How Would I Operate the Cell Phone Gate Access?

To open the gate all you need to do, is call the gate telephone number (850-555-1212 for example). The gate will not answer the call but will take the number from the caller ID and compare it to its database of authorized numbers. If the calling number matches a number in the database the Cell Phone Gate Access system will hang up the call and open the gate.

Where can the Cell Phone Gate Access be used?

Large or small business parking lots

All types of private parking lots can increase security without expensive remote controls or guards to control the gate.

Visitors can be let in by calling the gate from any phone.

Why is the Cell Phone Gate Access considered to be Flexible and Secure?

Easy to add or delete an authorized number. And in the event that the telephone was lost or stolen you can easily delete one number compared to a traditional remote control system where losing a remote control will force you to replace and reprogram all remote control keys.

Will the Cell Phone Gate Access opener work in every country?

The CGate1000 and CGate1000S have Quad GSM 850/900/1800/1900 MHz “engine” and should automatically adapt to every GSM network in the world. Please validate availability of GSM network in one of the quad frequencies.

Does it work with any electric Gate or Barrier?

Yes.  All electric gates have at least one button that used to open the gate or a terminal for any accessory such as a keypad with dry contact output. The Cell Phone Gate Access output relay contacts will close when an authorized call is received and activate the electric gate or barrier.

Does it cost me anything to open my gate?

The Cell Phone Gate Access Opener doesn’t answer the call; it simply checks the caller ID. Your network must send the caller ID otherwise Cell Phone Gate Access Opener won’t work. Virtually all operators don’t charge unless you answer the call, therefore it won’t cost you to open the gate with the Cell Phone Gate Access Opener. You will need to have an active SIM inside it, either as another cell number of your family cell package or a prepaid or pay as you go SIM card. This may require a minimal monthly fee. Check with your cellular phone operators for details.

What is the maximum distance that you can call the Cell Phone Gate Access opener?

The Cell Phone Gate Access opener doesn’t have and range limitation like the ordinary remote control gate opener. Using your cell phone or any landline phone you can call the Cell Phone Gate Access opener from any place even from another city or state.

How can I authorize phone numbers to open my gate?

To add and store a number into Phone Gate Access, send a SMS message with a password to the Cell Phone Gate Access opener, plus the phone number you want to authorize entry. The numbers are stored in Cell Phone Gate Access opener memory and (not on the SIM card). These smart safety features prevents somebody from removing the SIM and copy all the numbers into a cell phone. Only the person who knows the password can add or delete phone numbers to the Cell Phone Gate Access opener. For faster number programming especially when required to add or delete many number you can purchase PC SMS software.

After numerous months of research and testing, we have selected a product we feel passes muster as a quality access control device control via cell phones. This product comes in two versions: the Cell Gate 1000 (CGate 1000) and Cell Gate 1000S (CGate 1000S). They are Cell Phone Gate Access Openers.

There is so much information to share regarding these fantastic products that we’ve elected to share with you several blog entries featuring questions we’ve received from our customers. By reading these you’ll have an in knowledge of how Cell Phone Gate Opener works and the best way it can be applied to your own home or business. As always, if you have any concerns, feel free to contact our technical experts at support@iluselectronics.com to discuss your specific needs.

What is a Cell Phone Gate Opener?

A Cell Phone Gate Opener is a GSM cellular receiver with an antenna connected to a 4⅜” X 3⅜” X 1⅛” box. It will open a Gate, Barrier, Shutter Garage Door or any door when it receives a call from a recognized caller ID cellular or landline phone.

How does it work?

The CGate1000 and CGate1000S use a high quality GSM engine that receives calls like any Cellular Phone. To explain its basic operation we will use the following example:

If the phone number assigned to your SIM card is 850-555-1212, this will be the number you must call to open the gate. The CGate1000 and CGate1000S Cell Phone Gate Opener have a memory with a capacity to store up to 1000 numbers of people authorized to open the gate.

