How Do Gate Remotes Work?

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When you install an automatic gate, you need to have certain peripherals that allow access through that gate. While you might decide to add keypads or card readers, the most common way to do this is using a gate remote.

If you’ve ever wondered how gate remotes work, you’re in the right place! Here’s what you need to know.

Gate Remotes Are Radio Transmitters

Gate remotes, whether you are using older dip switch type of gate remotes or newer rolling code versions, are miniaturized radio transmitters. When you press the button on your gate remote, it generates a radio signal. That signal’s frequency is specific to your gate motor or gate operator, and it essentially works as a switch to activate the gate motor.

Gate remotes have an onboard battery to allow them to create this signal, so if your gate motor or gate operator is not behaving the way it usually does, the first thing you should do is test or replace the battery.

Receiver Required

Of course, your gate remote or transmitter is only one side of the equation. Your gate motor or gate operator also needs to have a receiver to receive the radio signal and trigger the gate motor or gate operator to start or stop moving. This receiver is usually built into the gate motor housing so that you won’t see it, but it’s there!

Line of Sight Required

Of course, gate remotes have some limitations, and one is that you usually need to have line of sight to ensure they will work. Radio waves generally don’t like to travel too far or go through too many things.

One solution to this problem, if you need to use your gate remotes from a distance, is to install a signal repeater, which does exactly what it sounds like: captures the wave and then re-sends it to the radio receiver in the gate motor.

This is particularly useful if you have a large property or if there is a building or structure that might interfere with the radio signal.

Not Universal

It’s important to note that, in most cases, gate remotes are not universal. Different manufacturers use different types of receivers. There are also single-button, triple-button and other types of specialized remotes that might work better with a particular gate motor or gate operator.

As always, if you’re not an expert, speak to a gate automation specialist or manufacturer. They’ll be able to tell you exactly what your gate remote options are.