Ample supply of electrical current is critical to the
operator's performance and the longevity of its electrical components.
Since gate operators are frequently located in remote locations, it is
important to consider voltage drop when sizing wire for the operator
load. Be certain that voltage drop does not fall below limits specified
in the National Electrical Code.
Failure to adequately size wire can cause low voltage control components
to chatter or in some cases not function at all. The chattering of
relays can cause arcing of contacts and the shortening of their life.
Additionally low voltage causes electrical motor to draw more amperage
than designed shortening their life.
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How many individual conduits will
be required? |
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What size must the conduits be? |
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Where will the conduits go - to
and from operators and accessories? |
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How many wires should be pulled
into each conduit? |
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What voltage and phase does the
primary power have to be? |
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How many circuits will be
required? |
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Location to stub up conduits so
that concrete pads may be poured? |
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If you must cross the roadway with
conduit, the best location is under the gate line, when in the
closed position. This keeps the electrical clear of the magnetic
loop detector system. |
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Always run primary wiring in its
own conduit. Do not run control wiring in the same conduit as
primary wiring. This includes D.C. intercom wiring and video
CCTV cabling. |
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Use 12 gauge wire on any
accessories to be wired to gate operator, such as card readers,
keypads, etc. |
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Always use the highest voltage
source available. Three phase power is more efficient and will
provide the longest life for the equipment. |
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Any control device in excess of
250 feet from the operator must utilize a long range interface
control. |
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Most intercom systems are limited
to 1,600 feet in distance when hard wired. Other devices are
available for greater distances, such as phone entry systems. |
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Is the gate operator to be linked
to any other systems; fire alarm / perimeter monitoring system /
intrusion alarm / other? |
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Are open closed indicator lights
required at control stations. |
