Alvarado VSG Installation and operating instructions

Installation & Maintenance Instructions
Alvarado Manufacturing Company, Inc.
12660 Colony Street, Chino, CA 91710
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
[email protected]
www.alvaradomfg.com
VSG & VSGX
Waist-High Security Gate
PUD2996R4-0

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VSG/VSGX Installation & Maintenance
Contents. ......................................................................................................................................................................... 2
ETL Certi cation. ............................................................................................................................................................. 2
Safety Icons..................................................................................................................................................................... 3
General Safety Information.............................................................................................................................................. 3
Safety Precautions. ......................................................................................................................................................... 3
Uncrating. ........................................................................................................................................................................ 3
Installation Tools Required. ............................................................................................................................................. 4
Parts List.......................................................................................................................................................................... 4
Introduction...................................................................................................................................................................... 5
Product Overview...................................................................................................................................................... 5
Swing Direction. ........................................................................................................................................................ 5
Options...................................................................................................................................................................... 5
Before You Begin............................................................................................................................................................. 6
Slab Requirements. .................................................................................................................................................. 6
Space Requirements. ............................................................................................................................................... 6
Power Requirements. ............................................................................................................................................... 6
Environmental Requirements.................................................................................................................................... 6
Other Installation Considerations.............................................................................................................................. 7
Installation Steps. ............................................................................................................................................................ 8
Electrical Activation & Wiring Instructions........................................................................................................................ 9
Wiring at the Gate Location. ..................................................................................................................................... 9
Connecting a Switch Box. ......................................................................................................................................... 9
Connecting a Push Bar. .......................................................................................................................................... 10
Wiring at the Control Location................................................................................................................................. 10
Testing the Gate with a Switch Box......................................................................................................................... 10
Lock Speci cations. ................................................................................................................................................ 10
Lead Speci cations................................................................................................................................................. 10
Maglock................................................................................................................................................................... 10
Troubleshooting..............................................................................................................................................................11
Maintenance.................................................................................................................................................................. 12
Maintenance Points. ............................................................................................................................................... 12
Anchor Tension. ...................................................................................................................................................... 12
Wiring Inspection. ................................................................................................................................................... 12
Pivot Points. ............................................................................................................................................................ 12
Lock Alignment........................................................................................................................................................ 12
Stainless Steel Surfaces. ........................................................................................................................................ 13
External Component Finishes................................................................................................................................. 13
Contents
ETL Certi cation
This product is fully certi ed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory to UL 2593 and CSA C22.2 #247.
Unauthorized modi cation to this product in any way is prohibited.

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VSG/VSGX Installation & Maintenance
The following symbols are used throughout the manual to highlight important information and
potential risks when installing, servicing or using the turnstiles covered in this manual.
WARNING This symbol is used in this manual to warn installers and operators of
potential harm. Please read these instructions very carefully.
CAUTION
This symbol is used in this manual to designate potential conditions that
may pose a risk to pedestrians, personnel, property and equipment.
Please read these instructions very carefully.
NOTE This symbol is used in this manual to designate useful information for the
installer and operator. Please read these instructions.
For questions, please contact Alvarado at [phone], Monday –
Friday 7:00am to 4:00pm PST. Please read this manual completely before
installing or operating the purchased product.
Safety Icons
A minimum of two people
is required to complete the
installation of this product.
General Safety Information
Safety Precautions
The VSG-1/VSGX-1 single-direction waist-high gate has been designed, built, and tested by Alvarado. Every unit is
factory-tested for safety and reliability before shipping. However, the unit may present a risk to persons and property if
it is not installed and/or operated correctly. Read and follow all instructions and safety information in this guide.
The manufacturer shall refuse to accept liability and shall withdraw warranty if this system is used incorrectly, or is used
for a purpose other than that for which it is designed.
In addition to the instructions included throughout this guide, observe the following safety precautions.
• For indoor use only.
• Use only skilled individuals to install and service the turnstile.
• DO NOT operate the turnstile if it has been damaged in any manner. If damaged, have the unit repaired or
adjusted by a skilled service person before use.
• DO NOT modify or alter the turnstile.
• Have skilled individuals maintain the turnstile according to a proper maintenance schedule.
• In access control applications, train all personnel that will be using the turnstile in the proper method of operation. In addition,
properly train new users as they are added to the system.
• DO NOT use non-Alvarado parts to repair a damaged turnstile.
• Closely follow the handling instructions for moving or lifting the turnstile during installation.
• Power off the turnstile before connecting or disconnecting any communication or power wiring to the turnstile.
• This turnstile can be used by children aged 12 years and above, and persons with reduced physical, sensory or mental
capabilities or lack of experience and knowledge, if they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the
turnstile in a safe way and understand the hazards involved. Children shall not play with or around the turnstile.
• The turnstile shall be disconnected from its power source during service and when replacing parts. The turnstile shall be
disconnected from its power source before connecting or disconnecting any communication or other activation/feedback control
wires. If it is not possible that the technician can check from any point to which he has access that the main power is removed,
a disconnection with a locking system in the isolated position shall be provided.
Uncrating
The gate has been packed for shipping to prevent damage to the unit. Two or more installers are required to
unload the gate at the installation site. Carefully remove the protective packing material from the sides of the
cabinets.

