Which model and which settings are suitable for automatic doors, barriers and greenhouse screens?
The common need in these applications is to detect the end of travel reliably and to provide a soft start and stop. Thanks to the current-threshold AntiSwitch function, the KS250 (15 A, IP45) is suitable for indoor and semi-sheltered locations, and the PT500 (30 A, IP67) for heavy loads and open-field conditions.
Model selection:
- KS250: 12–24V, 15 A continuous, 45 A peak (5 s), IP45, 120 × 40 × 46 mm, 110 g, 24 months warranty. It is defined for applications such as automatic doors and barriers, compact cranes, greenhouse screens, solar tracking and HVAC dampers. It has soft start/stop and an active braking circuit.
- PT500: 12–24V, 30 A continuous, 40 A maximum (15 s), IP67, independent current limit per direction (A1/A2), HIZ and RMP pots, programmable software. It is defined for heavy-duty motors and outdoor field automation.
- ST42: For simple in-panel applications where only direction and on/off control are needed. It does not include speed adjustment or AntiSwitch.
Commissioning settings:
- Leave the speed pot at the lowest value at which the movement is smooth, with the real load fitted.
- Set the ramp time to the value at which the door starts and stops without swinging.
- Measure the current under the harshest condition (cold, dirty guide, wind); calibrate the current threshold above this value and below the stall current. Set the opening and closing directions separately.
- Test 10–20 full cycles and mark the pot positions with the label kit.
On doors and barriers with people passing through, current-threshold stopping must not be treated as a safety function on its own, and the safety equipment the application requires must be planned separately.
Full topic: DC Motor Driver Selection Guide