Commercial Low Voltage
The commercial low voltage industry includes several specialized fields, including lighting, fire systems, alarm and burglary systems, access control systems, networking, and audio/ video systems. The systems are comprised of electrical equipment that uses 50 volts (V) of electricity or less. Common low voltages include 48 V, 24 V, and 12 V.
The typical low voltage contractor is a cash poor small businessman employing no more than 8 technicians and helpers licensed by the state of residence. System installation in a new building is typically the last major building equipment and the owner/general contractor must have the systems installed and operative before a Certificate of Occupancy is granted. Thus, systems are critical to the owner/general contractor receiving funding from investors and/or the bank. It is interesting to note that a certificate of occupancy is contingent upon the highest risk sub-contractor for the project.
Recently, major well capitalized companies such as JCI, Convergent, ADT and Allied Systems have developed regional and national presences and they offer a lower risk option for the owner/general contractor. But due to the demand these firms often subcontract a portion of their contracts to independent/local sub-contractors.
These firms and all Low Voltage contractors are challenged with finding, training, and retaining qualified technicians.
Commercial Gate Industry
The Gate Industry is led by a few national fabricators but the overwhelming providers are small local fabrication shops and local fence companies that build, install and service fences and gates. All gates are controlled via an Access Control system that includes a keypad or card reader at the entrance point.
The industry requires skilled welders and a knowledge of access control systems and is often provided by the local fence company. This has created challenges as the fence companies typically do not have skilled labor and lack access control expertise. Oftentimes, the owner/general contractor will be required to employ two firms: local fence contractor for the gate and a low voltage or local electrician for access control. At best this results in higher expense but most importantly more project management time.
There are several Commercial Gate configurations, and many will include a “decorative element”, the majority include one of the following basic designs.
Slide Gates
This is one of the most popular gates used for security applications. They are commonly found at storage facilities and apartment projects.
Swing Gates
Opens and closes like a door and is often found in self-storage facilities and apartments. It is also typically used a pedestrian gate for commercial facilities.
Vertical Lift Gate
Vertical Lift Gate simply goes up and down. The gate is typically used in close spaces and is often built with aluminum to reduce weight.
Bi-Folding Gates
With the Bi-Folding gate model, two gates connect in the middle when in a closed position. Each of the gates are divided into two sections on hinges, which allow the gate to fold when they open. These gates traditionally open quickly and are ideal for usage that requires fast entry or exit.
Manufacturers
Site Safe Security is a certified dealer for all leading security, fire and camera brands available today. Our technicians regularly attend product training schools, and hold advanced certifications for many products. Currently, we are dealers for the following low voltage products and suppliers. For more product information – click on a logo below to be linked to our product manufacturers website.
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