Hidden door powered locking system controls
Hidden Door Options

Lock it. Hide it. Open it your way.

Choose a simple mechanical lock, the classic book-tilt opener, or a powered system controlled by remote, keypad, or thumbprint reader.

Compare Locking Systems Installation Resources
How It Works

Three decisions. One complete system.

Start with the type of lock, add an opener if you choose a powered system, then plan for power and backup. Most options can be selected while ordering your door or purchased separately for a compatible existing door.

1

Choose the lock

Mechanical key lock, electronic strike, electromagnetic lock, or the novelty book-tilt opener.

2

Choose the opener

Powered locks can be paired with a key-fob remote, programmable keypad, or biometric thumbprint reader.

3

Plan the power

Powered controllers require a standard 110V outlet inside the room and are hardwired together during installation.

Step One

Choose your locking system

The right choice depends on the door style, the level of security you want, and whether you prefer a mechanical or powered release.

Mechanical key lock installed on a hidden bookcase door
No power required

Mechanical Key Lock

A straightforward key-operated lock available when ordering a door or as a separate purchase for compatible bookcase doors.

Important: The key operates from the front/bookcase side of the door only.
View Mechanical Lock
Book tilt opener concealed among books on a hidden door
Classic hidden-door effect

Book-Tilt Opener

Tilt the concealed book forward to release the door—the familiar secret-door moment seen in movies and television.

Novelty opener: Not recommended for secure areas. Requires a door depth of at least 8-1/4" and does not work with 6-1/4" doors. Assembly required.
View Book-Tilt Opener
Electronic strike for a hidden door locking system
Powered system

Electronic Strike

Rated at 1,000 foot-pounds of resistance and compatible with all three powered controller choices shown below.

Best for: Compatible single bookcase and mirror door applications. Final compatibility depends on the door configuration.
View Electronic Strike Options
300 PSI electromagnetic lock for double bookcase doors
Double doors only

300 PSI Electromagnetic Lock

A powered magnetic lock available for Double Bookcase Doors and compatible with each of our three powered controllers.

Compatibility: Offered only for Double Bookcase Doors. It can be selected during checkout or ordered separately.
View Electromagnetic Lock
Step Two

Choose how your powered lock opens

Key-fob, keypad, and thumbprint controllers work with our electronic strike and electromagnetic locking systems. Choose the access method that best fits how the room will be used.

Remote key fob controllers for powered hidden door locks

Key-Fob Remote

Simple push-button access without approaching a visible wall-mounted controller.

View Remote Kit
Programmable keypad for a powered hidden door lock

Programmable Keypad

Code-based entry for family members or other authorized users—no key or remote required.

View Keypad Kit
Biometric thumbprint reader for a powered hidden door lock

Thumbprint Reader

Biometric entry for quick access by registered users without carrying a key or remembering a code.

View Thumbprint Kit
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Plan electrical access before installation.Every powered controller requires a standard 110V outlet inside the room. Controllers are hardwired to the lock on site.
Thumbprint Wiring Diagram
Watch Before Ordering

See the complete powered system

This walkthrough explains the lock, controller, wiring, and the choices you will make when configuring a powered hidden-door locking system.

See All How-To Videos
Battery backup system for powered hidden door locks
Step Three

Keep the system powered during an outage

Our plug-and-play battery backup requires no additional wiring. Plug the locking system's power supplies into the backup unit to keep the system operating for hours during a power outage. It can also provide emergency charging for a phone.

View Battery Backup
Before You Order

Common locking-system questions

Can a locking system be added after I already own the door?

Many components are available separately for compatible existing Hide-A-Way Doors. Compatibility depends on the door style, swing, depth, and existing preparation. Review the product details before ordering or contact us if you are unsure.

Does the Book-Tilt Opener provide real security?

No. The Book-Tilt Opener is intended as a novelty concealed release and is not recommended for secure areas. It also requires at least an 8-1/4" door depth and will not work with a 6-1/4" door.

Which locks work with the remote, keypad, and thumbprint reader?

All three controllers can be paired with our electronic strike or 300 PSI electromagnetic locking system. The electromagnetic lock is available only for Double Bookcase Doors.

Do powered locking systems need an electrician?

A standard 110V outlet is required inside the room, and the controller components are hardwired together on site. Whether you need a licensed electrician depends on the outlet location, the work required, and local electrical codes.

What happens if the power goes out?

A compatible battery backup can keep the powered locking system operating for hours during an outage. We recommend planning both normal power and emergency access before the system is installed.

Where can I find installation instructions?

Visit our Installation Resources and How-To Videos pages for door installation information, locking-system walkthroughs, and controller wiring videos.

Not sure which system fits your door?

Tell our hidden-door specialists about your door style and how you want the room to be accessed.

Ask a Hidden-Door Specialist