Automatic gates are a great way to keep your property safe from intruders. Depending on the type, they can be controlled from an operator or by a sensor attached to the gate. If a vehicle approaches the sensor, the gate will open, and when it moves out of range, the gate will close.

Infrared photocells

Automatic gates work by detecting an infrared beam that is detected by photocells located in front of them. The photocells send infrared signals to a control unit which stops the gates when there is an obstacle in their way. Infrared light is invisible to the human eye, so the photocells are designed to work effectively even in bright sunlight.

Infrared photocells are paired sensors on automatic gates, and they detect when a vehicle or object is approaching the gate by generating a beam. When the beam is broken, the gate stops, pauses, and then opens fully.

Motion detectors

Motion detectors are a great way to protect your home. They can activate lights and sound an alarm in the case of an intruder. They can also activate video feeds or recordings. If you have children, motion detectors can help you monitor their rooms. You can also place them in areas that are dark and inaccessible.

Motion detectors are inexpensive, ranging from $30 to $50. Make sure you read the instructions carefully before installing. Before installing them, make sure the sensors point toward the center of the monitored area. Installing them properly will ensure that they will provide maximum coverage and avoid false alarms.

Loop detectors

Detectors detect objects within a loop. For example, a five-foot loop can detect a large metal object about three feet above it. A monster truck, however, can be much higher than this height. When considering which loop detector is best for your application, it is best to choose a model with a high detection height.

Loop detectors work by detecting the magnetic field of an object. When a vehicle passes through the loop, the frequency of the loop detector increases. This change in frequency triggers an action within the gate operator, such as opening or closing it. Loop detectors are also used for traffic signals and intercom systems.

Magnetoresistive vehicle detection

There are a few benefits to using magnetoresistive vehicle detection. First of all, these sensors are inexpensive, and can be placed right next to a driveway. Because they use a single beam of light, they may not detect towbars that are close to the gate, which could lead to the gate closing too early.

Magnetic loops are also more sensitive than inductive loops because they generate a dead field. This means that the magnetic field generated by a rectangular loop is almost identical to that generated by an asymmetrical loop. This means that loops can be positioned closer to the gate.

Linear ram motor

A linear ram motor is a type of automatic gate motor that has a thin, long arm that extends to push the gate open and retracts to pull it closed. The arm is powered by hydraulic pistons or linear screws attached to a threaded shaft. The ram itself is not visible, but it does have a hinge point that is connected to an internally threaded device on the shaft.

Linear ram motors are used in automatic gate openers for swing gates. Different styles have different functions. Linear ram motors are commonly used in swing gates. Screw jacks and worm drives are other types of automatic gate openers.

Threaded shaft motor

Automatic gates require strong resistive forces to operate. Although some safety features exist, these do not always provide the protection needed. It is important to always keep personnel out of the path of the operator mechanism, even if the gate is enclosed. It is vital to protect the motor controller, as well as the controller housing.

There are two basic types of automatic gate motors. The first is a chain drive, which moves the gate using a chain. The second type uses a revolving control shaft and has much more precise capabilities.

Radar movement sensors

Radar movement sensors are used in how do automatic gates work to detect the presence of people and other moving objects. Radar can read through most materials and detect moving people and other items. It can also determine the direction of movement. Its sensitivity allows it to distinguish between stationary and moving objects, allowing it to open and close the gate accordingly. However, radar does not work as well for tracking stationary objects. A more reliable alternative to radar is passive infrared sensors, which capture images using infrared light and have a long range.

Passive infrared movement sensors are also used in automatic gates. Once installed, they store an image of the surroundings and generate distinct signals whenever they detect movement. These sensors are highly reliable and can be set for extremely precise detection ranges.