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SALTO Systems – Access Control
Posted by admin in Home Security, Lock Install | 0 comments
SALTO has developed a wide range of innovative products such as the SALTO Virtual Network and XS4 access control platform, while their electronic escutcheons, wall readers and on-line and off-line control units now control security access for a growing range of end-users from Airports to Hospitals, Banks to Government Buildings and Universities to Hotels.
Toowoomba Locksmiths would like to introduce the new technology and way of access control.
SALTO Systems
With its headquarters in Spain, SALTO now has offices in 24 countries worldwide. SALTO access control solutions can be found in over 90 countries on more than 2 million doors.
Mechanical key management can be costly, insecure and a hassle. Upfront costs of replacing master keys, drilling out locks, plus indirect costs like maintenance can often add up depending on the age of the lock.
SALTO eliminates a lot of these issues as there is no hardware replacement when keys are lost. It can reduce maintenance costs by having better control of important information like battery status etc. An internal operator can quickly and easily implement the access plan updates on the system to ensure the safety of the building. There is no rush to organise a locksmith to attend to rekey the whole system if a fob is lost, simply delete user.
Access Control System
SALTO provides the flexibility for an access control system to grow from a small number of doors and users to a large number of doors and users as required.
Security measures in universities and schools need to be vigorous and effective but inconspicuous. Parents need to trust educational institutions to look after their children, so it is vital that they provide effective 24/7 security and ensure both students and staff are safe and protected at all times.
This is especially true in a campus housing environment, where many of the students are living away from home for the first time. Building entrances, classrooms, lecture rooms, libraries, laboratories, staff rooms, sports centres, student housing and more can all be protected by smart access control that allows access to specific rooms or areas for selected periods only, with doors auto locking at prespecified times as necessary. And, if required, you can also incorporate special features that enable classrooms and facilities to be quickly locked down during a security or other emergency event.
Our Experience with SALTO
Last year Toowoomba Locksmiths installed a SALTO system onto two buildings for a local school, this gave them the possibilities of testing the system and then slowly upgrading the system onto other buildings and eventually the whole school. We have had nothing but praises from the school on how easy it is to use and the functionality of it all. Staff members just carry a circle fob about the size of a 50-cent piece on their lanyards and it gives them easy access into multiple doors. There is also the availability of swipe cards and in phone access.
Locksmiths in Toowoomba
If you have any questions about SALTO, or would even like a demonstration or quote please don’t hesitate to call the friendly team at Toowoomba Locksmiths.
Security Cameras – Wireless vs Hard-wired?
Posted by admin in CCTV, Home Security | 0 comments
When deciding on security cameras, there is always the debate between hard-wired or wireless.
Toowoomba Locksmiths always recommend hard-wired and here’s why –
A hard-wired security camera system conveys data to the NVR (recording device) and monitoring system via a cable. This system may take a little longer to set up, but in the end, it has various benefits compared to the wireless systems.
Security Cameras – Wireless vs Hard-wired
As the hard-wired systems are connected to an NVR, they can store a lot more data. A wireless cameras system, only has a sim and SD card to store data on. The hard-wired systems also have a better picture quality, as they do not have to run on radio frequency. Criminals will have difficulties trying to jam hard-wired security cameras compared to a wireless system which runs on a radio frequency. To interfere with a hard-wired system, a criminal would have to cut the cord running directly to the camera which is a very hard task as it is typically in the roof and walls.
Compared to a wireless system where a routine battery change is vital to have the camera recording 24/7, the hard-wired systems are powered by a cord. But what happens when your power is out? Don’t fret you can purchase a backup battery to power your cameras if you were to have a power outage. This allows the camera to still record data and store it on the NVR.
A hard-wired system is also ideal for all home types, no matter how big or small. You can have from 2 to 10 plus cameras on a hard -wired system.
There is also the option to view the hard-wired security cameras on a tv, computer and smartphone. With the flexibility to watch what is happening on holidays and while a work. You can always feel safe your house is being protected.
