Price however seems to be the biggest selling point, with everyone
looking for a bargain in the current economic climate. Some automation kits are being
sold at trade prices, which leaves the installers of such products out of
pocket in order to compete, and ultimately devalues the product at source. If installers sell on E Bay there are also the advertising costs, as well as a percentage to Paypal to be considered for just a few pounds of profit. So the buyer is winning all the way if they know how to install a kit properly.
However once
installed an appoved installer
will seldom come to the rescue when a project go’s wrong has they tend to be
very time consuming, and there is the possibility that an installation would
need to be completely stripped out to start again.
When buying a well named brand from outside the UK, you need
to think also about the long term guarantee, has distributors retailing the same
products here in the UK do not have to warrant items not purchased through them.
The question we need to ask is "do we really know what to
look out for" and will it for fill the need of the project in mind as an end
user, there are all sorts of pitfalls to look out for. The first question you
should ask yourself is will I be capable of installing and programming such
installation equipment.
Let’s take a look at underground automation and what’s
involved, so many end users think this equipment is easy to install and get
into all sorts of difficulty including builders, and electricians.
So what’s involved for the end user, as an installer of such project’s you
need to be capable of installing the civil’s including:
The ground works in digging out for the foundation
automation boxes, and the sighting of posts.
The setting up of automation levels, including correct dimensions
for the gates to be hung.
The drainage required for a sock away for surface water.
The laying of cable ducting, and correct sizing of cables
for localised electrics.
Supply of power for the
gateway, and safety isolation requirements.
The making good to the road surface after completion.
The hanging and welding of the gates.
The wiring and connection of components.
Most importantly the setting up and programming of equipment
installed.
So there is a lot of work involved in the installation of electric
gates?
Arm automation
So many people seem to think it is more easy to install but still get into dificulty in setting them up properly.
If you are thinking of installing arm automation you will
need to know if it is suitable before you purchase, the hinge geometry is very critical
point in the operation, and welding and fabrication needs to be taken into consideration.
You also need to think of the user and assess-ability plus possible
communication.
Do you wish to comment have your say on the aesif forum.
Aesif web team