Glossary
Blank
A key that has not yet been cut to fit a lock.
Core
A removable cylinder and plug, used in a interchangeable core system.
Core key
(sometimes control key)
A key which is used to remove a core.
Cylinder
The part of the lock in which the the pins are set and which contains
the plug.
Cuts
The notches cut in the key to make it fit a lock.
follower (plug follower). This is a cylindrical object of the same outer
diameter as the plug (there are various diameters, often about 1/2")
which is used to push out or follow the plug when the plug is to be removed.
This retains the top pins and
Springs
in the lock body.
Key way
(short answer) The slot into which the key is inserted.
(long answer) Refers to (a) the size and shape of the (cross-section
of the) key, and (b) the opening in the lock
which is shaped to admit the key and to keep out most keys of different
sizes and shapes. Whether the keyway
can be patented by the lock manufacturer as a way to prevent others
from manufacturing compatible key blanks
and therefore to restrict access is open to dispute. Recent court
cases make it doubtful that the simple design is
patentable, but a keyway design which is involved in the patented method
of operation of a lock may have patent
protection.
Master key
A key which opens a group of locks designed to match it.
Pin tumblers
The pins in the lock which are moved to the shear line by the key.
pin chamber
the tubular hole in which pins and a spring stay.
Plug
The part of the lock which the key is inserted and is rotated by the key.
Sidebar
A lock part located at the 'side' of the plug and fitting into longitudinal
grooves in both the plug and the lock body. This keeps the plug from turning
until the sidebar is retracted into the plug. Retraction is blocked until
the correct key (or picking) moves the pins or other tumblers to positions
which cease to block the retraction or
produce some other action allowing the retraction. A sidebar can add additional
positioning beyond the usual "shear line" and so can make picking
more difficult. A number of locks use a sidebar to increase security.
VATS
GM's Vehicle Anti-Theft System which uses a resistor in the key shank
in addition to the cuts on the key. wafer tumbler
Used in locks which are less expensive than pin tumbler locks. They behave
somewhat similarly.
warded lock A lock using wards to keep an incorrect key from entering
the key hole and turning.
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