re: Automatic Gate Opener

Mine uses a 12v deep cycle marine battery, 35 amp/hr if I remember correctly, and a small solar charger. Current battery is about 3 years old and I've never had to put a charger on it.

The control box is a piece of shite but it's easily repairable. You can skip the solar panel and hard wire the system and the 110v constant will act as a battery tender. When the power goes out you will have a battery backup. The actual motor itself isn't the most secure thing in the world. A simple cotter pin holds the arm to the pivot point on the gate. Someone who's familiar with these things can get inside the gate with minimal effort.