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VSG/VSGX Installation & Maintenance
Installation Tools Required
• Heavy duty drill or roto hammer
• 5/8" concrete drill bit
• Ratchet with 9/16" socket
• Torque wrench
• 7/32" hex key
• Shop vac
• Tape measure
• Torpedo level
• Chalk line
• Safety glasses
• Rubber mallet
• Wire crimper (for VSGX models)
Parts List
This product is shipped with all installation hardware and components. Refer to the appropriate parts list below for the type of gate
you are installing. Make sure that none of these parts are missing and/or damaged before beginning installation. If parts are missing
and/or damaged, please contact Alvarado.
VSG Parts List
Latch Post
(Qty. 1)
Hinge Post with Gate Arm
(Qty. 1)
Base Cover (Qty. 2)
VSGX Parts List
Concrete Anchor Package
Concrete Anchor Package
Power
Latch Post with Lock Mechanism
(Qty. 1)
Hinge Post with Gate Arm
(Qty. 1)
Base Cover (Qty. 2)
• 3/8" achors (Qty. 8)
• 3/8" 16 x 2 1/2" hex head cap
screw (Qty. 8)
• 3/8" at washers (Qty. 8)
• 3/8" achors (Qty. 8)
• 3/8" 16 x 2 1/2" hex head cap
screw (Qty. 8)
• 3/8" at washers (Qty. 8)
• 12VDC/1A power transformer

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VSG/VSGX Installation & Maintenance
Introduction
The VSG is a manual, waist-high, self-closing gate. This manual covers the physical installation process for the VSG gate as well as
maintenance guidelines. It is highly recommended that this manual be read in its entirety before beginning the installation process.
Various models, congurations, and options exist for this gate. The following overview will provide a short description of each model.
VSG Gate
The VSG gate is a manual, waist-high, self-closing gate with a closure mechanism installed on the hinge post. The gate arm is
equipped with a stop tab and swings in one direction. The hinge post assembly includes a hydraulic dampener to reduce the impact
of the gate arm on the hinge post during closing.
VSGX Gate
The VSGX gate is a manual, fail-safe electrical locking, waist-high, self-closing gate with a closure mechanism installed on the
hinge post. The gate arm is equipped with a stop tab and swings in one direction. The hinge post assembly includes a hydraulic
dampener to reduce the impact of the gate arm on the hinge post during closing. An electrically controlled magnetic lock secures
the gate when the gate arm is closed.
VSG gates are supplied in either a right-hand or left-hand swing direction. The swing direction is determined by which side the hinge
post is on when you push through the gate.
The following options may be included as part of the VSG/VSGX gate build.
Panel Inll
The swinging panel can be lled in with either stainless steel bars or a solid
acrylic panel.
Finish
Standard VSG gates come with a #4 satin stainless steel nish. Gates can
optionally be powder coated.
Magnetic Contact Switch
When magnetic contacts are broken, output signal indicates that door is
open. The switch is an SPST contact supplied with two lead-in wires for eld
connection.
Product Overview
Swing Direction
Options
Left-hand swing direction Right-hand swing direction
Gate with Inll Bars Gate with Acrylic Panel

