North Carolina Locksmith Practice Exam

Which term describes an aesthetic device with no operating function?

1. Functioning Dummy

2. Non-Functional Lock

3. Dummy

4. Decorator Lock

The correct answer is: Dummy

The term that describes an aesthetic device with no operating function is "Dummy." In the context of locks and security hardware, a dummy is designed to serve a visual or decorative purpose without any mechanical function. It is commonly used on doors where a locking mechanism is not required, providing a finished look to the door without the need for an actual locking mechanism. For example, a dummy lock may be installed on a double door setup where only one side needs to be functional while the other serves merely as a visual complement. This is a widely accepted term in the industry, making it clear that the item is there for appearance rather than functionality. In contrast, the other terms provided either imply some level of functionality or are not standard terminology used in locksmithing. A functioning dummy would suggest that the device has some operational aspect, which it does not. A non-functional lock would similarly imply that while it does not operate, it is recognized strictly as a lock, which limits the understanding of its decorative role. A decorator lock can imply a broader category of decorative hardware but does not specifically convey that it has no operating function. Therefore, "Dummy" is the most accurate and commonly accepted term.