Master Key System Architecture Flashcards
7 cards from real CPL practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Master Key System Architecture flashcards as text
In a master key system, what does the term 'shear line' refer to?
Answer: The interface between the plug and shell where pins must align for rotation
The shear line is the boundary between the plug and the shell; when all pin stacks align at this line, the plug can rotate.
What is a 'cross-keying' conflict in a master key system?
Answer: A condition where a change key accidentally operates another change key's lock
Cross-keying occurs when a change key unintentionally operates a lock it was not designed to open due to coincidental bitting combinations.
How does a master wafer differ from a standard driver pin?
Answer: Master wafers create an additional shear line allowing a second key bitting to operate the lock
A master wafer (or master pin) is a thin spacer inserted between pins to create a second shear line, enabling both a change key and a master key to operate the lock.
In ALOA pin kit terminology, what does 'TMK' stand for?
Answer: Top Master Key
TMK stands for Top Master Key, representing the highest level of a master key hierarchy that operates all locks in a system.
What is the purpose of establishing a 'constant cut' in a master key system?
Answer: To designate one cut position that is identical on both the master key and change key
A constant cut is a bitting position where the master key and the change key share the same depth, reducing the number of master pins needed.
Which system design approach places the highest-bitting changes at the top of the hierarchy to minimize cross-keying?
Answer: Rotating constant method
The rotating constant method assigns a constant cut position that rotates through chambers, distributing master pins to reduce unintended cross-keying.
What is the maximum recommended number of master key levels in a conventionally pinned cylinder system before security becomes severely compromised?
Answer: 4
Most industry guidance limits conventionally pinned master key systems to four levels (GMK, MK, SMK, CK) before the accumulation of master pins makes picking and cross-keying risks unacceptably high.