USAutomatic PATRIOT Series

Questions and Answers

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Lisa HowardAug 25, 2025
What to do if USAutomatic PATRIOT stops and reverses during opening/closing?
- A
  ayersjosephAug 25, 2025
  If your USAutomatic gate begins to open or close but stops and reverses after a couple of seconds, remove the control box cover and find the sensitivity adjustment potentiometer on the Patriot control board. Adjust the white center in a clockwise direction to increase the force. A setting of 5 usually works for most gates. If your gate needs a setting above 8, it likely has a problem that needs fixing, such as incorrect hinges, the gate touching the ground, the gate not being level, or a bent actuator arm connected to the gate. Identify and correct the underlying issue.
K
Kimberly HarrisAug 28, 2025
Why does my USAutomatic dual gate open/close immediately after operation?
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  barbara01Aug 28, 2025
  If your dual USAutomatic gate opens correctly then closes immediately, or closes correctly then opens immediately, determine which gate needs adjustment. Locate the DS1 switches on the Patriot control board. Turn off switch 4 to disable one gate. Operate the gate and verify that it stops in the correct position. If so, turn switch 4 back on and turn switch 3 off. Operate the other gate and verify that it stops correctly. If one or both gates don't stop correctly, identify the gate needing adjustment and refer to problem 6, steps 1 through 5 for instructions.
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Tiffany TownsendSep 3, 2025
Why are the lights on my USAutomatic PATRIOT Gate Opener charger but it's not charging?
- D
  David HarrisSep 3, 2025
  If the USAutomatic Gate Opener charger or charge controller shows that the 'External Power or Solar Power Light & Detection Light are ON', the battery is likely not connected to the charger or charge controller. Verify that the 2-wire harness going to the battery is connected to both the battery and the charger or charge controller.
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goodmanmarySep 5, 2025
Why does USAutomatic PATRIOT Gate Opener operate when pressing the 'RESET' button?
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  jennifer98Sep 5, 2025
  If pressing the 'RESET' button on your USAutomatic Gate Opener causes the gate to operate, it's probably due to a bad receiver. Locate the 'LED Indicator' push button on the Patriot control board and the 'Push Button Input' LED. Press the 'LED Indicator' button and observe the 'Push Button Input' LED. If the LED comes on, the receiver relay is stuck closed and needs to be repaired or replaced. If the 'Push Button Input' LED does not come on, contact the factory.
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Robert BlackNov 24, 2025
Why USAutomatic PATRIOT Gate Opener transmitter will not operate the gate?
- D
  Diane JacksonNov 24, 2025
  If your USAutomatic transmitter won't operate the gate, first, open the control box and locate the Patriot control board. Find the 'LED Indicator' push button and the 'Push Button Input' LED. Push and hold the 'LED indicator' push button, then press the transmitter button and check if the 'Push Button Input' LED comes on. If it doesn't, ensure the green J2 connector on the control board is securely connected. Replace the transmitter battery and ensure the transmitter is programmed to operate the receiver. If the 'Push Button Input' LED does come on, press the 'Open/Close Command' button on the Patriot control board to check gate operation. If the gate still doesn't operate, verify the 15-amp fuse on the Patriot control board is not blown. If the fuse is good, a safety accessory connected t...
E
Erin BellSep 23, 2025
Why does my USAutomatic Gate Opener activate when I press the reset button?
- R
  Rita HallSep 23, 2025
  If the LED comes on, then the receiver relay is stuck closed and needs to be repaired or replaced.
C
Caitlin SmithSep 23, 2025
How to fix inconsistent stop positions on my USAutomatic PATRIOT?
- T
  Terrence HoustonSep 23, 2025
  Adjust limit switch lever gently so that limit cam nut depresses limit switch lever before reaching peak of limit switch lever.
J
Johnny JonesSep 14, 2025
What to do if the emergency release knob on my USAutomatic PATRIOT Gate Opener is stuck?
- S
  stephenbrooksSep 14, 2025
  Try pulling the emergency release knob while agitating the gate (shake gate in direction of travel). If the gate still won’t roll, check the gate wheels and guide rollers. Verify the chain is on all the rollers and not twisted or overly tight.
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Linda NorrisSep 12, 2025
What to do if my USAutomatic PATRIOT Gate Opener won't work with monitored entrapment devices?
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  Charles MaysSep 12, 2025
  If monitored entrapment devices are installed, first verify that dip switch DS2 switch 4 (contact edge monitor) is ON. Activate the contact edge by depressing it and verify the D5 LED is ON or the voltage drops to 0 Vdc. If the reading is 5 Vdc, check the wire connections from the contact edge. If wire connections are correct, disconnect the contact edge wires from the J2 connector. If D11 does not turn OFF when the beam is broken, the photo eye is likely bad.
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amy01Sep 12, 2025
Why is my USAutomatic Gate Opener not closing automatically?
- N
  Natalie SteinSep 12, 2025
  The gate will only automatically close if the 'retract limit' for right hand installation or 'extend limit' for left hand installation is ON. Verify that DS1 switch 1 is on. If both DS1 switch 3 or 4 are on, turn off the one that is not being used and recheck gate operation.

