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 bitting list, what does the column labeled 'MK' typically represent?
Answer: The master key bitting for that group
The 'MK' column in a bitting list records the master key bitting depths used as the controlling bitting for a group of change keys.
What is 'maison keying'?
Answer: A system where one key opens many locks but each lock has its own unique key
Maison keying (also called 'hotel keying') allows a single entry key to open multiple units, while each unit also has its own individual key.
When designing a master key system, what does 'total bitting list' (TBL) analysis help prevent?
Answer: Duplicate key cuts that would cause unintended cross-keying
A total bitting list analysis compiles all key bittings in the system to identify and eliminate duplicate or conflicting bitting combinations that could cause cross-keying.
What is the role of a 'sub-master key' in a tiered master key system?
Answer: It operates a defined subset of locks within a master key group
A sub-master key is positioned below the master key in the hierarchy, controlling a specific subset of locks within a larger master key group.
In a six-pin cylinder master key system, what is the maximum theoretical number of usable change key combinations using a progression increment of 1 across depths 1–9?
Answer: 9^6 minus unusable bittings
While 9^6 = 531,441 combinations exist mathematically, real-world usability is reduced by MACS violations, cross-keying conflicts, and progression rules, leaving far fewer usable bittings.
What does 'MACS' stand for in key system design?
Answer: Maximum Adjacent Cut Specification
MACS stands for Maximum Adjacent Cut Specification, defining the greatest allowable difference between two adjacent cuts on a key to ensure the key can be cut and operate properly.
Which of the following is a primary disadvantage of adding more levels to a master key hierarchy?
Answer: More master pins are required, increasing vulnerability to manipulation and cross-keying
Each additional hierarchy level requires more master wafers per cylinder, increasing the number of false shear lines and making the lock easier to pick and more prone to cross-keying.