frequently asked questions

There are many types of mechanical locks, and we interact with them every day. They include tubular, cylindrical, mortise, interconnected, and deadbolt styles. Here is a brief definition and typical use for each type:

• Tubular locks: These have a center spindle assembly that extends through the center of the lock body and latch, allowing the latch to retract when the lever or knob is rotated. While very common on interior doors and in residential applications, they are considered the least secure lock type.
• Cylindrical locks: Sometimes called bored locks, these are stronger and more secure than tubular locks. The latchbolt assembly interlocks with one side of the lock chassis, making it easier to install, replace, and rekey. They allow for like-keyed and master-keyed systems.
• Mortise locks: Considered even more secure than cylindrical locks, these require a mortise (or pocket) to be cut into the door where the lock is fitted. Mortise locks are incredibly strong, heavy-duty, and are often used in hospital and school applications.
• Interconnected locks: These are comprised of two locks connected together, so operating the lever handle will retract both the latchbolt and the deadbolt simultaneously. These are most commonly used on entrance doors in multi-family residential buildings.
• Deadbolts: Also called deadlocks, these are available with a single cylinder (key on the outside, thumb-turn on the inside) or a double cylinder (key required on both sides). Deadbolts are typically not allowed on a door with another lock installed, as egress code requirements mandate a single motion to unlatch an egress door.

An electronic lock is controlled by a reader—such as a keypad, card reader, or biometric terminal. If an authorized user presents the correct personal identification number (PIN), card, or biometric scan, the door unlocks. There are two main types of electronic locks: standalone (non-computerized) and networked (computerized).

1. Standalone locks and readers: These use the same credentials (keycards, PINs) as networked locks, but they are not connected to a central software system. As a result, an administrator must physically visit each lock to update access rights or retrieve tracking information.
2. Networked locks: These are connected directly to a door access control system. This allows an administrator to easily update access rights, lock down facilities, and track movement from anywhere on the network.

Credentials (often thought of as "keys") are the tools that give authorized people access to a space. While a standard brass key is the most widely recognized, modern security systems offer far more flexibility. If a brass key is lost, new ones must be duplicated and the physical locks frequently need replacing. Here are a few modern credential types:

• Patented key management systems: A patent-protected key system where physical keys are only available to authorized individuals through professional locksmiths. While this prevents unauthorized duplication, a lost key still represents a security risk.
• Keycards: To avoid the cost and risk of physical keys, many organizations use keycards (magnetic stripe cards, proximity cards, and smart cards). If a keycard is lost, its unique number is simply erased from the system, and the user receives a new card.
• Biometrics: A biometric reader uses an authorized person's unique physical traits (like a fingerprint or handprint) as identification. This provides the highest level of security and convenience.

An electromagnetic lock (often called a maglock) uses electricity to create a powerful magnetic force that holds a door securely closed. The lock consists of two main parts: an electromagnet mounted to the door frame, and a metal armature plate attached to the door.

When an electrical current passes through the electromagnet, it binds tightly to the armature plate, locking the door. To open the door, a user simply presents an authorized credential (like swiping a keycard or entering a PIN) or triggers an exit button. This temporarily interrupts the electrical current, releasing the magnetic bond so the door can swing open. After a few seconds, the current returns, magnetically securing the door once it closes.

Advantages of electromagnetic locks:

• Fail-safe by design: Because they rely on electricity to stay locked, they instantly unlock during a power outage or fire alarm, ensuring safe emergency egress.
• Highly compatible: They can be wired to open with nearly any electrical signaling method (keypads, card readers, motion sensors, biometrics).
• Incredible strength: Standard maglocks can withstand up to 1,200 pounds of forced entry.

An electric strike replaces the standard, fixed strike plate on your door frame. This allows your door to be unlocked electronically without needing to turn the physical handle or use a metal key.

In a standard door frame, the latch rests inside a small cavity when the door is closed. To open it, you have to physically turn the handle to pull the latch back into the door. An electric strike changes this by replacing the solid edge of that cavity with a hinged piece of metal (called a keeper). When an authorized user swipes a keycard or enters a PIN, the electric strike receives a signal to pivot the keeper out of the way, allowing the door to be pulled open without turning the handle at all.

Because they are highly versatile and built to withstand heavy foot traffic (often tested to over 500,000 cycles), electric strikes are one of the most popular choices for securing commercial and office doors.

A magnetic lock's holding force is determined by the size and construction of the internal electromagnet. We categorize our locks based on how much physical force they can withstand before breaking the magnetic bond:

• Micro size: 275 lbs (1,220 N) holding force.
• Mini size: 650 lbs (2,900 N) holding force.
• Midi size: 800 lbs (3,600 N) holding force.
• Standard size: 1,200 lbs (5,300 N) holding force.
• Shear lock: 2,000 lbs (8,900 N) holding force.

