Security through redundancy
Safe locks with emergency systems
Redundancy in general means (unnecessary) repetition. In security technology, a redundant system embodies operational reliability. This means that if one system fails, another takes over.
There are many different ways of achieving redundancy in safe locks. All of them have advantages and disadvantages and it is important to consider whether a redundant lock should be used and which type is most suitable.
Type A: Electronic redundancy
A1: Emergency circuit boards with independent circuits
Emergency circuit boards are inexpensive, but do not provide any real redundancy because the mechanical lock is the same. If something jams or snaps, the emergency circuit board is of no use at all.
A2: Double circuit boards and motors
Doubling everything, including all cables and motors, is understandable for the user and can significantly increase the subjective feeling of security. Objectively, however, these locks do not always make sense. Their enormous price often makes them uneconomical and they are not immune to the most common problems: keyboard damage/power failure/operator error.
Mechanical redundancy provides a remedy, as these locks use two different types of mechanism: one for electronic opening and another for mechanical opening.
Type B: Mechanical redundancy
B1: Safe locks with emergency key
There are numerous locks with “revision keys” or emergency keys.
The problem with emergency keys is that they are never used and are lost when they are really needed. It is also very serious that burglars search for the key throughout the house as soon as they discover that there is a key lock on the safe. This can cause a great deal of damage.
B2: DUET electric/mechanical combination locks
The DUET safe lock combines an electronic code lock with a 4-disc mechanical combination lock. These locks are fully redundant and very inexpensive. In addition to the electronic codes, an independent mechanical code is set. Regardless of whether an electric shock has destroyed the electronics or only one battery is flat:
