Q: What materials are used in the core? How strong are they?
A: The Blue core is constructed out of premium materials. Primarily steel. Security related components and lock engagement mechanism are made of injection molded, hardened steel. The battery cap which carries a true door hardware matching finish is made out of brass to allow for compatibility with our plating processes. External plastic components are made out of high strength poly-carbonate. For comparison, a standard Best SFIC is made out of brass which while a wonderful material for machining does not have the strength of hardened steel.
Q: Does the core lock and unlock the door automatically?
A: No. The core can only do what a mechanical key would be able to do. Think of it like this. When the core is "locked" (i.e. the knob is disengaged) it is like there is no key inserted into the core. The knob can spin all day long and never do anything to the lock it is installed into. When access is granted and the core is "unlocked" (i.e. the knob is engaged) then it is like a key has been inserted into the core. Now the user must turn the knob in the way they would have a mechanical key inside of that lock. The core, without human interaction, cannot change the state of a door or lock.
Q: Is the battery removal tool unique / secure to my site?
A: The battery tool is the same for all Blue cores. It is not intended to be a secure part of the device. It is there so that there are not any obvious exposed fasteners to reduce the chances that someone tampers with the device. Even if someone manages to get the battery cap off this does not compromise the security of the lock or door.
Q: How strong is the core? Can it easily be defeated by a hammer or pried off?
A: Generally the core meets or exceeds the strength requirements laid out by ANSI/BHMA for cores or levers
Q: What does this mean for ADA compliance?
A: When installed in compatible lever sets the core sticks out from the surface of the door by < 4 inches which is compliant with ADA. There are no specific ADA standards as they related to the operation of a core or key. We have taken care in the design of the knob to make it easy to operate for a broad swath of the population. However, individual needs should always be taken into account in a specific application.
Q: What happens if the core dies completely - will not function or respond the commands even with a fresh battery?
A: The core will need to be removed by force or drilling. Instruction can be provided by technical support on how to do this but it will result in destroying the core. Special tools likely required.
Q: Is this fully weatherized?
A: The Blue core is intended for indoor applications only at this point. We may investigate doing weatherized or water resistant versions or dedicated products down the road.
Q: What is required to installed a core?
A: The core is shipped in an 'install ready' state with the hex key inserted and control lug retracted. Simply remove the old core, and put in the new Blue core. Make sure the throw members are aligned prior to inserting the core. Once the core in seated use the provided hex key to lock into place by turning approximately 30 degrees clockwise. Install the battery and the battery cap. The core is now mechanically installed - no special tools required.
Q: Is there a key override for the core?
A: No. The core replaces the mechanical key. There is no backup key override or backdoor for security reasons. If the core is fully failed then you will have to gain access through ways familiar to locksmiths - drilling, under the door tool, disassemble the lock, etc.