Summary

PATRIOT Series AUTOMATIC GATE OPERATORS

Gate Operator Classes and Power Options

Details UL325 gate classes, solar compatibility, and battery requirements for operation.

Entrapment Devices Required and Approved for Operation

Approved Entrapment Devices and Types

Lists approved external devices (Type B1/B2) and defines device types for safety compliance.

ENTRAPMENT ZONES

Entrapment Zone Identification and Protection

Illustrates and describes key entrapment zones (A, B, C, D) requiring protection.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

General Installation and Operation Safety Guidelines

Provides critical warnings and instructions for safe gate operator installation and use.

SAFETY INSTALLATION INFORMATION

Sensor Installation Safety Considerations

Details safety precautions for installing Type B1 Photo Eyes, Type B2 Contact Edges, and Type D devices.

PARTS AND HARDWARE INVENTORY

Operator and Accessory Components

Lists all included operator parts, radio control components, and optional accessories.

HARDWARE INVENTORY

Brackets and Mounting Hardware

Details various brackets, fasteners, and hardware required for mounting the gate operator.

ACTUATOR DIMENSIONS AND TOOL REQUIREMENTS

PREPARATION AND OVERVIEW

Gate Qualifications and Proper Design

Specifies gate size limits and emphasizes the importance of proper gate design for automatic systems.

PROPER GATE DESIGN

INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS

Mounting Site Review

Guides on evaluating the installation site for space, access, and potential issues before mounting.

Determine Gate Opening Method

Explains how to choose between "Pull to Open" and "Push to Open" installation configurations.

Determine Horizontal Mounting Location

Provides guidance on selecting the optimal horizontal position for actuator mounting brackets on the gate.

Actuator Mounting Brackets - Pull to Open

Illustrates various methods for mounting actuator brackets for "Pull to Open" gate installations.

Actuator Mounting Brackets - Push to Open

Illustrates various methods for mounting actuator brackets for "Push to Open" gate installations.

Actuator Mounting Brackets - Columns

Details methods for mounting actuator brackets when gates are installed with columns.

Mount Support Bracket

Guides on correctly mounting the actuator support bracket in alignment with gate frame members.

Install Actuator Mounting Tube

Instructs on cutting and welding the actuator mounting tube for proper gate opening angles.

Install Actuator and Gate Brackets

Details attaching the linear actuator to the bracket and installing the gate bracket onto the actuator.

Install Gate Bracket to Gate

Provides steps for determining and installing the gate bracket onto the gate itself.

Install Patriot Control Box

Guides on securely mounting the control box, including its dimensions and mounting considerations.

Install Patriot Control Board

Details how to remove and mount the Patriot control board onto the nylon standoffs within the control box.

Install Receiver, Charger, Siren, and Actuator Cable

Covers installing receiver, charge controller, siren, and routing the linear actuator cable.

Splicing Actuator Cable for Dual Gates

Explains how to cut and splice actuator cables for dual gate systems or when using extension cables.

Installing Monitored Entrapment Devices

Details the installation of various monitored entrapment protection devices like photo eyes and contact edges.

Install Battery

Guides on connecting the recommended 12-volt battery to the charge controller harness.

Install Smart Charger; Charge Controller

Covers the installation of the smart charger/controller, powered by AC transformer or solar panel.

Solar Charged System Setup

Details the setup and considerations for gate operators powered by a solar panel.

Connect Power, Install Safety Signs, and Connect Actuator Cable

Covers connecting power sources, installing safety signs, and connecting actuator cables.

Photo Eye Alignment

Explains how to align the photo eyes after power is applied to ensure proper operation.

Operating Gate for the First Time

Provides a checklist and steps for verifying correct gate operation after installation.

Optional Soft Stop and Gate Delay Features

Explains how to set up the soft stop feature and activate the gate delay for dual gates.

Making Retract and Extend Limit Adjustments

Guides on adjusting the actuator's limit switches for precise gate open and close positions.

Sensitivity Adjustment and Entrapment Alarm

Covers adjusting sensitivity dials and understanding the entrapment alarm function.

Verifying Entrapment Protection Systems

Outlines tests to verify the proper function of the gate operator's built-in entrapment protection system.

Verifying Monitored Photo Eye Operation

Details how to test the operation of monitored Type B1 photo eyes for entrapment protection.

Verifying Monitored Contact Edge Operation

Details how to test the operation of monitored Type B2 contact edges for entrapment protection.

