Ball bearing cylinder plug and key retention

This invention relates to an electronic lock assembly which is operated by inserting of an authorized electronic key. Rotation of the lock cylinder is inhibited until operation of the lock assembly is desired. Once the key is rotated, the key cannot be removed from the lock cylinder until the lock cylinder is rotated back to its original position, thereby giving the electronic lock the feel of a mechanical lock. The invention is directed at an electronic lock assembly which is operable by a suitably programmed electronic key. The electronic lock assembly includes a cylinder type locking mechanism, where a solenoid and plunger is provided to electronically lock and unlock a key cylinder, thereby selectively allowing rotation of the key cylinder for operation of the locking mechanism. To prevent rotation of the key cylinder and loading of the solenoid plunger prior to the solenoid receiving an authorized signal to retract the plunger, a stop mechanism is provided which only allows rotation of the key cylinder in predetermined coordination with operation of the solenoid.