A parking barrier controls entry and exit at car parks and facilities. These are the points that decide your choice, with a general explanation of how it works and how to prepare your site.

Arm length

We offer arms of 4, 6 and 8 m, plus a curved 3 m (L) arm and an inverted-U arm.

As a general rule, the arm should span the width of the lane it closes, with a little margin. Measure the real lane width edge to edge before you decide. A longer arm is heavier and generally more affected by wind, so avoid choosing a length bigger than you need. If one lane serves both entry and exit, ask your installer whether you need one arm or one per direction.

The curved (L) arm and the inverted-U arm are generally considered when the site calls for a different shape, such as a low ceiling or a need for more clearance. Discuss it with the installer.

How the barrier works

In barriers of this kind, the motor lifts the arm through a mechanical linkage, with a spring balancing its weight so it rises and falls smoothly. The design here is mechanical and hydraulic with a precise worm-gear stop and a high-quality spring. After a remote or wall-switch command the arm rises, then lowers after the vehicle has passed, or as the installer has set it.

What comes with it

A lamp, two remotes, a wall switch and two safety photocells.

The two photocells work as a pair: one sends an invisible beam to the other. If a car or person breaks the beam under the arm, the arm is stopped or reversed. They are among the most important safety elements of any barrier, so do not overlook them when comparing quotes, and keep their lenses free of dust.

Optional extras

A card reader and ground loop detectors.

  • A card reader suits car parks with known users such as staff or residents.
  • A ground loop detector is a wire buried just below the surface that senses a vehicle through a change in the magnetic field, so the arm does not come down on a car standing over it.

Ask your supplier whether your site needs these or whether the remotes and wall switch are enough.

Preparing the site

  • Base: the unit needs a base fixed firmly on solid ground, as specified by the installer.
  • Power: a nearby supply with protected cabling, ideally earthed.
  • Position: place it where the driver sees the arm clearly, with room for a car to stop before it without blocking the road.
  • Lighting and signs: reflective strips help at night, and a clear sign beside the lane helps too.
  • Weather: the weatherproof housing matters in sun and dust, and connections should not face direct water.

Before you order

  • Measure the lane width and photograph the entrance from two sides.
  • Decide who will use the barrier: visitors, staff or residents.
  • Decide whether you need a card reader or ground loop detectors.
  • Check where the power supply is and where the base will sit.

Care and maintenance

  • Watch the arm from time to time: does it rise and lower smoothly, without shaking or slamming?
  • Wipe the photocell lenses with a soft cloth and make sure nothing blocks the beam, such as weeds or stickers.
  • Test the stop or reverse function by passing a safe object through the beam, never your body.
  • Do not lubricate or adjust the spring yourself, as it is under tension; leave it to the technician following the manufacturer's advice.
  • Replace the remote battery when response weakens or range shortens, and keep the remotes away from children.
  • Do not force the arm by hand while the motor is running, or hang signs or loads on it that it was not designed for.
  • Ask for service at any unusual noise rather than waiting for the unit to stop.

These are general tips for units of this type, and the routine for your own unit comes from the installer. Our maintenance team is available around the clock.

Common mistakes

  • Choosing an arm that is too short because the lane "looks narrow", without measuring.
  • Neglecting safety: never stand under the arm or let children play near it.
  • Placing the base where drivers clip it or it obstructs pedestrians.
  • Letting dust build up on the photocell lenses.

Common questions

What happens in a power cut? Ask the installer about manual operation for your model, as it differs between units.

Do I need a ground loop detector? Not always. It is an optional extra that helps if you want to stop the arm lowering on a vehicle standing beneath it.

How many remotes come with it? Two remotes, along with a lamp, a wall switch and two photocells.

Does wind affect it? Longer arms are generally more affected, so choose the length that suits your lane.

Summary

  • Pick the length (4, 6 or 8 m) or shape (L or inverted U) from the lane width and site conditions.
  • The two photocells are a core safety element.
  • Card readers and ground loop detectors are optional extras for when you need them.

Details: parking barriers. For enquiries: contact us.