Electronic security systems are becoming more and more 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 his home more modern and efficient, as well as the growing popularity of the idea of "smart" housing. As a result, the market is replenished with various offers of devices that work in conjunction with radio modules, smart cards and mobile devices. But the most technologically advanced is the biometric lock, which is based on the principles of personal identification of the user through the recognition of unique features. However, there are many factors that constrain the demand for such systems.
Features of biometric locks
The main difference from traditional mechanisms lies in a different way of selecting the "active combination". To open a conventional mechanical lock, a key with a suitable blade design must be used. With all the shortcomings of this approach, it is by far the most popular amonglock manufacturers. Biometric fingerprint locks recognize their owner without requiring the use of additional keys, cards and special signals. Just put your finger on the touch surface of the device and the door will open.
Because each person has a unique papillary pattern on their hand, the possibility of unauthorized entry in the same way is virtually eliminated. Another thing is that in terms of the strength of the structure itself, such a device is on an equal footing with conventional locks. Nevertheless, manufacturers are striving to endow the biometric lock with higher security properties, not forgetting about the appropriate design, which emphasizes the modern filling of the system.
Key Features
The size of such devices correspond to conventional locks. The special characteristics of this particular type of system include the number of memorized prints, the type of scanner, as well as the device's response to a series of erroneous opening attempts. In the standard version, such a lock can take into account 100 “working” fingerprints, which is enough even to protect the office of a small company. A very important characteristic relates 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 using a dummy will allow you to open the lock. For this reason, manufacturers often reinforce such locks with combination and mechanicalprotection 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, usually the panel becomes inaccessible for several minutes and turns off.
Varieties
Today, this class of locks is not so widespread that it is possible to identify clear signs of segmentation. Nevertheless, there are traditional divisions of devices according to the method of installation and purpose. As for the installation, the mortise biometric door lock, which, however, has some features in terms of installation, has become most widespread. There are also overhead models, but in this case it is important to carefully approach the load-bearing structure, since this is the weakest point of such protection methods. It cannot be said that they are weaker than their 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. There are also special models on the market designed for installation in door frames, as well as devices for safes. I must say that the first option is more common, since safes with a biometric lock have not yet enjoyed the due trust of a demanding consumer.
Additional functionality
Most of the auxiliary options and various additions that are implemented in such locks have nothing to do withprinciple of biometric recognition. These can be fire detection sensors, scare sirens, advanced autonomous power supply, as well as combined security modes in the form of additions 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 the likely threats.
Biometric lock manufacturers
One of the leaders in the segment is Samsung, which produces functional and reliable devices with an original design. The Ezon SHS line deserves special attention. This is a Samsung biometric lock, which has a highly durable and thoughtful design, a password entry system, as well as the ability to connect an external power supply. The only thing that can confuse a demanding buyer is 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 quite well known to specialists, among which are devices of the L5000 series. This product is good because it provides a high-speed recognition algorithm. The devices are equipped with an ergonomic OLED screen and an RFID card reader for added security.
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 installationelectronic 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 required - usually, to facilitate this task, manufacturers accompany the kit with a lock with double-sided stencils that can be used when working with left- and right-hand door leafs. The final step is the assembly operation. The mortise block and the outer part are connected to the connectors of the internal locking system using flexible wiring.
Question of price
The high cost of such devices is one of the factors that hinder the advancement of biometric technology to the masses. And yet, many are willing to pay solid money for providing high-quality and modern protection. So, the entry 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, and we can even talk about comparing with the premium segment.
Conclusion
For all the temptation andattractiveness of electronic security systems, they are not yet able to fully occupy all the niches where classical 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 due not only to fears of new technology, which is proposed to be entrusted with the most valuable thing - the safety of property. The hunt for such acquisitions is rather discouraged by the price tag, which in some cases is several times higher than the cost of ordinary locks.
