Locknetics CIP Module Upgrade

Akin OlugbadeJustin GilstrapLutalo Webb

Overview of Locknetics• Used in the Vanderbilt

Engineering school to ensure secure access to facilities in Featheringill and Jacobs Hall

• Features:– Records 1000 door events– Low power, runs off AA batteries– 6/12 Button Keypad– Emergency access key– Based on heavy duty Schlage Lock

Card Access

• Each Lock Module is “Standalone”– Not hooked up to a network– Needs to be manually and

frequently updated to keep with latest card access database.

• Updating– Done daily for each lock– Uses Mobile PC with Microsoft

ActiveSync and a uplink program

– Programming Module Called CIP

Locknetics Problem

• Locks are reprogrammed on a daily basis• Handheld PC and programming hardware take

a beating– USB/SERIAL to HP handheld cable– Programming module (CIP)

Properties of CIP Module

• Has the ability to program the door and to read the ibutton credential

• Design– Miniature banana pins on module touch the lock– After multiple uses, the pins begin to break and

module become useless

Inconvenient Aspects of CIP

• CIP (computer interface program) ranges from $200.00 to $275.00

• Order time for a CIP can last months – IR Locknetics has no support for end users

• Only authorized lock companies can order spare parts

• Running out of CIP modules can cause an extensive hiatus in lock programming

How Can This Problem Be Solved?

• Need a solution that will save time and money

– Bluetooth– Wireless ethernet– Any other means of wireless data transmission

Bluetooth Method

• Reverse engineer CIP• Bluetooth, rather than direct serial• Bluetooth receiver in lock