Geek households : Schlage Keypad and Alarm lock
Tags :Schlage door lock geek toys
I was able to get my hands on the Schlage FE576 CAM 619 ACC CAM Built-in Alarm door lock for home. This being my third Schlage door lock of this type, minus the alarm, I was anxious to test it out.
I previously switched my doors over to the Schlage keypad entry type door handles to make it easier by not carrying keys and the ability to provide multiple and even temporary codes. The addition of the alarm makes this perfect for external doors on your home.
Installation:
This fits almost every standard door sizing and existing frames. I have had no problems simply screwing it together on an internal garage door, front large glass door and back garage door. I even went so far to test it on an internal wood storage room first to make sure I understood how it worked. With a few screws removing the old lock and catch, this fit right into the same screw holes for me. It does come with some additional sizings to help.
Remember to switch the door handle the direction you need before installing however.
Setup and Configuration: (DO NOT lose the master code that comes with the lock)
It comes with a code that allows you to set every possibility from multiple user codes to temporary. If you follow the diagram and wait for the proper flashing indications it is simple. If you type too fast or do not pay attention you just have to start over. From there the supplied sheet walks you through each step with a diagram flow chart
Usage:
It comes with the necessary batteries so you are ready as soon as you install it and configure your codes. There is always the backup keys, but the batteries have worked in all mine well over a year ()even with the box saying 3 years). It includes low battery warnings so you don't get caught by surprise.
Access is as simple as typing in the correct code and you have a few seconds before it automatically relocks for security. You can alway throw the latch on the inside to turn the lock off if you will be in and out, such as bringing in groceries. If you enter a code wrong you get an audible beep and flash of the light. You can then try again. Also if you know you entered a number wrong, just stop and wait a second and it will give the same warning and reset to allow you to start over.
The alarms are the new features for me and worked quite well. You can easily toggle between the choices with the large button on the inside as shown in the picture. The main alarm for forced entry is quite loud and noticeable at a distance. The tamper alarm is something I will not enable as walking up and just jiggling the handle sets it off and kids often forget to enter their code first to get in, so it went off a few times. Tamper mode lasts a short interval but can still be heard. The single beep was great for signaling when someone went in or out. For kids, elderly or a door that really never opens it is a great tool. You also have the option to turn them all off and have the alarms silenced. I started turning off during the day and enabling alarm mode at night and when leaving.
Overall I have had nothing but success with these locks. Always worked, sturdy construction (meets high security standards) and gives a very modern and cool approach to home access.
Disclosure: The link for the Schlage FE576 CAM 619 ACC CAM Built-in Alarm is an affiliate link
Also, make sure you keep up with all the product reviews from Spiked Studio on YouTube.
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On Wednesday, August 22nd, 2012 by Chris Miller
