BFT Gate Openers: What's the Difference?

When you're choosing a BFT gate opener, it helps to know what makes each product family unique and how they match up with real-world needs. These barrier arms do more than just open and close: they help manage traffic, enhance safety, and simplify access for all kinds of spaces. From residential driveways to toll booths and commercial lots, BFT offers a full range of systems designed to meet different demands. Whether you’re looking for something fast, something smart, or something that can handle constant daily use, there’s a solution that fits. Luckily, our handy guide walks you through the main gate opener families, what they’re built for, and how they stand apart from each other. Let’s take a closer look and help you find the right fit with confidence.

What Is a Barrier Arm and What Does It Do?

A barrier arm, often referred to as a boom barrier, is a horizontal pole that moves up and down to control vehicle access at entry or exit points. These arms are mounted to a mechanical housing that contains a motor and control unit. When activated by remote control, access reader, keypad, or automated system, the motor raises or lowers the arm to allow or restrict vehicle passage. Barrier arms are typically found in parking lots, gated communities, toll booths, industrial zones, airports, and commercial facilities. They serve as a physical and visual deterrent, helping to regulate traffic flow, enhance security, and reduce unauthorized access.


Depending on the model, barrier arms can include additional features such as flashing LED lights, integrated safety photocells, or support for access control networks. The length of the arm can vary significantly, often between 2 to 8 meters, to suit different lane widths or multiple-lane entries. Some models use articulated (folding) arms for low-clearance garages, while others support skirts or fence attachments for more secure blocking. Whether you need a fast-acting system for high-traffic use or a more cost-effective solution for residential access, barrier arms provide an efficient and automated way to manage entry control with minimal human intervention.

BFT Barrier Arms by Family

Moovi

The Moovi series offers barrier systems for driveways up to 20 feet wide and is ideal when you need a reliable everyday solution. These barriers include a control unit with a programming display and built-in two-channel radio receiver. They support fast versions too, like the 30S model, which opens in just 1.5 seconds plus slowdown time. They feature rolling code security and EElink software compatibility for easy setup and maintenance data management.

Moovi barriers are built for semi-intensive use, able to endure frequent open-close cycles without fuss. They can be customised with different booms, round or rectangular, available in lengths up to 20 feet. You’ll find integrated impact-reaction sensors such as sensitive edges or encoder options, making them safe and flexible. Use cases include residential entryways or quiet commercial settings where smooth, responsive performance matters.

Moovi – Quick Summary

  • Designed for light to medium traffic driveways up to 6 meters wide.
  • Available with standard or fast-opening models (as quick as 1.5 seconds).
  • Uses 230V electromechanical motor with encoder or edge safety options.
  • Control board includes display and built-in radio receiver.
  • Ideal for residential and low-traffic commercial access points.
Shop Moovi
Barrier Arm Openers

Giotto BT A

The Giotto BT A family steps up to car-park and driveway applications up to 20 feet, and integrates easily with parking systems. It shares many accessories with Moovi but adds features like photocell arrangements built into the barrier body and enhanced U-Link connectivity.

It features a 24 V motor with encoder-based impact reaction, meaning it actively detects resistance and reverses instantly. A backup battery kit ensures operation during power outages, and U-Link lets you manage and monitor barriers remotely, perfect for managed parking lots or gated communities. It supports standard radar, loop detectors, lights, and booms up to 20 feet. Choose Giotto BT A when you need integration with remote control systems or centralized access management.

Giotto BT A / Ultra 36 – Quick Summary

  • Handles driveways and access lanes up to 6 meters in width.
  • Opening speeds range from 2.2 to 5 seconds depending on boom type.
  • 24V DC motor supports frequent daily use with encoder-based safety.
  • Includes U-Link connectivity and optional battery backup support.
  • Compatible with parking management systems and external devices.
Shop Giotto BT A / Ultra 36
Barrier Arm Openers

Giotto BT B Ultra 36

The Giotto BT B Ultra 36 line brings professional grade performance with high cycle counts, tested up to 3 million cycles, and adjustable opening speeds between 2.2 and 4 seconds depending on boom length.

