Any automatic control system must have an actuator and a sensor. The sensor sends a signal to the actuator, which performs the actual work. In an automatic gate opening system, the sensor can be a switch inside the house, a remote control kept inside the car, a smartphone app or a program in the control system which can read the license plates and compare it to authorized plates before sending a signal to the actuator. In many cases, the actuator is an electric motor. However, some sophisticated automatic gates come with hydraulic systems instead of electric motors.
Underground gate motors have become increasingly popular around the world. This is because they are usually more secure than above-ground systems. After all, removing the motor is difficult since burglars have to dig into the ground to expose the motor. Furthermore, the motor can move a heavy gate due to direct coupling under the gate.