Electromagnetic locks require Direct Current (DC) power, generally drawing around 5 to 6 watts. At 12VDC, the current draw is typically around 0.5 Amps, while at 24VDC, it is around 0.25 Amps (though this can vary slightly depending on the specific manufacturer and model). We always recommend verifying that your chosen magnetic lock carries the UL safety mark.

Most commercial magnetic locks are dual-voltage, meaning they can operate on either 12VDC or 24VDC. If your building uses an AC power supply, you will need to install a full-wave bridge rectifier (diode bridge) to safely convert the alternating current (AC) input into the direct current (DC) output required by the lock.

While power sources can be either AC (alternating current) or DC (direct current), nearly all modern door access control systems utilize continuous DC power. Depending on the specific hardware you purchase, the devices may require:

• 12-volt only
• 24-volt only
• Dual-voltage (selectable 12-volt OR 24-volt)

Why choose one over the other? It comes down to amperage and the number of devices you need to run. As a rule of thumb, running a device at 24-volts draws exactly half the amperage of running it at 12-volts. This means a 24-volt power supply can handle more devices than a 12-volt power supply of the same amperage.

For example: Let's say you have a 1-Amp power supply, and you want to install electric strikes that draw 0.50 Amps at 12-volts, but only 0.25 Amps at 24-volts.
If you wire them at 12-volts, two strikes will consume your entire 1-Amp limit (0.50A x 2). However, if you wire them at 24-volts, those same two strikes will only draw 0.50 Amps total (0.25A x 2), leaving you plenty of power to add a third strike.

* Helpful Tip: We strongly recommend never exceeding 80% of a power supply's total current capacity to ensure system stability and longevity.

An access control point is any physical barrier—like a door, turnstile, parking gate, or elevator—where entry can be electronically restricted and monitored. Typically, the most common access point is a door.

A standard electronic access control door contains several key components. At its foundation, an electric lock (like a maglock or electric strike) keeps the door secure. Rather than using a physical key, users interact with a reader (such as a keypad, keycard scanner, or biometric terminal). When a user presents their credential, the reader securely transmits that data to an access control panel. This panel acts as the brain of the operation—it verifies the credential against an authorized database and, if approved, sends a signal to unlock the door.

To keep the system secure, magnetic door switches are often used to monitor whether the door is propped open. Finally, if the system is designed to lock users from both sides of the door, a second reader is required for exiting. If free exit is allowed, a request-to-exit device (like a push button or motion sensor) is used to briefly unlock the door and bypass the alarm system so people can leave freely.

An IP access controller is the "brain" of a modern security system, designed to verify users and control the electronic locks on your doors. What makes IP controllers special is that they connect directly to your building's existing Local Area Network (LAN/WAN) without needing older serial converters. A typical IP access controller supports between 2 to 4 basic access control readers and can often be configured easily via a web browser.

Advantages of an IP access controller:

• Cost-effective installation: Utilizes your building's existing network infrastructure, eliminating the need to pull miles of new communication wire.
• Limitless scalability: There are no limitations on the number of IP controllers you can have in a system.
• High-speed communication: Data transfers at full network speeds, which is vital for facilities managing thousands of users or large biometric databases.
• Remote management: Easily links multiple remote buildings together. A basic internet link is all that is needed to connect a satellite office back to headquarters.

Disadvantages of an IP access controller:

• Network dependency: The system can be susceptible to network-related problems, such as heavy traffic delays or hardware switch failures.
• Security considerations: While industry-standard data encryption is used, IP controllers can technically be exposed to hackers if a company's overarching network is poorly secured. We always recommend physically separating the access control network from the organization's primary public network.
• Distance limits: Standard CAT network cables have a maximum range of 100 meters (330 feet) between the controller and the network switch.

When you present your credential (like a keycard) to a door reader, the reader sends that unique ID number directly to the system's control panel. This highly reliable processor compares the ID number against an authorized access list. If the user is authorized, the control panel triggers a relay that instantly unlocks the door, while simultaneously ignoring the door's alarm sensor so you can enter peacefully. It then logs the transaction in the database so administrators know exactly who entered and when.

This standard process is known as "single-factor authentication." However, since keycards can be stolen or handed to a coworker, higher security facilities often use "two-factor authentication." In a two-factor transaction, the system requires the keycard plus an additional layer of proof (like typing in a PIN code or scanning a fingerprint) before the door will unlock.

In the security industry, these authentication factors fall into three categories:

1. Something you know: A password, pass-phrase, or PIN.
2. Something you have: A smart card, proximity fob, or physical key.
3. Something you are: A fingerprint or retina scan, verified by a biometric reader.

