Leading the industry in technology and innovation, Vaultek never fails to impress. And their Smart Nano Key is no exception.
Nano Key, part of Vaultek’s remote key technology, provides instant access to your safe in the event you need immediate entry. Its small footprint and mountable base make it easy to hide and conceal anywhere, making it suitable for use as a panic button.
We love the Nano Key as a premium entry option, as it provides the fastest possible access to your safe. However, it is important to always be responsible and keep safety in mind with this feature.
Read on for our overview of the Vaultek Smart Nano Key, including the different versions, how it works, and safety tips to keep in mind.
What are the different Nano Key versions?
- Nano Key (compatible with Vaultek Bluetooth and Wi-Fi safes, not compatible with Bluetooth 2.0 models)
- Nano Key Biometric (compatible with Vaultek Bluetooth and Wi-Fi safes, not compatible with Bluetooth 2.0 models)
- Nano Key 2.0 (compatible with Vaultek Bluetooth 2.0 safes only)
- Nano Key 2.0 Biometric (compatible with Vaultek Bluetooth 2.0 safes only)
What is the difference between Nano Key and Nano Key 2.0?
Nano Key is compatible with both Vaultek Bluetooth and Wi-fi safes, whereas Nano Key 2.0 is only compatible with Bluetooth 2.0 safes.
Nano Key and Nano Key Biometric are compatible with the following Vaultek safes:
- VT series Bluetooth models (VT/VTi)
- MX Series Bluetooth and Wi-Fi models (MX/MXi/NMX/NMXi)
- Slider Series Bluetooth and Wi-Fi models (SL20/SL20i/NSL20/NSL20i)
- RS Series Wi-Fi models (RS200i/RS500i/RS800i)
Nano Key 2.0 and Nano Key 2.0 Biometric are only compatible with the following Vaultek safes:
- Smart Station DS2i
- 10 Series Bluetooth 2.0 model (VS10i)
- 20 Series Bluetooth 2.0 models (VS20/VS20i)
Some safe models, such as the RS800i (make sure to check out our RS800i Buyer’s Guide here!), come standard with the Nano Key, although for most you need to purchase it separately. Therefore, it is important to know which Nano Key is compatible with your safe before you order.
What is the difference between Nano Key and Nano Key Biometric?
While with the Nano Key you simply press the button to open your safe, with Nano Key Biometric the button only works with your pre-programmed fingerprints.
We love the addition of the biometric scanner for an extra layer of security on the Nano Key, without compromising quick access to your safe.
What is the range of the Nano Key?
No matter which Nano Key version you are using, it is recommended that you never use it unless you are within sight of the safe.
For Nano Key and Nano Key 2.0, the key must be within 6 feet of the safe for successful pairing. For proper operation, the key should remain within 6-8 feet of the safe.
For Nano Key Biometric and Nano Key 2.0 Biometric, the key must be within 6 feet of the safe for successful pairing. For proper operation, the key should remain within 20 feet of the safe.
Does the Nano Key require batteries?
Nano Key and Nano Key 2.0 use a lithium CR2023 battery. The key will flash red 3 times to indicate the battery is low and needs to be changed.
Nano Key Biometric and Nano Key 2.0 Biometric come with a rechargeable battery that holds a charge for up to 3 months. The key will flash red 3 times and sound several rapid beeps to indicate the battery is low and needs to be charged, at which point you can simply plug it in using the provided micro-USB cable. The battery takes 2.5 hours to fully charge.
So, I just press the Nano Key and it opens the safe?
Not exactly. After pairing, your Nano Key will be immediately active to test functionality, but then it will deactivate. Once you have successfully paired your Nano Key, you need to choose between 2 different entry modes to complete the setup:
- Progressive Entry Mode: Requires the safe to be awakened before using the Nano Key. Simply touch the front of the safe or touch any key on the keypad to illuminate the keys red, at which point you have awakened the safe and may open it using the Nano Key.
- On Demand Entry Mode: Immediate access using the Nano Key without having to awaken the safe. Since this method draws significant power, it is recommended you keep your safe plugged in if you plan on using this mode.
If you do not choose one of these modes, you will default to “Off” mode, whereby the Nano Key is disabled from opening the safe until one of the other modes is selected.
Tips for Safe Use of Your Nano Key
While the Nano Key is the fastest possible entry point for your Vaultek safe, it is vital to use it in a safe and responsible way. Here are some safety tips for you to consider:
- Always keep your Nano Key out of reach of children. Anyone, even children, can open the safe with the Nano Key. If you have children at home, you may want to consider Nano Key Biometric for additional safety and security.
- If your Nano Key is lost or stolen, unpair it immediately.
- To avoid unintentionally opening the safe, the Nano Key should only ever be used when the safe is in view.
- Read your instruction manual carefully to ensure proper setup of your Nano Key.
- If you want to disable your Nano Key for a time, you can simply toggle your safe’s Nano Key feature on/off as you need it, rather than completely unpairing it.
Conclusion
We hope you’ve found this information helpful! The Nano Key is a useful tool that can set you up with ultra-fast access to your safe, enabling you to retrieve your firearms quickly should the need arise. Familiarize yourself with its proper, safe use, along with its corresponding risks, and the Nano Key will be a terrific addition to your home security setup.