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Key Control

Medeco's Approach

The security of any locking system is dependent upon two very important factors. The first is protection against attacks such as picking, drilling, bumping, and forcing. The second is the ability to control duplication of existing keys. Historically, unauthorized key duplication has played a major role in compromising even the most sophisticated security systems. Anyone with even temporary access to original keys has no problem getting duplicates made for their own use if the keys and key blanks are not patent protected. Even stamping "Do Not Duplicate" on a key merely warns someone not to copy the key - it is not a promise of legal protection or enforcement. The only way to ensure that keys cannot be copied without the consent of the owner is a key system with patent-protected keys.

Medeco has counteracted the key control problem by doing three things:

1. Medeco manufactures cylinders which use keys that must be made on special key cutting machines. These machines are capable of reproducing the angled cuts and critical tolerances necessary to produce a workable Medeco key, and are not found at general hardware stores. 2. Medeco only sells its high-quality, precision machined cylinders and locks to security industry professionals. Every restricted Medeco key blank is custom coined and tracked by Medeco to identify it as an authorized key blank, which protects against unauthorized copies. 3. Medeco invests heavily in research and development to establish strong patents and legal agreements to protect its locks and key blanks from unauthorized distribution or manufacture.. As a result, Medeco can litigate to protect its rights and the security of its customers.

A Key Control Program That's Right for You

Not every user has the same key control needs. That's why Medeco has designed different key control programs and different keyways to meet a wide range of security specifications and key access requirements.

Dealer/Service Center

This program offers instant local access to additional keys with protection from unauthorized copying. Consumers simply return to the security provider from which they purchased the locks. This security professional will have a signature card on file completed by the owner of the key system at the time the system was installed.

Card Programs

Authorized individuals are issued a card with embossed control data and a space for their signature. To obtain key duplicates, card holders present the card to any participating Medeco security professional. The data and signature will be verified and a key can then be issued. A card program is ideal for residences or businesses that need keys available nationwide.

End User Program

The End User program is for large facilities that have their own locksmith on staff and that want to produce Medeco keys themselves. This program offers individualized control over key duplication procedures.

Commercial Program

The Commercial Program is designed for users who use Medeco locks primarily for protection against picking, drilling and other forms of physical attack. Keys may be obtained from any Medeco locksmith without specific authorization.

Factory Program

Additional keys are only available from the Medeco factory and only with the proper signature.

Intelligent Key Systems

Intelligent Key Systems allow the end user the ability to control their own system to electronically change access to any cylinder or key onsite and to obtain audit information. Visit our website at www.medeco.com for more information on all key programs.

Key Control