Even the most advanced security systems face potential risks. Here are the most common vulnerabilities and how to mitigate them:

• Tailgating: The most frequent breach occurs when an unauthorized person simply follows a legitimate user through an open door. This is best mitigated through employee security awareness training, or physically by installing turnstiles and security vestibules (mantraps).
• Forced Entry: Intruders may attempt to physically pry a door open. Fully implemented access control systems combat this using high-holding-force maglocks and forced-door monitoring alarms that immediately alert administrators if a door is breached or propped open.
• Hardware Spoofing: Some electric locking hardware can be manipulated with powerful magnets or by tampering with the power supply. Fortunately, quality access control systems incorporate battery backups, and the locking hardware is almost exclusively installed on the secure, interior side of the door.
• Credential Cloning: Older, unencrypted proximity cards can be read and cloned by enterprising hackers walking past employees. This is easily solved by upgrading to modern, encrypted smart cards or implementing two-factor authentication (like requiring a card *and* a PIN).
• Mechanical Fail-Overs: Many electric doors still feature a traditional mechanical key cylinder in case of emergencies, which leaves them vulnerable to lock-picking or bumping. High-security cylinders should be used wherever physical keys are required.

Yes! Cobra Controls offers an incredibly user-friendly security software platform based on the powerful .NET infrastructure. It allows you to easily manage 1-door, 2-door, and 4-door TCP/IP network access control panels. You can scale your system seamlessly, adding an unlimited number of controllers and doors, and up to 60,000 users to the database.

Best of all, the Cobra Controls .NET software is completely free of charge when you purchase ACP systems. We utilize the industry-standard 26-bit Wiegand communication format for all of our panels and readers, ensuring your system remains completely non-proprietary. Visit our Cobra Controls Video Library to see the software in action!

To register your Cobra Controls software, you will need two pieces of information: the controller serial number and the controller version. Both of these can be quickly located inside your Cobra Controls metal panel box.

1. Serial Number: Locate the main controller board inside the box. You will find a sticker labeled "S/N#". (This number can also be found digitally in the software's 'Controllers' section, and is printed on your original purchase invoice.)
2. Version Number: The controller version is printed on a label attached to the inside of the panel door. It will read either 'ACP-N' or 'ACP-T'.
3. Registration: Once you have those two numbers, please visit the Cobra Controls Software Registration page to activate your product.

Your Cobra Controls serial number is located in three convenient places:

1. Printed on a sticker (labeled "S/N#") attached directly to the controller board inside your metal panel box.
2. Displayed digitally inside the Cobra software under the "Controllers" section.
3. Printed on your original Maglocks purchase invoice.

The controller version is clearly printed on a label attached to the inside door of your metal Cobra Controls panel box. It will display as either "ACP-N" or "ACP-T". You can also find this version number listed on your original purchase invoice.

Absolutely. Whenever access control hardware is installed in a building, it is incredibly important to ensure it complies with local fire, life-safety, and building codes. Failure to adhere to these requirements can result in blocked emergency egress routes and heavy liabilities for the building owner.

For a comprehensive listing of codes and requirements, we recommend visiting the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) website. Specifically, review NFPA 80 (Standard for Fire Doors and Other Opening Protectives) and NFPA 101 (Life Safety Code ®) for detailed installation guidelines.

These terms describe how an electric lock behaves when the power is suddenly cut off (like during a power outage or fire alarm). It is always defined from the perspective of the "secure" side of the door (the outside, where a key is usually required).

• Fail-Safe: The door unlocks when power is removed. These locks require electricity to stay locked. (Perfect for emergency exits so people can safely evacuate).
• Fail-Secure: The door stays locked when power is removed. These locks require a zap of electricity to unlock. (Perfect for IT server rooms or bank vaults where security cannot be compromised during a power outage).

Note: Almost all commercial electrified hardware allows for "free egress," meaning regardless of whether the outside is fail-safe or fail-secure, anyone standing on the inside of the room can freely push the door open to exit.

IP (Ingress Protection) ratings tell you exactly how well a piece of hardware is sealed against dust and water. The rating consists of the letters "IP" followed by two distinct numbers.

• The First Number (Dust): Represents protection against solid objects like dust and sand, scaling from 0 (no protection) up to 6 (completely dust-tight).
• The Second Number (Water): Represents protection against moisture and liquids, scaling from 0 (no protection) up to 8 (capable of continuous underwater submersion).

Example: What does IP67 mean? An IP67-rated lock features the highest possible defense against dust (a rating of 6). The 7 indicates it is highly water-resistant, tested to survive being submerged in up to 1 meter of water without short-circuiting.

