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Weight and Length: This is the max length and max weight for a gate that the manufacturer recommends the gate opener to be used on. One thing you will see is either an "and" or an "or" when describing the capacities. If it has an "and" both the max weight and max length can be used at the same time. If there is an "or" then as you move towards either maximum the other capacity decreases. Manufacturers that us an "or" rating do this to not limit gate openers from move heavier gates that are short because the gate opener will have leverage to do so.
Movement Method: Slide gate openers pull the gate open and closed by moving turning gears clockwise or counterclockwise. These gears will either have a chain that is attached to both ends of the gate riding on them or a rack that is mounted across the bottom of the gate with teeth that mesh with the gears.
Max Opening: In order to automate a gate and not have the gate opener in the entryway the gate has to be longer than the opening and stretch past where the gate opener is mounted on the side of the driveway. Also most slide gate openers can handle gates much bigger than their openings but because of run times are restricted to certain opening distances.
Solar compatible: 12V DC systems that run off of a battery can generally be used with solar power instead of plugging in a transformer. The gate openers that operate this way run entirely off of a battery; the power source, i.e. solar panel, is there to trickle charge that battery.
Post Mount: This is a type of gate opener that gets bolted to posts that you sink in the ground in cement. This is an easier DIY method than pouring concrete pads
Low Voltage Trickle Charge: 12V DC systems are very popular because of their reliability, ease of installation, and safety. Low voltage systems that run off of a battery need to have the batteries charged. This si typically done through a transformer that reduces the voltage from an outlet and then through low voltage wire brings that lower voltage power to the control board which regulates the flow to the battery and charges it as needed.
DIY: An abbreviation for Do-It-Yourself. GateCrafters.com specializes in people that are doing it themselves and has many resources to help a homeowner including videos, 9 - 9 live support, and product additions for easier installation.
ISO 9000: ISO 9000 is a family of standards for quality management systems. ISO 9000 is maintained by ISO, the International Organization for Standardization and is administered by accreditation and certification bodies.
UL325: The UL-325 standard that addresses the automatic operation of garage doors, Drapery, Gate, Louver and Window Operators and Systems also contains provisions related to the automatic operation of access control gates. The primary intent of the standards is to prevent entrapment of persons in automated gate systems, as well as preventing injuries from pinch points. UL 325 is not concerned about the gate contacting vehicles, only the entrapment of people.
Normally closed: A circuit that is used for activation can initiated two ways: by releasing the circuit or connecting the circuit. Normally closed means that the circuit is connected all the time and then when the circuit is released the control board goes into action (or inaction).
Low Voltage System: This is the safest type of system for a home owner to install and easiest. Low voltage systems run off of 12 or 24 volts, which will produce no shock if touched. It also does not require an Electrician for running power.
Pause Times: gate openers can be either used like garage door openers where they stay open until you close them or they can be used with internal reclose timers. After the gate reaches its open position the control board counts down and automatically recloses.
Receiver: This is the device that receives the radio signal from your remotes and makes the gate opener activate. Some manufacturers provide this and some do not and make you buy it separately. EVERY GateCrafters.com gate opener will come with a receiver and remote.
Homelink: This is the leading brand for the universal remote system that is built into cars. Other brands can most likely work with our systems as well.
AFA: American Fence Association. Started in 1962, all major companies involved in the fencing and automation industry are members of this organization. It was developed to share information on advancements and set standards in the industry.
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