Fast Gate Openers | Glossary of Terms
Welcome to the Fast Gate Openers Glossary of Terms. This reference guide is designed to help you better understand the technical terminology and key components associated with our FAAC gate automation systems, including swing gate openers, slide gate openers, barrier arms, and bollards. Whether you're a first-time buyer, installer, or experienced technician, this glossary provides clear, concise definitions of the most relevant terms used throughout our website, manuals, and product listings. Use this resource to gain deeper insight into how our products and accessories work together to deliver efficient, secure, and reliable vehicular access solutions.
| Name | Definition |
|---|---|
| Access Control | A method of managing who can enter or exit a location, often using keypads, intercoms, or card readers. |
| Actuator Arm | A mechanical device that extends and retracts to move swing gates open or closed. |
| Articulated Arm | A hinged arm used in swing gate operators to accommodate gates with wide pillars or limited space, allowing smooth operation. |
| Articulated Arm Operator | A gate opener with a jointed arm, often used when space constraints prevent the use of straight arms. |
| Barrier Arm Skirt | An attachment to barrier arms that extends downward to prevent pedestrians from passing under the arm when it is lowered. |
| Barrier Gate | A motorized system with a pivoting arm used to control vehicular access at entrances and exits. |
| Battery Backup | A secondary power source that allows the gate to operate during a power outage. |
| Bollard | Short vertical posts designed to control vehicle access and protect perimeter zones. |
| Brushless Motor | An efficient, low-maintenance motor type with fewer moving parts, increasing durability and performance. |
| Cantilever Gate | A type of sliding gate that operates without ground tracks, supported by rollers on a post-mounted track. |
| Control Board | The electronic module that manages gate automation operations including motor control and safety devices. |
| Cycle Time | The total time it takes for a gate to fully open and then close. |
| Direct Drive Operator | A gate motor configuration where the motor is mounted directly to the drive mechanism, reducing moving parts. |
| Emergency Release | A feature allowing manual gate operation during power outages or malfunctions. |
| Exit Loop Detector | A wire loop embedded in the driveway that senses vehicles to automatically trigger gate opening. |
| Fail-Safe | A system that defaults to an open state in case of power or component failure, prioritizing safety. |
| Fail-Secure | A system that remains locked when power is lost, prioritizing security over access. |
| Fire Department Access Box (Knox Box) | A secured box installed near a gate entrance containing access tools for emergency responders. |
| Gate Lock | A physical or electronic locking system that secures the gate in the closed position. |
| Gate Opener Kit | A packaged system with a motor, control board, remotes, brackets, and installation hardware. |
| Hydraulic Lock | A mechanism that locks the gate in the open and/or closed position using hydraulic pressure, enhancing security and stability. |
| Hydraulic Operator | A gate motor system that uses hydraulic fluid for quieter, stronger gate operation, ideal for heavy gates. |
| In-Ground Operator | A gate operator installed below ground level, offering a concealed and aesthetically pleasing solution for swing gates. |
| Infrared Photocell Sensor | A safety feature that projects an invisible beam to detect movement or objects in the gate’s path. |
| Key Fob | A small handheld remote used to wirelessly open and close the gate. |
| LED Barrier Arm Lights | Lights integrated into barrier arms to enhance visibility and safety during operation, especially in low-light conditions. |
| Limit Switch | A sensor that defines the open and closed positions of the gate, preventing overtravel. |
| Loop Detector | A sensor installed in the ground to detect the presence of vehicles, triggering gate operation accordingly. |
| Magnetic Lock (Maglock) | An electromagnet-based locking device that keeps the gate closed until de-energized. |
| Manual Release | A feature that allows manual operation of the gate in case of power failure or system malfunction. |
| Mounting Post | A pedestal used to mount access control devices such as keypads, card readers, or intercoms at vehicle window height. |
| Photo Beam | A horizontal beam of light across the gate path to detect obstruction; if broken, the gate stops or reverses. |
| Receiver | The unit inside a gate system that interprets signals from transmitters like remotes or access panels. |
| Remote Transmitter | A handheld wireless device used to trigger the opening or closing of a barrier gate from a distance. |
| Retractable Bollard | A vertical post that can be lowered into the ground to allow vehicle passage and raised to restrict access, commonly used for traffic control. |
| Safety Edge | A rubber or electronic strip that detects pressure and stops the gate when resistance is encountered. |
| Slide Gate Operator | A motor that opens and closes gates by sliding them laterally along a track. |
| Swing Gate Operator | A motorized mechanism for gates that pivot inward or outward. |
| Timer to Close | A programmable function that automatically closes the gate after a set period. |
| UL 325 Compliance | A safety certification requiring automated gates to include features that prevent entrapment or injury. |
| Vehicular Loop | A detection loop embedded in the driveway specifically calibrated for vehicle presence, not pedestrians. |
| Arctic Oil | A type of hydraulic oil formulated to perform reliably in extremely low temperatures, ensuring consistent gate operator performance in cold climates. |
| Bollard Mounting Sleeve | A ground-installed sleeve that allows bollards to be removable or replaceable as needed for maintenance or seasonal adjustments. |
| Fixed Bollard | A permanent bollard anchored into the ground, used to block vehicle access and protect infrastructure. |
| Automatic Bollard | A powered retractable bollard that raises or lowers automatically based on access control signals. |
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Have questions about our FAAC gate automation systems or need assistance with selecting the right solution for your property? We specialize in providing high-quality gate openers, barrier arms, bollards, and accessories tailored for residential, commercial, and industrial applications. Our knowledgeable team is ready to help you with product recommendations, installation guidance, and technical support. Reach out today to get started!
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