It is not necessary to mention the need for having a gate for each home. It provides protection against unauthorized entry of people, animals, and also serves as a boundary to use as a demarcating entity from the road or other’s property. But it is a fact that if you have a very big number of visitors each day, greeting them and opening the gates for them is not always an easy task. Having a security guard also is not a great option because, after all, even he would be a human being. Making him stand in front of the home’s gate is not that fair. Is there a solution to this problem? Luckily yes. The automated gate system solves this issue.
What are Automatic gates?
Gates that come with a mechanism to directly open themselves, giving entry to the person, without the intervention of a human being in the process are known as automatic gates. They can either be triggered using a button or sensors can be installed to detect if somebody is there at the gate.
How do they work?
They work with electric motors that are connected to an AC or a DC electric source, through a gearbox directly connected to the gate. The motor can either be switched on using a switch or remote control or a keypad which you can directly control from inside the house or through a sensor that senses a person and activates the motor circuit. The gearbox has certain mechanisms that open the gate when the motor is running. And on receiving reverse impulses, they close automatically.
Types of Automatic Gates
Here are some of the Most Commonly Used Automatic Gates:
- Articulate gates– While not so aesthetically appealing, these are the cheapest ones available in the market. They are used for wide posts allowing entry through small spaces. They are very easy to install.
- Underground gates– These gates often have an underground jack that directly operates the pivot point of each gate leaf. It allows up to 180 degrees opening of the gates
- Sliding gates– If there are space constraints or the area behind the gate is very steep, it is probably better to install sliding gates.
Automatic Gate Safety
When there is technology, there is always a risk of accidents that might cause harm or injury. Many countries have many regulations that govern the safety of these automatic gates. One of the scenarios where there are associated risks is that when the gate is not fitted according to the standards. There are chances that the visitor might get hurt by the gate or get trapped in it. So, the regulation regarding such issues is very essential. Some of the safety regulations imposed on electric gates are that they must comply with Machinery directive 2006/42/EC with EN13241-1. The installer or the owner is responsible for this safety, not the manufacturer. The directives mandate the appropriate safety measures during installation and a trial testing before the gate is regularly used. The test has to be renewed for every 7 years, failing to which it is illegal to use the automatic gates.
Security
No matter how technically advanced these automatic electric gates are, they do not offer complete security from unauthorized forces. They should be combined with comprehensive security systems with Closed Circuit TV’s and a person to monitor it so that you actually avoid any unauthorized or suspicious person from entering your premises without your permission. All that the gates do is to just make the process of opening and closing the gate automatic. It does not and cannot monitor the people who are entering the premises. For these, you may think of installing a visitor ID, or card system to track the people who enter your area.
So, these were a few things that you had to be aware of automatic gates and their working. Now, you may proceed with talking to the agent about your plans, taking the help of this article. All the best!!