CONTROL PANEL: THE BRAIN OF YOUR GATE

What is a control cabinet?

The control panel is thecentral management unit of an automatic gate. It receives opening and closing signals (from a remote control, keypad, badge or push-button), analyzes the information and controls the motors accordingly.

The electronic board inside the box manages coordination between the various gate components, taking into account safety, timing and priorities.

‍

A truly intelligent control center

The control panel is much more than a simple relay between the transmitter and the motor. It functions like a microcomputer, taking charge of various parameters:

- type of opening (total or partial),

- the response time between each action,

- automatic stop in the event of an obstacle detected by the photocells or the sensor,

- a flashing light or audible signal,

- connection with other security or access control systems.

The control unit can be integrated into a broader solution, such as collective gates, industrial access, home automation or a centralized control system.

‍

The essential components of a control cabinet

Beneath its discreet casing, the control cabinet conceals a complex electronic architecture. It includes :

- an electronic board, at the heart of the device, which processes all the information,

- a terminal block for connecting motors, safety and identification elements,

- electrical protection (fuses, circuit breakers) to prevent overvoltage,

- a parameter-setting interface: LCD screen, push-buttons or configuration switches,

- and sometimes radio modules or extensions to meet specific needs (multiple controls, home automation, remote management...).

Reinforced, waterproof models are available for outdoor installation or in demanding industrial environments.

‍

How to choose the right control cabinet?

Here are the 6 criteria to consider when choosing a control cabinet:

- type of motorization: electromechanical or hydraulic,

- gate configuration : swing or sliding,

- motor power and supply voltage (230V, 24V...),

- the installation environment: residential, collective, tertiary or industrial,

- the level of existing equipment : compatibility with accessories (keypad, videophone, security sensors, etc.),

- scalability : if future modifications are required, such as adding a remote management module or integrating the portal into a home automation system.

‍

Maintenance and technological developments

Regular maintenance of the control box is important to prevent malfunctions: visual inspection, tightening of connections, dusting of the electronic board, firmware update...

Some recent models feature innovative technologies:

- intelligent diagnostics for rapid fault detection,

- simplified programming, with display or mobile app,

- extensive connectivity for remote management via network or cloud.

These developments enhance user comfort and make troubleshooting easier for installers.

‍

Prastel, your manufacturer of electronic systems for automatic gates

With over 30 years' experience, Prastel specializes in the design of access control and automation solutions. We develop innovative, high-performance products for securing all types of motorized doors and gates.

Prastel offers several control cabinet models, designed to adapt to different installations and motorizations.

Residential range :

- UNIK2E230-BT for most automation systems

- TC550 for metal curtains or roller shutters

Industrial range :

- UNIK3I-IND for rolling shutters and sectional doors with three-phase motor

- UNIK3I for sliding gates with three-phase motor

- TC1000-S for industrial rolling shutters and sectional doors