Frequently Asked Questions

HOW DOES A TELEPHONE ENTRY SYSTEM WORK?
In a multi-family community, a telephone entry system can be programmed through a dial-up internet connection to store resident names and a pre-programmed number for visitors to request entry. In a single family residence, the telephone entry system is connected directly to the homes existing phone line and does not require a separate telephone line.

WHAT BENEFITS DOES A KEYPAD OFFER OVER REMOTE CONTROL?
A keypad can allow programmed codes to grant access to premises and can offer other commands such as “Hold Open” and “Lock Out.” Keypads are offered in wireless (battery operated) and hard wired formats.

DO I CHOOSE SWING GATES OR SLIDE GATES?
Swing gates are utilized for elegant residential and commercial applications but may be used in situations where space will not allow for a “sliding” or rolling gate. In most cases, swing gates installed with an electromagnetic locking device are comparable to sliding gates for security purposes. Nearly all swing gate applications require two swinging gates and two gate operators. Sliding gates are considered more secure, less prone to vehicle manipulation and can be designed to appear as elegant as their swinging counterpart. Sliding gates are chain driven and have a proven track record for reliability but do require occasional maintenance.

WHAT ARE MY OPTIONS FOR REMOTE CONTROLS?
A remote transmitter and radio receiver can be installed into almost any automatic gate system to control the open and close commands and include many options. For single family residences, multi button remotes can be set up to gain access to entry gates as well as open the door of the garage.

WHAT ARE VEHICLE LOOP DETECTORS?
Vehicle loop detectors are installed into the drivable surface inside and outside of an entry gate by cutting into the asphalt or concrete surface. Vehicle loop detectors are designed to detect a vehicle’s presence and prevent a gate from closing on a vehicle while passing through. An additional “Free Exit” loop is installed further inside the driveway to send an open command to the gate to reduce wait time for exiting. Although loop detectors are not required, they are highly recommended in the industry for prevention of gate to vehicle contact. Several other devices are available for added security and safety.

WHAT ARE FIRE DEPARTMENT REQUIREMENTS?
Fire department requirements differ from city to city. The application of the job will dictate the requirements needed. Fire departments use three devices for access, which are Knox emergency access switch, preemption strobe, and Knox padlock.

DO I NEED A PERMIT FOR AN AUTOMATIC GATE? In most cases, yes. There are three areas of concern and they are electrical, traffic, and fire department.

ARE SOLAR POWERED GATES RELIABLE?
Yes. Solar powered applications, if designed and installed properly, can be as reliable as a system connected to an existing power grid. We have installed many solar powered gate systems in applications where grid power was not available and have experienced great reliability. All of our solar applications are designed specifically for each application with consideration to size of gate and the frequency of use.

HOW IMPORTANT IS IT TO USE NAME BRAND EQUIPMENT?
Very important. There are many products on the market today designed for the “price shopper” in mind but do not offer parts, service support, and in some cases, a usable warranty. Our product line is based on American manufactured equipment. All of our products come with warranties and in most cases, will have the parts available locally for prompt service and repairs. A number of import gate operator companies will not carry or provide parts available here in the United States delaying repairs and increasing costs.

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