Are there smart locks without batteries?
Smart locks without batteries do exist. Battery-free technology is based on innovative energy-harvesting mechanisms, such as those found in iLOQ’s digital-key-based and smartphone-based smart-access solutions.
These cutting-edge systems eliminate the need for batteries or external power sources, offering a secure, sustainable, maintenance-free and cost-effective alternative to traditional mechanical or battery-powered electronic locks.
Read on to understand how battery-free technology works and the many benefits it brings to modern access management.
Smart locks powered by inserting the key
With iLOQ’s digital-key-based smart-locking solution, the power to recognize access rights and open the locks comes from the kinetic energy generated by pushing the key into the lock. It’s as simple as that. No need for batteries, cables, Wi-Fi or an internet connection. iLOQ’s cylinders can be installed in new properties or retrofitted in existing properties in a matter of seconds using just a normal screwdriver. No need for drilling and no need to make any changes to the doors or existing infrastructure.
As well as the cost savings achieved by eliminating the need to purchase batteries or pay maintenance to continually change them, you also have the added convenience that all the access rights needed to move around your building can be programmed to just one digital key. No need to carry around huge bunches of keys and no need to worry if your key is lost or stolen; it is simply blocked rendering it useless if someone finds it. Your access rights can be quickly and easily programmed to a new key. This makes it ideal for residential, commercial, and institutional properties where sustainability and security go hand in hand.
One of the main advantages of this solution is that using a digital key feels just like using a traditional mechanical one – there’s nothing new to learn. This makes it well-suited for a wide range of people including younger users, older individuals, and those less comfortable with technology.
Smart locks powered by your smartphone
One of the most groundbreaking advancements in the smart-lock industry is the use of passive NFC (Near Field Communication)-powered smart locks. iLOQ is a pioneer in this field, having developed and launched the world’s first and most advanced battery-free and keyless smart-lock systems already in 2016.
With iLOQ’s keyless, smartphone-based smart locks, the energy required to recognize access rights and open the locks is harvested directly from the NFC induction of the smartphone when it is held against the lock – no batteries, no wiring and no physical key. This adds convenience to the list of benefits of iLOQ’s solutions which are already known for their reliability, low maintenance and cost-efficiency. And, as mentioned above, the cylinders can be installed or retrofitted in a matter of seconds with no special tools.
Traditionally, smartphone-based smart locks have been preferred by customers in the critical infrastructure sector. Nowadays, they are also becoming popular in multifamily residential and student housing properties, and commercial and municipal buildings.
Other requirements and solutions for battery-free locking systems
Creating a smart lock without a battery involves more than just removing the power source. It requires:
- Energy-efficient electronics that can operate on minimal power.
- Secure digital key management to ensure access rights are always up to date.
- Robust mechanical design to withstand harsh environments.
- Cloud-based or mobile-based access management platforms for real-time updates and monitoring.
Benefits of battery-free smart locking
Switching to a battery-free smart-lock system offers numerous advantages:
- Zero battery waste – having no batteries means no environmental impact from disposal or replacement – an eco-friendly choice for green buildings and sustainability-focused organizations.
- Minimal maintenance – without batteries to replace, maintenance costs and site visits are drastically reduced, saving time and money over the lock’s lifecycle.
- Enhanced security – access rights can be updated remotely and instantly, and lost keys can be deactivated immediately – no need to change locks.
- Seamless user experience – Users can unlock all their doors with just one digital key or their smartphones making access fast, intuitive, and secure.
- Scalable and versatile – From student housing to utility cabinets, iLOQ’s battery-free solutions adapt to a wide range of applications and environments.
If you’re looking for a smart lock without a battery, iLOQ offers the most advanced and reliable battery-free smart-lock solutions on the market. Whether you’re managing a single building or a nationwide infrastructure, iLOQ’s digital-key-based and smartphone-based solutions deliver unmatched sustainability, security, and simplicity.
Learn more about iLOQ’s smart-access solutions for:
Critical infrastructure, Residential properties, Public and commercial properties or get in touch with one of our experts here.
