Helpful terms and definitions

This refers to the actual control of the gate system, via card reader, radio receiver, telephone entry, cellular and ethernet systems, and phone apps.

• Card Reader – An increased security system that requires a physical card presentation to activate the gate entry.
• Radio Receiver – A receiver is the unit that allows remote access to the gate primarily from vehicles. Most radios can be matched to garage door units and most factory automobile transmitters.
• Telephone entry – This system ties the gate system into a telephone line. A wide variety of equipment on the market addresses all types of applications. The visitor at the gate calls pre-programmed numbers and the resident controls the gate from the telephone to allow or deny entry. These types of units also allow the owner to open, close, and lock the gate open through the phone. Expanded and larger versions are designed for commercial applications.
• Cellular telephone entry – This works the same as a telephone entry but uses a cellular signal rather than a telephone line. These also offer a camera to see the visitor at the gate before granting them entry. 
• Ethernet system – The Doorbird is an intercom system for single family homes and  businesses with video intercom and keypad, wi-fi and/or LAN connection, and 2-way audio.

A device that allows emergency vehicles onto the property. This is primarily used in commercial applications. Examples are SOS, Click2Enter, and Knox lock. These are dictated by the local fire

marshal. 

This allows the gate to open automatically upon exiting. Examples are a loop cut into the driveway, an Optex sensor, or a probe.

• Loops and Loop Detectors – An electromagnetic field installed in the driveway area that signals the gate to open.
• Optex sensor – The virtual loop is a vehicle presence sensor for use on gates and barriers. The advanced distance measuring radar reliably detects vehicles of all sizes while ignoring all human movement.
• Probe – Buried along the driveway, this device opens by detecting moving steel (vehicles).

This refers to the actual product at the opening. Material can be steel, aluminum, plastic, or wood. Size and type offer many variations in design with the option of swinging or sliding open.

The master unit that moves the gate. There are a number of manufacturers on the market. Decisions on purchase would be in direct relationship to the selection of the gate (material, slide or swing, size,

weight, hard-wired or solar, etc.) and price point. There is a difference in quality and price with each manufacturer.

This is a safety standard that governs the design, installation and operation of automated gates to prevent entrapment and ensure safe operation.

• Photo beam – A safety device now required at the gate threshold to prevent entrapment per UL325.
• Safety Edge – A safety device required by UL325 which is installed on the rear edge of a slide gate that will stop or reverse the gate upon meeting an obstacle.