When the CGate1000 or CGate1000S Cell Phone Gate Opener receive a call, they will check the incoming number and if this number is on the programmed list it will register the call but reject it and open the gate. This feature makes this call free. This is the same as when you receive a call and recognize the number displayed by the caller ID but decide not to answer.

What does this mean?
Essentially, you can upgrade your home telephone system from all phones on one line to 1 or 2 lines with 8 extensions. Along with this, you can incorporate a Door Phone as an extension, monitor visitors at your entrance and allow them access to your home from any of the telephone extensions. For larger homes or home based business this can be a key factor in home automation and security.

Inside the home, the multiple extensions allow family members and employees the privacy and freedom of their own line without the added expense. Add a PBX Door Phone and you have provided a security measure with the capability to talk with visitors and open the door remotely from any extension.

The system shown here is comprised of the eMax208 Auto attendant PBX Exchange and a PBX Door Phone.


There are two types of PBX Door Phones offered by ILUS Electronics:

1. Extel with a Call Button – when the call button is pressed all preset extensions will ring
2. ExCode has a call button and keypad - in addition to the Extel features it will allow the visitor to dial to the extension of choice or let authorized people activate the electric lock by keying a pass word

What are the benefits?

• Open Door(s) remotely from any Extension
• Extensions can be either rooms in the home or office (see Image)
• Initiate calls to or from any extension or Door Phone (you can have multiple Door Phones)
• Setup day or nighttime ringing extensions when called from the door phone
• Block or enable calls from outside lines to selected extensions
• Pre-Recorded Outgoing Message (OGM) will eliminate the nuisance of all phones ringing when an outside call comes in. The caller listens to the message and selects the desired extension.

If you run a home based business, you may have one extension to your office and several others around the house.

Maybe you hang out by the pool or in your workshop and need a way to answer the phone and also monitor visitors coming to the house.

• The C.O. (Central Office) Line Reservation allows the user to reserve a line that might be busy. Once the line becomes available the extension will receive a ring and will be connected automatically to the CO line so that a call is not interfered.
• The eMAX 208 supports caller ID on all extensions. Allows display of an incoming call on a telephone with the caller ID feature.
• Control your Telephone Cost – Set Extensions with permitted area codes and numbers
• Call transfer – Transfer any incoming or internal call to any extension
• Call pick up – Pickup incoming or internal calls from any extension
• Budget Calling Time – Set maximum desired duration of a call for an extension
• Different Call Waiting tones signaling calls waiting from external line, internal ext. or door phone, while line is in use. Easy back and forth switching between the calls.
• Programmable from any remote phone, even mobile

It’s clear that no matter where or how we live, our home is our castle. For those that work from home this sentiment may ring even more true. As you upgrade your home with all of the modern conveniences that keep you safe and happy, consider one home automation technique that is not only simple, but affordable.

Take a look at the accompanying diagram and let us know if you have any questions about how an Access Control system may best fit into your world. Send us an email at support@iluselectronics.com or call our sales line at 267-983-1300. We look forward to answering your questions.

Note: This blog entry, like all of our entries, is for information only. If you are not well versed in installation, please hire a professional. ILUS Electronics is not responsible for improperly installed equipment. If you would like our technical support or advice, just send us a note at support@iluselectronics.com

If you are over the age of 30, chances are your image of a latch-key kid consists of a lanyard with a key around a child’s neck. If said child forgot their key or misplaced it in their locker, they waited on the front porch or at a nice neighbor’s house until Mom or Dad came home. In the new digital age, there are more options that provide a better overall solution for the latch-key kid. In fact, this latch-key kid can now be called, latch keyless.

With the state of our economy many stay at home parents are dusting off their suits and briefcases and returning to work. This means more latch-key kids. If this sounds familiar you have probably thought of how to handle the situation. You may have provided our child a key and figured that the garage door code entry keypad was a good back-up.

Most garage door openers, code entry keypad or not, are not very sophisticated and very flawed. The ideal solution is a digital upgrade in the form of an Access Control Keypad and Electric Strike lock. There are various systems available depending on your overall needs. A simple Access Control Keypad, such as the DK9520BL, can be purchased along with an Electric Strike Lock for well under $100.

