All About LiftMaster

While residential gate and security systems were considered luxury items less than 30 years ago, they are now commonplace in many homes, and that is due in large part to the exceptional quality and service of LiftMaster. As the world’s largest manufacturer of gate operating systems, LiftMaster strives to offer innovative products that will meet all the safety and security standards that homeowners and businesses want and expect. The brand offers a wide variety of 

• State-of-the-art gate operators and garage door openers 
• Gate operating kits for residential and commercial establishments 
• Access control systems 
• Unique and secure accessories 

Each of these LiftMaster products meets the following high standards:

1. Safety – Each residential opener produced by LiftMaster is equipped with The Protector System, the company’s patented device that projects an invisible light beam across the installed door opening. When an object passes through this beam, the door stops and reverses, protecting people, animals and even vehicles that may otherwise be seriously damaged by the garage door. In addition, LiftMaster’s commercial doors and gate operators adhere to the Underwriters Laboratory’s safety standards, including utilizing photo sensors or sensing edges that work similarly to the residential door openers. 
2. Quality – The quality of LiftMaster products, including the company’s Chamberlain division, has revolutionized the security industry. Featuring drive belts constructed with flexible steel cords, a battery backup system and the company’s patented Motor Vibration Isolation System to provide smooth operation, these perimeter security systems are of the highest quality standards possible. LiftMaster has also recently introduced The Smart Control Panel accessory which is equipped with a maintenance alert system that notifies owners when the system should be checked. 
3. Security – With Security+ and PosiLock systems in place, the LiftMaster line of products prevents unauthorized people from opening the doors, thereby protecting families, homes and belongings. 
4. Convenience – Specially designed to work smoothly, LiftMaster products such as the Laser Parking Accessory make it easy to pull into and park in most garages or private drives. LiftMaster offers gate operating systems of both the swing and slide variety, ensuring they’ll fit and work in most spaces. In addition, the Universal Remote Control and Universal Keypad, along with the MyQ technology, make it a breeze to integrate these systems into any home, business or other property. 

Interested in learning more about LiftMaster’s high quality products and how they can be integrated into your home or business? Contact the perimeter security experts at the PSS Store today by calling 1-800-676-4909.

Direct Burial Loops for Gate Systems

Leading makers of security loops have achieved admirable level of technical fluency when it comes to secure, high performance loops that function under layers of concrete and asphalt. Direct burial loops have many possible applications to keep your gate and driveway security systems running efficiently.

The direct burial loop is a diverse product that can meet any number of different needs. Though direct burial loops are typically used to trigger security gates, they can also trigger intercom systems, traffic lights and any similar devices. For example, one could use the BD Loop Preformed Direct Burial Loop to raise an alert upon the arrival of a particular vehicle type like a delivery truck, for example.

The heart of the BD Loop product is a loop of copper wire in a PVC casing. Insulated to maintain its shape and for durability, this loop is typically buried and used to detect vehicles as they enter a designated area. Each direct burial loop connects to a loop detecting device through a lead or extension cable. This device helps trigger a gate system to open or close. For convenience and versatility, most direct burial loops require at least 30 feet of lead cable. Additionally, a direct burial loop that uses more copper per foot should provide higher average detection accuracy for any given installation.

The most practical and common installation method is to tie the loop to rebar before the concrete laying process begins. This preformed wire is sturdy and solid, which minimizes the chances of installation problems. Besides the loop itself and extension cable, installing a direct burial loop is eased with a few important accessories. These include outstanding instructions, cable ties for rebar attachment and ground stakes for gravel road installations. This installation checklist is completed by convenient stickers to differentiate and identify any wires well after installation.

All in all, the direct burial loop is a critical addition to any security gate system. In commercial or residential situations alike, the direct burial loop is an outstanding tool for increasing the responsiveness of any physical security or property management plan. If you have any questions about installing a BD Loop or finding the loop that’s right for your system, contact the gate security experts at PSSStore.net by calling 1-800-676-4909.

Must-Have Security Devices for Gate Access Systems

Your gate access systems keep your homes and business facilities secure, but who's looking out for the system itself? Gate installations that lack the correct hardware support can't truly be described as safe. It's critical that you beef up your systems with some of the following must-have security devices.

