People designing new hotels or adding amenities to already existing ones typically have a lot of options to consider. For example, modern hotel room locks require complicated software systems and access control systems to work. Many also use keyless entry systems that incorporate guest expectations for privacy and simplicity. Choosing the right door lock can significantly improve the guest experience. People often wonder how to choose a door lock. This article provides information on the various door lock system options and their associated hardware. It also discusses important considerations when choosing a new system. Let’s begin by intently studying this work.
I. Which lock is better for hotel doors: a full body or component lock?
Many door locks exist not only on guest rooms, but also other amenities, exterior entrances and business centers. This means that guests and employees must frequently interact with door locks as part of their experience. While these locks seem insignificant, they can create either a smooth experience for guests or a headache for both employees and guests. You must choose between various types of door lock hardware: component locks or full body locks. How do they differ?
A. Full-body locks
Items labeled as unibody locks usually have a lock, key reader and handle in one piece. These locks are often stainless steel or other high-quality material and include a battery on the inside side of the locking mechanism. There are many different styles of unibody locks, many with unique finishes. Most of these locks don’t require any alterations to the door itself. This makes them easy to set up and quick to install. Some may deem their appearance bulky, but they provide the same magstripe coverage area as a standard lock. If you’re looking to replace your current magstripe lock with minimal changes to the door, this is a good option.
B. Component locks
Separate component locks contain two parts: a handle and a lock reader. These locks have a minimal design and look compared to traditional door handles, which usually take up more space on the door. Because of their minimalist design, separate component locks are easy to install; however, this process requires two steps. First, the handle has to be installed on the door. Then, the lock reader needs to be installed. Once these two components are added, users have more options for future lock changes or upgrades. Many battery compartments exist inside these doors; therefore, the overall aesthetic is pleasing.
II. Magstripe, Pincode, Bluetooth & RFID
People often wonder which door lock hardware is better: software or hardware. They’re both important for connecting consumers to the Internet of Things. People shouldn’t consider traditional key locks for the time being— they’re only useful for historic B&Bs. Electronic locking is the most popular choice for securing modern doors. Four different types of lock technology are typically used: RFID, BLE, PIN code and magstripe. Here’s a quick explainer on these terms: Magstripe: A method that uses a stripe of code on a card to unlock a door. PIN code: The use of a numerical code on a key to open a door. RFID: Electronic identification using Near-Field Communication. And BLE: stands for Bluetooth Low Energy, which refers to low-energy identification via radio waves.
A. Magstripe
Many hotel owners are interested in replacing old-school locks with more modern ones. These magstripe locks were the first to ever be created; they’re unlocked by inserting a magnetic key into the lock. Electronic devices like smartphones can disrupt keycard programming and cause a lock in the magstripe variety to glitch. As a result, people using magstripe locks often find themselves locked out of their rooms. This makes front desk staff’s job even harder; they need to go above and beyond to help guests unlock their doors again.
B. PIN Code is an abbreviation for the phrase “Personal Identification Number.” It’s used to identify a specific individual.
The modern electronic pin code lock requires a numerical code to unlock. Typically, this can only be entered via a keycard, fob or smartphone app. Many locks also require an access item such as a keycard to open them; however, this is not the case with PIN code locks. The most basic PIN code lock has a static password that can’t be changed. However, many newer versions can be changed remotely and as often as needed. Even smart locks with an integrated property management system can have a unique PIN for each reservation. This is optional for guests and recommended because they don’t need to carry a key. However, they need to remember their PIN in order to access their room.
C. RFID
Compared to traditional magnetic-strip key cards, RFID key cards provide a more advanced version of the magstripe lock. These cards feature an embedded RFID chip that can store more data and permissions than a magstripe card can. RFID technology is an obvious upgrade from magstripe locks. It’s because of this technology that guests can open the lock by waving a RFID card in front of the reader. However, it’s important to note that RFID keycards are more expensive than magstripe keycards.
D. BLE or Bluetooth Low Energy is a type of wireless data transfer used in small devices such as watches, fitness trackers, and hearing aids.
Bluetooth low energy locks allow guests to open doors with their smartphones. These locks don’t need a keycard, making them extremely secure, especially since guests’ smartphones are the only ones able to unlock the lock. The phones send an encrypted “message” to the lock, which only employees or guests with special permission can read. As a newer technology, Bluetooth locks haven’t been adopted by most hotels. This is because guests need to download an app that interacts with the lock system. However, over time many guests have come to expect digital amenities in their hotels, making the app download less of an issue. Guests can check in online, bypass the front desk and access their room without having to physically interact with the lock.
III. How to Evaluate the Best Hotel Door Lock System
It’s important to use reliable brands when choosing hotels because they have to have high security and reliability. Deciding which lock to purchase requires consideration of multiple factors. Taking into account what is most important to you will help you choose the right hardware and software for your needs. Some people want a lock that is easy to install, while others prefer one with a sleek appearance. Should guests use a keycard, a PIN code or a smartphone to access their rooms? And how much should you spend to answer this request? Instead of a keycard, Bluetooth locks require all guests to download an app to their smartphone. Doing this creates a lot of confusion among less tech-savvy travelers. Magstripe locks are typically cheaper than RFID locks but are more likely to cause guest experience issues and lockouts.
Looking for the best lock system for your property? Finding a hardware and technology expert is the first step. Then, talking to a lock vendor helps you finalize your choice. Many popular hotel door lock companies included. Creating a positive experience for the guest when checking in requires the appropriate lock and lock technology.
It’s important to understand the cost and features of a keyless entry system when investigating the possibility of becoming a hardware manufacturer. Doing this will give you insight into what features the software must have, as well as what warranties the hardware might void.
For more information on how https://www.jinisyssoftware.com/ can help you with Various Types of Door Lock Systems and Hardware, please contact us at +63 (917) 947 7971, or visit us here:
Jinisys Software Inc
Our Luzon Office: 602 BSA Twin Towers, Bank Drive , Ortigas Mandaluyong City Philippines
Our Visayas Office: 3/F 101 M.L Quezon St. Villa Aurora, Kasambagan Cebu City Cebu / Region 7 6000, Philippines