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VSG/VSGX Installation & Maintenance
Options (Cont)
Push Bar
A switch-activated push-bar is wired into the magnetic lock and, when depressed, unlocks the magnetic switch (VSGX
only).
Card Reader Plate
A card-reader plate receiver is attached to the gate’s frame. A 6” x 6” card-reader attachment plate allows a majority of
card readers to be attached.
Outlets for Rail Mounting
Connection points for Alvarado stainless steel rails can be installed in VSG latch and hinge posts.
Before You Begin
Use only skilled technicians for site preparation and installation of gate(s) using Alvarado's instructions.
The following requirements must be considered when selecting or preparing an installation location.
• The gate must be installed on a level concrete pad at least 4" (102 mm) thick.
• Do not attempt to install the gate on asphalt
• The hinge and latch posts must be installed plumb with the oor while level and square to each other.
The diagram below shows the gate footprint. Ensure there is sufcient space to install the gate at the desired location.
VSGX gates require a low-voltage 12VDC power supply. A power transformer is included with each VSGX gate.
The installer is responsible for creating the necessary conduit runs to each gate installation location.
• This product is intended for indoor use only.
• Recommended temperature range for operation: 0° to 50° C.
• Recommended humidity range for operation: 5% to 95% (non-condensing).
NOTE Operating the unit outside the suggested range for temperature and humidity will result in degradation of
performance and can damage the device.
Slab Requirements
Space Requirements
Power Requirements
Environmental Requirements

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VSG/VSGX Installation & Maintenance
If the posts are not installed at the correct distance and set plumb and square, the gate may not open or close properly and the
magnetic lock may not work properly (on VSGX models).
The hinge pivot and dampener are set at the factory and should not adjusted without consulting Alvarado Technical Support.
Alvarado recommends following the guidelines below during the installation process.
• After locating the post positions, check for a level oor using a mason's level, or equivalent.
• Shim the posts as needed if the site is not level.
• Install bolts loosely and only tighten completely when all components have been placed in their nal positions.
• The post surface where the gate hinges attach is critical and must be plumb.
Other Installation Considerations

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VSG/VSGX Installation & Maintenance
Installation Steps
1. Determine the location where the gate will be installed, taking into consideration the minimum width opening required. Refer to
the "Space Requirements" section on page 8.
2. Mark the locations (perpendicular to the gate centerline) for the hinge post and latch post centerlines.
3. Center the hinge post at the intersection of the gate and hinge post centerline.
4. Center the latch post at the intersection of the gate and latch post centerlines.
5. With the gate arm in its neutral (home) position, ensure the entire unit (including hinge post, gate arm, and latch post) are
parallel to the gate centerline. Both posts must be plumb and level to each other and square to the gate. Verify proper alignment
of the locking mechanism.
6. Mark the center locations of the four anchor holes for both the latch post and the hinge post. Move the posts to the side and drill
a 5/8"-diameter hole at the center of each marked location. Drill each hole 3" deep.
NOTE For terrazzo, ceramic tile, or brick veneer installations, add the thickness of the nished oor material to the
anchor hole depth.
7. Vacuum out the holes thoroughly. Debris in the holes will prevent the anchors from tightening properly.
8. Insert an anchor with the thread-side down into each hole. The anchors must be ush with the top of the concrete pad.
For electrical gates, go to the "Electrical Activation & Wiring Instructions" section on page 9.
9. Place the hinge post back over the anchor holes. Anchor the hinge post with 4 each 3/8" - 16 x 2 1/2" HHCS bolts and at
washers. Do not tighten the bolts completely.
10. Place the latch post back over the anchor holes. Anchor the hinge post with 4 each 3/8" - 16 x 2 1/2" HHCS bolts and at
washers. Do not tighten the bolts completely.
11. Conrm the gate arm is properly aligned with the latch post when the gate arm is in the closed position by ensuring that the
gate arm, hinge post, and latch post are installed plumb with the oor while being level and square to each other.
WARNING It is extremely important that the hinge post, gate arm, and latch post be level. Use a level to verify that the
hinge post, gate arm, and latch post are level horizontally with the oor and vertically level with each other.
12. Adjust and shim the post as required to properly align the gate. It is important that the posts be plumb and level with the oor for
the gate arm to self-close and center properly. The gate arm and latch post must be at a 90° angle.
13. Tighten all of the anchoring bolts to 20 ft.-lbs.
14. Install the two halves of the split base cover around the hinge post base plate using the supplied 8 - 32 x 1/4" screws. Secure it
by tapping down with a rubber mallet over the hinge post base.
15. Install the two halves of the split base cover around the latch post base plate using the supplied 8 - 32 x 1/4" screws. Secure it
by tapping down with a rubber mallet over the latch post base.
16. Final installation check:
• Verify all anchor bolts are tightened to 20 ft.-lbs.
• Verify the gate arm and latch post are at a 90° angle.
• Verify both posts are plumb and level to each other and square to the gate arm.

