Pushbutton Control Wiring
16 ga
125' Maximum
14 ga
200' Maximum
12 ga
300' Maximum
10 ga
500' Maximum
Wire Size Schedules
Wire Size Schedules
Wire Size Schedules
Wire Size Schedules
Wire Size Schedules
for
1
/
2
-hp through 5-hp motors
Supplying a gate operator with the right electrical service is crucial to the way the performance of
the operator the life of its electrical components. If the wire size used is too small, the voltage loss—
especially during motor starting—will prevent the motor from attaining its rated horsepower. The
percent of horsepower lost is far greater than the percentage of the voltage loss. A voltage loss could
also cause the control components to chatter while the motor is starting, substantially reducing their
life due to the resultant arcing. There is no way to restore the lost performance resulting from
undersized wires, except to replace them; therefore it is much more economical to choose a sufficient
wire size at the initial installation.
The tables on the following page are based on copper wire and allow for a 5% voltage drop. The
ampere values shown are the service factor ampere rating (maximum full load at continuous duty)
of the motor.
Always connect in accordance with the National Electrical Code, article 430, and other local codes
that may apply.
The maximum distance shown is from the gate operator to the power source; assuming that source
power is from a panel box with adequate capacity to support the addition of this motor load. The
values are for one operator, with no other loads applied to the branch circuit. For two operators
applied to one circuit, reduce the maximum allowed distance by half.
Use this chart to determine maxi-
mum allowable control wiring dis-
tance. If the location required ex-
ceeds the distances listed on the
chart at the right, addition of a long
range interface will be neccessary.
4/14/00 E16a
