Before you buy an automatic gate opener -Encoder motors and why it makes all the difference to your automatic gate installation

What is an Encoder Motor and Why is it Better?

Encoder motors are what could be referred to as intelligent motors, the purpose of an encoder is to feedback the speed and position (effectively revolutions) of the motor.

This is different to a virtual encoder/no encoder which is the logic board LOOSLEY counting down the time of the cycle. Virtual encoder means the motor does not have an encoder whatsoever.

How does this make a difference to my gates operation?

Being that slowdown points and approach points are calculated by percentage basis where they are activated in a cycle this ensures true accuracy that if a slowdown point is configured at the last 20% of the cycle it will take effect at the last 20% of the cycle no matter what.

On the other hand a motor using a virtual encoder or no encoder, if it were stalled by wind load or a change in gate weight/resistance (winter weather) it will slowdown in the incorrect position (most likely earlier) and would cause it to use an over run time to reach the target position (open/closed) or not reach the target position at all.

Does an encoder motor create more installation work for an electric or solar gate opener?

Yes and No. On a sliding gate opener, no extra work whatsoever.

On a swing gate opener yes but only fractionally. Typically, only one additional wire is connected to feedback to the system and the benefits far outweigh not using a non-encoder motor or virtual encoder motor.

How do I identify an encoder/non-encoder motor(virtual encoder) motor?

All products sold by Alpha Automation use an encoder, this is part of our criteria for our gate motor range. We pride ourselves on quality automation and a fault free operation for years to come.

Motors not carrying an encoder will not/should not list an encoder as being part of its specifications. The majority of Asian imports will NOT have an encoder and many budget European including Italian gate motors may NOT have an encoder.

For a trouble free installation its best to stay clear away from these product as there flaws show in the worst of times such as operation on windy days, heavy rain or minor changes to gate alignment over time, these are the times you will need to get out of the car and manually help the gate open or closed til a recalibration has occurred.