The DK9520BL Access Control Keypad, and others like it, provide you with the flexibility to program 100 different user access codes. So, if the cleaning lady comes on Wednesday and the neighbor occasionally waters your plants, you can accommodate for that. Your manager code allows you to assign and control all of the users. Once the appropriate code is enters, the keypad activates the Electric Strike and unlocks the door.

The addition of an Access Control Keypad such as DK9520BL also offers you other conveniences. Say you have a night out with friends and return in the dark. There is no need to fumble for your key or try to see the lock in the dark. The DK9520BL is backlit, making it easy to identify the numbers and enter your designated code.

For less than $4 more, you can upgrade to the DK9522BL which works exactly the same, but has a 2 relay output. The DK9522BL enables you to assign user codes to your front door and maybe your security system, or kitchen door. Like the DK9520BL, it can be upgraded with other devices to suit your needs. The most common upgrade for both home and office is the Momentary Exit Button Switch. Depressing the button allows for quick emergency exit. Place it near the entrance or hidden from sight.

Access Control comes in many forms and you don’t need to stop at a single keypad. There are several more advanced systems that allow you the ability to screen visitors at your front door with two-way voice communication and provide access either via your home phone (even cordless) or a simple Interphone. Depending on your specific needs, the sky is the limit.

If you would like a free consultation or to find out more about a specific product, send us an email at sales@iluselectronics.com

Additional Applications for an Access Control Keypad

• Vacation home access (no need for lost keys, more security)
• Access to staff or maintenance people
• Home Nursing Care
• Access for pet sitters/dog walkers

Note: This blog entry, like all of our entries, is for information only. If you are not well versed in installation, please hire a professional. ILUS Electronics is not responsible for improperly installed equipment. If you would like our technical support or advice, just send us a note atsupport@iluselectronics.com

One setup I’ve always thought was critical to the small business environment is the two door system. While there are complex, advanced and costly systems that might provide access control to two doors, you can get most, if not all features, for a modest price, by selecting two “Two Relay Output” Access Control keypads and set them up for two doors.

Check out this simple diagram and give it a shot.

With two Access Control Keypads you can:

• Authorize accessibility at two entrances to different groups of people. Assign a set of codes via Door 1 and a set via Door 2.
• The connection shown in this image guarantees that while the Door 1 keypad is being activated the Door 2 keypad is inhibited and vice versa.
• A simple micro switch sensor mounted on the door frame will send the keypad the door status (open or close) and an alarm pacifier tone will indicate that the door is open
• Install inside next to the exit door a low cost push button switch (key symbol) for egress or quick activation of the electric strike for fast exit.

Features and Benefits of the Access Control Keypads shown here:

• Direct 12-24V AC/DC Operation
• Over 100 Million Code Combinations
• 110 User Codes with 4-8 Digits
• Single Lock or Inter-lock Application
• Operates Fail-safe or Fail-secure Locking Device
• Door Lock Inhibit Authorization
• 2 Independent Outputs programmable in Start/Stop (toggle) mode or timer mode from 1 to 999 seconds.
• Door Forced Open and Propped-up Warnings
• Auto or Manual Code Entry
• Output Activation Announcer
• Pacifier Tone Inhibit Control
• Key Activation, Duress and Tamper Outputs
• Door Auto Re-lock after Valid Access Prevents Tailgate Entry
• Egress Input for Door Remote Triggering
• All Features are Keyboard Programmable
• Energy saving features: Keypads light intensity brightens when touching the keypad and dims to low light seconds after data entry is complete
• Non-volatile Memory in Power Failure
• Flush or Surface Mount
• In case that master code is forgotten or lost you can reset to factory default code
• And the best part the system shown here will cost you less than $150

Note: This blog entry, like all of our entries, is for information only. If you are not well versed in installation, please hire a professional. ILUS Electronics is not responsible for improperly installed equipment. If you would like our technical support or advice, just send us a note at support@iluselectronics.com

It’s a pretty simple process with just a three points to cover. Review it and feel free to let me know if there is some lingering confusion.

