Do You Know the Code for Your Combination Lock?

By Lori Cunningham

I like to use technology whenever possible.  Why?  Because I am a tech enthusiast, and often times technology offers a “way out” if you mess up.  For instance, the “undo” button has always been one of my most favorite buttons in word processing, creating presentations, and apps.  I couldn’t live without undo.  I gave up handwriting long ago just because I’d keep messing up and scratching out words became so unsightly.

It’s no different when it comes to locks.  Just how many locks do you have lying around the house with no keys or forgotten passcodes?  And you keep them because you always have that hope that the key or passcode will turn up one day.  Let me tell you, I not only have a house full of my own locks (locks for old lockers, bicycle locks, gate locks, etc), but I also inherited my mom’s old locks.  There’s got to be a better way.  Well, I have found the better way.  Is it a little pricier than a normal lock?  Yes.  But hey, it’s cool and it solves my problem of losing passcodes, that earns a star in my book!

The dialSpeed electronic combination lock from Master Lock not only lets you create up to 4 codes on the same lock, but Master Lock offers a free Master Lock Vault account to keep your passcodes…and any other passwords you have…safe and backed up.  Of course, you do have to remember your password to get into your vault!!!  LOL.  But they do allow you to create your own recovery question and answer to get in if you do.

Master Lock dialSpeed

Features:

• touchpad interface 
• light-up keypad
• simple interface allows you to open without even looking at the code
• solid metal casing
• boron carbide shackle, more resistant against cutting
• anti-shim technology prevents fraudulent opening
• can create up to 3 additional guest codes
• warns you when replaceable battery, CR2032, is getting low

Pros:

• battery lasts up to 5 years
• battery cannot be taken out unless the lock is unlocked
• you can create an extra codes and change it at will
• provides peace of mind with Master Lock Vault holding your passcode in case you forget it
• you can access the Master Lock Vault from your PC, mobile phone, anywhere with an Internet connection
• doesn’t attract attention to itself, which is good if your child is using it at high school, otherwise kids would be playing with it
• long shackle to fit most lockers

Cons:

• cannot be used outdoors (a major bummer!)
• pricier than a normal lock
• can’t get wet

Best Uses:

• covered student, employee, or gym lockers
• cabinets
• indoor cabinets

Master Lock Vault

One of the greatest benefits of purchasing the Master Lock dialSpeed is the free Master Lock Vault account you get.  Not only can you store your dialSpeed passcode there, but any other codes you have, whether they be for other traditional locks you have, website passwords, bank passwords, etc.  You get up to 1 GB of free storage, which is more than you need for just passwords.  But you can store even more here.  Think of important documents you have that you want to keep secure and free from fire hazards?

Store aways scanned copies of:

• birth certificates
• passports
• wills
• tax returns
• bank statements
• life policies
• Living Trusts
• Health Care Directive
• executor documents
• Durable Power of Attorney statements
• etc.

When I signed in for my free account, I noticed they have utilized extra security in the sign-on and they use “256-bit SSL data encryption, strong authentication controls, redundant firewall protection, and intrusion detection monitoring” to ensure your information is secured and protected.  You can even schedule text, email, or even voice reminders to help you keep track of important dates or to do’s…such as remember to renew your child’s passport, update your will, you name it.

You receive 1 GB of storage for free but should you decide to really use this vault as your #1 go-to for emergency or critical data, you will likely need more space.    You can upgrade to a 3 GB account for $50.90/year and a 10 GB account for $143.90/year.  I have run across at least two other types of online secure vaults for critical personal data, and this pricing is much more reasonable than others and it’s from a company that has been around for over 90 years, so it’s likely to be around for many more.  Other online secure vaults have sprung up within the last few years and I am nervous about how long they will really be around.

The Master Lock Vault can be accessed through the Internet or through an app on your iPhone, Android, Kindle Fire, or Nook.

The Master Lock dialSpeed can be purchased through Amazon for $37.99 plus shipping.

A Mom’s Perspective

I like the idea of a digital combination lock because over the years I have seen too many padlocks sitting around without either a key or a passcode.  I would feel more secure giving my children a padlock for their lockers where we have back-up codes.  I really am in love with the whole concept.  The only major drawback is that it is only an indoors lock.  I would imagine it would be OK for your child’s school, as long as it’s covered, but it shouldn’t get wet.

Nonetheless, the lock is great for the gym, a safe you have at home, or indoor cabinets.  One thing to consider, even if you’re not looking to buy a combo lock is Master Lock’s Master Vault.  It’s free to use whether or not you purchase a Master Lock and it’s a great safe place to store your important documents and passwords.  I always thought I’d be safe with my important documents locked up at home.  But several years ago, we had a wildfire nearly back up to our home and as we were rushing around to evacuate, I realized that keeping important documents at home was not the securist idea.  Having copies online that you can access from anywhere is a good idea.

*  I was given a Master Lock dialSpeed in exchange for my honest opinion.  All opinions are my own.