FAQ

Keyless Home Entry

Can I have keyless entry on my home?

Yes you can! You need never carry keys for your home again, and eliminate the possibility of locking yourself out in Helena, Clancy, Montan City, or Avon, MT!

Residential keyless entry has never been more affordable or convenient! With prices starting at $130.00 keyless deadbolts are now within any homeowners budget! Modern keyless entry can be separated into 2 classes: Mechanical and Electronic.

Mechanical keyless deadbolts provide a robust, simple option to home security. Available with or without a key override, mechanical keyless deadbolts allow all users to share the same code. Codes are very easy for the homeowner to change! Multiple codes and event trails will only be found in electronic products.

Electronic keyless deadbolts are available with or without a key override and will have the option of multiple user codes and event trail auditing. Easy add and delete functions will allow the homeowner to control all aspects of access to the home. 20 or more individual user codes are common in this type of product. Electronic deadbolts will use DC battery power, whether 9 volts or AA, to either operate the bolt or to release the bolt and free the thumb turn for manual operation. Because of the small energy demand from the lock, the batteries will last thru many thousands of cycles and backlit keypads provide extra convenience and safety on dark nights!

In summary, using a keyless deadbolt in conjunction with a passage (non-locking) knob or lever will provide all the security of a traditional mechanical deadbolt with the convenience of keyless entry!

Car Key

*Why are my car keys so expensive?

Transponder keys may also be called “chip keys.” Transponder keys are automotive ignition keys with signal-emitting circuits built inside.

When the key is turned in the ignition cylinder, the car’s computer transmits a radio signal to the transponder circuit. The circuit has no battery; it is energized by the radio signal itself. The circuit typically has a computer chip that is programmed to respond by sending a coded signal back to the car’s computer. If the circuit does not respond or if the code is incorrect, the engine will not start. Many cars immobilize if the wrong key is used by intruders. Chip Keys successfully protect cars from theft in two ways: forcing the ignition cylinder won’t start the car, and the keys are difficult to duplicate. This is why chip keys are popular in modern cars and help decrease car theft.

Most people who have transponder keys are not aware of the fact because the circuit is hidden inside the plastic head of the key. On the other hand, General Motors produced what are known as VATS keys (Vehicle Anti-Theft System) during the 1990s, which are often erroneously believed to be transponders but actually use a simple resistor, which is visible in the blade of the key. If the value of the resistor is wrong, or the key is a normal key without a resistor, the circuit of the car’s electrical system will not allow the engine to be started.

In summary, transponder keys in modern vehicles are more expensive than mechanical keys due to the electronics in the keys, programming, and the equipment and technical expertise required in programming the keys. Contact us at Burdick’s Locksmith Services Inc. today!