Verifying Constant Pressure (Type D) Operation

Details how to test the operation of Type D constant pressure devices for entrapment protection.

Patriot Control Board Information

Control Board Overview and DIP Switch Functions

Describes the Patriot control board layout, including DIP switch functions and terminal connections.

J2 Terminal Description

DSI Function Dip Switches

DS2 Function Dip Switches

Programming Transmitter and Receiver

Transmitter and Receiver Programming Steps

Provides step-by-step instructions for programming transmitters to work with the gate operator receiver.

Programming Your Wireless Keypad

Keypad Terms and Basic Programming

Explains keypad terminology, master password, access codes, and basic programming procedures.

Programming Your Wireless Keypad (continued)

Master Password, Code Deletion, and Reset Procedures

Covers changing the master password, resetting to factory default, and deleting access codes.

Changing Keypad Security Code

Receiver Programming for Hold Gate Open

Details how to program the receiver for a "Hold Gate Open" function using relay P2.

PERIODIC SERVICE

Periodic Checking and Manual Release

Outlines routine maintenance checks and the procedure for emergency manual gate release.

Accessories

Gate Locks and Exit Sensor

Describes gate locks (electric/magnetic) and the driveway exit sensor for enhanced functionality.

Accessories (continued)

Garage Door Receiver and Wireless Buttons

Details compatibility and programming for garage door receivers and wireless push-to-operate buttons.

Accessories (continued)

Receivers, Extension Cables, Expansion Modules, and Timers

Lists various accessories including specialized receivers, extension cables, entrapment modules, and timers.

Troubleshooting Guide

Control Board Component Overview

Identifies key components on the Patriot control board, including LEDs, buttons, and connectors, for troubleshooting.

Terms and Definitions

Summary of Symptoms Included in This Guide

Troubleshooting Guide (continued)

Initial Troubleshooting Steps and Single Gate Issues

Covers initial checks and troubleshooting for single gate operation problems.

Troubleshooting Guide (continued)

Dual Gate and Monitored Device Issues

Addresses troubleshooting for dual gate systems and gates with monitored entrapment devices.

Troubleshooting Guide (continued)

Photo Eye Monitoring Troubleshooting

Provides specific steps to troubleshoot photo eye monitoring for both open and closed directions.

Troubleshooting Guide (continued)

Slow Gate Operation and Battery Issues

Diagnoses causes for slow gate movement, likely related to battery condition or accessory load.

Troubleshooting Guide (continued)

Gate Not Automatically Closing

Troubleshoots issues preventing the gate from automatically closing after opening.

Troubleshooting Guide (continued)

Gate Reversing Direction and Limit Switch Issues

Addresses gate behavior where it stops and reverses unexpectedly, often due to limit switch problems.

Troubleshooting Guide (continued)

Dual Gate Reversal and Control Board Fuse Issues

Troubleshoots dual gate reversal and blown control board fuses, indicating movement or wiring problems.

Troubleshooting Guide (continued)

Wiring Harness Fuse and Transmitter Issues

Addresses blown wiring harness fuses and problems with the transmitter not operating the gate.

Troubleshooting Guide (continued)

Photo-eye and Reset Button Troubleshooting

Covers issues related to photo-eyes affecting gate closing and problems caused by the reset button.

Troubleshooting Guide (continued)

Transmitter Closing Issues and LED Indicator Operation

Troubleshoots gate closing failures with transmitters and gate operation linked to the LED indicator.

Troubleshooting Guide (continued)

Charger Lights and Inconsistent Gate Positions

Addresses issues with charger power lights and inconsistent gate open/close stop positions.

Troubleshooting Guide (continued)

Battery Charging and Charge System Verification

Diagnoses battery charging problems and verifies the overall charge system's functionality.

Troubleshooting Guide (continued)

Adjusting Gate Limit Assembly

Guides on adjusting the actuator's limit assembly to correct inconsistent gate stop positions.

Appendix

Photo Eye Installation for Vehicular Protection

Details the installation and wiring of photo eyes for vehicular protection and entrapment prevention.

Appendix (continued)

Installing Non-Monitored Photo Eyes

Provides instructions for installing non-monitored photo eyes for vehicular protection.

Appendix (continued)

Extending Power Source Cables

Explains how to extend AC or solar power source cables using appropriate wire gauges and junction boxes.

Appendix (continued)

Charge Controller LED Descriptions

Explains the meaning of the LED indicators on the charge controller for diagnosing system status.

Appendix (continued)

Remedies for Charge Controller Failures

Lists possible solutions for common charge controller errors and failure modes.

Patriot Swing Gate Operator LIMITED WARRANTY

Warranty Terms and Service Information

Outlines the product warranty period, coverage, exclusions, and contact information for service.