What is Gate Automation?

Gate automation is the use of an electric motor and control system to open and close a gate without manual effort. The gate is triggered by a remote, keypad, mobile app, intercom, timer or vehicle sensor, and the controller manages travel, speed, obstacle detection and auto-close behaviour.

It is standard on driveways, access-controlled facilities, apartment blocks, warehouses and secure perimeters — anywhere a gate is opened often enough that getting out of a vehicle becomes the bottleneck, or where access needs to be logged and controlled.

Why automate a gate

• Convenience — operate the gate without leaving the vehicle
• Security — prevent unauthorised entry, and close the gate automatically after each vehicle rather than relying on someone remembering
• Safety — controlled, monitored movement with obstacle detection to prevent collisions
• Access control — manage who gets in via remotes, keypads, apps or vehicle detection loops

Motor types

The motor choice is driven by gate weight, duty cycle (how many operations per day) and what power is available at the gate.

240V motors

Standard single-phase motors running on full mains power. Cost-effective hardware with high torque, suited to long-term and heavy-duty installations.

• Cost-effective hardware
• High torque output
• Requires a licensed electrician and a 600mm-deep trench for power cabling

Low voltage motors (24V)

The most common choice for new residential and light commercial installs. Safer to work around, more efficient, and considerably easier to install because the cabling is extra-low voltage.

• Safe low-voltage operation
• Solar compatible
• Supports battery backup — the gate keeps working through a power outage
• Better suited to high-traffic applications than 240V, because 24V motors handle repeated cycles without overheating
• Improved obstacle detection and adjustable travel speed

Cable sizing: use 3mm copper for runs under 30m between transformer and motor, or 6mm for runs up to 80m. Undersized cable causes voltage drop and erratic operation.

3-phase motors

Industrial motors for high torque and speed. Paired with a frequency inverter, these can run from a 240V supply with enhanced power regulation.

• Industrial-grade endurance
• Supports continuous use
• Best for heavy-duty commercial gates

Sliding gates

Sliding gates need horizontal run-back space and a level travel path. Points to confirm before ordering:

• Ground level — must be level along the full travel for smooth operation
• Run-back space — there must be room for the gate to retract fully
• Wheels and track — sized to the gate weight, not just the gate width
• Duty cycle — match motor rating to expected traffic volume
• Surface — works best on concrete or bitumen

Typical commercial sliding motors cover a wide weight range — for example the FAAC 740 at 900kg, FAAC 844 and DEA Charger at 1800kg, BFT ARES at 1500kg, BFT Oberon up to 2000kg (leaf speed up to 39 m/min), and the SEA Lepus 2000kg 24V unit.

Swing and hinged gates

Swing gates are automated with hydraulic, worm drive or articulated arm motors. Which one suits depends on the post or pillar structure and the gate construction.

• Check for slope or obstruction anywhere along the gate's arc of travel
• Motor mounting depends on whether you are fixing to a pillar or a post
• Use ground stops or electric drop bolts on double gates to hold the leading leaf

Examples of swing units include the FAAC 415 24V electric swing motor and the BFT Giuno Ultra BT A50 double kit.

Boom gates

Boom gates handle traffic control rather than perimeter security — driveways, car parks, school entrances and business premises. They are fast-acting and integrate readily with access control.

• Select on boom length and traffic frequency
• Supports card readers, Bluetooth and GSM app control
• Common in commercial and educational environments

Accessories and safety features

• Safety beams — photoelectric beams that stop the gate closing on a vehicle or pedestrian. Effectively mandatory on any automated gate with public access
• Keypads — PIN entry, usually with a separate pedestrian access mode
• Remote controls — handheld transmitters
• Battery backup — maintains operation during a power outage
• Loop detectors — buried induction loops that auto-open for exiting vehicles
• Solar panels — power the gate where grid connection is difficult or expensive
• Flashing lights — visual warning during gate movement
• Mobile app control — Bluetooth or GSM access systems

Installation requirements

• Use the correct power cable type and trench depth for 240V installations — 600mm deep, installed by a licensed electrician
• Run low-voltage cable in conduit where it passes near or under the fence line
• Confirm clearance for the full swing arc or slide travel before installing tracks or mounting the motor
• Match hinges, stops and wheels to the gate type and weight — automation amplifies any weakness in the gate hardware
• Size the motor to the gate's actual weight and daily cycle count, not to its width alone

Choosing a system: quick guide

1. Weigh the gate and count expected daily cycles
2. Sliding or swinging? Sliding needs run-back space and level ground; swinging needs clear arc
3. What power is at the gate? No mains nearby favours 24V with solar and battery backup
4. How heavy is the traffic? High cycle counts favour 24V or 3-phase over 240V single-phase
5. How will people trigger it? Remotes, keypad, app, intercom, loop detector — or a combination
6. Add the safety layer: safety beams at minimum, plus flashing light on commercial sites

Common questions

Do I need an electrician?

For 240V and 3-phase installations, yes — mains work requires a licensed electrician. 24V low voltage systems are considerably simpler.

Will the gate work in a blackout?

With battery backup, yes. 24V systems support battery backup and solar as standard options.

Can it be solar powered?

Yes, on 24V low voltage systems. This is a common solution for rural and remote gates.

How deep does the cable trench need to be?

600mm for 240V mains cabling.

What size cable for a low voltage motor?

3mm copper under 30m, 6mm up to 80m, between transformer and motor.

What stops the gate closing on a car?

Safety beams across the opening, combined with the motor's own obstacle detection.