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VSG/VSGX Installation & Maintenance
Electrical Activation & Wiring Instructions
Electrical gates must be connected to a low-voltage power source to operate. The following instructions detail the steps to setup on
electrical connection for the fail-safe locking gates.
Refer to the diagram below if you will be controlling the gate with a momentarily normally closed switch.
1. Plug the power supply into a wall outlet and verify it is delivering the expected 2A at 12VDC.
2. Unplug the power supply.
3. Connect the wires from the power supply to the wires from the magnetic lock. The magnetic lock wires will be hanging down
from inside the latch post. The diagram below shows which wires should be connected to each other. If you need to extend the
cable length, use 18 AWG cable. Total cable length should not exceed 50 feet or be wrapped in coils.
4. On the gate-side of the conduit, install crimp connector receptacles on the conduit wire leads. These will receive the connectors
provided on the lock leads coming from the bottom of the latch post.
5. On the gate-side of the conduit, connect the positive red-colored wire coming from the bottom of the latch post to the positive
conduit lead wire. Connect the negative black-colored wire coming from the bottom of the latch post to the negative conduit lead
wire.
Wiring at the Gate Location
Connecting a Switch Box
Lock Wires Power Supply Wires
12VDC/2A
Power Supply
Normally
Closed Switch
Positive
Negative
Latch Post
18 AWG Cable
50’ Max Length
18 AWG Cable
50’ Max Length

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VSG/VSGX Installation & Maintenance
Connecting a Push Bar
Wiring at the Control Location
Testing the Gate with a Switch Box
Lock Speci cations
Lead Speci cations
Refer to the diagram below if you will be using the optional push bar.
1. On the power supply/switch-side of the conduit, install crimp connector receptacles on the conduit wire leads.
2. On the power supply/switch-side of the conduit, connect the positive black wire with white stripes coming from the power
supply to the positive conduit lead wire. Connect the negative black-colored wire coming from the power supply to the negative
conduit lead wire.
1. Plug the power supply into a 110 VAC power source. Verify the gate locks when power is applied.
2. Unplug the power supply. Verify the gate unlocks when power is removed.
3. Plug the power supply back in to lock the gate again. While the gate is locked, activate the switch and verify the gate stays
unlocked as long as the switch is engaged. Verify the gate locks after the switch is disengaged.
4. Unlock the gate and open it. Verify the arm swings back into a closed position automatically. Verify the gate arm locks as soon
as it closes.
5. If equipped, press the push bar. Verify it unlocks the gate while pressed. Release the push bar and verify the gate arm returns
to a closed position and locks automatically.
Voltage: +12 VDC
Current: 1 A at 12 VDC
Operating Temperature: -40° to 140° F
Shear Holding Force: ~300 lbs. (~273 kg)
The lock only operates in fail-safe mode, meaning that the lock will disengage when power is lost.
Red/Colored: +12 VDC Input
Black: Ground
12VDC/2A
Power Supply
Normally
Closed Switch
Positive
Positive
Negative
Latch Post
Push Bar
18 AWG Cable
50’ Max Length
18 AWG Cable
50’ Max Length
Maglock

