I have a 10' iron driveway swing gate that is currently manual. I would like to install a power gate. My gate is new, and has ball bearing hinges and requires little resistance to open/close. I can push it with my pinky. It is about 200 lbs.
I want a power swing gate operator, but do not have the room behind/beside the gate for the type that has a tower and motor with arm. I need the type that has the motor built into the arm. I have researched several options online and am even more confused as there are good and bad reviews on them all. I will be installing it myself, and have a pretty good mechanical inclination. Power won't be a problem; there is a source nearby.
My price range is up to $800. I have a few criteria that I would like.
-Soft open & close
-Ability to add sensors (input/output) later
-Keyed manual release
-Battery operated/backup
-Reliable (obviously)
I really am looking for first-hand experience, weather it is what worked for you, or what has not. Even better is someone in the trade that can give me advice.