Photo eyes
A beam across the travel area can detect an obstruction. Placement, alignment, wiring and compatibility with the operator affect how the gate responds.
Gate systems / Safety and detection
Automatic gate safety devices: photo eyes, edges and loops
A gate can reverse, refuse to close or behave unpredictably when an input is obstructed, damaged or misaligned. The operator, protection devices and vehicle detection need to be inspected together.
Quick answer
Automatic gate safety devices: photo eyes, edges and loops
Photo eyes and sensing edges are used as entrapment protection in a compatible gate design. Vehicle loops detect vehicles for traffic control; they do not replace the required protective devices.
What to evaluate
Decisions that shape the system
Sensing edges
An edge mounted on a moving gate or hazard area can signal contact. The specific monitored device and location depend on the gate and operator design.
Vehicle detection loops
Loops in pavement sense a vehicle and can be used for opening, presence or exit functions. Faults can involve the buried loop, lead-in wire, detector module or controller.
When the gate keeps reversing
Record the fault indication and when it occurs. Keep people clear and request diagnosis; do not bypass a protective input to force operation.
Explore related guidesVehicle loop replacementGate opener repair
Common questions
Can a loop replace a gate photo eye?
No. Vehicle detection and entrapment protection serve different roles.
Why does the gate stop in rain?
Water intrusion, wiring, alignment and detector issues are possibilities. A technician needs to test the system to identify the cause.
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