Designing A New Master Key System
New master key systems are created with a single property sheet entry form. You can create a basic
master system in just a few seconds. Even highly detailed master key systems take only a few minutes.
To create a basic master key system:
1. Select a lock manufacturer. (Click 'Select' and choose a manufacturer file)
2. Enter top master key bittings. (From 3-7 bittings / chambers)
3. Enter a rotation order or let the program select one at random.
4. Save the master key system. (You choose the file name and directory)
It's that simple.
You can use the additional tabbed pages (shown
below) to create more detailed master key systems. You can even duplicate
a factory master key system down to the key bittings.
The design tab page is where you enter the basic information for your master key system. If you are creating
a basic system this is the only page you need.
When you select a lock manufacturer the default information is displayed. You can change the step increment
(1-3 steps) and adjacent cut differential to suit your needs.
Removable Core - control keys are tested to manufacturers specs.
Medecotm - standard or bi-axial angles. Bi-axial ACD (MACS) is automatically set to factory
standards.
The key bitting array tab page is where you re-order the kba. This allows you to generate both change keys
and master keys in the order you want them. If you are extending or duplicating a factory master key system
matching the key bitting array is essential.
This page displays details for this master key system. The number of rotating and constant chambers is
show along with the level of masters that is currently selected.
The maximum number of change and master keys is also displayed on this page. This is useful in selecting
the level of masters and when using multiple key sections.
The section tab page is where you add key sections (keyways) to the master key system. Key sections can
be added at any time. They can be added while the master key system is being designed or after it is put into
service.
Key sections can be used as either masters or changes. This means that you can expand the master key
system to meet your exact needs. You add sections by selecting a key section file and checking off the key
sections you want to use.
The number of possible masters and/or changes is displayed on the page as you check or uncheck key
sections.
The preview tab page allows you to see exactly how the masters and key bittings will be generated in your
master key system. You can preview a small sample of the system being designed or look at every bitting.
You can select the number of master levels. This determins how many master keys will be created for this
master key system.
The removable core tab page displays a summary of the math necessary to calculate pins for this master key
system. Additionally the information necessary to test the control key is also displayed.
The system info tab page displays a summary of the basic parameters for this master key system.
The following information is shown:
Lowest / highest pin bitting depth.
Minimum / maximum of chambers (pins) for this lock manufacturer.
Is this master key system removable core?
Is this master key system construction keyed?
Is this a Medecotm master key system?
The customer info tab page gives you a place to enter and save information about your customer. This
information can be added or updated at any time during the life of your master key system.