How to choose the most effective electric lock on the gate

Secure locking is an important safety factor.

Recently, electric locks for gates (i.e., devices in which the electronic circuit is responsible for fixing the opening part) are rapidly gaining popularity.

The main reason for this lies not so much in increasing the level of security, as in a more comfortable use of such types of locking devices.

In our article we will describe the most common types of constipation with electrical components, and try to analyze their strengths and weaknesses.

Electromagnetic locks

Principle of operation and types

Electric locks on the wicket presented on the modern market can have very different designs. And yet, analyzing the scheme of their device, we can distinguish two main types:

1. Magnetic;
2. Electromechanical locks on the gate.

The main unit in section

An electromagnetic lock is a device that presses the gate leaf to the flat part of the frame due to magnetic interaction.

• The main part of this constipation is a wire coil.wrapped around a hardened steel core.
• When current is applied to the contacts in the coil, a magnetic field is generated. Under its influence, the metal counterplate is attracted to the part of the lock in which the core is placed.
• The most common type of EM devices are restraints. They keep the gate in the closed position due to the magnetic interaction of the core and the strike plate.

The installation scheme of the retention of constipation on the gate

Note! When the power is disconnected, the holding electric lock on the gate becomes useless, and the gate simply opens. To avoid this, experts recommend additionally equip the system with uninterruptible power supplies.

• Sliding models are more complex. They hold the gate is responsible for the tongue, which is included in the groove on the strike plate. Most sliding magnetic locks are of the mortise type, because they can not be installed on all types of wickets.

Advantages and disadvantages

The wide spread of EM locks is due to the presence of a number of obvious advantages:

• They provide reliable fixation of gates, doors and gates of any size and configuration.
• Installing them with your own hands is not difficult, and they are very unpretentious in maintenance.
• Simplicity of control and great opportunities for modifications of security systems based on electromagnetic door locking is another indisputable advantage.

Tip! In order not to leave the house every time to open the gate, connect the lock controller to the intercom and the control panel!

Such a parameter as the price may well be considered as advantage. The fact is that only complex systems combined with a remote control, intercom or video cameras are quite expensive. A simple magnetic lock can be purchased for relatively little money.

Magnetic locking with automatic gate opening device

As for the shortcomings, first of all, the device’s dependence on the availability of electricity in the network should be attributed to them. In other matters, as we noted above, the use of an uninterruptible power supply is able to partially offset this disadvantage.

Electromechanical devices

Typical design

Another type of electrical locking devices - electromechanical locks. Outwardly, such an electric lock for the gate is very similar to an ordinary one.

But in its design there are a number of differences:

• The opening and closing of the gate of the gate occurs by the interaction of the latch system with one or more strike strips.
• To set the bolts in motion, either electric latches or miniature electric motors are used.
• It is also possible to use magnetic latches placed inside the case and releasing the steel locking tongue.

Internal device diagrams

A wide variety of models in this segment allows you to choose the lock for almost any requirements. The most popular species include:

• Motor devices. Equipped with a 24V electric motor, which drives the mechanical locking elements. Some time passes between the activation of the lock and its activation, and in some cases this may not be very convenient. Such lock will be suitable for a gate from a professional flooring.
• Solenoid. They work due to magnetic interaction, they are distinguished by a significant holding force.
• Electro-blocking models. The most common type of lock, in which the latch is fixed by a spring. When an electric current is applied, the spring is unblocked, which makes it possible to change the position of the bolt.

Garage sectional doors with a wicket, on which a separate electromechanical locking mechanism is installed

Features of installation and operation

According to their operational characteristics, electromechanical locks are located in an intermediate position between mechanical models and locking devices on a magnetic basis. They combine the benefits of constipation of these two types, and therefore they are widely recommended for use by experts in the field of security of private homes.

It should be remembered that the effectiveness of this device depends on the correctness of its installation.

In order to ensure the most reliable locking of the gate, it is necessary to install an electronic lock on the gate in compliance with such rules:

Photo gate with a lock

• The optimum gap between the blade and the frame is 5-7 mm. With a smaller gap, the gate will “jam”, and a greater distance does not provide the required fixation.
• The more securely fixed on the basis of the details of the lock, the better. For fixing, use metal screws only. Their diameter select the appropriate diameter mounting holes.
• Reliable power supply is the key to uninterrupted operation of the system. All cables must be protected from mechanical damage, and to avoid problems during a power outage, it is worthwhile to install a backup current source.
• Electronic "stuffing" of the castle suffers from moisture. A small visor or protective cover can significantly extend the life of the entire system.

Strictly speaking, installation of such systems should be handled by professional installers. But if you want to install a lock on the gate with your own hands, or you want to control the process “competently”, then the text instructions in the corresponding sections will help you.

Conclusion

The electronic lock for the gate is a really effective means to ensure the security of your home. Having correctly selected the device, you will reliably protect the courtyard from uninvited visitors, and also ensure yourself the highest level of comfort. In the presented video in this article you will find additional information on this topic.