Knowledge and Awareness 

One of the most essential components of any security system is knowledge. If you don't know who gains access to your facilities on a regular basis, it's impossible to confirm that your security implementation functions correctly.

Modern communication systems make it much easier to keep an eye on access. Instead of relying on the dim hope that your staff security badges haven't fallen into the wrong hands, you can readily confirm the identities of all who seek passage via monitors, cameras and voice-enabled intercom systems. With advanced units that incorporate access logging, it's even possible to automatically generate a digital record detailing each time the gate is opened and how long it stays that way. Some intercoms also provide extra deterrents in the form of keypads, and programmable devices can be set to hold gates open according to a predetermined schedule, so you don't have to pay for your security with inefficiency.

What about those who attempt to circumvent your gate operator? If your system is truly secure, it will include some form of photo beam or alarm system that lets you know when people try to get inside without following the appropriate procedures.

Creating a Secure Hardware Loop 

 

Exposed wires and signal lines often serve as security vulnerabilities. For instance, trespassers who want to gain entry may find it easier to do so if they can physically cut a line or tinker with the gate operator's control circuitry by accessing its input terminals directly.

Control loops serve to eliminate such weak points by preventing easy access to the vital components that run your security system. Because these wires and cables are compatible with common saw-cut installations and other gate operator arrangements, they can be installed beneath protective layers of concrete or asphalt. Some saw-cut kits also incorporate templates or guides that make it easier to install loops in a secure, uniform manner.

Another important advantage of control loops is that they enable the generation of more accurate security data. For instance, loops that include vehicle detection sensors can help you learn more about how your gate is being used, or get a better idea of what occurred during a breach. Many detectors and terminal sockets are engineered for plug-and-play operation and ruggedness, which makes it simpler to add advanced features and shock-resistant qualities to the most fragile components in your security system.

Building a comprehensive system is the key to creating a gate access installation that actually does its duty. Learn more about fortifying your access control implementations and additional safety options by contacting the gate security experts at PSSStore.net by calling 1-800-676-4909.

Swing vs. Slide Gates: The Pros and Cons

Whether you are seeking to protect your commercial property or residence, gates can provide a convenient way to keep your premises secure and safe. Gates either swing or slide to open and shut, so choosing your best gate type will entail identifying which style is best for your budget, aesthetic preference, and space.

Advantages of Swing Gates 

Swing gates are usually more economical than sliding gates. They can provide a traditional appearance that complements residential properties and some businesses. Gate doors can operate manually or with a remote control. For example, the LiftMaster LA500 Dual Swing Operator with Control Panel includes a control panel with two openers. This remote opener has a battery backup system that enables the gate to open and close, even if there is a power loss.

Disadvantages of Swing Gates 

Swing gates utilize more space when creating an opening than slide gates, so the location of the property may determine whether a swing gate is an option. Properties close to the street may be unable to use a swing gate because it could hamper traffic. Additionally, steeply sloped property may be unsuitable for a swing gate. Sometimes swinging gates may also brush against the ground as they open and close; this can result in warping over time.

Advantages of Sliding Gates 

In addition to utilizing less space when they open and close, sliding gates are conveniently positioned on wheels. Thus, the bottoms of the gates do not become damaged from directly contacting the ground. They are also an exceptional choice if your property slopes significantly. Additionally, some pet owners worry that their animals can get under swing gates to leave the property.

Similar to swing gates, slide gates are available for industrial, commercial, and residential properties. The PSS Store offers a variety of openers suitable for slide and swing gates systems. The Eagle I Residential Slide Gate Opener is ideal for gate systems up to 16 feet long that do not exceed 300 pounds, while the LiftMaster SL585 Gate Opener with 1HP Motor is an excellent opener to use with a heavy, commercial gate and includes a built-in radio.

Disadvantages of Sliding Gates 

Sliding gates are often noisier than swinging gates because they have more moving parts. They are also more expensive than swing gates. The installation and mounting of sliding gates contribute to their higher cost. Owners of sliding gates must maintain the tracks to ensure debris and dirt do not interfere with the operation of a slide gate.

Regardless of whether you choose a swing or slide gate, the right accessories and parts will maximize the functionality of your gate. The PSSStore.net has a wide variety of gate openers, locks, radio receivers, and other items that will help your gate securely protect your property.