CRL Master Key Systems & Key Control 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is a 'restricted keyway' used for in key control systems?
- Limiting the physical size of keys allowed in a lock
- Preventing unauthorized duplication by making the keyway proprietary (Correct answer)
- Restricting access to emergency personnel only
- Limiting the number of keys that can be cut per day
Correct answer: Preventing unauthorized duplication by making the keyway proprietary
Restricted keyways use proprietary key profiles only available through authorized dealers, preventing customers from duplicating keys at standard hardware stores.
Question 2: In master key system terminology, what is 'cross-keying'?
- The process of making keys that are compatible across different lock brands
- When a combination of bittings unintentionally creates a working key for an unintended lock (Correct answer)
- The technique of cutting keys in a cross pattern for anti-duplication security
- A method of duplicating keys using a cross-cut duplicating machine
Correct answer: When a combination of bittings unintentionally creates a working key for an unintended lock
Cross-keying occurs when the combination of master key and change key bittings inadvertently creates a phantom key that operates an unintended lock in the system.
Question 3: What is a 'key record' system used for in professional locksmith practice?
- Recording the musical pitch of key cuts for identification purposes
- Documenting all key codes, quantities issued, and authorized key holders (Correct answer)
- Tracking the physical wear and tear on keys over time
- Logging the number of times each key is used daily
Correct answer: Documenting all key codes, quantities issued, and authorized key holders
A key record system documents all key bitting information, number of keys issued, and who holds each key to maintain full accountability for a key system.
Question 4: What does it mean to 'key alike' multiple locks?
- Cutting all keys to the same physical length
- Installing the same brand of lock throughout a facility
- Having multiple locks operate with the same single key (Correct answer)
- Duplicating all keys so each lock has at least two copies
Correct answer: Having multiple locks operate with the same single key
Keying locks alike means multiple locks share the same bitting so they can all be operated by one key, commonly used for convenience in residential or small commercial settings.
Question 5: What is the primary purpose of a secure 'key cabinet' in a key control system?
- Displaying keys for customer selection at the counter
- Storing key blanks organized by manufacturer
- Securely housing issued keys and tracking their chain of custody (Correct answer)
- Protecting keys from weather and corrosion during storage
Correct answer: Securely housing issued keys and tracking their chain of custody
A key cabinet provides secure, organized storage for keys while tracking their availability and chain of custody, ensuring accountability within an organization.
Question 6: In master key system design, what does 'total positions' (TP) refer to?
- The total number of keys authorized to be issued in the system
- The number of possible bitting depth variations available per pin position (Correct answer)
- The total number of physical locks installed in the system
- The maximum number of pins that can be installed in a cylinder
Correct answer: The number of possible bitting depth variations available per pin position
Total positions refers to the number of available bitting depth increments per pin chamber, which directly determines how many unique key combinations can exist in the system.
Question 7: Which of the following is a PRIMARY advantage of a master key system in a large facility?
- Master key systems are always the least expensive option to install
- Authorized users can access multiple areas with a single key instead of carrying many keys (Correct answer)
- Master key systems eliminate the need for periodic lock maintenance
- Locks in a master key system are inherently pick-resistant
Correct answer: Authorized users can access multiple areas with a single key instead of carrying many keys
The primary advantage of a master key system is convenience and practicality—authorized personnel such as managers or security staff can access all necessary areas with one key.
CRL Master Key Systems & Key Control 2
What is a 'restricted keyway' used for in key control systems?