Software

[Brett McMenimon]

Does anyone have any suggestions for Windows based Master Key systems?

Currently we work with a ODs based program so you can imagine how frustrating that can be.

I am looking for something that create entire master key systems and provide spaces for key numbers and ways to label each key.


Also was about electronic dispatching? Any suggestions there?

[KokomoLock]

We use HPC Masterking, here is a link and you can download a free demo. Does everything you want and more.

http://www.hpcworld.com/Software/w_mk35.htm

[MarkC]

I can also vouch for Masterking. I also own MasterkeyPro which is about $300 and available from http://www.masterkeypro.com The easy cross keying feature is pretty nice.

Mark

[weerwolf]

We use Instacode for this. It can be used for simple master key systems. Its a program any locksmith should have.

[KokomoLock]

I will have to check into Instacode then, I did not know it did master key systems, only thought it did key codes.

[lunchb0x]

I have always used promaster, this I find to be very easy for making master key systems and also can be used to keep information on what type of door the lock is on, the hardware used such as closers, hinges and in larger businesses it can be used so one person makes the master key system, then the lock infomation can be sent to one side of the shop to get the locks sorted, the keying info to another part so the locks could be keys up and same for the keys, though for a small shop you wouldn't need these features.

[lockguy8]

another vote for instacode.

[maxxx]

Why do you need software to write a MK system? I use a pencil & paper. If its a 5 drawer file cabinet or a 10 floor apt. building. Plus you can add more locks (keys) at a later time.

Just write down your Grand Master Key bitting (One deep cut, NOT at bow, one shallow cut, NOT at the tip) Then you progress the key bitting array (like the odometer on a car).

Its so simple its confusing, but once you understand and write out one MK system, you can write one on a cocktail napkin in seconds. But watch out for those pesky MACS violations (Maximum Adjacent Cuts)

[weerwolf]

It is possible to make them on paper , but if its a really complicated system , the software really helps a lot. Plus , it takes out all the errors you could make on paper.

[Brett McMenimon]

Why do you need software to write a MK system? I use a pencil & paper. If its a 5 drawer file cabinet or a 10 floor apt. building. Plus you can add more locks (keys) at a later time.

Just write down your Grand Master Key bitting (One deep cut, NOT at bow, one shallow cut, NOT at the tip) Then you progress the key bitting array (like the odometer on a car).

Its so simple its confusing, but once you understand and write out one MK system, you can write one on a cocktail napkin in seconds. But watch out for those pesky MACS violations (Maximum Adjacent Cuts)

Really? C'mon?

You write master key systems on a napkin? What if your customer calls and needs to add or subtract some change keys? or wants to make copies of room 201 key. You go look for a napkin?

[lockrite]

For sure you can write out a masterkey system with pen and paper.
Anything from a simple system for a few locks to a more complex system using Grand Master Keying and Maison Keying.
Before computers became popular this was in fact the way it was done.
Someone sat down and nutted the system out in thier head.
Of course the more complex the system the more you need to be aware of and check for things like cross keying and phantom keys.

The masterkeying program that comes with Instacode in meant for only very simple and basic systems employing only a few locks.
For ease of use and designing a more complex system a good computer program such as Promaster takes all the hard work out of it.

[activeennovations]

Try I think it allows a master key system.

[rfabre]

You can try to use
It is a Key Control Software that allows you to create small master key systems or to import them.
You can also manage your keys, key rings, key holders, doors...

[Jaakko]

The above two posters are obviously here only to advertise their products (I compared email addresses with their websites contacts).

It is nice to hear about products, but it would be nice if the posters would identify themselves properly so that those interested could easily ask question about the products.

Other than that, advertising here is a no-no if my memory is correct.