Overview of Gate Opener Types for Swing and Slide Gates

Gate Operators are the devices which physically move the gate(s) and are typically powered by either 110/220 Volts AC or 12/24 Volts DC suitable for residential applications. For commercial installations, there are several operators which can be powered using higher AC voltages such as 460VAC & 575VAC.

DC Gate Operators use batteries to either power the gate or as back-up power when main AC power fails. Batteries can be charged by solar photo voltaic cells (PV) or using AC power supplied by a transformer.

Swing Arm Operators generally have a feature called "Soft Stop" which slows the movement at the opening and closing cycles. Many Ram Arm Operators have engineered their units to emulate this desired feature

There are many types of Gate Operators, also referred to as Gate Openers, and selecting the correct model to automate your driveway gate is essential. The gate size, weight, location and desired aesthic quality will determine which type of Gate Operator is suitable for you installation. This article describes the different types of gate openers available, such as top swing arm, bottom swing arm, linear or ram arm, below grade, underground or in-ground and slide gate operators.

See our BUYER'S GUIDE for more details and our equipment recommendations.

Bottom Mounted Swing Arm

Bottom Mounted Swing Arm Operators have the arm mounted on the bottom which is positioned to align with the bottom of the gate. There are two advantages to this type of operator; Aesthetics - There is no unsightly arm in the middle of your gate & Ease of Maintenance - The cover opens without having to remove the arm first allowing quick access to the electronics and mechanics.

These operators also feature a quick opening speed and an easy to adjust clutch.

Currently, Doorking is the only manufacturer of this type of gate operator but have several models suitable for gates up to 22 Ft. x 800 Lbs.

Popular Equipment In This Category:

DoorKing 6100
DoorKing 6300

Top Mounted Swing Arm

Top Mounted Swing Arm Operators are considered the workhorse of the industry. They are the most common type of swing gate operator and are relatively easy to install. Featuring a heavy metal frame and oil soaked gear boxes, these units are durable and can last 20 years if properly maintained.

Since the arm attaches to the gate near the middle height, it is highly visible. This may not be a factor in your installation but should be considered if aesthetics are important.

Most units have a front panel to the access the circuitry however servicing the mechanics generally requires disconnecting the gate arm from the operator and removing the cover.

Top Swing Arm Gate Operators are available in a variety of configurations; 115V - 460VAC, 24VDC, AC or DC motors with solar options and battery backup suitable for gates up to 36 ft. x 2,200 lbs.

Popular Equipment In This Category:

Platinum Access BLSW814
Platinum Access BLSW2212
LiftMaster CSW200
Eagle 100
Eagle 200
Ramset 30
Ramset 300
Viking F-1
Viking R-6

Linear Arm or Ram Arm 

Linear Arm Operators, also known as Ram Arm Operators, are very popular and are the easiest type of operators to install. The arm attaches directly to the post or column with the electronics and accessories being housed in a separate control panel. Because they are fairly small and unnoticeable, Linear Arm Operators provide a visually pleasing installation. Linear Arm Operators are available in mechanical or hydraulic versions. Many of the mechanical linear operators are suitable for solar installation.

Mechanical Style Linear Arm Openers are the most common and are well suited for low duty cycle residential usage of gates up to 14 Ft and 500 Lbs. The operate like a bumper-style jack, and use a similar “jack screw”. The jack screw is a long threaded rod that spins and moves the equivalent of a nut up and down the shaft with the gate attached to it. Units are available with low voltage 12-24V DC which make them suitable for solar installations.

Although these units do not require positive mechanical stops, they are recommended as all mechanical linear arms have a little play in them. When used on a single gate, it is recommended that a positive stop be added to the post or column opposite the operator. The operator should be adjusted so that the gate comes to rest on the stop with a little bit of pressure. When used on bi-parting gates it is recommended that adjustable end stops be used to assure a pleasing appearance where the gates meet in the center.

Hydraulic Linear Arm Openers are more expensive and generally more durable than Mechanical Linear Operators. Some models are suitable for commercial applications as they can handle larger gates of up to 2,200 Lbs and 22 Ft. These units work just like any hydraulic system utilizing a pump, reservoir, and piston with the electronics and accessories residing in a separate control box.

Hydraulic Linear Arm Operators require mechanical positive stops which are used to position the gate in both open and closed positions. Hydraulic units cannot use limit switches and instead rely on timers to run the motor for designated periods of time. 

Popular Equipment In This Category:

Platinum Access ACTP715
DoorKing 6002
FAAC 412
Viking G-5

Underground

Underground Operators also known as In-Ground or Below Grade Operators provide an almost invisible installation and are used when aesthetics are a high priority. These operators consist of two components; the underground actuator arm and a separate control box. There are two types of Underground Operators; Mechanical, which are the most common and Hydraulic.

Mechanical Underground Operators are generally used for bi-parting gates up to 12 Ft. x 1,000 Lbs per leaf.

Hydraulic In-Ground Operators can accomadate larger, heavier gates up to 2,000 Lbs per leaf and require positive stops. 

Popular Equipment In This Category:

Platinum Access UGP712
DoorKing 6400
FAAC S800H
Viking I-8

Slide Gate

Slide Gate Operators are most commonly used for commercial gate automation systems. However, slide gates are an excellent choice for residential driveway gate automation when the site has limitations. In general, a slide gate installation takes more talent and money to get right and should only be attempted by do-it-yourselfers with good mechanical skills.

A slide gate opener is a good choice when the gate is on a steep grade and you cannot, or do not want to open the gate outwards. Sometimes it is a matter of controlling a very wide entrance where a swing gate would be impractical. If your driveway has much side-to-side slope, you should consider an operator that has a braking system.

Slide openers are available in AC, battery, and solar powered models. Commercial units are available that can operate gates up to 40’ long, and weigh several thousand pounds