Key identification system

A method of identifying a key in a key identification system, comprising:

• inserting a key blade of a key into a key receiving aperture of a key identification system housing;
• fixedly positioning the key blade within the key identification system housing with a clamp positioned adjacent the key receiving aperture;
• aligning the key with a plurality of arms of an alignment clamp, the plurality of arms comprising a fixed first arm, a movable second arm, a movable third arm, and a movable fourth arm that form a boundary of an alignment aperture, wherein the second, third, and fourth arms are biased toward the alignment aperture such that when the key is inserted into the alignment aperture, the second, third, and fourth arms move outward from the alignment aperture and each of the first, second, third, and fourth arms exert pressure on each side of the key blade;
• supporting key chain items on a key ring support tray positioned proximate the key receiving aperture;
• capturing an image of the key blade with at least one digital identifier positioned within the key identification system housing;
• and
• removing the key blade from the key receiving aperture.