In many multi-family buildings, residents use a specific type of fob to operate their door locks. These locks require the user to press and hold the fob until a light appears, signaling that the door can be opened. However, as technology evolves, certain issues arise.
Do you have this type of lock and fob? If so, you need to act, and we’re prepared to help you.
Challenges with the Current iButton System
- Unsupported Software: The software supporting these iButton locks is either no longer updated or has been discontinued, making troubleshooting increasingly difficult or impossible.
- Availability of Locks and Parts: Finding replacements for these locks and their parts is challenging, as they are no longer in production.
Inadequate Alternatives
Some property managers are resorting to mechanical locks or deadbolts as an alternative. This solution, however, has its drawbacks:
- Reverting to Older Technology: This move is a step back in terms of technological advancement.
- Security Concerns: If keys are not returned, security is compromised. Additionally, the cost of rekeying can be significant.
- Loss of Control: Keys can be easily duplicated by tenants without management’s permission, eliminating access control.
- Life Safety Issues: In emergency situations, such as fires, the fob in the firebox may not work on all doors, presenting a critical safety concern.
Addressing Key Questions About iButton Locks
Availability of iButton Fobs and Replacement Locks
- Fob Availability: Unfortunately, acquiring new fobs for these systems is extremely limited.
- Lock Obsolescence: The locks stopped being manufactured several years ago.
- Risks with Secondary Market Purchases: Purchasing on the secondary market is risky as there’s a high chance the product might not function properly and typically these purchases do not carry a warranty.
- Inconsistent Functionality: Once one lock fails, others are likely to follow, leading to inconsistency across the building when not replaced with the same hardware.
- Challenges Without Components: Missing the original programming fob (red key), a specific tablet, and login credentials makes it extremely difficult to resolve issues, especially with limited software support.
Reasons Behind Lock Malfunctions
- Potential Causes: Lock failures can be mechanical or software-related, often necessitating replacement.
- Common Issues: Tenants may face problems locking the door from the outside, or in severe cases, locks may fail completely, requiring drilling to open.
Advantages of Modern Replacement Options
Cloud-Based Building Access Control Systems
- Security as a Service (SaaS): Utilizing cloud security allows for efficient management of resources, offering a Security as a Service model. This means less direct management for you and a unified system for both unit and common doors.
- Convenience and Efficiency: With a cloud-based system, there’s no need for manual software updates. Access control management becomes more efficient, enabling real-time updates and alerts from anywhere, using mobile devices or laptops.
- Flexible Credential Options: Options include mobile apps, fobs, and cards. The mobile app, in particular, offers cost savings and convenience, reducing the need for card or fob replacements.
- Future Proofing: Cloud based platforms evolve to support future hardware eliminating the need to replace an entire system again.
Recommendations for Replacement
- Tailored Solutions: There is no one-size-fits-all solution; recommendations are made based on the specific needs and budget of each building.
- Customized Evaluation: An evaluation is conducted to offer the best-suited options, sometimes presenting multiple choices.
Contact Assured Security To Get a Customized Evaluation
Contact our team of experts to get a quote today.