1. Fail Safe or Fail Secure
Electric Strikes are divided into two main groups Fail Secure and Fail Safe 

Fail Secure – The door or gate will be unlocked when Power is applied to it.

Fail Safe – Electricity is applied constantly to electric strike to keep the door or gate locked. To unlock the electricity is removed.

The Fail Secure electric strike is used primarily in private residences and small offices while the Fail Safe electric strike is used more in public buildings such as hotels, hospitals, and office buildings, securing an automatic unlock of the door in the event of a power failure.

2. AC or DC Electric Strike 
Electric Strikes are also divided into two other groups: those that are operated by a DC (Direct Current) Voltage and those operated by AC (Alternating Current) power.
When AC power is applied to an electric strike it generates a buzzing noise for the duration that the voltage is applied, providing by default an indication to the person at the door that the door is open. When DC Voltage is applied to the electric strike it will generate a click and will remain open for the duration that the voltage is applied.

All Fail Safe Electric Strikes operate from DC power sources while for Fail Secure strikes the AC power is more common.

3. Mortise or Cylindrical
Mortise Locks are usually common to older home or buildings and can be identified by the key being above the handle (knob) and a long rectangular plate at the edge of the door. Cylindrical Locks are the most common and are identified by the key inside the Knob (or door handle). The center of the handle is inline with the center of the lock and strike.

A modern PBX, or Private Branch Exchange, replaces archaic switchboards and allow business to save money and take advantage of key features that improve efficiency. You may have also seenPBX referred to as PABX (Private Automatic Branch Exchange) or EPABX (Electronic Private Automatic Branch Exchange).

A PBX system basically creates the ability for many telephone lines (extensions) to connect to public lines via a smaller subset of lines. These are called trunk lines. Think of it like a tree trunk with many branches representing extensions for phone, fax or modem.

PBX is not to be confused with a key system where you must select a line for an outgoing call. Instead you dial a single digit escape code, probably “9” to connect to an available outgoing line. You’ve probably run into this if you’ve ever worked in an office or even a retail environment. With the growing number of PBX options, these products are becoming increasingly popular for both residential and commercial purposes.

Modern PBX systems include a tremendous number of features including call forwarding, conference calling and call transfer. You can also complement your PBX system with an Access Control System to control the entrances to your place of business. This will ensure that your employees are held accountable for who comes and goes, allowing you to focus on managing growth and success.

A comprehensive PBX Access Control System consists of a Door Phone or Door Phone Keypad, a PABX Exchange with Auto Attendant feature and an electric strike lock. Depending on your specific needs, an Intercom to Phone Adaptor can also be incorporated. The entire package can allow you to control access into your business directly from any extension. And, if you opt for theDoor Phone Keypad, employees can each be assigned a code for access at the front door.

For more on PBX and the great tools, like Access Control, stay tuned.

Like many, you may assume that selecting the appropriate system and installing it takes a PHD. I hate to sound clichéd, but fear not. There are many basic access control systems for the novice user. These are simpler and more user friendly than most door phones.

DK-9520BL Stand Alone Access Control Keypad

My personal favorite is an access control system is the basic keypad. For the busy American family this is a natural fit. Everyone has their own code and overall access is controlled by the heads of household. All access is generated via this Access control keypad which operates an electric strike lock. To get started in access control, select your ideal keypad with style and operation in mind. I’ve selected three options that might fit the bill for you. All selections are easy to install and operate and include several energy saving features.

Stand Alone Universal Access Control Backlit Keypad

• Ideal for residential and commercial alike

• Eliminate the worry of your kid’s lost keys or ex-employees gaining access

• Backlit keypad eases visibility for those late night arrivals

• Independently operates all electric strike locks on the market (12-24 DC or AC)

• Can be operated by an Egress (panic exit button)

• Ability to assign codes in single user or multi-user modes

• Includes a door lock inhibit code

Two Output Digital Access Control Keypad

• Ideal for residential and commercial alike

• Eliminate the worry of your kid’s lost keys or ex-employees gaining access

• Backlit keypad eases visibility for those late night arrivals

• Operates all electric strike locks on the market (12-24 DC or AC)

• Two independent relay outputs that can work in synch to activate and deactivate dual door locks

• Connects easily to a home security or burglar alarm system, works along with existing intercom systems.

