Evaluate your parking gate needs Do you live on an estate where you need a gate control system to keep your family and possessions safe? Or are you looking to provide security for an entire residential neighborhood? Do you need parking gate equipment at your new office or sports complex? Or does that high-rise you manage need updated equipment for its 21-floor parking garage? Your situation will definitely determine your parking gate needs.

I recommend:  Individual residential needs typically call for estate gates like the ones offered by Security Access and Parking Systems. Small neighborhoods and condominium complexes often choose estate gates, as well, primarily because of their aesthetics. GMG Systems offers folding parking gate arms for covered parking garages where height limitations are a factor. Gate-Opener has outdoor commercial and industrial properties covered with slide/swing gates and barrier gates designed to keep property secure.

Consider access options Along with deciding on which type of gate fits your needs, you also need to determine access requirements--how the gate will open. The majority of parking lot gates are automated these days (rather than manned by a security guard), but the automated options are many.

I recommend:  Knowing who will be using your parking gate system and how often it will be used will help determine which access option you choose. Private estates and smaller residential neighborhoods often use telephone intercom systems like the ones at DoorKing. Access Control Technologies offers card readers, which are popular for both larger residential neighborhoods and employee parking areas. Dynasys offers leading-edge radio frequency identification options, as well.

Determine payment method if parking is paid Paid parking can be a fairly profitable venture, especially in areas where parking is at a premium. Whether your customers will be one-time or occasional secure parking gate patrons or you operate a system for daily users, payment options for your parking control gates abound.

I recommend:  For occasional or one-time customers, an all-in-one coin, bill and credit collection system from Cincinnati Gate is a good choice. Parking Systems offers ticket dispensers in gate control systems where customers pay by the hour. PTC Industries has token systems designed to be used as patrons either enter or exit your parking area. A guard house from Guard Houses Online is an option where on-site security guards are necessary, whether in addition to or instead of automated parking control gates.