General algorithm of looking for gate automation faults 2
Troubleshooting Your Gate: Part Two – Fixing Controller and Motor Issues
In the first part of our guide, we covered preliminary checks for your gate. If your gate works manually and shows no visible damage, but still doesn’t operate correctly, follow these steps. Remember, you must be an electrician to work with the controller while the power is on.
Get the Controller Manual
First, obtain the manual for your gate controller. Open the controller box and turn the power on. Check the board indication. Some boards use light diodes, while others have screens. The board usually indicates any faults. Refer to the manual to understand these indications. Try pressing the remote button and check if anything changes. The manual will save you time by providing specific fault information.
Disconnect and Test Components
If there’s no fault indication, disconnect everything from the controller. Take a picture of all connections before doing so. Leave only the motor wire connections. If you have photocells, put a link between the COM and Photocells contact. Check the controller inputs as per the manual. Inputs and outputs may be labeled or numbered. COM inputs typically have many wires, while Photocells usually have one. The Trigger (PP, OPEN) can have one to three wires, depending on the number of control units.
Motor Testing
Try the board with only the motor connected. If the motor works fine, the problem lies with the accessories. Otherwise, the issue is with the motor or its wires/connections. If only one motor moves, swap them on the board. If a different motor stops after swapping, one board channel is faulty. In case same motor misbehaves, the motor or its wires are faulty. Inspect the wire from the motor to the connection box for damage. Look for signs of wear from rubbing on the ground or chewing by pets.
Checking Driveway Motor
If the driveway motor is faulty, determine if the motor or the wire is the problem. Connect the far-end motor directly to the controller and observe its performance. Use a multimeter to check the motor wire cores’ resistance.
Reconnecting Accessories
If the motor works fine with the controller, reconnect the accessories (photocells, keypad, intercom, push button) one by one. After each connection, check the system again. This method will help you identify the faulty accessory.
Checking for Shorts
Check the accessory cores for shorts. Measure the resistance between positive and negative cores of the accessory wires. If you find a short, inspect the devices and wires as described for the motors. Connect the accessories directly to the board and check the wires’ resistance.
Replacing Faulty Components
After identifying the faulty unit or broken wire, replace it. This will ensure your gate operates smoothly.
Conclusion
Troubleshooting gate issues involves careful steps and attention to detail. By following this guide, you can identify and fix problems with your gate’s controller and motor. Always prioritize safety and consult a professional electrician when needed. This approach ensures your gate remains functional and reliable.
General algorithm of looking for gate automation faults 2.