DESLOC A100F Fingerprint Smart Deadbolt: unlock options, battery and install

The DESLOC A100F is a keyless smart deadbolt for a front door. It unlocks by fingerprint or PIN code, and it ships with five physical keys as a backup. It runs on four AA batteries and is meant to be fitted with a screwdriver.

Ways to unlock it

DESLOC lists three: fingerprint, PIN code and the supplied keys. The brand says the fingerprint reader recognises a print in 0.3 seconds and describes its technology as improved through AI learning. A reader like this typically stores a number of prints, so each household member can enrol their own. Check the manual for how many it holds.

The PIN keypad has what DESLOC calls anti-peeping protection. This type of feature usually lets you enter extra digits around the real code so someone watching cannot easily read it. Confirm how it works in the manual.

Battery and emergency power

Four AA batteries are said to last around 12 months, although DESLOC notes that life varies with how often the lock is used. A low-battery indicator warns you before they run out. If they do, a Type-C emergency power port lets you power the lock temporarily from an outside source so you can still get in.

Auto-lock

With auto-lock, the deadbolt re-locks after a set time instead of relying on you to turn it. That is convenient, but it means you should carry a way in, such as a key, when stepping outside.

Build and weather protection

The lock is described as having a zinc alloy body, which DESLOC says is more robust than aluminium alloy, and a strong lock cylinder. It is listed as IP54. Under the usual IP system, the "5" means protected against dust ingress to a limited degree and the "4" means protected against water splashes from any direction. That suits a covered porch, but it is not designed for submersion. The listed operating range is -22°F to 158°F (-30°C to 70°C).

Installation and support

DESLOC says installation takes minutes with a screwdriver, and the interior back cover has adhesive for hands-free setup. Door preparation matters, so confirm your door's bore, thickness and backset match the lock, and follow the manual and local codes. DESLOC lists a one-year warranty and customer support by phone on weekdays and email at all times.

What to check before you buy

• Door fit: check door thickness, bore size and the existing deadbolt dimensions against the manual.
• Handedness and orientation: confirm the lock suits your door's swing.
• Weather exposure: IP54 is splash-resistant; consider how exposed the door is.
• Backup access: keep a key somewhere safe outside the home, in line with your household's security habits.
• Batteries: keep spare AA cells on hand.
• Rules: if you rent, or live in a strata or condo, check what changes to door hardware are allowed.

The short version

• A keyless deadbolt opened by fingerprint, PIN code or one of five keys.
• 0.3-second fingerprint recognition, per DESLOC.
• Four AA batteries for about 12 months, with a low-battery indicator and Type-C emergency power port.
• IP54 protection, zinc alloy body and auto-lock.
• Screwdriver installation; a one-year warranty.

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