Interchangeable core: Difference between revisions

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[[Image:Interchangable_Core_Lockwiki.JPG|thumb|right|text-top|300px|Interchangable Lock Core]]
[[Image:Interchangable_Core_Lockwiki.JPG|thumb|right|text-top|300px|Interchangable Lock Core]]


An Interchangeable Core is a lock core that can be changed without fully disassembling the lock. The cores generally come in a "Figure Eight" form factor. Interchangeable cores are generally also characterized by their ability to be changed by the end user, rather than a locksmith.
An '''interchangeable core'' is a lock core that can be replaced without fully disassembling the lock. Interchangeable cores typically come in the "Figure 8" form factor. They are characterized by their ability to be changed by the end user rather than a [[Locksmithing|locksmith]].
 
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==Function==
==Function==
The opening and closing of an interchangeable core is exactly the same as it would be on a full form factor lock of the same type. (For example [[Pin tumbler]].)
 
The opening and closing of an interchangeable core is exactly the same as it would be on a full form factor lock of the same type. (For example, a [[Pin_tumbler |pin-tumbler]] lock.)


In most interchangeable cores changing of cores is done by using a special key known as a "Control Key" or "Interchange Key". This key functions as a normal key would, but it unlocks the holding mechanism for the core, allowing it to slide out.
In most interchangeable cores changing of cores is done by using a special key known as a "Control Key" or "Interchange Key". This key functions as a normal key would, but it unlocks the holding mechanism for the core, allowing it to slide out.


Other interchangeable cores (mostly on padlocks) use a single retaining screw below the clasp to hold the core in place, however there is debate about if this is still technically and interchangeable core.
Other interchangeable cores (mostly on [[Padlock |padlocks]]) use a single retaining screw below the clasp to hold the core in place, however there is debate about if this is still technically an interchangeable core.


==Security==
==Security==
Interchangeable cores have both security benefits and downsides.
Interchangeable cores have both security benefits and downsides.


The addition of an extra one or more pins controlled by the control key leave at least one extra possible correct position.
The addition of an extra one or more pins controlled by the control key leave at least one extra possible correct position for the lock. Making it easier to pick.
 
However, the time saving benefits of an interchangeable core and the fact the work does not need to be completed by a locksmith mean that in the event of a key breach, locks can be changed quickly and efficiently by staff rather than a professional locksmith.
 
 
== External Links ==
* [https://www.locksmithledger.com/locks/cylinders-high-security/article/10228229/mastering-ic-pin-stack-mathematics "Mastering IC Pin Stack Mathematics"]. ''Locksmith Ledger''. 1 June 2010. Retrieved 30 January 2023.
 
 
== See also ==
* [[BEST]]
* [[Master keying]]


However the time saving benefits of an interchangeable core and the fact the work does not need to be completed by a locksmith mean that in the event of a key breach, locks can be changed quickly and efficiently by staff rather than a professional locksmith.
[[Category:Master keying]]
[[Category:Locksmithing]]
[[Category:Locks]]
[[Category:Keys]]
{{Stub}}

Latest revision as of 23:40, 30 January 2023

Interchangeable Core

Interchangable Lock Core

An 'interchangeable core is a lock core that can be replaced without fully disassembling the lock. Interchangeable cores typically come in the "Figure 8" form factor. They are characterized by their ability to be changed by the end user rather than a locksmith.


Function

The opening and closing of an interchangeable core is exactly the same as it would be on a full form factor lock of the same type. (For example, a pin-tumbler lock.)

In most interchangeable cores changing of cores is done by using a special key known as a "Control Key" or "Interchange Key". This key functions as a normal key would, but it unlocks the holding mechanism for the core, allowing it to slide out.

Other interchangeable cores (mostly on padlocks) use a single retaining screw below the clasp to hold the core in place, however there is debate about if this is still technically an interchangeable core.

Security

Interchangeable cores have both security benefits and downsides.

The addition of an extra one or more pins controlled by the control key leave at least one extra possible correct position for the lock. Making it easier to pick.

However, the time saving benefits of an interchangeable core and the fact the work does not need to be completed by a locksmith mean that in the event of a key breach, locks can be changed quickly and efficiently by staff rather than a professional locksmith.


External Links


See also

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