Gate Automation 101- 1: Getting Started

OK you've been thinking about this for some time. Now you're ready to take the plunge and install your own Automatic Gate Operator. Then it hits you; you haven't a clue as too where to start. Well have no fear, as an old installer used to say "It's not Rocket Science". But it does require some planning and a bit more DIY skills than hanging a picture. Most operators will require some amount of welding. They all require electrical connections, if you have any fears or questions as to your electrical skills, CALL A CONTRACTOR! It is better to be safe than sorry. The following is a guide to help you start off on the right foot and avoid some of the pitfalls.

Step 1

Lets answer some questions about what kind of gate you’re going to automate. We'll make this into a kind of checklist that you can use later when you order the equipment as well as when you go to the local building department for your permits.

1. Is the gate old __ or new __?
   If it's an old gate is the hardware in good condition?
2. Does it move freely without binding of hanging up?
   This is very important!
3. Is it Wood __ or Metal __ ?
   Generally wood gates need to be framed with metal or reinforced in some way to make them compatible with automation.
4. Does it slide __ or swing __?
5. How big, (or small) is it?
   ______ Wide by ______ High
6. Is it solid __ , does it have pickets __ or a Mesh __ covering?
7. How many times a day will it open and close?
   ______ times.
8. Is the opening level from side to side, yes __ or no __?
   If No, how much is the difference ______ inches.
9. Is the driveway level, yes __ or no __?
   If no, does it rise or fall as you enter and how much ______.
10. Is the stacking area, (where the gate goes when it's open) level, yes __ or no __?
11. What is the driveway made of?
    Concrete, Asphalt, Gravel, Paving Stones, Dirt or Other __________.
12. Is the necessary electrical power at the gate location, yes __ or no __?
13. If Not, How far away is it?
    ______ feet.
14. How will you open/close the gate?
    Radio transmitters, keypad, card reader, or other__________ .
15. Will you need a Visitor Entry System, yes __ or no __?
    This could be an Intercom or Telephone based system for visitors to call from the gate to the house.
16. Do you have a secondary man-gate for pedestrian access so they do not have to walk through the vehicle gate, yes __ or no __?
    A man-gate is required by UL325
17. Will you need a special EMERGENCY VEHICLE ACCESS DEVICE, yes __ or no __?
    You need to check with your local Fire Marshal or Building Department, many areas require them for Fire, Police, and Ambulance access in an emergency.

NOTE:  There are some more items we could add but they are more specific to accessories and we can look at them later.

Step 2

OK now we know what kind of gate we have, its condition and the environment into which it will be installed and used. You've talked with one of our sales consultants and have your operator and equipment on order. Now you need to put this information in the form of a simple layout drawing and go down to the local building department for your permits. You can call the building department in advance to get exact specifics for your area on what information needs to be shown. At a minimum your drawing will need to show the property lines, the driveway located on the property, and the gate location marked with the distance from the front property line to the gate, (see "A"), and from the gate to the power panel, (see "B"). You may also have to show any fence lines and the electrical runs if they are going to be new.

Sample Below.