Hard-wired security camera
Hard-wired security camera systems are also the best options for business, with needing to reach multiple angles of a space and have the reliability for over the weekend and night when the store is empty.
No you know why we recommend the hard-wired option. Contact Toowoomba Locksmiths now to organise your quote!
Are security and CCTV cameras worth it?
Posted by admin in CCTV | 0 comments
You cannot have your eyes looking over your home 24/7, this is where home CCTV cameras come in. Security cameras are designed to be looking at all angles of your property all day and all night to protect you and your home from vandals and intruders. Cameras will deter any suspicious people from your home, as it is clear evidence that can be used against them. Authorities consider video footage recorded by security cameras to be valid evidence of crime. Security cameras can therefore help your case in the courtroom. CCTV cameras on a home have proven that burglars/intruders are likely less to target a house with cameras. If a burglar noticed surveillance cameras 50% of offenders said they would not continue the robbery and run.
Home Security Cameras Options
There are so many different options of home security cameras, it can be very overwhelming. If you talk to the right people, they can assist you in choosing the best option for your home. The main two home security options are wireless cameras and CCTV (closed circuit television) systems. Wireless systems are a cheaper way to keep an eye on your property, but sometimes aren’t the most reliable. We would prefer to install a CCTV system; these systems are hard wired and use an NVR (network video recorder) that is a lot more reliable with footage and tampering. The CCTV systems can be tailored for everyone’s different situations, they are also outdoor friendly. The cameras are built to withstand vandalism and severe weather conditions.
CCTV for Businesses
Security cameras systems are also worth installing for a business. Small businesses need to have surveillance systems to protect their inventory, technology, and employees. Small business security systems usually include several cameras, which makes them more complicated than typical home security systems.
Every business has customers walking through the door, browsing at your products and basically have free reign of the store. Sometimes they can get out of the view of the employees and steal items as they know you can’t see them. A security camera system allows people to capture the people who come into your store with bad intentions. The footage can sometimes allow you to identify the thief’s and get your products back.
Break in often enough happen at night when no one is in the store and a camera can again help identify the intruder and assist the police in their investigations.
When you next get a Toowoomba locksmith to your home, ask them to have a look around your exit and entry points of your property to identify weak security points and any lock or padlock upgrades that may be needed.
OR
Contact us today to book your free.
Can I Purchase Garage Door Remote Replacements?
Posted by admin in Home Security | 0 comments
Replacing an old garage door remote can sometimes be daunting as there are some many different garage door remote replacements, but if you have the right information it isn’t actually that hard.
How to Replace Garage Door Remote
The easiest way to replace a garage door remote is if you have the old remote you are wanting to replace. Most of the time in this case, we are just able to look at the part number and brand to recommend the replacement that will work with your garage door motor.
If you are unable to supply a current garage door remote, we can then sometimes find some information on your garage door motor to help assist us. We are able to search the serial number or part number on your motor to find a new garage door remote.
Universal Garage Door Remote
There is also the option of purchasing a universal garage door remote. When purchasing a universal garage door remote, it may seem unnecessary to be knowledgeable about the door’s manufacturer, but it’ll avoid unneeded frustration it’ll determine if the replacement remote is compatible with your garage door. Universal remotes are able to be used with most motors, so it is an easy way to achieve a new garage door remote replacement without the hassle.
Missing or Stolen
A missing or stolen garage door remote is serious, but it isn't something that should send you into a panic. If you are proactive and take necessary steps to prevent a thief from using the remote, your home and all your valuables will remain protected. Many homeowners assume that if a garage door remote is lost or stolen, they have to replace the entire automatic garage door opener.
They don't have to do that. All automatic garage door openers have a disable feature that allows you to completely deprogram all remotes for a specific garage. Once the remotes are deprogrammed, they will not open the garage door. you will just need to reprogram the garage door remotes back. Moving to a new home?
