support or advice, just send us a note at support@iluselectronics.com

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