To the casual observer, transponder car keys can seem nothing short of magic. A transponder key system is something of a misnomer, though, since there’s no physical key involved. Instead, the transponder sends a signal to the vehicle’s onboard computer, which is interpreted as lock/unlock for the car’s security system. Chances are, if you’re a Fairfax, VA resident who’s purchased a car in the past few years, you have a transponder key.
Why are transponder keys popular?
Like most access control-style locking systems, transponder key systems are popular because they’re much more secure than a traditional lock and key system. Since everything is done via low-frequency radio waves, there’s no key to duplicate or lock to pick, making it tremendously difficult for car thieves and burglars to gain access to your vehicle.
Most modern automakers have moved over to transponder keys not only because of the security, but also because of their simplicity and flexibility. It’s easier to program (and reprogram) transponder keys off the assembly line than it is to cut keys—especially microchipped keys.
How do they work?
As mentioned above, a transponder key system works by sending a signal from your key fob to the car’s onboard computer. The signal is interpreted as lock/unlock depending on the button you push and the frequency sent by the fob. Many transponder systems are also tied to the ignition system, meaning the transponder also works to start the car (think push-button ignition). The presence of radio waves signals to the vehicle that the keyholder is present.
Ever wonder why you need to be right next to a car to use the transponder key? It’s because the radio frequencies emitted by the fob are so low-level, they dissipate beyond a certain distance. Most keys need to be within five to six feet of the vehicle to work. This is by design, and it adds even more safety to the transponder key system.
How do you replace a transponder key?
Though they’re more difficult to create, getting a transponder key replacement isn’t impossible. A locksmith with the proper programming tools can create a new key that works with a vehicle’s existing transponder key system.
The trick is understanding that different manufacturers use different programming systems. For example, Ford uses its Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) to program transponder keys, while General Motors uses Circle Plus keys and PASSKey3 (PK3) keys. These programming differences are subtle, but they affect how the transponder key communicates with the vehicle. For this reason, it’s important to work with an auto locksmith in Fairfax, VA that has the ability to program transponder key replacements for all makes and models.
Convenience and security, all in one
There are more than a few reasons why transponder key systems have become commonplace for late-model vehicles. The only inconvenient thing about them is trying to get into your vehicle without the right fob! Thankfully, there are locksmiths like Artie’s Lock and Key that can make getting a new transponder key simple, so you can get back behind the wheel.
With so many people out of town visiting friends and family during the holidays, it’s no surprise that home invasions and burglaries see an uptick at this time of year. In fact, robbery rates increase by about 20 percent each December. To help ensure you don’t fall victim to any crimes during the holiday season, we’ve put together this helpful list of holiday home security tips in Fairfax, VA. Follow these tips—especially if you’re going to be out of town—and you can rest easy this holiday season.
Invest in smart locks
The top way to protect your belongings and family this holiday season is to upgrade your current locks with smart locks, which are controlled with a smartphone app instead of a regular key. In addition to allowing you to lock and unlock your doors from anywhere with the touch of a button, the app will tell you who’s in your home at any given time.
Buy a front door security camera
Installing a smart doorbell is another good way to tell if anyone is lurking in or around your home. Smart doorbell video cameras are integrated with apps that allow you to see who’s at the door from an app on your phone or tablet. Certain models even allow you to speak to the person at the front door.
Install a home security system
Another one of our best holiday security tips is to install home security systems in Fairfax, VA. While a home security system can be a major investment, it’s well worth the money. Hearing an alarm system go off will scare away any would-be burglars. And putting a security system sign in your front yard might stop them from even trying to break in!
Leave the lights on
For better home security without investing in new technology, we recommend leaving a few interior and exterior lights on while you’re out. Keeping a few lights on will give the appearance that you’re at home, even if you’re off on vacation or visiting family.
To help save on your electric bills, upgrade to smart fixtures and lights that will turn on at nighttime, when crimes are more likely to happen.