This can be diagnosed by contacting any of the knowledgeable staff at Toowoomba Locksmiths.
Security Surveys – Don’t be caught out when you least expect it
What are the different types of door locks?
Posted by admin in Home Security | 0 comments
There sometimes can be a lot of confusion with all the different types of door locks. There are a few of variations and capabilities of locks for front doors, glass sliding doors and security screen door locks.
Types of Door Locks
Locks can vary with depending on what door you have. Front door lock types can be overwhelming. The most common front door lock type is just a standard knob set or lever set. These are used to latch your door shut and provide one locking point. Recently we have found that a lot of our customers are wanting extra security on their timber door locks, we recommend installing a deadbolt. A deadbolt can provide an extra locking point on your door, it puts a solid bolt into the door frame and cannot be jimmied opened.
Security screen door
Security screen door locks are a very important part of the security of a home. These door locks are the first barrier to a home. Security screen door locks allow you to have a secure home, but still allow you to have fresh air following through your house. These door locks are sometimes the most used door in your home, if you think about it every time you want to enter your house you have to open the screen door whether or not the timber door is open or closed. If you wanted extra security on these door locks you can sometimes install a triple lock kit onto your screen doors.
Triple locks on a security screen have three points of locking on the door. One bolt at the top, bottom and middle, when all three of these locking points are locked a screen door can be very hard to pry open. Want to Learn more about home security. Click Here
There are a lot of different types of door locks but a knowledgeable locksmith will know all the front door lock types as well as the different security screen door locks and will be able to assist and guide you to the right door locks you require.
Got questions about your locks? Let us help you
Garage Door Remotes | Garage door
Posted by admin in Home Security | 0 comments
Whether you have a roller door remote, tilt-a-door remote, or a panel lift, all Garage door remotes come in a huge range of brands and frequencies. It is imperative that you choose the correct remote for your motor and receiver, purchased from a reputable stockist. Buying Garage Door Remotes online can be costly if the incorrect remote is selected for your requirements.
Adding and deleting Garage Door Remotes can be a simple process, and providing the correct remote is selected it can be a DIY job to reprogram. Or for peace of mind have a trained technician from Toowoomba Locksmiths to clear your receiver’s memory and add remotes as necessary.
Garage door
The Garage door is often overlooked when changing locks on your property which can mean anyone carrying old remotes may have unauthorised access to your home or garage. Be sure you know who holds remotes for your garage door – Old tenants or property owners, unwanted family members or old tradespersons may have these garage remotes and could potentially access your property without your knowledge.
Deleting old remotes is Easy and highly recommended whenever you are unsure who may have remotes, anytime you move into a new home, or if someone you know has a remote unlawfully.
Remotes can operate a large range of openers. For instance, Roller door remotes, tilt-a-door remotes, panel lift remotes, and even some auto gates, could possibly all use the same remote. Selecting the right remote means you could have one remote that operates different garage doors and gates without having to carry more than one remote.
If your remote is no longer working it can be due to a few reasons:
- The battery is old and may need replacing
- Sometimes there may be an issue with the receiver or motor
- You may simply need a new remote if there is an internal fault
This can be diagnosed by contacting any of the knowledgeable staff at Toowoomba Locksmiths.
Security screen and Security Door Locks
Posted by admin in Home Security | 4 comments
Security screen, commonly known as screen door locks are often the most heavily used doors in your home. Each time your main door is used the security screen is often used as well. Not only do they offer additional security to your home when locked in conjunction with your main glass or timber door but they offer the ability to secure your home while still offering fresh air to flow through.
There are 4 main brands of security Screen door locks commonly used in the Toowoomba Region, these are Whitco, Lockwood, Doric and Austral. Toowoomba locksmiths stock a wide range of these brands for both Sliding Security Screens and Hinged Security Screens. Whitco and Lockwood are the most common and longest used brand of Security Door Locks and although are no longer manufactured in Australia are still both high quality and affordable. It is important the correct brand and model is selected to ensure smooth replacements and correct security requirements.
