System Specifications
| System Parameter | Configuration Details |
| System Code | KA (Keyed Alike System) |
| Operating Principle | Multiple designated cylinders operate with an identical key combination |
| Hierarchy Level | 1-Tier (Flat, Non-Hierarchical) |
| Compatible Platforms | 7×7 Series, Pin-in-Pin Series, 1-Star Anti-Snap Series |
| Supported Cylinder Formats | Double Cylinders, Thumbturn Cylinders (with Knob), Half Cylinders |
| Key Profile Compatibility | Dimple Keys (Computer Keys) and Vertical Keys (Yale Keyway) |
| Key Supply per Suite | Standard: 3 to 5 keys per cylinder, or custom project allocation |
| Primary User Segment | Private Homeowners, Residential Estates, Small Retail Stores |
| Designated Entry Points | Perimeter Gates, Garage Doors, Main Entrances, Utility Access |
| Re-order Capability | Supported via registered factory bitting codes |
System Functionality & Engineering Architecture
Unified Bitting Principle
The Keyed Alike (KA) arrangement is engineered so that all pin tumblers across a designated group of lock cylinders are factory-assembled to the exact same pinning profile (pin lengths and shear-line heights). This ensures that any key within the set will smoothly actuate the cam across every lock in that specific group, eliminating the need to carry separate keys for different doors.
Cross-Format Cylinder Synchronization
Within a single residential or light commercial property, different entry points often require different mechanical formats:
- Perimeter Gates: Standard Double Cylinder (keyed operation from both sides).
- Main Entrance Doors: Thumbturn Cylinder (keyed exterior access with convenient interior manual locking).
- Garage & Roller Shutters: Euro Half Cylinder (single-sided key operation).
Under our KA system, all these distinct cylinder types can be keyed alike, allowing the property owner to use one unified key across all hardware types.
Primary Application Environments
Residential Homeowner Suite
- Perimeter Gate: Secure exterior perimeter access.
- Garage Doors & Side Access: Rolling shutter key switches or pedestrian garage doors.
- Main Entrance & Patio: Front security doors and rear sliding/french doors.
Light Commercial & Retail
- Storefronts: Front glass door double cylinder and rear delivery door thumbturn cylinder.
- Office Suites: Multiple interior offices synchronized for management personnel access.
B2B Customization & Ordering Terms
- Suite Configuration: Available from 2-cylinder paired suites (KA2) to multi-lock estate groups (KA10+).
- Factory Bitting Records: Every KA suite is logged with a unique production bitting code, enabling accurate replenishment orders or additional matching cylinders in the future.
- Packaging: Grouped packaging with matching identification labels on each box to prevent mix-ups during job-site installation.
- Production Lead Time: Typically 30 to 45 days depending on the cylinder platform and total batch quantity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. As long as the cylinders belong to the same internal pin series (e.g., all 7×7 series or all Pin-in-Pin series), different overall lengths (e.g., 70 mm, 78 mm) and different styles (double cylinder, thumbturn cylinder, half cylinder) can be keyed alike together.
In a Keyed Alike (KA) system, all keys are completely identical and each key opens every lock in the group. In a Master Key System (MKS), each individual lock has its own unique servant key (which cannot open other doors), but a higher-tier Master Key exists that can open all locks.
Yes. By referencing the original factory bitting code, our manufacturing facility can produce additional lock cylinders or replacement keys that match your existing KA suite.