Avoid leaving gifts outside
A pile of delivered packages might as well be a bullseye for any burglars passing by your home. One of our best free holiday home security tips in Fairfax, VA is to bring your packages inside as soon as they arrive. Schedule delivery when you know you’ll be home, or ask your neighbors to pick up the delivered packages for you so they’re not sitting outside all day.
Buy your smart locks from Artie’s Lock and Key
If you’re thinking about bolstering your home security systems in Fairfax, VA with a smart lock, buy it from Artie’s Lock and Key! We only sell smart locks from the best brands, like Schlage and Kevo, and we offer expert installation. Call us today to learn more about all of our smart lock products and services.
We all have that certain someone on our holiday shopping list who’s impossible to shop for. The person either already seems to have everything, or claims they don’t need a gift. Fortunately, we have a solution: purchase those difficult individuals a smart lock as a holiday gift in Fairfax, VA!
Regardless of your home’s size or location, you could probably use some more home security. This post will cover a few of our favorite products that will bolster your home’s security this holiday season.
Locks
Ensure everyone on your list has total peace of mind by giving them smart locks this holiday season. Instead of using a traditional key, smart locks are opened via an application on a smartphone. That same app can also lock the door remotely. So, if you think you forgot to lock the door, you can click a button and lock it from wherever you are.
Just be sure to hire a professional to install your smart lock. Otherwise, your home security gift in Fairfax, VA might not be as effective or even work properly.
Doorbells
If someone already has a smart lock or doesn’t seem interested in receiving one, consider a smart doorbell instead. Smart doorbells like Google Nest Hellos, Arlo Video Doorbells or Ring Video Doorbells allow homeowners to see who’s at the front door using a smartphone app.
The homeowner can opt to get a notification every time someone approaches the door and subsequently see an HD video of the person. This is a great feature for the holidays, as it’s perfect for monitoring the front door for package delivery.
Devices
Amazon Echo, Google Nest and other smart devices are becoming increasingly popular in homes across the country. These devices are small and sleek, but incredibly powerful. In addition to playing music or telling you the weather forecast, your smart devices can aid in your home security.
When properly integrated, you can set your smart device to turn the lights on automatically when you’re not at home, monitor your doorbell or even lock your doors. These devices have also become much cheaper over the past few years, so they’re the perfect home security gifts in Fairfax, VA for shoppers on a budget.
Outdoor lights
If you don’t want to give a smart device that controls the interior lights, at least consider giving your loved ones exterior smart light fixtures. Exterior smart lights can be set to turn on automatically at nighttime or when you’re not at home, further deterring any would-be burglars.
Better still, some smart outdoor light fixtures come equipped with built-in hidden cameras to catch thieves in the act. Placing one with a camera at the front door provides the same functionality as a smart doorbell plus the added smart light technology.
Install your holiday gifts with help from Artie’s Lock and Key
If you need help installing the perfect smart lock holiday gift in Fairfax, VA, look no further than Artie’s Lock and Key. In addition to selling top-of-the-line smart home devices, we also offer residential locksmithing services. Give us a call today to see what we can do for you!
The locksmith industry is beginning to look a bit different than it did in the past. More homeowners are replacing the traditional lock and key with smart lock installations in Fairfax, VA. Meanwhile, in commercial buildings, digital door locks grant access with just a couple of buttons. All industries benefit from technological advancements, and locksmiths are no exception.
Smart locks
The locksmith industry has made smartphones the new house key. Homeowners can hire their locksmith in Fairfax, VA to complete a smart lock installation. Then, your phone uses Bluetooth to remotely unlock the front door. Smartphones are a reliable way of securing homes because, just like a traditional key, your phone is generally on your person at all times.
Keyless entry
Digital door locks can do more than secure a house. The newest car models have replaced the traditional locking mechanism with wireless remotes and push-to-start ignitions. That’s why locksmiths in Fairfax, VA are continually educating themselves about security systems beyond a simple lock and key.