Intrinsic Safety (IS) is a highly specialized protection standard for electrical equipment operating in hazardous areas (like petrochemical refineries, chemical plants, or mines). In areas with dangerous concentrations of flammable gases or combustible dust, even a tiny electrical spark could trigger an explosion.

Intrinsically safe hardware is engineered to strictly limit the electrical and thermal energy it uses, ensuring it physically cannot generate a spark or get hot enough to ignite the surrounding atmosphere.

RFID is the technology that allows modern keycards and fobs to communicate wirelessly with a door reader. An RFID access control system generally consists of three main parts:

• The Tag (Credential): The keycard or fob carried by the user, which contains a tiny microchip storing a unique ID number.
• The Antenna: Located inside the door reader, which constantly broadcasts a small radio signal outward.
• The Reader: The brain behind the antenna that receives data and translates it for the access control panel.

When you hold your keycard near the reader, the antenna's radio waves actually power the tiny chip inside your card. The chip wakes up and beams its unique ID number back to the reader, allowing you into the building! For more details, visit our guide on understanding RFID access tags and readers.

When wiring electronic locks and request-to-exit buttons, you will often encounter different types of internal switches. A switch is classified by its "Poles" and "Throws."

• Pole: Refers to the number of separate electrical circuits the switch controls. A "Single-Pole" switch controls one circuit. A "Double-Pole" switch controls two separate circuits simultaneously (like pressing two buttons with one finger).
• Throw: Refers to the number of output connections the switch can make. A "Single-Throw" is a simple on/off switch. A "Double-Throw" toggles the power between two different outputs (connecting to Output A, or clicking over to Output B).

This leads to four common switch configurations used in security hardware:

• SPST (Single-Pole, Single-Throw): A basic on/off switch for a single circuit.
• SPDT (Single-Pole, Double-Throw): Routes power from one input to either Output A or Output B.
• DPST (Double-Pole, Single-Throw): Turns two separate circuits on or off at the same time.
• DPDT (Double-Pole, Double-Throw): Routes two separate circuits into two separate A or B outputs simultaneously.

These codes guarantee that the finish on your new lock perfectly matches the existing hardware in your building. In the United States, there are two primary finish code systems: BHMA finish codes (Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association) and U.S. finish codes (created by ANSI).

In general, U.S. codes only describe the color, whereas BHMA codes describe both the color *and* the base metal underneath it. For example, a BHMA 626 code means the hardware is satin chrome plated over brass, whereas a BHMA 652 code means it is satin chrome plated over steel.

When shopping for hardware, you will generally see four main categories of finish:

• Polished (or “Bright”) Finish: Buffed until it reflects like a mirror.
• Satin Finish: A smooth, matte appearance that minimizes fingerprints and glare.
• Antique Finish: Designed with darker, oxidized accents to appear aged upon installation.
• Living Finish: Designed to naturally age and change color over time depending on the environment and how frequently it is touched (such as US10B, Oil-Rubbed Bronze).

We have carefully designed the Maglocks shopping experience to work flawlessly with most modern web browsers (including Google Chrome, Apple Safari, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge). We recommend always keeping your preferred browser updated to the latest version to ensure fast load times and maximum security. For more details, visit our Supported Browsers policy page.

Yes. We believe it is in everyone's best interest to actively promote sustainability and responsible business practices. We operate on four pillars of responsibility and commitment:

1. Economic Success: The wise and ethical use of our financial resources.
2. Social Responsibility: Ensuring respect and fair treatment for all people.
3. Environmental Responsibility: The wise management and conservation of natural resources.
4. Business Responsibility: Setting clear, actionable goals and rigorously tracking our progress.

For a detailed breakdown of these pillars, please visit our full Sustainability Policy page.

We are constantly striving to ensure our website is open, accessible, and easy to navigate for everyone. We design our web pages to comply with the U.S. Access Board’s standards for Information and Communication Technology (specifically Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act).

If you use assistive technology (such as a screen reader, eye tracking device, or voice recognition software) and have any difficulty navigating our site or finding the exact hardware you need, please reach out to our team! We would be more than happy to assist you directly.

Absolutely! The Cobra Controls Authorized Dealer Program is a comprehensive initiative designed to help our dealer and integrator partners scale their businesses. Whether you are a small installer or a massive integration firm, our tiered programs offer incredible benefits, including:

• Deeply discounted, account-specific online pricing.
• Free, priority technical support.
• A guaranteed lowest-price match.
• A full 12-month repair and replacement warranty on hardware.
• Zero restocking fees on standard returns.

To apply and receive your custom discount tier, please review the requirements on our Authorized Dealer Program page and download the brief application form below.

Simply fax the completed registration form to 1.518.843.3399 (along with a copy of your tax resale certificate or contractor license), or email it directly to . Please allow up to 4 business days for processing, after which you will receive your welcome package and portal access.