Keypads, Fobs and App Control for Electric Gates

Remotes are great for the family, but they're not the answer for everyone. Keypads, fobs and app control let you give access to other people – and take it away again – without handing out remotes.

Keypads

A keypad on a post at the gate. Enter the right code and the gate opens.

• Best for: visitors and regulars – cleaners, carers, dog walkers, tradespeople.
• Plus points: no remotes to lose; codes can be changed any time; many keypads hold several codes, so each person can have their own.
• Things to know: choose a weatherproof, backlit keypad and change codes now and again. Position it so a driver can reach it from the car window without driving onto the gate's path.

Proximity fobs and cards

A small fob or card you hold up to a reader at the gate.

• Best for: staff, residents in apartment developments, and anywhere lots of people need access.
• Plus points: each fob can be cancelled individually if it's lost or someone leaves.

App control

A Wi-Fi or GSM module connected to the gate's control board lets you open the gate from your phone.

• Best for: letting in deliveries or visitors when you're not home, and checking whether the gate's open or closed.
• Plus points: many systems send alerts when the gate opens, and let you share temporary access.
• Things to know: Wi-Fi apps need a good signal at the gate. GSM uses a mobile SIM, so it works without Wi-Fi but has a small ongoing SIM cost.

GSM "call to open"

Authorised phone numbers ring a SIM in the gate unit, which recognises the number and opens the gate – the call doesn't even connect. Simple and popular on farms and commercial sites.

Keeping it secure

• change keypad codes regularly, and when anyone leaves
• delete lost fobs straight away
• use strong passwords on any app, and keep it updated

See smart and app control for linking your gate to Alexa or Google Home.

Call, text or WhatsApp Adrian on 07855 781433.

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