Standalone locks have become an important product group as end-users in all the market segments learn to appreciate the benefits of electronic access control and the cost savings that a battery operated non-networked solution can provide.
After all, any keyed door lock is essentially a standalone access control system, but there are issues associated with the keyed cylinder, the keys and the support thereof. The immediate benefits of any non key-based lock were enough to propel access control into a starring role in modern security management.
- No keys or rekeying required
- Individual PIN codes for every authorized user
Electronic access control systems are capable of providing impressive feature sets. However the demand exists for products at all levels across the spectrum, from basic to exotic.
The right choice for a particular opening has all to do with a risk assessment of the premises and the client’s perceptions of what is required. When you are able to reconcile these two factors (with an emphasis on the latter), you have arrived at a solution which will represent to the client his best security value.
Many locksmiths are wary of electronics, and also feel that abandonment of traditional locks represents an unacceptable compromise to their customers’ safety and security.
Although there are abundant examples of where implementation of electronic locks and access controls do indeed weaken the safety and security of an opening, there are also abundant examples of products from reputable lock manufacturers such as Arrow which maintain the physical integrity of the lock and provide technical features which enhance security hands down.
For years there was a transitional solution - the mechanical keypad lock - which offered the benefits of a strong mechanical lock with the convenience of keyless operation.
Niche markets exist for all types of locks and solutions.
If a product is well designed and provides the required functionality, it may at some point become less appropriate for a particular application, but not necessarily become obsolete.
In security, as well as many other industries, we are faced with continual technical evolutions.
In many cases, a product may declare itself obsolete by being discontinued, and the availability of replacement parts and factory support are suspended.
Due to any one of a variety of reasons, the manufacturer makes the decision for the dealer and the end-user.
Maybe the repair return rates are so high the product is not profitable.
Maybe there was an acquisition, and the new owner did a shake out of the product line to eliminate weaker less profitable lines.
Maybe the vendor just learned how to make a better product and wanted the company banner to fly over their best efforts letting bygones be bygones.
Another important factor when determining if a product is appropriate for a particular application is how it is managed and integrated with other security technologies.
Ineffectual key management will render any keyway ineffectual.
On the other hand, layered security and auxiliary measures such as video surveillance can result in a totally appropriate level of protection using a basic access control device.
One scenario might have an interior door to a storeroom which is inside an entity which has a secured perimeter.
Anyone who is within the secured perimeter is authorized to be there. The storeroom may contain computers, or data or controlled substances. A PIN only standalone access control such as the Arrow Revolution can provide the desired level of security.
The addition of a video surveillance camera provides added deterrence against inappropriate entry and can supply management with a visual activity log of persons using the door.
There are many situations for which a PIN-only solution such as the Arrow Revolution is a cost effective, convenient and security-smart solution.
The Arrow Revolution is easy to install, almost as easy as a cylindrical lockset. (Standard 161 Prep with one additional 1/2" hole). If you are counting, this Revolution installs with just 5 screws (which are supplied)
The Arrow Revolution is weatherized for use on interior or exterior doors and is UL/cUL listed for use on 3 hour, A label or lesser doors.
The Revolution is available with or without an exterior cylinder, and in either 2 ¾” or 2 3/8” backset. Revolution is non-handed. Revolution will mount on 1 3/8” and 1 ¾” thick doors
Revolution can be configured in either Easy Mode or Expert Mode. After installation, you can switch modes if the customer requests.
The touchscreen is normally unlit to conserve battery life. To wake up the keypad, touch it with the palm of your hand. The numerals illuminate and you are ready to program or enter a code to access.
The illuminated keypad makes it easy to enter codes in low/no light, or if users are visually impaired.
Programming
We found the Revolution easy to program because of its large illuminated keyboard and audible (speaking) feedback prompts which help through the programming process and minimizes confusion.
The Revolution can be programmed to speak English, French or Spanish.
Easy Mode is provided for general usage, with one Supervisor Code and up to eight user codes.
Advanced Mode provides 1000 codes for access: one Master Code, and 20 Supervisor Groups each with 50 user codes.
Both modes offer a Passage Mode and Wrong Code Entry Limit. In Easy Mode if five incorrect codes are entered the unit will enter Shut Down Mode for 180 seconds.
In Advanced Mode, the Wrong Code Entry Limit is programmable from 1 to 10. The Shut Down time may be adjusted from 1 to 255 seconds. While in Shut Down mode, a red padlock flashes on the Revolution’s keypad. When the Shut Down Time ends, the Revolution plays a chime.
A Green LED flashes to indicate when the Revolution is in Passage Mode.
Remote Door Release is available as an option.
A low battery is indicated by a flashing icon on the touchscreen. If the low battery indicator is ignored and the batteries finally fall below the level required to operate the Revolution, there are two small inconspicuous battery ports on the front of the lock. A standard 9 Volt battery is placed up to these ports allowing electronic enabled access. If the Revolution has an external lock cylinder, entry can also be made with the correct key.
The Revolution uses four standard AA batteries which are installed on the inside trim plate.
If your Revolution installation is an upgrade from an L1000, a kit is available which covers the exposed holes nicely.
Arrow Revolution has a three-year warranty on both the lock as well as the electronics.
