Smart automated gates: phone, intercom, keypad and remote access explained
Your gate can do more than open and close
An automated gate used to mean one thing: press a button on a remote and the gate opens. Today, there are many more ways to control who enters and leaves your property.
From smartphone access and intercoms to keypads and vehicle detection, modern gate automation can be configured around the way your property is actually used.
Smartphone access
Smartphone control can be a convenient option for homeowners who want to manage their gate without carrying another remote.
Depending on the system, you may be able to open the gate from an app, let a visitor in while you're inside the house, or give authorised people access without physically being at the gate.
It's particularly useful when you regularly have visitors, tradespeople or deliveries.
Intercoms for visitors
An intercom gives visitors a way to contact you from the gate before you allow them through.
Video intercom systems can add another layer of convenience by letting you see who is at the entrance before opening the gate.
For homes where the gate is some distance from the house, an intercom can make managing visitors much easier.
Keypads and keyless entry
A keypad can be a simple solution when you want regular users to enter without carrying a remote.
For example, family members or trusted users can be given a code to access the property. Keypads can also be useful for businesses, rental properties or properties where multiple people need controlled access.
The exact functionality will depend on the access system and how it is configured.
Remote controls still have their place
Smart technology doesn't mean you have to get rid of the humble remote. For many homeowners, a remote in the car is still the quickest and simplest way to operate the gate.
The benefit of modern automation is that you can combine different access methods rather than being limited to one.
What about delivery drivers and tradespeople?
This is where choosing the right access system becomes particularly useful.
If you regularly have deliveries or tradespeople coming to your property, you can choose an access setup that lets you manage entry without having to walk down to the gate every time.
Depending on the system, that might mean answering an intercom, opening the gate from your phone or using a controlled keypad or other access method.
Vehicle detection and hands-free access
For some properties, vehicle detection can make entering and leaving even easier. A detection system can recognise a vehicle approaching from inside the property and trigger the gate to open automatically.
Other technologies can also be used for more advanced access control, depending on the property and system requirements.
The right solution depends on how often the gate is used, who needs access and how much automation you actually want.
The best access system is the one that fits your life
There is no need to choose the most complicated system just because it is available. A family home with occasional visitors may need something very different from a rural property with regular deliveries, contractors or multiple vehicles.
The important thing is to think about who needs access, when they need it and how much control you want over the process.
Want smarter access to your property?
At Bendigo Door Centre, we can help you combine automated gates with the access options that make sense for your home, business or rural property.
Talk to our team about smartphone access, intercoms, keypads, remotes and other automated gate options.
