Electro Mehcanical Lock Overview

The development of the standalone, battery operated electromechanical lock evolved over many years and through interim products. The 1950s saw the first mechanical locks starting to be modified in order to remotely control access. Previously, a person had to insert an operating key into the lock in order to gain entry or someone inside the building had to physically open the door. During this time cylindrical and mortise locks were being equipped with solenoids to provide remote unlocking operation. A person could press a momentary button to power the solenoid and a locked door somewhere else would electrically unlock, permitting the knob or handle to retract the latch bolt. Solenoids require a significant amount of power to operate, requiring these locks to be wired.