An automatic gate opener works to protect your property and secure your home, adding value to your house and giving you peace of mind. While it might seem a little like magic, what triggers an automatic gate, and how a gate sensor works actually comes down to a fairly simple system.

If you’ve ever wondered what the mechanics are behind this clever safety feature, wonder no more! We’re here to break down the way automatic and sensor gates work.

How does an automatic gate opener work?

Gate automation has actually been around since the late 19th century. Since those early days of groundbreaking hydraulic technology, the humble automatic gate has come a long way. These days, there are two main ways automatic gates are powered; by electrical supply and solar power. Neither system is necessarily better than the other in terms of performance, but depending on the location of your gate and where you live, a solar-powered or electric-powered option may be suitable for your needs.

All automatic gates have a small motor that draws on this power source to quietly and smoothly open your gate, whether it uses a swing or sliding motion. With the range of automatic gates from Gatomate, a durable metal alloy is used in concert with a copper motor driving design, to make sure that the gate opens and closes quietly and with a smooth motion for years to come

What triggers an automatic gate?

Automatic gates are triggered by a combination of factors, all of which send an impulse to the control unit, telling it to open or close. What triggers an automatic gate can be a remote control, or even your mobile phone. After opening, automatic gates will automatically slowly close to ensure your property is never left exposed, and you don’t have to worry about remembering to close the gate after you’ve left home.

In case of power failure, remote control loss or other unexpected problems, automatic gates are fitted with a manual key release, so you’ll never lose access even during a power outage. For extra security, long-range remotes and mobile controlled gates that use your wireless internet system allow you to operate a gate without leaving your house, or even from afar if you’re away from home. 

How does a gate sensor work?

With automatic gate sensors, the control unit of the mechanism detects photocell information via the sensor. The photocell sensor can detect obstacles in its path, shutting down its closing mechanism to protect vehicles and avoid accidents. A photocell is essentially an infrared beam, so even if a very small object is blocking its path, the smart programming behind the closing mechanism will kick in — say goodbye to scraped cars, damaged bikes left in the driveway or escaped pets.

How do different types of automatic gate openers work?

There are a number of different automatic gates that work on different opening mechanisms. Some of the most popular are:

  • Single swing gate openers — While single swing gates require more room to accommodate their inward swinging motion, they are also a subtle and aesthetic choice for your home. A swing gate opener can be fitted to your existing wood or metal gate too.

  • Double swing gate openers — When you think of a grand estate home, a large cattle station or a commercial driveway, this might be the gate you imagine. A double swing gate opener gives you a large opening that’s great for larger vehicles and wide driveways.

  • Sliding gate openers — Ideal for spaces where space is at more of a premium, sliding gate openers create a secure entrance and exit for large car parks, apartment blocks and more. 

No matter what type of automatic gate opener you choose, Gatomate makes it easy to find the right automatic gate opener to suit your home or business.