If your Security Screen Door Lock stops working, there can be many reasons for this. Like any mechanical item, Security Door locks are not designed to last forever however with care and servicing, you can be sure they will keep your home secure for many years. There can be many reasons why your Security Door Lock has stopped working, these can include but are not limited to:
Reasons your Security Screen Door Lock May stop working
- Ground movement causing the lock to no longer meet its strike correctly
- Attempted or successful break-in
- Incorrect fitting
- A build-up of dust or foreign objects either inside the lock
- More commonly inside the hole in the frame of the door
If you are replacing one of your screen doors locks and want to use the same key with the new lock, this can usually be easily achieved as the cylinder can most commonly be removed from the old lock and work well in the New Security Lock.
It is easy to mistake a broken Screen Door Lock with a repairable fault. The best way to establish if you need a new security lock or if the lock can be repaired is to contact one of the Knowledgeable locksmiths at Toowoomba Locksmiths.
Why you should change locks on your house
Posted by admin in Home Security | 0 comments
Have you recently had concerns about the security of your house, but don’t have the funds for replacement locks?
A common misconception to house owners is that to change locks on their house, the only option is replacement locks. However, you don’t have to replace the whole lock to maintain confidence that your house is secure, simply rekey your lock cylinders.
Changing locks may seem like a large and expensive task but actually, for a knowledgeable locksmith, it is quite fast and efficient. Changing lock barrels is significantly cheaper than replacing locks as you can reuse the lock handle etc. We simply just take apart the lock, adjust and rearrange parts inside ensuring the old keys will no longer work and therefore be able to unlock the door. A new set of keys are then cut to work with the reconfigured lock on the inside.
Why you should change locks
There are several reasons why you would want to change your locks. We commonly have people contact us when they have their keys lost or stolen. Lost keys may be able to be tracked back to your property, leading to you feeling that your house and family are not secure and safe. We recommend changing locks in this situation to stop any intruders being able to possibly gain access into your property.
Moving into a new house
Moving into a new house maybe another scenario why you might consider changing your lock barrels. You can never be 100% sure that previous owners and tenants have returned all the keys. Builders and subcontractors from a newly built house might be a factor as well. More commonly then not builders and subcontractors would have at some point in time, required keys into your house to perform tasks. Changing the locks will eliminate them from gaining entry later.
Unfortunately, there are also sometimes family break downs in play, with upsetting circumstances. Sometimes a broken family may have some issues where you no longer want to have a family member to have access to your house for whatever reason. Rekeying your locks will eliminate this person being able to access the property with old keys they may still have, ensuring the safety of your family.
Replacing garage remote
Don’t stress about a garage remote in the wrong hands either. A garage remote and motors can be easily reprogrammed. You can eliminate remotes that may be in the hands of someone you wish not to have access. We reprogram the motor to no longer recognise any remotes, then re-introduce the remotes possessed by the homeowner, meaning any old garage remotes that use to work that haven’t been reprogramed will no longer be able to open the garage door.
Got questions about your locks? Let us help you
Security Surveys – Don’t be caught out when you least expect it
Why You Should Ask For a Security Survey From Your Locksmith
Posted by admin in CCTV | 7 comments
Security Surveys – Don't be caught out when you least expect it
If you are security conscious, you may wish for one of our Local locksmiths to visit your home or commercial premises to conduct an in depth security survey which will outline any current flaws in your lock suitability and will highlight our recommendations to improve the overall security of your premises. We can quote for a complete lock overhaul and will take care of all the installation required to fully secure your home or office or warehouse.Crime Prevention
Crime prevention in Toowoomba is the first step to making your home or office a safer place. For residential properties that are often vacant for long periods, you need to make sure your locks can withstand an attempted break in. We will advise on the latest locking systems available to you whether manual or digital and only use the most trusted and well tested brands on the market. Security is certainly and area where you do not want to cut corners however our locksmiths will work accurately within your stated budget to provide the most cost effective solution.
