Unlike manual gates, electronic gates use either a hydraulic motor or an electromechanical system to open on command. There are essentially three types of electronic gates: swinging, sliding and articulated. Understanding the fundamental differences between the three can help a person get a better idea about which is best for his particular layout and security needs.
Electronic gates are increasing in popularity for both commercial and residential properties because of their safety features and convenience. They are beneficial because a person can open the gate without having to get out of the car. They are more expensive than manual gates, but they are appealing to a lot of people because of their automated features.
Swinging gates basically operate as one might imagine; they are usually opened by a remote control or keypad, and the gates swing open on their hinges in one direction to allow for entry. They are best suited to work on flat surfaces with no significant incline and plenty of space. An added benefit is that one doesn't need to come to a complete stop when driving through the entry point. The vehicle can instead be slowly driven through the entry as the gates swing open. Swinging gates tend to be the most popular and widely used.
Sliding gates also operate as the name implies. They are opened by a remote control or keypad and slide to one side on a horizontal axis to allow for entry. These are ideal for driveways with a severe incline on either side of the gate. Unlike swinging gates, the sliding variety doesn't need to extend forward or backward to be opened. This is why they are usually necessary when dealing with steep slopes in mountainous terrains.
Articulated electronic gates consist of several smaller gates that are hinged together on a rail. When the On switch is initiated, the gates move across the rail and are folded up on both ends of the rail. They are similar to sliding gates except the gap is not cleared completely. These are sometimes considered the least attractive gates in terms of aesthetics, but they are ideal for extremely small or tight spaces with limited room for gate movement.
When deciding on the best electronic gates for a particular situation, the most important criterion to factor in is usually the layout. This will often dictate which type of gate should be installed. It's also important to research three or four companies and thoroughly consider their quality, options and pricing before actually making a purchase and having a gate installed.