Automatic Gates

The full aesthetic appeal of your ornamental fencing includes the entrance gate itself. But that gate becomes a lot less appealing when you have to get out of your car every time you want to open it - especially at night or in poor weather. Those who purchase ornamental fencing and gates to enhance the beauty of their property typically purchase an access control system for convenience and to enhance their security system

Combine gate operators with one or more control devices and you create an access control system. With an access control system, on the other hand, as you approach the gate, you simply press a button on the control box in your car (just like the one you use to open your garage door). In seconds, the gates open for you automatically. Basically, this is an electric or hydraulic motor that opens and closes your gate. It's activated by a signal generated from a device, such as a telephone entry system or a radio control similar to that used by garage door openers. Access control systems can be designed with many options. A simple telephone entry system can tie directly to your existing telephone line. This lets visitors ring the telephones in your house by pressing a call button on the unit at the gate. The person inside the house can then answer the phone and open the gate by pressing the proper number on the telephone keypad.

A power failure need not leave you stranded. Many manufacturers offer low-cost battery backup systems. Some will open the gate and leave it open until the power is restored. Others will allow a basic system to remain in operation.