How Do Automatic Gates Work?
Maybe you’ve been dealing with trespassing on your property and are considering putting a gate in place to prevent these occurrences.
Or, maybe you currently have a manual gate in place and are considering upgrading to its more convenient electric counterpart.
Either way, you’re making a great investment in the security and efficiency of your premises.
But how do automatic gates work? You’ve come to the right place! We’re the #1 provider of automatic gate installation in Austin, TX and are here to show you everything you need to know.
There are two main types of gates for driveway: slide gates, which move horizontally along a track, and swing gates, which open like a door using a hinge system. Both types use motors to drive the gate’s movement, sensors to detect obstructions, and access control systems for secure entry.
We’ll dive deeper into the operation of these gates below and show you why you can trust us to help bring your gate to life, whether you’re looking to secure a commercial property or safeguard your home.
Why Invest in an Automatic Gate for Your Property?
First things first, is the automatic driveway gates cost really worth it? Absolutely. They enhance security, convenience, and property value all at once.
Unlike manual gates, they ensure controlled entry and exit, deterring potential intruders and protecting your property from theft and vandalism.
You can take this a step further by integrating them with advanced access control systems to regulate who enters your premises. For added security, they can be connected to security cameras and alarms.
For those who are constantly coming and going, the investment in an automatic driveway gate is an investment in convenience. Rather than getting out of your car, opening the gate, driving through, getting back out, closing it, and driving off, you just press a button and you’re in and out in a breeze.
Automation features like timers and sensors can further streamline the process, making it easy to manage access to your property without constant manual intervention.
These also enhance the visual appeal of your property with a touch of sophistication. This not only boosts curb appeal but also increases market value should you decide to sell one day.
These gates also have safety sensors that can prevent accidents by detecting obstacles in the gate’s path. There’s clearly a compelling case for adding one to your property, but how do automatic gates work exactly? Let’s find out!
How Do Automatic Gates Work?
So, how do automatic gates work? To help you get a better understanding of how automatic gates work and why they’re worth the investment, we’ll walk you through the functions of different styles and features below.
Slide Gate Function
As the name suggests, slide gates operate by moving horizontally along a track, making them ideal for properties with limited space. They’re common in commercial settings like warehouses and factories where there is ample horizontal space but limited room for a gate to swing open.
The mechanism involves a gate that slides on wheels, guided by a track installed on the ground. The movement is powered by an electric motor connected to a gear system that drives the gate back and forth. The motor is typically housed in a weatherproof enclosure for protection.
Slide gates can be designed to open in one direction or to slide apart from the center, depending on the specific layout and requirements of the property.
Sensors are often integrated to detect obstacles, ensuring the gate stops if something is in its path, thereby preventing accidents.
Swing Gate Function
Swing gates function similarly to a door, swinging open and closed on hinges. They can be single or double-leaf, with one or two panels, respectively. They’re popular in residential areas due to their aesthetic appeal and ease of installation.
The gate panels are attached to posts with hinges, allowing them to swing inward or outward. An electric motor, often installed underground or on the gate posts, powers the movement. This motor is connected to the gate via an arm or a linkage system that controls the swing motion.
For added safety, swing gates are equipped with sensors that stop the gate if an obstruction is detected. These gates require ample space to operate, as the panels need to swing freely without hitting any objects or structures.
The smooth, elegant operation of swing gates makes them a preferred choice for many homeowners and businesses looking to enhance their property’s curb appeal.
Boom/Lift Gate Function
Boom gates, also known as barrier or lift gates, use a horizontal arm that moves vertically to allow or block access. These gates are commonly seen in parking lots, toll booths, and controlled access areas where vehicle management is essential.
The boom gate consists of a long arm attached to a pivoting mechanism. When access is granted, the arm lifts vertically, allowing vehicles to pass underneath. The arm is powered by an electric motor that drives the lifting mechanism, often through a system of gears and pulleys.
Boom gates are typically paired with access control systems, such as card readers or ticket dispensers, to manage entry and exit. Additionally, sensors are used to detect vehicles, ensuring the arm does not lower onto a car.
These are effective for controlling vehicular access and are designed to withstand frequent use, making them a reliable choice for high-traffic areas.
Folding Gate Function
Folding gates consist of multiple panels that fold back on themselves, similar to an accordion. This design is perfect for areas with limited space and high traffic, as the gate requires minimal room to open fully. You can think of them as a hybrid between a slide and swing gate.
The gate panels are connected by hinges, allowing them to fold together as they open. An electric motor powers the folding mechanism, moving the panels along a track system. This track can be installed on the ground or overhead, depending on the specific requirements of the installation.
Folding gates are often used in industrial settings and commercial properties where quick and efficient access control is necessary. They take up less space when open, making them suitable for locations where a traditional sliding or swing gate would be impractical.
Gate Sensors
Across all the various styles, sensors play a role in safe and efficient gate operation. They detect obstacles and trigger appropriate responses to prevent accidents and ensure smooth functioning.
Photoelectric sensors use infrared beams to detect objects in the path of the gate. When the beam is broken, the sensor signals the gate to stop or reverse its movement. Pressure sensors, on the other hand, detect changes in pressure when an object is present, triggering a similar response.
