Only until recently locksmiths weren't required to know very much abut electricity and electronically controlled devices. For the most part locksmiths worked on mechanical devices, locks in doors, vehicles and safes and left the electrical work for the electricians and specialists in the field.
With the advent of such products as electromagnetic locks, electric strikes, electronic exit devices, alarm systems and closed circuit television the modern locksmith has taken on this role and become professional in the service and installation of these products.
The main things to know in installing these products are how to run wiring, the basic principles of electricity and of course, how to work safely with electricity.
With the exception of what is mostly well know, there are two type of electrical current, AC and DC. AC stands for alternating current and DC stands for direct current. Polarity also comes into play as it refers to the positive and negative terminals of a power source.
When working with electricity there are other terms to be familiar with in order to make sure that there is a complete understanding of the task at hand.
Controlling electricity means that electricity is controlled in two ways, one by using various circuit components and two by limiting its force and directing its flow. Force of electricity must be controlled as too much can cause damage to a device and obviously, too little will not be enough to give it power. By using the proper type, length and thickness of conductors, force is controlled by making use of a power source which has the appropriate amount of voltage.
Ohms Law states that a resistance of one ohm passes a current of one ampere in response to an applied potential of one volt. Ohms law is the relationship between the basic elements of an electric circuit.
Resistance is any opposing force to the electrical flow. Rubber is a popular example of something that provides resistance, therefore it is commonly used to insulate wiring.
Transformers allow for the use of an AC power source from one circuit such as a wall socket in order to power a device on a different circuit. Many of the electronic products that a locksmith will install or service use transformers.
Circuit components each serve a precise role in any device they are installed in. Some components include transformers, capacitors and resistors.
Resistors are circuit components that reduce the amount of current that flows to other components within a circuit. Different components require different amounts of current and therefore resistors are necessary to control this flow for both fixed and variable types of electricity, where variable resistors will provide more than one level of resistance and fixed resistors provide a small level of resistance.
Capacitors are made of two glass plates separated by insulation and they are made to store electricity. Both fixed and variable capacitors are made. With the ever expanding role of the locksmith and their services, products and knowledge, understanding and safety with electricity is essential.