Just in time for the holidays, relief is on the way for the millions of homeowners who lock themselves out of their homes, condominiums or apartments each year.
The BioLock/SmartScan, developed by the combined engineering expertise of Sequiam Biometrics and Kwikset, has resulted in the first truly innovative biometric deadbolt lock for broad consumer use that eliminates the need for keys "" allowing homeowners to unlock their doors by simply swiping their finger across a tiny fingerprint sensor. The biometric sensor integrated in the BioLock/SmartScan technology comes from AuthenTec, the world leader in fingerprint sensor security, innovation and sales.
The new BioLock/SmartScan features a pleasing design that on the outside resembles a traditional deadbolt door lock. However, the biometric deadbolt lock features a battery powered locking mechanism that is activated when the homeowner swipes his or her finger across the integrated AuthenTec FingerLoc fingerprint sensor. This eliminates the need for traditional keys, which can be lost, stolen or forgotten. Each year, millions of people in the U.S. lose keys to their homes, condominiums, offices, and other secured locations, according to industry reports.
BioLock/SmartScan homeowners can enroll up to 50 family members, friends or other individuals to activate the lock, which has an easy to use instructional LCD keypad on the part of the lock that is inside the home. Enrolling involves simply swiping a finger three times across the sensor. Then, each time the authorized user swipes the finger across the sensor, the deadbolt recedes, and the door unlocks. Homeowners also can easily delete or add authorized users using the same keypad. In addition, homeowners can provide access to certain individuals at preset times and dates. To lock the door, a user simply taps the sensor three times, and the deadbolt slides to secure door.
The BioLock/SmartScan is powered by four AA batteries, which will last for over one year under normal use. The lock signals ahead of time when batteries need to be replaced "" similar to a smoke detector. The lock also features a traditional key entry option as a backup for homeowners. The BioLock/SmartScan can be easily installed by homeowners into most new or existing doors or to replace the standard deadbolt.
"We are excited that homeowners everywhere can now overcome the hassles of fumbling with or losing their keys," said Kevin Henderson, president of Sequiam Biometrics. "We chose AuthenTec's sensors because they combine extreme security with the highest reliability for reading virtually every fingerprint "" which is critical for our customers. The AuthenTec sensor also blends well within the sophisticated biometric technology infrastructure we invented specifically for the BioLock/SmartScan product. The AuthenTec sensor's small size enabled us to create a unique and attractive design that would not have been possible with other sensors on the market."
"Sequiam and Kwikset have created a unique solution to solve a problem that has plagued homeowners since the introduction of the door lock," said Larry Ciaccia, president of AuthenTec. "We are proud to partner with such innovative companies on a product that leverages our technology to provide security, convenience and privacy for homeowners around the world."
The new BioLock/SmartScan deadbolt door lock has a suggested retail price of $249.00 and is available now via select retails outlets and the Internet at www.sequiam.com/products/biolock, and will be sold through national home supply stores before the end of the year.
About AuthenTec
With more than 10 million sensors in use worldwide, AuthenTec is the world leader in fingerprint sensor security, innovation and sales to the PC, wireless, and access control markets. AuthenTec's award-winning FingerLoc® and EntréPad® sensors take full advantage of The Power of Touch" by utilizing the company's patented TruePrint® technology to deliver the most convenient, reliable and cost-effective means available for enabling touch-powered features that extend beyond user authentication. The company's network of partners, solution providers and customers include: Analog Devices, APC, ASUSTek, Compal, Cherry, Fujitsu Computer, Computer Associates, HP, IBM, Lenovo, LG Electronics, Microsoft, Motion Computing, MPC Computers, NEC Packard Bell, Pantech, Quanta, Samsung, Tatung, Texas Instruments, Toshiba, and Wistron, among others. Visit www.authentec.com
About Sequiam
Headquartered in Orlando, Florida, Sequiam Corporation develops, markets, and supports a portfolio of highly robust proprietary biometrically enabled OEM, consumer lifestyle and commercial products/solutions. In addition, Sequiam has invested heavily in research and development to develop unique products/solutions for the biometric industry worldwide. Sequiam Biometrics' solutions incorporate low-cost, high-volume manufacturing processes targeted at the consumer and commercial market. Sequiam is a global company with offices in Taiwan, China, Switzerland and South Africa. For more information, please visit www.sequiam.com and www.sequiambiometrics.com
About KwikSet
Since 1946, Kwikset has led the way in residential door hardware by combining the best in style, security and innovation. People turn to Kwikset, America's #1 selling lockset brand, to make their homes more stylish and secure. For additional information on Kwikset products, visit www.kwikset.com, or call 1-800-327-LOCK. Kwikset is a company within the Hardware and Home Improvement Group, a division of Black & Decker, a leading global manufacturer and marketer of power tools and accessories, hardware and home improvement products, and technology-based fastening systems. The Black & Decker Hardware and Home Improvement Group includes some of the most recognizable hardware and home improvement brands including Kwikset(R), Weiser Lock(R), Baldwin(R), Price Pfister and Bach(R).