Offices and warehouses are quite regularly left unattended over weekends and throughout the holidays so security needs to be tight. We can offer expert advice not only on locks but also on digital security systems to best suit your needs and level of protection required. For more information on our security surveys or to book one of our experts, call us today on 07 4632 6060 or use the contact for to your right.
Lock Upgrades
You may require your locks to be upgraded or replaced for many reasons. Perhaps you have been in the unfortunate situation where your property was broken into – our local locksmith is on hand 24 hours a day and will be able to secure your premises and change your locks where required.
If you are moving to a new house, we would always advise that you get your external locks changed the day you move in. Not only for added peace of mind you are the only key holder but also to make sure the locks are up to standard and working properly – one less hassle for you to worry about during the stressful time of moving. Give our locksmith a call today and arrange to have your locks changed the day you move in, here are a few things we can do to upgrade your home security.
- Install deadlocks on all external doors and internal door between garage and house.
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- One key for all your door and window locks.
- Install key operated window locks.
- Install keyed patio bolts to ranch sliders and French doors.
- Make sure all out buildings are secure.
- Secure valuable possessions and documents in a safe, that is secured to the wall/floor in a concealed spot in your home.
When you next get a Toowoomba locksmith to your home, ask them to have a look around your exit and entry points of your property to identify weak security points and any lock or padlock upgrades that may be needed.
OR
Contact us today to book your free, no obligation security survey.
How To Prevent a Break In at Home
Posted by admin in Home Security | 1 comments
We never expect to be broken into, we always think that these things happen to other people and honestly we hope you never have to experience a break in. The main comments made by people is that they feel like they have a sense of invasion, that someone they don't know has gone through their home and things.
Nothing we suggest to you here will guarantee that you won't be broken into, but it will definitely decrease the possibility of it happening, the main things that amatuer crims are looking for are easy and quick money, so what we offer is deterrants and inhibitors.
How to prevent a Break in top tips;
Cheap doorlocks = quicky entry, so the money you think your saving by buying a cheap lock won't be worth it in the end, deadlock is what you will need to be insurance compliant so keep that in mind when upgrading your main entry point security.
Sensor lights - anything that reflects human behaviour will scare most amatuers, along with the front door being visible from the street.
Visible security camera - there has been much talk online that even a fake camera will work, and yes it will to a degree and for some people this act alone will be enough of a deterrant. But depending on your security concerns the technology in cameras are increasing and the prices are becoming more competitive. So choose the solution based on your needs.
Spare keys - if you are not interested in having a digital door lock for your home so everyone has their own code, then we have solutions that can allow you to securely hide the spare key. Check out our Key Safes post, these are little iron nuggets, they can try and break into but they will loose. (insert belly laughter)
Security Screens - on both the doors and the windows, especially the ground floor and keep shrubs away from ground floor windows, unless they are thorny, then keep those ones definately.
Dogs - ok so there is a debate on this one, a good guard dog looks scary and does not wag its tail at just about anyone who uses that tone of voice that we all use to say hello to dogs. If they respond like that then your dog will not suffice to be a guard dog. Don't be fooled by big dogs either they can sometimes be the most gentle, we had a story of how a Doberman not only let a thief in but the thief took his collar for a bit of a cheeky call out. Criminals will assess your dog prior to a break in to determine whether they are a threat.
Neighbourhood Watch - being close to your neighbours is one of the best security measures. They know your habits, the sound of your car, if you are away and help you with your security measures while away. (click image below to go to Toowoomba Police Neighbourhood Watch page.)
Another measure is to keep valuables away from the windows; computers, large TV's, handbags, things that make your home become a target.
We did a little search around the web to find some other tips from different countries and some were hilarious and we should have kept the link but we were looking for quality. This blog on how to prevent a break in, has some great tips that we haven't mentioned that may be a worth a read.
