Gate Automation is a popular form of home improvement in South Africa. Due to the rising crime rate in this country over the past couple decades South Africa has led the way in home and office security systems. Overseas, many of these security developments are limited to government and corporate facilities. As traditionally South African homes are larger properties than elsewhere, it simply isn’t enough to just secure one’s house but the complete perimeter as well. Alongside higher walls and electric fencing, gate automation is a valued part of a complete security plan.
Besides security concerns, electric gate installation is a desirable feature that will add value to your home. Most luxury houses in high income areas all have their own automated gates positioned on the driveway. Even lower value residences are having these gates installed as with so many companies providing the service, the cost has become considerably more economical. Almost all flat and cluster housing complexes have automated gates now which can be controlled either by remote or magnetic card. The electronic keying system of the magnetic card logs information onto a security computer that gives information on who is entering and exiting at all times. This enables the security company to maintain more effective control over a complex. The general security benefit of an automated gate is that it allows a person to open the gate by remote access without having to leave the safety of their vehicle, thus making it harder to hi-jack.
Electronic Gates are powered by an electronic motor and two basic systems are available. The first, allows a gate to open in an angled arc, which operates on a hydraulic slide-arm. This is an older system that used to feature for an entrance that featured two gates. However, it is considered less popular as higher maintenance was required and the arc movement of the gate required a large area of clearance. The much more common system usually features one large single gate to control a given entrance or exit. This gate is powered by the motor that turns a cog mechanism and pulls the gate directly to side as guided by a laid track. The sliding gate/track system only requires that sufficient clearance area be available directly behind the wall to harbour the gate when it is being opened. Additionally, should either system fail, there is a manual over ride available on the motor that allows an individual to either lock the gate completely or allow it to be opened and closed by hand.
