Access into areas can be obtained using various devices that are tailored to specific needs. For example, keypads allow any person with the correct code to gain entry, while card readers require that the individual possess a valid card for entry. Other options are available, and each solution is custom-tailored to your situation and needs. A most common entry/exit tool used for gate opening systems is a simple transmitter. With the push of a button, like a garage door opener, the gate is controlled to open and close. These transmitters come in key chain style as well as visor style.

D&C provides many different types of keypads for an automatic gate system. The hardwired keypad is our most reliable keypad. It is heavy duty and lights up when the key is punched. This type of keypad is hardwired to the gate operator, making it a much more reliable tool. These keypads can be mounted to existing fences or posts at the site or installed on a pedestal, so vehicle entering does not have to get out of the vehicle to punch in code. The wireless keypad works in the same manner, but works on the receiver's frequency, eliminating the wiring. The wireless keypad is more cost-effective than the hardwired keypad yet not as reliable. This unit runs off a small battery that will need to be replaced from time to time.

When a gate system is set to close after entering the property automatically, the question becomes how the guest or owner can leave the property. An option most commonly used where there is a cement drive or asphalt drive is the free exit loop. An exit loop works like a safety loop; it is magnetic and is in the ground. When a vehicle rolls over this part of the drive, the gate will automatically open. A great option when there is no asphalt or concrete drive is a free exit probe. The free exit probe works when a car passes the buried probe; the gate is triggered and opens for free exiting. If no timer is on the gate, a simple keypad or transmitter can close the gate.

There are many other options for access control with gates, cameras, magnetic locks, long-range transmitters, battery backup, and many more. Give us a call to discuss what system would be best for you!

A turnstyle gate, more commonly known as a turnstile gate, controls access into and out of points of entry. Turnstile gates allow only one person to pass through an access point at a time and can come in many forms. Also, they can be one-directional or bi-directional and are used more frequently now as the benefits of access control are becoming more understood worldwide.

Turnstile gate access control gates are perfect for corporate lobbies, construction sites, stadiums or any other place where access control is desired. They can be used for security, crowd control, pedestrian counting, and credential checking. Turnstile gates are a versatile solution to many access control problems.

A question to ask yourself when having an electronic access gate installed is, do I want the gate to close on its own once someone has entered. For example, when the code is entered, the gate opens, but the only way for it to close is if the code is entered again on the same keypad (not likely) or the owner has a transmitter. Otherwise, it would trigger the timer on the operator after opening to close automatically within a predesignated period. If this is the case, then it becomes necessary to install safety devices on the gate operator system. The most common safety device is a safety photo-eye. The photo-eye shoots a laser across the gate opening. When an obstruction is breaking this laser, the photo-eye keeps the gate open.  Then, when the obstruction (vehicle or person) clears the safety photo-eye, the timer is triggered automatically close after the set timeframe. Photo-eyes works great for residential and for some commercial applications. The best option available to keep automatic access gates from closing on vehicles is a safety loop. It is only possible to install safety loops into concrete or asphalt drives in decent condition. These loops are sawed into existing driveways, installed, and sealed. When a vehicle is over the loop, it will sense it, helping to keep the gate from closing on the car. When the loop is cleared, the timer is triggered, and the gate will automatically close. A safety loop is the most reliable source of safety control for operators. The main issue with a photo-eye is that when it rains, it is foggy, or the eye is misaligned, the gate will remain open until the laser is connected again.