Across both styles, they ensure people or vehicles are not put in harm’s way by the gate’s operation. They’re especially important for those with children or pets who will be near the gate.
Gate Opener
The opener is the heart of the automatic gate system, responsible for driving the gate’s movement. There are various types of openers, each designed to suit different gate styles and needs.
Electric gate openers are known for their reliability and ease of use. They’re connected to the gate through a system of gears and motors, which convert electrical energy into mechanical movement.
Solar gate openers, on the other hand, offer an eco-friendly alternative, using solar panels to generate power. These are ideal for remote locations or areas where running electrical lines is impractical.
Choosing the right gate opener depends on factors such as the gate’s weight, the frequency of use, and the available power sources. This is something we can help you navigate here at Viking Fence.
Access Control
We mentioned earlier that you can control who comes and goes with certain types of gates, which is where the access control system comes into play. But what is an access control system?
There are many different types of access control systems, but they all share a common goal of allowing efficient entry for approved individuals while preventing unauthorized entry.
Keypad entry systems allow users to enter a PIN code to gain access. This method is secure and easy to use, making it a popular choice for residential and commercial properties.
Remote control systems enable gate operation using a handheld device, offering convenience and flexibility. Smartphone integration allows users to control the gate through mobile apps, providing remote access from anywhere.
Access control systems can also be integrated with intercoms and security cameras, allowing property owners to verify visitors before granting entry. We’ll talk more about this in a moment, but you can count on Viking Fence for the best access control system.
Power Supply and Batteries
Now, how do automatic gates work from a power perspective? They most often rely on a power source connected to electricity, which means you may need the support of an electrician to install your gate.
In some cases, solar power offers a sustainable alternative. This option is ideal for environmentally conscious property owners and locations where running electrical lines is challenging.
Backup power systems with batteries ensure the gate remains operational during power outages. These batteries are typically rechargeable and can power the gate for several cycles until the main power supply is restored.
There are usually manual override mechanisms that allow the gate to be operated manually in case of prolonged power failures, ensuring continuous access control. We have a guide on how to manually open electric gate if you ever run into this issue.
How to Choose Your Automatic Gate
With a better understanding of how these gates work, let’s talk about how you can choose the right one for your property’s unique needs. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Assess Your Space: Slide gates are ideal for properties with limited space, while swing gates require more room to open. In commercial settings, you may lean more towards a boom or folding gate.
- Determine Security Needs: If you’re worried about security, consider gates with advanced access control systems and strong materials. You could even consider electrifying the gate for security if necessary.
- Consider Usage Frequency: For high-traffic areas, choose a gate designed for frequent use with a reliable motor and durable construction.
- Evaluate Power Options: Decide between electric and solar-powered gates based on your location and environmental preferences. Ensure backup power options, like batteries, are available.
- Aesthetic Preferences: Choose a gate that complements your property’s style. Consider materials, colors, and design to enhance curb appeal. We have some great country driveway gate ideas that work exceptionally well here in Texas!
- Professional Installation and Maintenance: Ensure you select a reputable provider, like Viking Fence, known for quality installation and ongoing support. We don’t recommend learning how to build a driveway gate, as it can create headaches down the road.
The best way to choose the right gate style, though, is to simply get in touch with our experts here at Viking Fence. We’ll talk over your needs and offer a personalized recommendation backed by more than five decades of experience in this industry. So, what are you waiting for?
Bring Your Automatic Gate to Life With Viking Fence in Texas, the Most Trusted Installer Since 1972!
Whether you need a gate for your commercial property or your home, you can count on us to deliver an exceptional experience from start to finish, resulting in a beautiful, functional gate that stands the test of time.
Our company has earned a reputation as the #1 choice in Texas because we pair the best materials with highly skilled workers who have more than 300+ years of combined erector/crew experience!
Plus, we have our own in-house division for access control systems in Austin, which means we can fine-tune the solution to meet your needs. It also means you can count on us for automatic gate repair Austin should anything ever go wrong. You won’t need to stress about electric gate troubleshooting on your own.
You can also enjoy peace of mind as our gates are fully compliant with UIL 325 building codes. We use all necessary safety sensors and devices, and can equip your gate with components ranging from solar panel cells and radio remotes to card readers and power-back-up systems.
We’re also the #1 Austin fence company for all the other security needs you may have, whether its commercial security fencing in Austin, wrought iron fence in Austin, Austin commercial security systems, or anything in between.
Get in touch today for more information and let’s create a gate that simplifies your life and offers assurance that your property is safe and secure.
Wrapping Up Our Guide on How Automatic Gates Work
So, how do automatic gates work? We hope this detailed guide has left you with a clear understanding of the key principles behind different types of gates. Key components like gate sensors, openers, access control, and power supply all work in harmony to ensure efficient and safe operation.
Our blog has additional resources on the standard driveway gate width and height, how to repair automatic gate, electric gate repair cost, how to install wrought iron fence, how to install chain link fence on uneven ground, commercial security system cost, how to install camera on brick without drilling, and many more.
But, whether you’re looking to build a beautiful, functional automatic driveway gate or you’re searching for the best security fencing, the best commercial security camera system, or anything else, trust Viking Fence.
With 50 years of experience and counting, there’s no better provider in the Lone Star State. Contact us today to enhance your property’s security and functionality!