REVIEW: Kwikset SmartCode deadbolt with Home Connect
Installing deadbolts may not be common practice for systems integrators, but the Kwikset SmartCode could change that. Paul Skelton explains.
Calling an integrator a locksmith is about the same as calling a plumber a hairdresser. It just seems wrong. But, for integrators who want to offer the complete whole home package, access control is seemingly low hanging fruit.
And for someone with no experience with access technologies, the Kwikset SmartCode 914 Deadbolt with Home Connect technology is a good place to start.
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HOW IT WORKS
The Kwikset SmartCode blends traditional locksmith-ery with the latest in access control technology. On the external faceplate are six tactile pushbuttons; five of these buttons each represent two numbers (i.e. 1 and 2, 3 and 4, etc) and the sixth is the ‘lock’ button.
Access is granted through the use of a four to eight digit code. And the device can store two unique codes.
It should be pointed out that this is a very serious lock. The materials used are incredibly solid and could do some serious damage if you ever threw it at somebody’s head. Not that I have ever done that. Nor do I endorse that type of behaviour. I mention it purely to let you know that the Kwikset SmartCode is clearly no toy nor gimmick, which is what you want from a deadbolt.
It’s also very modern in its design and should suit the vast majority of houses; but, if it doesn’t, there are other styles available, including one that may be better suited to period homes.
The device is powered by four AA batteries, which are located in a case within the internal mechanism. A handy flashing LED and beeping sound will alert you if the batteries are low or if the door is not locked. But, if for any reason the battery does run dead, then you can always channel your Stone Age ancestors and use the key.
HOME CONNECT
Kwikset’s SmartCode deadbolts integrate with home security and automation systems through the introduction of something called Home Connect technology, which allows the locks to communicate with other wireless products in the home.
But, what exactly is Home Connect technology?
Home Connect allows the lock to wirelessly talk to other devices in the house, including the security system, lighting, thermostat and entertainment system. By using Home Connect technology home owners can lock or unlock doors remotely with a mobile device or secure internet connection; check the lock’s status remotely; receive a notification of which code unlocked the door; assign names to user codes for notifications via email or text with how the door was unlocked; and remotely add or delete access codes. Home Connect also interacts with alarm systems so the home owners can lock/unlock their door locks when they arm or disarm their security system.
Users can also create customised home scenarios using Home Connect to talk with the other devices that are hooked up to the home automation system. For example, a user can set up a scenario by which they can use their unique code to unlock the door, which also turns the TV on to a specific channel, the thermostat is automatically set to the ideal temperature and the shades go up halfway.
SMARTKEY
Keeping in mind that in addition to being a connected home technology the SmartCode is a deadbolt, the company has also incorporated a very handy feature that is designed to deter burglars.
Kwikset’s rekey technology – a patented technology called SmartKey – enables re-keying in seconds without removing the lock from the door or the additional expense of a locksmith.
All SmartKey products include a SmartKey learn tool, new key and instructions to re-key, which is a very simple process:
• Insert the functioning key and turn 90 degrees clockwise;
• Insert and remove the SmartKey learn tool;
• Remove the functioning key; and,
• Insert new key and half turn counter-clockwise.
The lock is now re-keyed.
The SmartCode deadbolt also withstands the highest levels of UL testing to resist lock picking and features BumpGuard technology to protect against lock bumping, providing enhanced home security and peace of mind.
BumpGuard is a patented side locking bar that replaces the traditional pin and tumbler design, providing protection against lock bumping. The cylinder uses two steel balls inserted into the front of the cylinder face to provide improved drill resistance.
INSTALLATION
I should preface this section by saying that I’m not a locksmith. Nor am I an integrator. In fact, I’m a fat Kiwi journalist with no discernable DIY skills worth mentioning.
That said, I was able to install this lock in less than 30 minutes. For lack of a better word, the included instructions are idiot-proof.
The process begins by drilling a 54mm-diameter hole in your door, 60-70mm in from the edge, and another along the edge of the door measuring 25mm in diameter. The door should be at least 35-51mm thick.
If you’re not handy with a drill, this is really the only step you can stuff up.
The rest of the installation process is simply an exercise in assembly, until you come to programming the access codes.
To do so, simply hold the lock button on the keypad while inserting the battery pack in to the interior mechanism. This will switch the device on. Once it is ready to go, you press the ‘Program’ button, enter the four-to-eight digit code and press the lock button.
That’s it. Done.
SUMMARY
Kwikset’s SmartCode 914 Deadbolt with Home Connect technology was one of 10 winners chosen in the Best New Product category at the 2013 CEDIA Manufacturers’ Excellence Awards. The winners were selected by a panel of home technology professional judges, which shows that industry has truly gotten behind this product.
SmartCode locks do come in versions without Home Connect and can be used as very effective, secure locks. Keyless entry is obviously a great feature, and codes can be assigned and deleted to control access. But Home Connect technology, powered by either Zigbee or Z-Wave RF protocols, is what gives the locks remote access capability, the ability to create customized scenarios, and all the other features listed above.
It’s well worth the money.
Unfortunately, for the time being, you can only get the Kwikset SmartCode 914 Deadbolt with Home Connect technology in Australia from US online retailers. But hopefully that will change soon.
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