Access Control and Gate Operator Upgrade at Georgia State University Primate Center

Power Access Control Upgrading gate automation for reliability, safety, and long-term performance in Atlanta, GA

Installation of a high-traffic slide gate operator and full system upgrade to improve reliability, safety, and long-term performance. This access control installation at Georgia State University’s Primate Center in Atlanta, GA included new operator hardware, advanced vehicle detection technology, and safety system integration to bring the site up to modern standards.

This project centered around our team upgrading the primary gate operator and supporting infrastructure for a high-traffic environment. A LiftMaster CSL24UL slide gate operator was installed, designed to handle gates up to 50 feet and 1,500 pounds. This heavy-duty commercial access control system features a soft start and stop motor to reduce mechanical stress, along with an integrated battery backup to ensure continuous operation during power outages—an essential feature for facilities requiring consistent access control in Atlanta.

To ensure a stable and long-lasting installation, the operator was mounted on a dedicated steel plate, providing a secure, vibration-free foundation. Proper mounting is critical in any access control installation, especially in high-use environments like university facilities, where system reliability directly impacts daily operations. Power Access Control works across many industries including education access control!

Specialized hardware upgrades were also implemented to improve gate performance. Existing rollers were replaced with 4-inch nylon cantilever wheels, significantly reducing friction and wear compared to older metal components. A new #50 industrial-grade drive chain was installed to ensure smooth and consistent power transfer from the operator to the gate. These upgrades contribute to a more efficient and lower-maintenance access control system—key for commercial properties throughout Atlanta.

One of the most innovative aspects of this project was the implementation of a no-cut vehicle detection solution. Instead of traditional wired loop systems that require cutting into pavement, three AES yellow disc e-Loops were installed. These wireless, surface-mounted magnetic sensors detect vehicle presence without trenching or damaging the existing asphalt. This approach is ideal for preserving infrastructure while still delivering reliable performance in modern Atlanta access control systems.

To meet current safety standards and ensure full compliance, the system was upgraded with monitored safety devices in accordance with UL 325 and ASTM F2200 regulations. A monitored retro-reflective photo eye was installed to detect obstructions in the gate’s path, along with a 5-foot monitored safety edge that immediately reverses the gate upon contact. These features are critical for protecting both people and property in any commercial access control installation and our team specializes in this!

In addition to improved functionaliity, this upgrade installed by Power Access Control and our team provides:

Full compliance with UL 325 and ASTM F2200 safety standards
Increased reliability with battery backup during power outages
Reduced maintenance through upgraded hardware and components
Preservation of existing pavement with wireless vehicle detection technology
Smoother, quieter gate operation with reduced mechanical strain

This project is a strong example of how a modern access control system upgrade in Atlanta, GA can improve safety, reliability, and long-term performance—especially in high-traffic environments like Georgia State University’s Primate Center.

Get A Quote

< Older Post Newer Post >

RECENT PROJECTS

Common Access Control System Failures And How Businesses in Atlanta Can Prevent Them

By Ashton Bennett • April 27, 2026

High-Speed Gate Operator and Access Control Upgrade in Atlanta, GA

By Mark Lehman • April 21, 2026

By upgrading key components and refining system performance, this project delivered a more efficient and dependable gate and access control solution in Atlanta, GA

Access Control and Gate System Overhaul in Atlanta, GA

By Mark Lehman • April 21, 2026

Transforming outdated gate systems into a modern, high-performance access control solution for Atlanta properties

Gate Systems, Costs, and Compliance Guide for Atlanta Access Control Projects

By Mark Lehman • March 24, 2026

1. Gate Mechanics: Slide vs. Swing The "movement" of your gate determines its speed, longevity, and how much space you lose in your entryway. Swing Gates (The Classic Look) Average Cost: $15,000 – $25,000 (per pair). Pros: Highly aesthetic, "stately" feel; generally simpler motors. Cons: Slower to open; requires a massive "arc" of clear space to swing into; high wind resistance (wind can strain or "sail" the motors). Space Needs: You need a clear radius equal to the width of the gate leaf (usually 10'–12') behind the gate. Slide Gates (The Workhorse) Average Cost: $18,000 – $35,000 (per pair). Pros: Faster cycle time (better for high traffic); much better in windy areas; takes up zero "swing" space. Cons: Requires a long, straight fence line to slide back into; tracks can get clogged with debris, snow, or ice (unless using a "Cantilever" system, which is more expensive). Space Needs: You need a "storage" area along the fence line equal to the width of the gate plus about 30% for the counter-balance.

Access Control System Upgrade and Brivo Installation in Cumming, GA

By Mark Lehman • March 24, 2026

Modernizing commercial access control systems with Power Access Control using scalable Brivo hardware

Gate Repair and Structural Reinforcement in Roswell, GA

By Mark Lehman • March 24, 2026

Structural gate correction and reinforcement performed to restore full functionality and long-term reliability. This project included precision realignment, structural re-welding, and reinforcement of the existing gate system to eliminate sagging and improve performance. This type of access control gate repair in Roswell, GA reflects the importance of maintaining properly aligned entry systems across commercial properties in the greater Atlanta access control market. This project focused on correcting years of structural fatigue that had caused the gate to sag and place unnecessary strain on the system. The gate was fully decommissioned and placed into a fabrication jig, where it was professionally realigned using controlled force by the experts at Power Access Control. This precision process allowed us to restore the gate to a perfectly square and level position—critical for proper operation in any commercial access control system. To address underlying structural issues, we ground down all failing picket-to-rail joints and performed high-penetration re-welding across the entire frame. This step reinforced the integrity of the gate and eliminated weak points that had developed over time. For properties utilizing automated entry systems, this level of reinforcement is essential to ensure long-term reliability and prevent recurring failures on this gate agaiin. To further enhance durability, we fabricated and integrated diagonal cross-bracing into the gate structure. This truss-style reinforcement redistributes the load back toward the hinge posts, preventing future sagging and improving overall stability. Structural upgrades like this are a key component of professional gate and access control system repairs throughout Atlanta and surrounding areas like Roswell, GA. As part of the finishing process, all weld points were ground smooth, treated with a rust inhibitor, and carefully color-matched to the existing gate finish. This ensured not only structural performance but also a clean, professional appearance consistent with the original installation.