Automatic Gates & Automation Equipment

Automatic gates typically include a driveway gate , an automatic gate opener , remote access controls , and exit controls . While some of our customers purchase gates to be opened manually upon arrival to the property, many of those come back later to purchase automatic gate equipment.

What is an automatic gate opener?
An automatic gate opener is the motorized arm that opens and closes a driveway gate. Amazing Gates carries state-of-the-art gate openers which comply with the latest safety guidelines called UL-325. The onboard solid state circuit board receives a signal from an access control (like a keypad or a clicker) and tells the automatic gate opener to open or close the gate, reverse it if an obstacle is in its path or stay open if you’re expecting guests.

Are their a variety of automatic gate openers on the market?
Yes there are many brands to choose from. Amazing Gates has chosen a small group of openers to sell based on field testing for reliability and ease of use. There are swinging openers and sliding gate openers.

Swing gate openers (the more common type) come in two basic styles: Linear and Articulated.

A Linear Actuator style automatic gate opener is the most popular type. The Patriot opener, our choice, has bolt on, post mounted installation, battery backup and a large powerful actuator arm which is rated up to light commercial duty.

An Articulated Arm style automatic gate opener such as the Advanced opener are pad mounted and more suited to heavier then normal gates and high use situations such as gated communities.

What are access controls?
Access controls allow you to grant or deny entry through your driveway gate with an emphasis on easy access for the homeowner and guests. Here is a list of common access control equipment and a brief description:

CLICKERS [ SHOP ]

'Clickers' or hand held remotes, are radio transmitters very similar to a garage door opener clicker. Available in two sizes, the 'mini' that attaches to your key chain, and the standard which will clip to your vehicles' sun visor, activate the automatic gate with the push (click) of the button.

KEYPADS [ SHOP ]

The next automatic gate control to seriously consider is the 'keypad'. It will allow visitors without clickers to enter the property with a numeric code. These units are designed for all weather conditions, and most have memory for several different codes so that certain codes may be reserved for family, and others given to visitors such as UPS drivers or meter readers. The codes are easily programmed and may be changed frequently.

EXIT SENSORS [ SHOP ]

A visitor leaving the property needs to open the gate. One way is to have a keypad on the inside, or a simple push button that will open the gate. More convenient is the 'exit sensor'. An exit sensor is a wand, 18" long and 1/2 inch in diameter, and comes with 100' of cable. The sensor is buried alongside the driveway about 85' from the gate and detects moving metal. A vehicle, motorcycle or bicycle passing the sensor will open the automatic gate. It will also sense a lawn mower and some children's toys and may not be the best choice for every situation.

PHOTO EYES/REVERSAL DEVICES [ SHOP ]

We highly recommend the use the use of 'photo eyes' (aka, electric eyes) or similar devices to prevent the gate from closing if someone or something is in the way of the gate. A photo eye shoots a beam of light across the gate opening. If the light beam is broken, it will prevent the gate from closing, or it will stop the gate and reverse its motion, if the gate has begun its closing cycle.

Together, these components make a complete automatic gate system, but can also be augmented with voice communication:

INTERCOMS [ SHOP ]

An intercom allows voice communication and the ability to open the gate for visitors from inside the house. An intercom has a gate station and a single indoor station. Four wires must be run between the two stations.

TELEPHONE ENTRY SYSTEMS [ SHOP ]

A telephone entry system is an upgrade from a simple intercom and includes many advanced features. When the call button at the gate site is pushed, it rings all the phones in the house with a distinctive ring and the visitor can be granted entry with the push of a telephone button. It also has an entry keypad and includes call forwarding, code lockout, time zone memory and other features.