The technological landscape of the smart security industry has evolved tremendously in recent times, and most homes, offices, and commercial properties now feature at least one access control system into which a gate operator is usually integrated.
Gate operators, also known as gate openers and automatic gate openers, play a significant role in the effective performance of access control systems. This is especially true for access control systems integrated with automatic swing gates and slide gates.
Automatic gate operators are an essential part of automated systems that provide users with a convenient and secure way to manage entry and exit points.
This article quickly explores the role of a gate operator in access control systems and the advantages of using gate operators. It also highlights different types of gate operators and the security benefits they offer.
What Are Gate Operators?
Gate operators are typically special mechanical devices designed to control the opening and closing of an automatic gate. A gate operator may be pneumatically or electromechanically powered. In some cases, some gate operators may use a combination of electromechanical and pneumatic control systems to operate.
Regardless of how complex or simple the mechanism of operation of a gate operator is, its major task is to ensure the efficient and effective opening and closing of the gate on which it is installed. The most common gate types that utilize gate operators include swing gates and slide gates.
You can think of gate operators as the arms of an access control system that enables it to effectively control the operation of the gate or entrance. There are various types of gate operators, including swinging arm, overhead gate openers, and sliding gate automatic gate openers.
The two most common categories of Gate Operators include swing gate operators and slide gate operators.
Exploring Swing Gate and Sliding Gate Operators
The two main types of gate operators based on their design are the swing gate operators and slide gate operators.
Swing Gate Operators
Swing gate operators are used for swing gates or any type of entrance or door that pivots on hinges. There are generally two main types of swing gate operators, namely:
- Arm Operators: These types of swing gate operators typically have a long arm attached to the operator, which pushes or pulls the gate leaf open or close. Arm operators are great for residential applications, especially when paired with lighter-weight gates. Some popular brands include LiftMaster and Nice Apollo.
- Under-Ground Operators: Underground swing gate operators are installed underground and typically use a piston or screw drive mechanism for their operation. These types of swing gate operators are used when there is a need for a clean aesthetic look, and they are more suited for heavier gates or commercial applications.
Slide Gate Operators
Slide gates are mechanical gate-opening mechanisms designed to work on slide gates that move horizontally along a track. Slide gate operators work using either a chain drive or belt drive mechanism to move the gate.
Slide gate openers are usually more powerful than swing gate openers due to the increased amount of friction and weight involved in operating a sliding gate. Slide gate operators are well-suited for wider openings and are commonly found in commercial properties.
Functional Advantages of Integrating Gate Operators With Access Control Systems
- Physical Barrier: Most gates controlled by gate operators are not designed to be opened by hand. This means that automatic gate operators, when installed, can help create a physical barrier, restricting entry to those without proper credentials.
- Improved Traffic: Gate operators are great for entrances in high-traffic areas with a lot of incoming and outgoing traffic. They can help facilitate smoother traffic flow in these areas.
- Remote Access: When combined with a sophisticated access control system like the Patch and Company Quantum QC Series, gate operators can help operate your gate remotely using remote controls or be integrated with telephone entry systems to aid convenience and improve control.
- Enhanced Safety: Features like integrated electronic safety sensors (photo eyes) and security cameras with night vision work in tandem with the same access control systems that control the gate operators to ensure the detection of obstruction in the gate’s path. This helps to prevent accidents and ensures the safety of the people and vehicles that pass through the gate.
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Contact us today to learn more about our product offerings and services, or book a consultation with our team of experts about your next gate operator.