It includes encoder-based impact reaction and an IP54-rated control board located under the cap for easy access. You also get full integration of boom-mounted lights and rubber strips for visibility and safety. Accessories include articulated booms, balancing-spring kits, and LED ring lights, making this a smart choice for busy commercial or industrial sites. This barrier can adapt to heavy-traffic environments with speed and safety in mind.

Giotto BT B Ultra 36 – Quick Summary

  • Built for intensive to very intensive traffic environments up to 6 meters wide.
  • Adjustable opening speed between 2.2 and 4 seconds for performance tuning.
  • Control board located under the top cap for easy access and maintenance.
  • Supports a wide range of accessories including lights and skirted booms.
  • Offers U-Link remote control integration and encoder-based reaction.
Shop Giotto BT B Ultra 36
Barrier Arm Openers

Giotto Ultra 36

Closely related to BT B Ultra, the Giotto Ultra 36 offers similar functionality in a sleek package. It supports PS and ES booms up to 20 feet, encoder-based impact handling, and a control board designed for easy maintenance.

This family emphasizes rapid operation and adapts well to high-use scenarios, where fast opening times and durability are essential. Remote programming is managed via EElink and integration with U-Link, making remote diagnostics straightforward. Booms, lights, skirts, and mounting accessories are the same as BT B Ultra. Choose Giotto Ultra 36 when you want high performance with modern connectivity and in-field adaptability.

Giotto Ultra 36 – Quick Summary

  • Handles lanes up to 6 meters with configurable opening speeds (approx. 2 to 5 seconds).
  • 24V motor with encoder ensures responsive safety reversal and smooth motion.
  • Top-mounted control board allows easier maintenance and programming.
  • Compatible with standard and accessory-rich boom arms, including LED strips.
  • Supports both EElink and U-Link for remote diagnostics and central control.
Shop Giotto Ultra 36
Barrier Arm Openers

Maxima Ultra

The Maxima Ultra family is built for professional-grade use where round-the-clock performance is essential. These electromechanical barriers are equipped with three-phase asynchronous motors and inverter control, allowing precise speed and torque regulation. The series includes various models, such as Maxima Ultra 36, 68, and 84, each offering boom lengths from 3 to 8 meters and opening times as fast as 0.7 seconds. These barriers are modular in design and can be heavily customized with accessories like boom skirts, LED lighting, breakaway mechanisms, and articulated arms for low ceilings. The Maxima Ultra systems also feature U-Link support, ensuring full remote monitoring and control capability for high-traffic zones like toll booths, freight depots, and transit terminals.

Maxima Ultra Series – Quick Summary

  • Supports high-frequency and industrial-scale operation with boom lengths up to 8 meters.
  • Opening speeds range from 0.7 to 3.9 seconds depending on configuration.
  • Uses a three-phase asynchronous motor with inverter for precise control and reliability.
  • Modular design allows for a wide variety of accessories and boom options.
  • Ideal for toll stations, logistics hubs, airports, and 24/7 operation zones.
Shop Maxima Ultra
Barrier Arm Openers

Michelangelo BT A

The Michelangelo BT A lineup tackles even broader needs, covering passage widths up to 27 feet for substantial driveways or parking areas.

These 24 V barriers come with a control board featuring U-Link, programming display, integrated radio receiver, and battery backup capabilities. They offer encoder-based impact reaction and smooth electronic slowdown. Their IP54-rated housing ensures resilience, and the included prep for photocells and lights makes them even more effective in demanding conditions.

With support for telescopic or rectangular booms up to 27 feet, and available skirted versions and LED signalling accessories, Michelangelo is well suited for large commercial entrances, logistic hubs, and multi-tenant parking areas. The added backup battery ensures uptime in case of power failure, ideal for critical access points.

