Motorisation & radio
Garage door operator
Electro-mechanical system that opens and closes the door automatically, controlled by handset or sensor.
Definition
A garage door operator consists of a motor, a guide rail (with chain or belt) or a shaft drive, and a control system. It replaces manual effort and provides comfort, safety (stop on obstacle) and remote control. Hörmann's ProMatic 4 and SupraMatic 4 operators are the benchmarks of the residential range.
Operator types
- Chain drive: offered by some brands; all Hörmann garage door operators use a maintenance-free toothed belt.
- Belt drive: quiet, recommended if the garage adjoins bedrooms (ProMatic 4, SupraMatic 4).
- Shaft-mounted: for industrial sectional doors (WA 300 S4, WA 500 FU).
- Articulated arm: for swing gates (VersaMatic); up-and-over doors are automated with a rail-mounted operator.
Required safety equipment
- Photocells: detect obstacles and reverse travel.
- Current-sensing: stops the motor on excessive force (child, animal).
- Manual emergency release on power failure.
- Integrated LED lighting (auto-on at opening).
Frequently asked questions
Can I motorise an existing garage door?
Yes, most existing up-and-over and sectional doors can be automated with a Hörmann rail-mounted operator (ProMatic 4 or SupraMatic 4), suitable for both door types. We carry out a prior assessment to confirm feasibility.