Gate automation: access your full potential

It seems that barely a week goes by nowadays without hearing reports in the media of another big name company collapsing due to the crippling effects of the recession.

Whilst it is the retail, banking, manufacturing and construction sectors that have been most visibly hit, the repercussions have reverberated through all sectors and the security industry is no exception.

With demand for the installation of security equipment falling, installers are increasingly looking for ways they can diversify into other areas, which may be less affected by the financial squeeze.

One area for installers of CCTV, intruder alarms and access control systems to consider branching into is gate automation. Demand in this area often increases during times of economic downturn due to several factors. As opportunistic theft rises, homeowners are investing more in perimeter protection to deter intruders.

At the same time businesses looking to reduce overheads may decide to install an access control system in place of security staff. But just how easy is it to move into this field?

Extremely dangerous

The first point to emphasise is that gate systems can be extremely dangerous, even fatal, if installed incorrectly. Obtaining the correct training first is paramount. A number of leading manufacturers offer free product training and provide regular updates.

This ensures that installers are familiar with the latest products and are fully aware of any new industry regulations affecting their business. However, installers must ensure they are familiar with the machinery directive as they will have a contract with the end user and will ultimately be responsible for safety and the CE marking.

Security installers looking to move into gate automation will already have sound knowledge and experience of electrical wiring, but will need to undertake additional training in gate wiring.

Installers also need to have a good understanding of hinge geometry as each site is different and this will affect which types of operators can be used. Both the dimension of the gate and the maximum leaf weight need to be taken into account, as well as the frequency of operation, to ensure the correct operator is specified.

There is usually no need to replace the existing gate, as there is a wide range of systems on the market, providing a solution for almost any automation and access control need. Gates fall into two broad categories, swing gates, with either one or two leaves, and sliding gates which can be cantilever or track. Both types can be successfully automated with the correct operator.

Another factor to consider is the additional skills that are required for installing underground automation systems. This is more common with residential properties where the aesthetic aspect is of greater importance. First time installers with no or little experience of ground works may decide not to go down the route of underground operators, or may choose to bring in a third party to carry out this work.

Entry level installation

Surface mounted operators are often more suitable for entry level gate automation. There are a number of slimline operators available with articulated arms for installation on the gate pillar.

Something else that may affect the area of gate automation you move into is the difference between residential and commercial sites. Residential sites tend to be a little easier as users are often trained in how to use the equipment, as opposed to large commercial sites which may be used by the general public.

For both types of site, installers must consider who will need access and at what times, as well as any geographic implications when designing a system.

Highly popular with first time installers, automation systems are available in kit format and contain all the components needed for a single installation. There are also kits available that do not require welding, which again may be the best option for entry level gate automation.

A simple installation could, for example, consist of a 24V single operator on a swing leaf gate with a control board housed in a control box, a set of safety cells and a radio system to operate the gates. A 24V operator is also safer than the standard 230V with the option of having a battery backup.

Garage door automation is another service that security installers may want to think about offering as part of comprehensive security service. Operators are available which can be used on sectional, spring balanced and counterweighted garage doors. For simpler installation, there are operators on the market which can be mounted onto the rail support without the need for installation tools.

Simplest gate option

Installers will also need to consider access control. To ensure the correct choice is made, the installer will need to be aware of the whole range of access control solutions on the market. For residential gates, the simplest option is a radio control system with keyfob transmitter to provide automatic opening.

However, a numeric code access system, TVTEL (telephone based audio access system) or video link to the house to control access may be more appropriate. For light commercial installations, the options include proximity systems (card or keyfob), magnetic card readers, keypad access and a range of ‘hands free’ card readers and number plate recognition systems.

Clearly there are obvious financial benefits in being able to offer a total security service and not having to turn down gate automation work. There is also the opportunity to offer on-going maintenance and service as part of the package.

However, installers must obtain the required training and be aware of what, if any, their limits are with regards to the complexity of installation they can offer. Installers who invest in the proper training now are sure to be in a much stronger position when the recession comes to an end.