Sliding gate remote controls and hardware: how to choose

For a sliding gate or door you need a track and carriages suited to the weight of the leaf, guides at the top to keep it upright and limit stops at the ends. To automate it you need a receiver, a remote control, photocells and a warning light. The remote control must be chosen by frequency (433.92 or 868.35 MHz) and by type of coding, so that it is compatible with the receiver already installed.

The types

• Tracks and carriages: the track must be fixed to a stable base; the carriages or wheels run on the track and support the leaf.
• Guides and stops: they keep the leaf upright and stop it at the end of its travel. End-of-travel stops and buffers prevent impacts.
• Remote controls and key fobs: with 2 or 4 buttons, for gates, in fixed-code, rolling-code and universal self-learning versions. Examples: Magiko universal, MAS868, Romolo and I.AM BT.
• Radio receivers: they pick up the signal from the remote control and operate the motor. For example the 1-channel radio receiver.
• Photocells: surface-mounted or flush-mounted, they detect an obstacle in the path of the gate. See the flush-mounted infrared photocells.
• Warning lights: flashing lamps that warn of movement. Articulated versions are also available.

How to choose by job

The features to look at

• Frequency: in the collection they are 433.92 MHz and 868.35 MHz. The remote control must have the same frequency as the receiver, or be multi-frequency.
• Coding: fixed code, non-clonable rolling code, Hopping, Self Learning. Fixed code is simpler and easier to copy; rolling code changes with every press and is more secure. A universal remote control only copies the systems it is able to handle.
• Channels and buttons: from 1 to 4 channels, with 2- or 4-button remote controls. One button for each gate or function.
• Material and finish: steel, galvanised steel, aluminium, nylon, with galvanised, nickel-plated, chrome-plated, anodised, tropicalised or hot-dip galvanised finishes. Hot-dip galvanising is the choice for outdoor use.
• Diameter: where stated, wheels, pins or rollers must be chosen according to the leaf and the track.

Common mistakes

• Buying the remote control without checking frequency and coding. If they do not match the receiver, it will not work.
• Fitting the track out of level. The leaf tends to run to one side and the motor is forced.
• Using wheels with the wrong groove. The groove must match the profile of the track.
• Forgetting limit stops and buffers. Without them, the leaf bangs against the structure on every operation.
• Neglecting cleaning. Stones and debris on the track wear out the wheels and jam the leaf.

Frequently asked questions

How do I find out the frequency of my remote control?

It is usually printed on the back or on the product page. If in doubt, look at the model of the receiver or ask the AMES technicians.

Does a universal remote control work with every gate?

No. It works with the systems whose frequency and coding it can handle; with rolling codes a specific procedure from the manufacturer is needed.

How do you programme a remote control?

You follow the manufacturer's procedure on the control unit. It changes from model to model, so read the instructions.

What are photocells for?

They detect an obstacle in front of the gate and stop or reverse its travel, to protect people and vehicles.

You will find all the components in the Sliding Gate and Door Hardware collection: if you are not sure about frequency or coding, request a quote or ask the AMES technicians for advice.