About Us
Leading Innovator in Automatic Gates and Wireless Remote Control Technology
Founded in 1973, Elsema (Electronic Service and Manufacture) has been a leader in gate automation and wireless remote control technology, consistently driving innovation and setting industry benchmarks. Proudly Australian owned and operated, Elsema combines extensive technical expertise with a commitment to delivering high quality, reliable solutions tailored to the diverse needs of both residential and commercial customers, which include industries such as security, construction, agriculture, industrial automation and government agencies.
The visionary leadership of co-founder Otto Eigner has shaped the company’s remarkable journey. Beginning in 1976 with just four employees, Elsema has grown into a team of over 40 dedicated professionals, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Elsema’s quest began even before its official expansion, with pioneering research into 27MHz frequency modulated (FM) remote controls and receivers. Mr Eigner, bringing a wealth of experience from Germany, passionately worked on developing and introducing 27MHz FM remote controls in Australia. Elsema manufactured Australia’s first 27MHz FM remote control, initially developed for garage door operation and later adapted for various other applications. This innovation quickly gained popularity, prompting other companies to copy the technology and present it either by reversing the Dip Switch orientation or making other subtle modifications.
In 1987, Elsema partnered with National Semiconductors to develop an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) to enhance the performance and efficiency of 27MHz FM transmitters and receivers. This strategic investment not only enabled Elsema to optimise the manufacturing process but also ensured a consistent supply of high quality 27 MHz products. As a result, Elsema maintained its market presence and continued production at a time when competitors were struggling to manufacture the 27MHz transmitters.
Elsema’s strong commitment to research and development has consistently expanded the product range. Elsema also developed remote control systems that operate across multiple license-free frequency bands, including 151MHz, 433MHz, and 915MHz, catering for both long-range and short-range applications. In 2003, Elsema introduced Australia’s first frequency hopping spread spectrum (FHSS) handheld remotes operating in the 915MHz band, once again leading the industry with advanced technology. This FHSS technology was subsequently integrated into the PentaCode and PentaFOB keyring remote controls operating in the 433MHz band, significantly enhancing security and reliability, an innovation that some competitors also adopted. Elsema has also customised its wireless technology for international markets, including the USA, New Zealand, Europe, Asia and the Middle East, ensuring compliance with regional regulations. This global approach highlights Elsema’s commitment to providing cutting edge, market ready solutions worldwide.
Elsema’s innovations go beyond remote controls to include intelligent gate and door controller systems. Elsema has made significant contributions to automatic gate and door controller technology, setting benchmarks that have become industry standards. In 1979, Elsema pioneered the development of the first electronic obstruction detection system integrated into a DC motor gate controller called the CB-1. This innovative safety feature significantly improved user safety by enabling the system to detect potential obstructions in real time, thereby preventing accidents and injuries. Following Elsema’s initial innovation, many competitors who relied on mechanical obstruction systems adopted this technology, underscoring Elsema’s leadership and influence in the evolving landscape of automatic gate control systems.
The Eclipse Operating System, developed in-house, currently powers Elsema’s MC series of automatic gate controllers, which feature a 4-line LCD interface and one-touch control for unmatched ease of use. The controllers are compatible with a variety of automatic gate motors, including 12/24V DC, 240V single-phase, and 240V three phase motors, making them the most versatile controllers available on the Australian market. These controllers have been strategically adopted by a number of our clients in their systems, demonstrating their effectiveness and the industry’s growing recognition of their value. Elsema has also developed an extensive lineup of advanced automatic gate kits that seamlessly integrate these high-performance controllers with robust Elsema motors. Elsema’s comprehensive range of automatic gate kits spans several categories, tailored to specific needs: residential, light industrial, industrial, high speed industrial, and heavy industrial gates.
Elsema has developed a cutting edge electronic obstruction detection system specifically designed for its 240V three phase automatic gate motor kits, similar to its 1979 DC motor innovation. The integration of dual magnetic limit switches in the motor kits enhances this capability by providing highly accurate position sensing. This innovative feature ensures the gate decelerates smoothly before reaching its end stops, effectively minimising wear and tear on the motor and gate mechanism. These technological advancements are not only unique within the industry but also reinforce Elsema’s standing as a leader in engineering excellence and innovation.
In addition, Elsema stands out as a frontrunner in solar powered gate automation. Our solar powered kits are equipped with advanced Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) technology, which significantly optimises energy efficiency and increases energy harvest. This advancement not only maximises solar energy capture but also supports sustainable, eco friendly solutions, making our solar automatic gates an ideal choice for environmentally responsible consumers.
With over 50 years of industry leading innovations, Elsema stands as Australia’s foremost provider of gate automation and wireless control solutions. Renowned for its commitment to innovation and technical excellence, the company has consistently prioritised customer satisfaction and safety. Elsema leads the way in shaping the future of the gate automation and wireless remote control industries in Australia.