Michelangelo BT A – Quick Summary

  • Designed for extra-wide access control up to 8 meters per lane.
  • Opening times vary from 6 to 8 seconds depending on boom size.
  • 24V motor with encoder delivers smooth, consistent operation.
  • Integrated U-Link system and onboard display for configuration.
  • Ideal for commercial facilities, logistic centers, and long entrance roads.
Shop Michelangelo BT A
Barrier Arm Openers

Which One Should You Pick?

For standard residential driveways up to 20 feet with occasional use, Moovi gives you everything necessary with speed and simplicity. For managed entrances with photocells and system integration, Giotto BT A adds connectivity and automation. When you expect heavy traffic and want quick cycles, Giotto BT B Ultra 36 or Giotto Ultra 36 offer high-speed performance, safety features, and professional accessories. And if you need to reach up to 27 feet or require battery backup, Michelangelo BT A delivers on functionality designed for demanding environments.


BFT Barrier Arm Opener Comparison Chart:


  Moovi Giotto BT A / Ultra 36 Giotto BT B Ultra 36 Michelangelo BT A Maxima Ultra 36 / Ultra 68
Max Boom Length Up To 6 M (20 Ft) Up To 6 M (20 Ft) Up To 6 M (20 Ft) Up To 8 M (27 Ft) Up To 8 M (27 Ft)
Opening Speed ~8 S (Moovi 60); 1.5 S For Special 30S Fast Model 2.2–5 S Depending On Model (E.G., BT A 60 ~5 S) 2.2–4 S Adjustable 6 S (6 M Version / 20 Ft); 8 S (8 M / 27 Ft) 0.7–3.9 S, Depending On Boom Length
Power Supply 230 V AC 24 V DC Motor, Control Electronics On 230 V 24 V DC Motor; Barrier Powered By 230 V 24 V DC Motor; 230 V Supply 230 V Three‑Phase Asynchronous Motor With Inverter
Motor Type Electromechanical 230 V 24 V DC Electromechanical 24 V DC Electromechanical 24 V DC Electromechanical Three‑Phase Induction + Inverter
Duty Rate / Use Semi‑Intensive Residential High‑Frequency / Intensive Use Intensive / Very Intensive, Heavy Traffic Intensive Use In Commercial Settings Very Intensive, Industrial / Toll Booths
Impact Detection Encoder Or Sensitive-Edge Option Encoder-Based Reaction Encoder‑Based High-Precision Control Encoder-Based Reaction Encoder With Soft Start/Stop; Inversion Rapid Reversing
Control Interface Built-In Display + EElink Programmability U‑Link Control Board + LCD Display U‑Link Control + Under-Cap Board U‑Link + Display + Built‑In Receiver U‑Link Compatible Control, Soft Opening/Closing
Battery Backup Not Standard Optional Backup Kit Optional (Spring Kit Available) On-Board Backup Available Not Typical; Mains-Powered Industrial Use
Integration Support EElink For PC/Programmer Setup U‑Link Network; Parking/Management Systems U‑Link; Accessories Like Booms, Lights U‑Link With Photocell/Light Prep U‑Link Compatible; Industrial Accessories

Each family shares core security features: rolling code radio control, encoder-based impact detection, and EElink or U-Link software connectivity, while varying in boom length, cycle endurance, motor voltage, and accessory options. Identify your site’s width, traffic volume, and need for system integration, then match those to the right BFT family.

Shop All BFT Barrier Arm Openers

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If you're still unsure which BFT barrier arm is the best fit for your site, our team is here to help. From residential driveways to industrial-scale access control, we've covered a wide range of models with different speeds, boom lengths, and features. Whether you need something fast and compact like the Moovi, or something high-performance like the Maxima Ultra, we’ll guide you to the right choice. Our experts can also help you understand integration options like U-Link, battery backup support, and compatible accessories. Every location has unique needs, and we’re committed to helping you find a solution that works seamlessly. Reach out to us today to speak with a BFT gate automation specialist.

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