When seconds matter, having fast and secure access for emergency responders isn’t just helpful—it’s critical. The TOMAR STROBESWITCH™ and STROBESWITCH™ with Beacon are compact, intelligent gate access systems that give first responders automated entry to secured properties using optical emitters, with an optional flashing beacon for visual confirmation.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the complete installation and configuration process, including how to:
- Unbox and prepare your unit
- Adjust the gate delay settings
- Configure beacon color (red or amber)
- Wire the system correctly
- Aim the detectors for optimal performance
Whether you’re securing a gated community, public utility site, or critical infrastructure facility, this guide will help you understand and install your STROBESWITCH™ system.
Step 1: Receiving the Unit
Each STROBESWITCH™ unit ships fully assembled and ready to install. Once received:
- Unscrew the four cover screws and remove the front panel.
- Inside, you’ll find the 1790M-2 power supply mounted on the back of the cover.
Out of the box, the default settings are:
- Delay dial set to position 2, corresponding to a 35-second hold time after the last valid emitter signal is detected.
- If a beacon is included, it will default to red flashing mode.
Make any necessary adjustments to these settings before mounting the unit.
Step 2: Adjusting the Gate Delay Dial
The STROBESWITCH™ uses a rotary delay dial (S1) located on the 1790M-2 power supply to determine how long the gate remains open and, if equipped, how long the beacon continues flashing after the last valid emitter signal is detected.
Delay Dial Position Reference:
| Position | Delay Time |
|---|---|
| 0 | 0 seconds |
| 1 | 15 seconds |
| 2 | 30 seconds (Default) |
| 3–E | Up to 30 minutes |
| F | Continuous Operation |
Use a small flathead screwdriver to set the dial to your preferred delay time before final installation.
Step 3: Enabling Manual Reset (Position F Only)
If you select Position F on the delay dial, you must install a momentary external reset switch connected to the two terminals beside the dial. This switch allows first responders to manually close the gate and deactivate the beacon after an event.
Installation Tips:
- Install the reset switch outside the gate for easy access by emergency personnel.
- For security: This reset switch only closes an already open gate and cannot be used to gain entry—ensuring unauthorized users are kept out.
- If an external switch is not available, use the S2 internal reset switch located on the power supply.
Step 4: Changing the Beacon Color (Optional)
If your STROBESWITCH™ is equipped with a red/amber flashing beacon, you can switch the beacon color to amber by following these steps:
- Locate the TB-1 terminal block.
- Find the wire labeled “DETECTOR (–)”.
- Disconnect and cap the white wire—this switches the beacon from red to amber.
- Leave the black wire connected.
Tip: Only perform these steps if your unit includes a beacon.
Step 5: Mounting the Unit
Mount the STROBESWITCH™ in a clear line of sight from the direction emergency vehicles will approach. Avoid placing the unit behind obstructions such as:
- Trees
- Signs
- Fences
- Building structures
Important: Ensure the location allows for proper and unobstructed aiming of the detector heads to guarantee reliable signal detection.
Step 6: Wiring Instructions
Gate Control Wiring (Low Voltage)
- Route low-voltage wires from the gate controller to the power supply.
- Connect to the relay output on TB-2 of the 1790M-2.
Power Wiring
- Route two wires from your gate’s power source to the power supply.
- Connect the wires as follows:
- One wire to Common-Neg (–) on TB-1.
- The other wire through a 1-amp inline fuse to the power terminal.
- Input: 12–24V AC or DC (ensure correct polarity if using DC power).
Once wiring is complete, close the unit using the four original cover screws to secure the front panel.
Step 7: Aiming the Detector Eyes
Proper aiming ensures accurate detection of optical emitter signals from approaching emergency vehicles. TOMAR dual or tri-head detectors allow for flexible coverage depending on your site's layout.
Single Avenue of Approach
- Aim both detectors outward with slight horizontal separation for wide coverage.
- Optionally, aim one outward and one inward to detect both entry and exit.
Multiple Avenues of Approach
- Aim detectors outward in opposite directions to cover all paths of incoming emergency traffic.
Use the locking rings to secure the detectors once you’ve verified correct positioning.
Install Tip: Improper aiming can result in missed signals. Always confirm detector alignment before finalizing installation.
System Ready
Once mounted, wired, configured, and aimed, your STROBESWITCH™ system is fully operational. It will now detect valid optical signals from TOMAR or GTT emitters and automatically open the gate and activate the beacon when required.
*Global Traffic Technologies, GTT, and Opticom are trademarks of Miovision Technologies Incorporated and not affiliated with TOMAR Electronics Inc.
Final Thoughts
The TOMAR STROBESWITCH™ is a dependable, flexible solution for emergency gate access. Whether installed on a remote utility site, gated community, or secured public facility, it ensures critical access when and where it’s needed most.