• Can be operated by an Egress (panic exit button)

• Ability to assign codes in single user or multi-user modes

• Includes a door lock inhibit code

Several years of working out of my home have taught me well. I have learned the rules to being productive and the tools I need to get there. Depending on your field some of the tools may change, but there are five essentials to successfully running your home office.

1. Reliable Computer Setup
A computer probably seems pretty obvious. You can’t really telecommute without a computer. However, as you transition into the home office, remember that John from IT will no longer be available to run in and fix the glitches.

Invest in a good computer that has the capacity to do the work you need at the speed that is required of you. If your old Pentium has been with you for four or more years, chances are you need to upgrade. And, when you upgrade choose something you can adapt to quickly.

To really secure your success, find the software that best suits you and purchase it. Knock offs and pirated software will prove to be very frustrating. You can’t get the help you need direct from the vendor and you are at the mercy of the best copy you can snag. Just make the investment in yourself!

2. Telecommunications System
In order to truly run a professional and efficient home office, you need a separate telephone line and a solid telecommunications system. It goes hand in hand with your computer and is just as much of an extension of your physical self. In fact, the computer and telecommunications systems are so entwined that they can be integrated and controlled as one complete system. You’ll find SOHO PBX (I’ll talk more about this another time) and VoIP that can be controlled directly from your PC.

Long Distance service and the phone company aside, the equipment is an essential entity. Select equipment that will grow with you and serve you well in the long run. This is a vital and important consideration if you currently have or intend to eventually have others working with you from your home office.

The telecommunications system encompasses the physical phone, answering system and fax machine. Ideally, you incorporate your final selection into an Access Control System like the Phone Gate 102 for 2 Doors/Gates. The Phone Gate 102 is one of several such systems that allow you to control access at your home’s entrances with your phone. No more missing important business related house calls or deliveries.

The Phone Gate 102

Phone Gate Telephone Entry System

is your direct intercom to the outside world. Most Telephone entry systems and PBX door phones and systems would be more complicated and/or expensive in performing similar functions.

When visitors arrive at your door and press on the Door Phone button, your office phone rings. You determine who is at the door and whether or not you want to give them access with the click of a button or run to the door to greet them yourself. Better yet, if you are out of the office, visitors can leave you a voicemail message like any other telephone call.

3. File Storage
I am not referring to filing cabinets, because if you are smart, you’ll keep these to a minimum. In this day and age, we owe it to ourselves to go paperless. It’s better for the environment and it keeps the clutter down.

Since paperless is the goal, your computer will serve as the center of all information. So, back it up! External hard drives are readily available starting at about $50. Carbonite and Iron Mountain are two of the many online paid services that allow you to back up your computer daily. If you can expense it, or afford the fee of $50 per year (varies by vendor), this can be a great complement to any file back-up system you have at home.

4. Dependable Desk
As trivial as the desk may seem, you will become very intimate with yours. It must provide you with a sufficient work area and storage for the supplies you need close at hand. I searched high and low for my desk and it has served me well for the last few years.

Your desk and its placement within your office needs to take into consideration lighting, spatial planning with regards to electrical outlets and phone jacks, orientation to additional work areas and overall comfort. The bottom line here is: plan well. Measure your space and narrow it down to 2-3 options before you make your decision.

5. World Class Chair
Unless you are interested in keeping a chiropractor on speed dial, you will research and test until you find a chair that is suitable for your body and your office space. Not all office chairs are equal. I can’t recommend specific manufacturers, because in the end price and comfort are subjective. I can recommend that you take these factors into consideration:

· Wheels for mobility
· Comfortable material (Faux leather need not apply!)
· Back height for optimum support
· Adjustable height
· Adjustable arm rests
· Adjustable tilt
· Durability