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Master Lock introduces the dialSpeed electronic padlock

Master Lock introduces the dialSpeed electronic padlock
Master Lock's dialSpeed electronic combination padlock
Master Lock's dialSpeed electronic combination padlock
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Master Lock's dialSpeed electronic combination padlock
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Master Lock's dialSpeed electronic combination padlock

Well, it only makes sense ... they’ve come up with an electronic replacement for the door lock key, so why not the combination padlock, too? That’s what Master Lock has done, with its new dialSpeed lock. Although the retro grouch in some of us may find it a bit overdone, it does offer a couple of useful features.

While traditional combination padlocks involve memorizing combinations of exact numbers, the codes used by the dialSpeed are made up of combinations of just four “characters” – an up, down, left and right arrow. These arrows are displayed on the backlit keypad, and are each matched up with a group of letters and numbers. This allows users to memorize codes based on corresponding acronyms (like with the letters on phone keypads), as opposed to having to remember something like “up/up/down/right/up/left.”

Each lock comes with its own factory-set code, although this can be reset by the user. Up to three “guest codes” can also be programmed in, so the same lock can be used by different people for different things. Should users forget their code, they can reclaim the original factory code from the company website.

The lock is limited to dry, indoor use, and its CR2032 battery will need to be replaced after about five years. Fortunately, it does have a low battery indicator – it wouldn’t be pleasant if you were trying to retrieve your clothes from a swimming pool locker, only to discover that the lock’s battery had died.

Of course, many thieves choose bolt cutters over lock-picking skills, so it's good to know that the dialSpeed's shackle is made from cut-resistant hardened boron carbide.

The lock is currently available for US$24.99, from the Master Lock website. More information is available in the video below.

Source: Master Lock via Gear Patrol

Master Lock 1500eDBX dialSpeed™ Intro

8 comments
8 comments
Gadgeteer
I doubt it's a true boron carbide shackle. Boron carbide is brittle and a few hammer strikes could probably get you through it. A regular hardened steel shackle with a shroud around it would be far more secure. But this thing is all about flash anyway, not utility. Master Lock just isn't the company it used to be.
Blackhawk
How about a padlock that scans your fingerprint?
Will Sharp
I think a fingerprint scanner would probably use too much energy to be useful for a battery powered device!
MockingBird TheWizard
there is an analog version of this lock that uses (up/down/left/right) to unlock. write some numbers or characters on that and you have something that works just as easy, but will never need a battery replacement and can be used outdoors.
the one 'new+better' (vs just new) feature this thing has is that it can remember multiple combinations.
I'm not how easy it is to manage multiple combinations (removing 1 of the three).. so.. aside from some printing on the edges, not really a step up. considering the battery can die, inside use only, and someone can go ahead and sabotage it by spitting on it.
the best use for this is for hackers to try something new. :-)
Dave B13
It big giant step in the moron direction, from masterlocks own product. See the link for masterlock in the article clicks - combination locks - available colors , and look at their 1500id locks. Similar operating function NO BATTERIES , and it can be used OUTDOOORS. 1500idpnk is same as 1500id , just breast cancer sentiment color. With these manual models you can reset the combination, if you forget your settting you are truly screwed. Manual model is far better IMO , and it is cheaper.
Ashtangakasha
Too bad the Masterlock website says, "For INDOOR use only. Do not allow lock to get wet."
Super sturdy, but don't touch it with wet hands. Then what? It never opens?
It's hard to conceive of the usefulness of a padlock that can't be allowed to get wet, even if it is used indoors.
MDMesser
Bought one of these for a low-security equipment locker at work. The old mechanical combo lock was tedious to use... you had to squint at the little dials and spin them until you got the right code. With this electronic lock, it is MUCH quicker & easier.
Ed
Hmm, can I unlock it with my smartphone?