Smart Gate & Home Automation Features
Modern gate motors in Pretoria can do far more than open and close. From app control to full smart home integration, here is what is possible with the right system.
App-Controlled Gate Motors
Open, close and monitor your gate from anywhere using your smartphone. Centurion's MyCentsys app and compatible smart receivers let you control access remotely — whether you're in the office, on holiday, or just inside the house.
- Open gate from anywhere with internet access
- Real-time open/close notifications
- Multiple user access management
- Activity log — see when the gate was used
- Works on Android and iOS
Smart Home Integration
Connect your gate motor to your broader smart home ecosystem. Modern systems can integrate with platforms like Google Home and Amazon Alexa, allowing voice-activated gate control and automation triggers — for example, opening the gate when you arrive home.
- Voice control via Google Home or Alexa
- Trigger-based automation (arrival, time-of-day)
- Integration with smart doorbells and cameras
- Scene-based control with other smart devices
- Compatible with AJAX security panels
AJAX Smart Security Integration
AJAX is one of the most advanced wireless security systems available in South Africa. It connects to your gate motor, intercom, CCTV and electric fence to create a fully integrated smart security ecosystem monitored from a single app.
- Wireless intrusion detection at the gate
- Automated alerts to your phone on breach
- Remote arm/disarm from the app
- Integration with CCTV and access control
- 24/7 monitoring capability
Centurion SMART Receivers
Centurion's SMART 2 GSM receiver and the D-series SMART gate motors are purpose-built for remote access. The SMART receiver clips onto any existing Centurion motor, turning a standard gate into a remotely accessible smart gate without replacing the motor.
- Retrofit existing Centurion motors
- GSM-based — no internet required at the gate
- Control via call or dedicated app
- Up to 100 authorised user numbers
- Real-time SMS alerts on gate activity
Solar & Battery Backup for Load Shedding
Smart automation is only useful if it works during load shedding. We install solar-ready gate motors and backup battery systems that keep your automated gate operating throughout power cuts — essential for reliable smart home integration in Pretoria.
- Centurion D5-Evo and D10 SMART with solar input
- 12V and 24V SLA and lithium backup batteries
- Automatic switchover during load shedding
- Solar panel pairing for off-grid operation
- Battery status visible in the app
Remote Access Control
Manage who can access your property without being physically present. Issue time-limited access codes, grant one-time entry to visitors, or revoke access instantly. Ideal for rental properties, home offices, and busy households.
- Issue and revoke access remotely
- Time-limited and one-time access codes
- Visitor PIN entry via keypad
- Multiple credential types (remote, app, keypad, card)
- Audit trail of all access events
Our Home Automation Services
From smart gate motor installation to full AJAX security integration, we handle everything in Pretoria and surrounding areas.
Smart Gate Motor Supply & Installation
We supply and install Centurion D-Series SMART and ET Nice gate motors with smart connectivity built in. From site assessment to final commissioning, we handle the full installation in Pretoria.
SMART Receiver Retrofits
Already have a Centurion gate motor? We can upgrade it with a Centurion SMART 2 GSM receiver — giving you remote control via app or call without replacing the motor.
AJAX Security System Integration
We integrate AJAX wireless security panels with your gate motor, intercom and CCTV, creating a unified smart security system managed from a single app on your phone.
App Setup & User Configuration
We commission the MyCentsys app or AJAX Hub app on your devices, add all authorised users, and walk you through how to use your new smart system before we leave the site.
Why Choose JD Gates for Home Automation?
15+ Years Experience
We have been installing and integrating gate automation systems in Pretoria for over 15 years — from basic remote control to full smart home ecosystems.
Certified Technicians
Our technicians are trained on Centurion SMART, AJAX, ET Nice and all major smart gate systems. We commission everything properly before leaving the site.
Ongoing Support
We help you set up users, configure the app and troubleshoot after installation. Call us on 073 941 2448 for support on any system we have installed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I control my existing gate motor from my smartphone?
In many cases yes — if you have a Centurion motor, we can add a Centurion SMART 2 GSM receiver that gives you app and remote phone control without replacing the motor. For other brands, we assess compatibility and recommend the best upgrade path.
Does smart gate control work during load shedding?
Yes, provided the gate motor has a backup battery installed. The GSM receiver and app control continue to function on battery power. We also offer solar panel integration for properties that want fully off-grid operation during extended load shedding.
Which smart gate motor brands do you install?
We primarily install Centurion D-Series SMART motors (D5-Evo SMART, D10 SMART, D10 Turbo SMART, D20 SMART) and ET Nice gate motors. For smart receivers, we use the Centurion SMART 2 GSM receiver. We recommend the best option based on your gate weight, length and smart home requirements.
What is the AJAX security system and how does it connect to my gate?
AJAX is a wireless smart security platform that includes sensors, detectors, sirens and a central hub that connects everything to your smartphone via an app. We integrate AJAX with your gate motor, intercom and CCTV to create a unified system. You receive instant alerts, can arm/disarm remotely and can trigger the gate from the same app.
How many users can I add to my smart gate system?
The Centurion SMART 2 GSM receiver supports up to 100 authorised phone numbers. AJAX systems support multiple user accounts with configurable permissions. If you need more users — for example for a complex or gated community — we can advise on access control solutions that scale accordingly.
Do I need Wi-Fi at my gate for smart control to work?
Not necessarily. The Centurion SMART 2 GSM receiver uses the cellular network — as long as there is mobile signal at the gate, you can control it remotely without Wi-Fi. AJAX systems use both GSM and ethernet/Wi-Fi for redundancy. We assess signal strength during our site visit.
How much does smart gate motor installation cost in Pretoria?
Smart gate motor installation in Pretoria typically starts from R8,000 for a SMART receiver retrofit on an existing motor, and from R12,000 to R25,000 for a full new smart motor installation depending on the model, gate size and cable runs. Contact us for a free on-site quote.