Keyless entry is also great for commercial spaces that require heightened security, like hospitals and medical labs. With the push of a button, qualified personnel can gain entry to a restricted area. Technology has advanced beyond manual locks, and keyless entry is now the preferred solution for buildings that need it the most.
Card access
Card access is another popular form of digital door locks. Just like keyless entry, this type of security system is used all the time in commercial spaces. If you look closely, you’ll notice card access is everywhere. For instance, hotel guests may be given a card to access their suite. Government officials use card access to enter rooms that are closed off to the public.
In addition to keyless entry and smart lock installation, locksmiths are learning how card access works so they’re equipped to open doors that require something other than a manual key. After all, their job is to help stranded customers no matter which type of locking system is standing in their way. As technology evolves, so do the capabilities of a locksmith.
Digital passcodes
Digital passcodes have been around for decades, and can be found in both commercial and residential spaces. Homeowners who live in gated communities may use a passcode to enter their neighborhood. They might even have a gate located at their driveway entrance so only friends and family members can set foot on the property.
These digital locks are great for office buildings that have restricted access but still require many employees to come and go. Instead of handing physical keys to dozens of workers, everyone can get inside by memorizing a simple passcode. Digital door locks in Fairfax, VA also heighten security at the main entrances to apartment buildings. This cuts back on theft by allowing access only to tenants.
Technology continues to evolve, which is why you need a locksmith that leans toward the future. If you’re looking to update a security system, consult the innovative locksmiths at Artie’s Lock And Key. We install and repair locks that feature the latest technological advancements. Whenever you need help, we’re just a phone call away.
Many homeowners in Fairfax, VA don’t think to create a spare house key until it’s too late. No one likes to assume they’ll lose a key one day, but unfortunately it can happen to anyone. If you’re on the fence about getting a spare key for your home, below are some reasons why you shouldn’t wait any longer.
You’ll have a backup plan for lockouts
There’s no moment more defeating than when you reach for the house key and realize it’s gone. Where you left it is a mystery, and now you’re stuck on the front porch with no way to get inside. If your only copy becomes lost or damaged, you’ll have to wait who knows how long for a locksmith to show up.
A spare house key makes all those inconveniences go away. It doesn’t cost much to create a spare, and it’s less expensive than hiring a locksmith to open your front door. Hand over the key to a neighbor you trust or hide it in a safe location on your property.
You’ll be able to copy the spare to create a new key
Let’s say the original house key is either broken or lost forever. If you didn’t have a spare, your locksmith in Fairfax, VA would have to create a new house key. A spare key for your home saves money because it costs less to copy a key than to make one from scratch. If you have a spare, get it copied right away so you’re not tempted to use it as your primary key.
Help your day run more smoothly
There are a number of reasons why you’d entrust a spare house key to another person. Some homeowners in Fairfax, VA hire cleaning services to take care of the house while they’re at work. Maybe your HVAC system needs fixing, but you can’t afford to wait for hours until the workers arrive. A spare key for your home allows you be on the go while granting access to people who need it.
Allow a friend to house sit
Someone has to watch the house while you’re on vacation. You might trust a friend to enter your home, but that doesn’t mean you’re willing to hand over your only house key. That’s when having a spare comes in handy. You can rest easy knowing your property is being taken care of, and you’ll still have a way to get inside if your friend loses the spare.
If you don’t want to relinquish the only copy of your house key, a spare lets someone you trust keep the house as you left it. They’ll water the plants, walk the dog and collect the mail so there’s no stress when you come home from a relaxing vacation.
Keys go missing when you least expect them to. Be prepared for any situation with a spare house key from Artie’s Lock And Key in Fairfax, VA. Whether you need a copy or want to rekey the lock, one of our locksmiths is always ready to help. Send a quick message to let us know what we can do for you!
