Technological advances and smartphones are making it possible to secure your home, even when you aren’t actually in the house. With a combination of the appropriate application and technology, such as the Lockitron deadbolt, you can lock your doors with the push of a button.

The Lockitron Story

Lockitron is a product designed to improve home security by locking your doors  using a smartphone app. According to Techcrunch.com, the founders decided to move forward with their idea after Kickstarter rejected it by using a pre-order system.

Although the project started with an idea that was rejected, Lockitron is still growing in popularity as homeowners recognize the value of the system.

According to Lockitron.com, the add-on is put directly over your deadbolt and connects to your wireless network. Since it’s connected to your Internet, you’re able to activate it with your smartphone. You can lock or unlock doors from any location.  The system will also notify you when the deadbolt is unlocked.

Since the project started, Lockitron has steadily grown in popularity. According to Lockitron.com, the pre-order system has already seen more than 14,700 orders and those numbers are growing steadily. The product is being received positively by consumers who want to secure their homes.

Unlocking Technology

Lockitron is gaining popularity as consumers experience the benefits of remote locking and unlocking, but it’s not the only smart lock on the market.

Goji is a more advanced system, which shows you an image of every individual who unlocks your door, gives you a message and identifies you when you unlock the door.  According to Gadgetreview.com, it also allows you to give access to visiting loved ones via smartphone, which prevents visitors from waiting outside if you will take a few minutes to arrive.

According to LifeHacker.com, the project of making an automatic-locking system requires an arduino, an open-source electronics prototyping platform.  Instructables.com suggests the use of a transistor to focus the device, a Bluetooth module to connect to your phone, and an electronic door strike to turn the deadbolt.

Although the DIY project might seem complicated, SecurityCompanies.com suggests do-it-yourself security is actually becoming more common due to wireless connectivity. Your wireless Internet is making it easier to set up a system allowing you to lock your door from a remote location, even without the expensive gadgets.

Security Concerns

Because of the reliance on wireless or Bluetooth technology, security concerns can arise for some individuals.  For many the primary security concern is that the key is stored on a smartphone.  Companies are limiting the risks by putting limitations on the function of the devices.

Now, manufacturers are able to provide better security measures so that your lock isn’t compromised.  The notification feature also helps improve peace of mind because you know when the door is unlocked.

Image by é»› 欧 pursuant to the terms of Creative Commons license.

Raymond Gruber

Ray is either in the garage tinkering with his solar generator and electric car, or online researching clean energy resources. Freelance writing allows him to combine his love of learning and research with making a difference in the clean energy movement.