What Kit Should I Buy ?Choosing your Kit:If you are automating a sliding door or garage door, then you will simply use the appropriate door kit (but please read the discussion on power supply below). You have a choice of kits to automate hinged gates, and the following four factors are the most important in choosing between the kits that we offer:
Single or Double gates ?Choose a single or double kit, depending upon whether you have one or two gates to automate. You will need only one of most items in the kit, even though you require a pair of operators for doubles, so you can make considerable savings by buying a double kit rather than two single kits. Suitable single or double kits are suggested in each section below. Articulated or Straight (ram) operators ?If you are going to install the kit yourself, then the articulated operator kits are probably the best option. They include an integral electronic controller, which simplifies connections, and it does not need a separate box to be attached to the gate post. Unfortunately articulated operators cannot be used for gates heavier than 150 kg, or longer than 2 metres. Suitable aboveground articulated kits are: However ram operators are more compact, and you may have to use this type of kit if space is limited, or if you want to automate a small pedestrian gate. Also you will need to use ram operators where your gates are longer or heavier than the dimensions given above. These kits are more difficult to install, but should be well within the capabilities of most DIY practitioners. Suitable kits are given in the next section. Mains or Battery (24 Volt) powered operators ?If there is a mains supply near the gate site, then the cheapest option is to use mains-powered operators. Suitable aboveground straight (ram) kits are: If there is no mains supply and you are going to use wind or solar power, then you will have to use a battery 24 Volt powered operator. Even if there is a mains supply, you might well stillchoose to use a 24 Volt system with a battery and battery charger since the ram operators will not overheat if the gate is very busy (if the gate is being used for more than 30% of the time then you should consider using a ram operator). If the gate must be available even in the event of a power failure, for example for use by disabled people who are unable to operate it manually, then the only choice is to use a 24 Volt operator with a battery and charger. The 24 Volt kits for hinged gates are: Aboveground or Underground operators ?The third type of operator for hinged gates is an underground operator which is buried underneath the bottom hinge of the gate. This operator is unobtrusive but has to be carefully installed, and the attachment to the gate has to be custom built. It is probably not suitable for self installation. The underground operator kits are: |