There is no key on the market that is compatible with all key codes. The most common vending machine keys are either tubular or flat. The tubular version, sometimes referred to as a barrel key, has a hollow, cylindrical shaft with grooves of varying length cut into the exterior surface at the end of the shaft.
The first thing you need to know is that there is no such thing as a universal key that will open all machines. For security purposes, vending machine keys are all keyed differently. The locks on these machines can only be opened by a key that has a compatible “key code”.
Generally, vending machines are secured with what is called a pin tubular lock, or, very similarly, a barrel lock. These locks are also found on many other kinds of equipment, such as pay phones, ATM machines, computers and expensive bike locks.
Master key: The master key can open all locks you have in your residential or commercial property.
Bump keys are specially cut keys that can bypass the security mechanisms built into traditional pin and tumbler locks. Bump keys are also referred to as “999 keys” because all of their ridges are cut to the maximum depth (999) in a key-making machine.
A master key is a key capable of operating several different locks, each lock being operated by its own separate key (change key). Many people think that they have a master key because they have one key which operates many locks in their home.
Instead, tubular locks have universal keys designed for each lock type or model. Most manufacturers produce these locks in versions, providing a single key to access all the locks under it. Thus, it prevents the use of different keys to access the tubular lock and further heightening its security.
Because tubular locks are so complex, they cannot be picked in the same way as other locks. Using a lock pick is the only verified way to open a tubular lock without the key so, if you have time to spare, purchase a pick to open your tubular lock.
Are vending machines profitable? Yes, vending machines can be profitable. The average vending machine earns $35 a week, but vending machines that are well-stocked and placed in safe, high-traffic locations can generate over $400 a month.
In this case, check the machine for the vendor's information. It'll often be either above the coin and dollar bill mechanisms, or on the side of the machine. Give them a call and let them know you've lost money and they will make sure you get it back.
Modern vending machines are constructed to be resistant to brute-force physical hacks (like rocking a machine back and forth to shake the goods loose), and even incorporate artificial intelligence.
How much does it cost to make a replacement vending machine key? We charge$12 per key but copies range from $8-$16 nationwide. If you've lost all your keys and need a locksmith on site to make a replacement key or install a new lock, your total fee should be $87-$122.
Step 1: How a Tubular Lock Works
The shape of the key is circular, open in the center, and has grooves that are cut into the outsides of the circular shape. Once the key has been fitted correctly in the keyhole, it will depress the key pins to the correct depth and the key can be turned opening the lock.
Tubular locks are commonly seen on bicycle locks (such as the Kryptonite lock), Kensington computer locks, elevators, and a variety of coin-operated devices such as vending machines, and coin-operated washing machines.
Start by pulling the bobby pin apart and roughly straightening it as such. Next, stick the straight end of the hairpin about one centimeter, or about 1/3 of an inch, into the keyhole of your lock and apply enough pressure to bend the end of the pin into a hook. The result should look something similar to this.
If a building has a total of 500 doors, owners will need locks, keys and likely Master keys, for all of them. Based on national averages, a traditional small format interchangeable core system typically costs $35 for every lock, $3 for each key and $3 for each Master key.
In short, a master key system allows one keys to open multiple different locks. At the same time, more than one key can open the same lock. In an office building, for example, each employee can have their own key which unlocks the door to their office.
MK - Master Keyed (Locks keyed different (separately), or in sets - usually 2 keys each), and a Master Key that operates all locks.
Step 1 Make the Bump Key
Go to the any store that has blank keys. Wal-Mart and Home Depot have them. They look like this, without teeth at all: A bump key is made by using a triangular file (they're at every hardware store…
A bump key ( sometimes known as a bumper key, bumping keys, etc.) is a specially-designed tool that allows you to pick pin-tumbler locks - the world's most popular kind of locks. Normally, you would need a bump key set to be able to pick a wide variety of locks.