On the Arrow Lock web site, catch the demo video of someone trying to kill a Revolution to better understand just how rugged a product Revolution actually is.
The Arrow Revolution standalone touchscreen lock combines the functional elements of a cylindrical lockset with the latest technology. Locksmiths will benefit by providing an up-to-date technological solution that is also quick and easy to install.
Users benefit from a simple interaction with the lock through a voice-guided touch keypad, making day to day use and programming easy.
The Revolution is recommended for healthcare facilities, offices, retail environments, multi-family, hospitality, government facilities, as well as K-12 school environments. It provides a traffic control solution for areas requiring restricted access. If necessary, both users and user groups can be easily locked out by the administrator. This feature provides a quick lockout option in case of a security concern.
Certifications
All Arrow Revolution Standalone Touchscreen Locks are UL/cUL listed for use on 3 hour, A label or lesser doors.
- ANSI A117.1 Accessibility Code
- California State Reference Code for levers returning to within 1/2" (12.7mm) of door surface
- Federal Specification FF-H-106C
- Certified ANSI/BHMA A156.2, Series 4000, Grade 2
ADA/Americans with Disabilities Act: Acceptable Door Hardware: Section 4.13.9: Handles, pulls, latches and other operating devices on accessible
doors shall have a shape that is easy to grasp with one hand and
does not require grasping, tight pinching or twisting of the wrist
to operate. Lever operated mechanisms, push-type mechanisms
and “U” shaped handles are acceptable designs.
Electronic Elements
- Stand-alone touchscreen access locking device
- Interactive voice-guided programming
- Tri-lingual: English/Spanish/French
- Optional hardwire input for 9VDC external power
- Internal power uses 4 AA batteries
- 9VDC battery connections for emergency access
- Request to enter (REX) input allows remote access capability
- Silent mode option
- Visual verification of PIN code programming
- Feature access through keypad programming, 4-12 digit user PIN codes
- Two operational modes - EZ Mode (9 users) or Advanced Mode (1,000 users)
- Lockout Mode
- Passage Mode
- Auto Re-Lock
Mechanical Components
- Weather Resistant
- Optional Key Override - Uses standard Arrow cylinders available in AR and CS keyways
- Overdrive Freewheeling lever disengages the lever when handle is locked.
- ANSI/BHMA A156.2, Series 4000, Grade 2
- UL Listed for use on fire doors
- ADA compliant levers
- Install lock and latch with only 5 screws
- Also available in Small Format Interchangeable Core Prep
- Field Reversible
Door Prep: Standard 161 Prep with one additional 1/2" hole
Backset: 2-3/4" standard. Also available in 2-3/8" backset.
Handing: Field Reversible
Door Thickness: 1-3/8" and 1-3/4".
Latch: Stainless Steel with 1/2" throw standard. Latch housing is steel, zinc dichromate finish for corrosion resistance. Latch front is Stainless steel. Dimensions are 2-1/4" x 1-1/8", 1/8" in 2".
Exposed Trim: Levers are pressure cast zinc. Streamline rose scalp of brass or bronze complements other series of lever locks.
Rose Inserts: Contains coil spring which is a permanent assembly within the rose.
Strikes: Stainless steel. ANSI A156.115
Handling: Non-handed. Levers operate bi-directionally.
Packaging: 1 per box, 3 per case
Warranty: Three-year limited.
Finishes: US3, US10B, US26D
Functions: V1-50 Non-Key Override, V1-51 Key Override
Trim Plate: Can be ordered separately to retrofit L1000 holes.
For more information, contact your local locksmith distributor or visit www.arrowlock.com.
Arrow Revolution Deadbolt
For property owners, facilities managers, and security professionals looking for a high-tech security alternative to traditional deadbolt systems, the new Arrow Revolution Deadbolt offers an extra level of security beyond the conventional lock and key structure. State-of-the-art touchscreen technology eliminates the need to distribute and keep track of multiple keys and, with up to 25 available codes, the ability to lock out a single user is simple.
“We’ve had tremendous success with the Arrow Revolution and so it only made sense to expand the availability and benefits of that technology for broader use,” says Tom Harris, general manager of Arrow Lock. “Deadbolt users are typically challenged when needing to update their systems without incurring major costs and undergoing significant renovation – there just haven’t been affordable, high-tech solutions for the everyday user. The Arrow Revolution Deadbolt is a direct response to this need. It’s the ‘revolutionary’ security system for anything and everything that needs protecting.”
Equipped with an adjustable backset and designed to fit standard door thickness (1 3/8” to 2 1/4"), the aesthetic Arrow Revolution Deadbolt installs in less than 15 minutes for prepped doors, saving valuable time and money.
Additional features include:
- Multi-lingual voice prompting (English, Spanish, and French)
- Uses off-the-shelf AA batteries with an estimated life of one year.
- Key override for standard cylinder or SFIC prepped doors
- Weather resistant for indoor or outdoor applications
For deadbolt users wanting to take advantage of the security benefits with the Arrow Revolution Deadbolt without the touchscreen or voice guided programming functions, the product is also available as a standard push-button lock.
Tim O'Leary
Tim O'Leary is a security consultant, trainer and technician who has also been writing articles on all areas of locksmithing & physical security for many years.
