Understanding the test key module in PM8.
When cylinders are ordered and the cylinder has many keys operating it, the set of keys needed to test each cylinder is normally the complete set of keys that operate the cylinder.
Also, when cylinders are ordered and the keys required to operate a cylinder are not on the order, the keys needing to be cut for testing are the complete set of keys that operate the cylinder.
The test keys module computes an optimal set of keys for testing each cylinder and minimises the number of non-ordered keys that need to be cut for testing. The computed set of keys for each cylinder is then used on all job outputs for the cylinders.
The result of using the test keys module is
Time saving when testing.
Fewer keys to cut for testing.
Sometimes vastly shortened pinning chart printouts.
When a job is released to manufacturing, a copy of the keying and pinning is stored on the job (PM8 always does this).
Then the test key calculation is performed to determine the best set of keys for testing each cylinder.
That calculated set of keys is stored with the job and then all manufacturing outputs (See Outputs affected below) that need to show keys for a cylinder use the calculated set of keys for each cylinder instead of showing each key that operates the cylinder.
The calculation minimises the keys selected for testing, not only for keys that have been manufactured on the job but also it minimises the number of non-ordered keys that need to be manufactured.
The PM8 test keys module is available as a licensed feature on Premium and Manufacturer licenses. It is not available on the Basic edition.
The following design modules are supported by the test keys module:
The calculated set of test keys is used on jobs for:
The PM8 test keys module license enables this functionality for all supported design modules on your license. In other words it is not "per design module".