How to set the automatic lock time on Coldcard Mk4?

Set automatic lock time on Coldcard Mk4 for enhanced security: navigate to Settings > User Interface > Lock Timeout, choose from preset times, and confirm.

Apr 04, 2025 at 03:00 am

Introduction to Coldcard Mk4

The Coldcard Mk4 is a highly secure hardware wallet designed for storing cryptocurrencies offline. One of its key features is the ability to set an automatic lock time, which enhances the security of your device by locking it after a period of inactivity. This feature is crucial for users who want to ensure their wallet remains secure even if they step away from it momentarily.

Understanding Automatic Lock Time

The automatic lock time on the Coldcard Mk4 is a security feature that automatically locks the device after a specified period of inactivity. This means that if you leave your Coldcard unattended, it will lock itself, requiring you to enter your PIN to access it again. This feature is essential for preventing unauthorized access to your wallet.

Accessing the Settings Menu

To set the automatic lock time on your Coldcard Mk4, you first need to access the settings menu. Here's how you can do it:

• Turn on your Coldcard Mk4.
• Navigate to the main menu by pressing the OK button.
• Scroll down to Settings using the navigation buttons and press OK to enter the settings menu.

Navigating to the Lock Time Option

Once you are in the settings menu, you need to find the option to set the automatic lock time. Follow these steps:

• In the settings menu, scroll down to User Interface and press OK.
• Within the User Interface menu, scroll to Lock Timeout and press OK.

Setting the Lock Time

After navigating to the Lock Timeout option, you can set the desired lock time. The Coldcard Mk4 allows you to choose from several preset times. Here's how to set it:

• You will see a list of options such as 1 minute, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 30 minutes, and Never.
• Use the navigation buttons to select the desired lock time and press OK to confirm your selection.

Confirming the Lock Time

Once you have selected your preferred lock time, the Coldcard Mk4 will prompt you to confirm your choice. This step ensures that you do not accidentally set a lock time that is too short or too long for your needs.

• After selecting the lock time, the screen will display a confirmation message.
• Press OK to confirm the lock time setting.

Verifying the Lock Time

To ensure that the automatic lock time has been set correctly, you can verify it by checking the settings again. Here's how to do it:

• Navigate back to the Settings menu.
• Go to User Interface and then to Lock Timeout.
• The currently set lock time will be displayed on the screen.

Importance of the Automatic Lock Time

Setting an automatic lock time on your Coldcard Mk4 is a critical security measure. It ensures that your wallet remains secure even if you are momentarily distracted or step away from your device. By setting an appropriate lock time, you can balance convenience with security, ensuring that your cryptocurrencies are protected at all times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I change the automatic lock time after setting it?

A: Yes, you can change the automatic lock time at any time by following the steps outlined above to navigate to the Lock Timeout option in the settings menu and selecting a new time.

Q: What happens if I set the lock time to 'Never'?

A: If you set the lock time to 'Never', your Coldcard Mk4 will not automatically lock due to inactivity. This setting is not recommended for security reasons, as it leaves your device vulnerable to unauthorized access.

Q: Will setting a short lock time affect the performance of my Coldcard Mk4?

A: No, setting a short lock time will not affect the performance of your Coldcard Mk4. It only affects how quickly the device locks after inactivity, not its operational speed or functionality.

Q: Can I set a custom lock time on the Coldcard Mk4?

A: No, the Coldcard Mk4 does not currently support setting a custom lock time. You can only choose from the preset options provided in the Lock Timeout menu.