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Opening the gate at a push of a button is a dream come true for many homeowners and drivers. Security, convenience and luxury come together with the use of a gate opener system and a handy gate clicker or fobs.
A gate clicker, or remote gate opener, is just one of the many options for gate access control accessories. It is a device that facilitates the closing or opening of a door or gate literally at a click.
What Is a Gate Clicker?
A gate clicker is a security gate system device with a programmable button. Clicking the button commands the automated gate to open or close and allow access. Today, you can easily access the automatic gates using smartphone apps or RFID electric gate accessories.
Gate clickers are physical buttons that work on a specific gate system. Tenants and employees in the building will need gate clickers for themselves or their individual vehicles. Think of it as a physical key. But instead of manually opening the lock, everyone with the clicker can do it remotely.
How Does a Gate Clicker Work?
Gate clickers operate through radio frequency (RF) signals, Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. The gate opener of an automated door or gate typically comprises two devices: the receiver and the gate clicker. To understand the process better, here’s how each of the devices functions:
Gate Receiver
The gate receiver or radio receiver is the device linked to the gate opener. After receiving the signal from the gate clicker, the receiver processes the information and instructs the control board. The control board will then direct the gate opener connected to the gate to open or close.
Gate Clicker
The gate clicker is the transmitter device given to the users that transmit a signal to the radio receiver. For it to work, the user must be within a certain distance or range from the receiver.
Today, some sophisticated gate openers have devices that can access the gate opener at long ranges. All Security Equipment Long Range 1 Channel Visor Remote Kit, for example, has a range of 1,200 ft line of sight. Traditional gate remotes typically work only between 60 to 100 ft in reasonable conditions.
Gate clickers may also have one button or multiple buttons. The multi-button transmitters are ideal for more than one gate you need to control. It allows you to configure your driveway gate operator, garage or door opener in a single device for better convenience.
DIP Switches
Gate remotes may also use DIP switches or the series of switches you can often find near garage doors. These are surface-mountable switches handymen may refer to as jumpers and are wired into the circuit board. DIP switches are used to set the radio frequency for the pairing clicker.
Toggling the dip switch sets the radio frequency of the receiver and the pairing clicker. It prevents radio interference from other frequencies preventing access from unidentified devices.
DIP switches are mostly used in garage openers like this Diablo Low Power Loop and Vehicle Detector. It has a 4-position DIP switch that will work on 9 user selectable sensitivities.
Universal Gate Clickers
Speaking of frequencies and sensitivities, do you need a specific clicker for the gate opener? Or, like a television remote control, can you configure a universal clicker for it?
Automatic gate openers come with remote controls specific to them. So not every gate clicker will work on it unless it is a “compatible” universal receiver or clicker. Take note of the term compatible as not all universal remotes work 100% with the electric gate opener.
The most important thing to consider in buying a compatible clicker is its frequency. Brands are just second considerations. Clickers do not necessarily need to match the brand of your gate opener.
For example, the LiftMaster Mini Universal Remote Control works with major brands like LiftMaster, Chamberlain, Craftsman, Genie, Linear, Wayne-Dalton and Stanley.
You may want to verify the compatibility of the gate receiver and gate clicker before buying one. Electric gate clickers, for example, are only meant for use in electric gate openers and only for single-family use.
Will Clickers Work on All Types of Gates?
All types of gates can be automated, meaning clickers can work on a swing, dual, or sliding gate opener. A motor gate opener system is fixed on the gate with a wire and facilitates the gate's opening and closing. Gate remote controls are also used for an electric gate, magnetic lock gate or garage door opener.
Some businesses and homeowners may sometimes reinforce driveway gates with a keypad or wireless keypad for enhanced security. Keypad openers require entering specific codes for the door to unlock. It also serves as a backup automatic gate opener in case of power failure, as keypad door openers often operate only on lithium-ion batteries.
How Many Remotes Can a Gate Have?
Automatic gates usually have two standard remote controls in the package. For multi-family homes, condos and business establishments, it is possible to add remotes and synchronize them in the control board.
Depending on the manufacturer, you can have as many as 250 remotes integrated into a single receiver. High-end brands like the LiftMaster STAR1000 Commercial Access Control Receiver can have up to 1000 system capacity.
You can find many universal receivers and transmitters in online stores. But then again, you are not always sure of its compatibility. So, always check with a qualified gate installer for information about frequency compatibility.
Gate Clickers for Your Gate’s Access Control
Gate clickers are a simple solution for your gate’s access control. They are not designed as locks but as devices that trigger them. Integrating a gate clicker into your automatic gate can save you time and effort in gaining entry or exit from the property.
All Security Equipment is your one-stop shop if you are looking to install a remote-control transmitter and receiver. We also have universal clickers that are compatible with many major brands.
You can also add state-of-the-art features from us that accompany your remote gate opener. If you need cameras, video surveillance, intercoms and other access devices, our customer service will gladly assist you with your needs.