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VSG/VSGX Installation & Maintenance
Troubleshooting
Check the following before proceeding to the other troubleshooting steps in this section:
• Ensure the gate is level and check for proper gate tension.
• Ensure the gate has enough clearance to operate normally.
• Check the wiring for loose or bad connections (VSGX models only).
• Perform routine maintenance as described in the Maintenance section below.
Symptom(s) Possible Cause(s) Solution(s)
Gate does not unlock. The VSGX gate is not receiving
an activation signal from the gate
activation switch.
Ensure the gate activation switch is properly connected to the gate
activation leads. Test the wires by doing a connectivity test. Also,
ensure that nothing is interfering with the wires to the activation
switch.
The VSGX gate's lock is sticking
or binding in the locked position.
Check the gate arm and latch post for level installation. Readjust
or reposition the posts for correct operation. For instructions, refer
to "Installation Steps" on page 8. Ensure the gate has enough
clearance to operate normally.
The VSGX gate's lock surfaces
are obstructed or damaged.
Check the lock surfaces on the arm and the latch post for debris.
Remove the debris if present and maintain the area to prevent future
mishaps. Also, check the lock surfaces for damage and replace
components as needed.
The VSGX gate's activation
switch is broken.
Test and replace the gate activation switch if necessary.
Gate does not unlock. The VSGX gate is not powered
on.
Measure the power supply for the proper power output. The power
supply must be putting out 12 VDC for the gate to operate properly
in the US. If outside the US, ensure the proper power output for your
country.
The VSGX gate is constantly
receiving an activation signal
from the gate activation switch.
Ensure the gate's activation switch is properly connected to the gate
activation leads. Test the wires by doing a connectivity test. Also,
ensure nothing is interfering with the wires to the activation switch.
Ensure the activation switch is fully functional. The switch must be a
momentarily normally closed switch to work with the VSGX gate.
The VSGX gate's lock surfaces
are obstructed or damaged.
Check the lock surfaces on the arm and the latch post for debris.
Remove the debris if present and maintain the area to prevent future
mishaps. Also, check the lock surfaces for damage and replace
components as needed.
The VSGX gate's lock
mechanism is defective.
Test the lock mechanism. Ensure the mechanism is connected to
the correct voltage for correct operation. Ensure the connection to
the activation switch is clear and functioning. Replace the lock if
necessary.
The VSGX gate's activation
switch is broken.
Test and replace the gate activation switch if necessary.
The gate does not
self-close and fails to
return to the center
(home) position.
The VSG/VSGX gate is not
properly lubricated.
Clean and lubricate the top bracket hinge point and lower pivot spring
hinge point. Refer to Maintenance.
The VSG/VSGX gate is not level. Check the gate arm and latch post for level installation. Readjust or
reposition the posts for correct operation. Refer to "Installation Steps"
on page 8.
The gate arm bearing is loose,
obstructed, or damaged.
Check the top bracket hinge and lower pivot spring hinge point for
debris. Remove any debris, if present.

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VSG/VSGX Installation & Maintenance
Maintenance
General maintenance best practices:
• Inspect all gates one or two weeks after they are installed to ensure they are operating properly. Inspect the gates again about
sixty days after they are installed.
• The frequency of regular maintenance is determined by gate usage and environment. However, Alvarado recommends regular
maintenance be performed at least once per year. Perform maintenance more frequently if the gates are used frequently or are
installed in humid or dusty environments.
Check the maintenance points identified in the image below to ensure proper gate operation.
Remove the base covers and check gate levelness and anchor tension when performing maintenance. Ensure the anchors are
tightened to 20 ft.-lbs. Clean any accumulated dirt or dust.
For VSGX units, inspect all wires and contacts for signs of wear, abrasion, or exposed metal parts that could lead to a short.
Replace as needed.
Check the top bracket hinge and lower pivot spring hinge point for debris and remove if found.
For VSGX units, verify the electric lock mechanism is aligned properly. When properly aligned, the gate arm should lock
automatically when it returns to its home position while the gate is powered.
Maintenance Points
Anchor Tension
Wiring Inspection
Pivot Points
Lock Alignment
Gate Arm Is Level
Top Bracket Hinge
Lower Pivot Spring
Hinge Post AnchoringFloor Is Level Latch Post Anchoring

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VSG/VSGX Installation & Maintenance
Maintenance (Cont.)
VSG and VSGX gate surfaces are made from stainless steel with a #4 satin finish by default. These surfaces are resistant to
corrosion, but they need to be checked and cleaned regularly to preserve their protective qualities. Surface deposits and scratches
can damage the finish and cause the steel underneath to rust. To prevent this, clean gate surfaces and other components regularly.
Use a soft cloth with any commercially available stainless steel polish or cleaner for regular surface cleaning. If a heavy scratch or
mark is apparent on a satin-finish surface, use a metal blend and finish pad (3M or equivalent). A quality automotive wax may be
used to buff the gate after cleaning. Avoid using abrasive cleaning materials.
The dull chrome finish of the lower pivot spring unit and top bracket hinge and the nickel surface of the electric lock (in VSGX gates)
need to be kept clean and dry to prevent corrosion. Clean these surfaces and use a commercially available spray product, wax, or
grease to prevent rust. Commonly used products include Automotive Paste Wax, Rustlick 631, CRC SP-350/400, BOESHIELD T-9,
and Rust-X.
Stainless Steel Surfaces
External Component Finishes
Revision Date Author Description
3-0 2/16/2022 D. Bohannon
C. Maynez
Document revised to Alvarado format.