USAutomatic control boards are the brains behind some of the most reliable gate operators on the market, managing everything from motor operation to safety sensors. Over the years, several models have been introduced and retired, each designed to meet evolving performance standards and regulatory requirements. Understanding the differences between these control boards is essential for ensuring your gate system runs safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with UL325 guidelines. From legacy green boards like the 500001 to modern red and blue variants such as the 500018 and 500028, each model brings unique features and intended applications. We'll help break down the key differences between these boards, explains why some models have been phased out, and explores the benefits of their replacements. We’ll also take a look at the control boxes that house these boards and why they play a critical role in system integration and protection.
Why Did My USAutomatic Control Board Get Replaced?
USAutomatic has discontinued control boards 500001 and 500002 due to evolving industry standards and performance expectations. These legacy boards, while dependable during their original production years, no longer meet the current benchmarks for safety, diagnostics, and compliance. To ensure every gate operator delivers long-term reliability and conforms to modern gate safety standards, these older boards have been replaced with advanced models like the 500016, 500018, and others in the Ranger and Patriot series. These newer board include features such as:
- UL325 Compliance: All current boards support dual monitored entrapment protection devices (e.g., photo-eyes and contact edges) in both open and close directions.
- Enhanced Safety: Newer boards include logic safeguards, current-sensing feedback, and support for additional safety accessories that were not possible with early-generation boards.
- Advanced Diagnostics: LED indicators, current-sense buzzers, and battery-level monitors provide better visibility and ease of service.
- Service Mode Options: Some boards, like the red Patriot 500018, include service-bypass buttons to temporarily override monitored devices for maintenance and troubleshooting.
- Power Compatibility: Support for both solar and AC installations with built-in battery charging systems and surge protection.
- Backward Compatibility Features: Boards like the 500016 include jumper settings to ensure easy integration with older systems, offering a smoother upgrade path.
If your gate operator previously used a 500001 or 500002 board, a replacement with a modern, compliant version ensures your system remains safe, efficient, and serviceable for years to come.
Legacy Boards: PN 500001/500002
Patriot & RSL Control Board – USAutomatic 500001
This legacy green control board was originally designed for older Patriot and RSL swing and slide gate operators. While robust in its time, it lacks compatibility with current UL 325 standards, supporting only a single monitored safety device. As gate safety requirements evolved, this board has become largely obsolete, making it essential to upgrade for modern compliance and added protection.
Key Features:
- Compatible with older Patriot and RSL operators
- Supports single monitored safety device
- Soft start and stop functionality
- Reliable for pre-2016 systems
Updated USAutomatic Control Boards (500016-500028)
UL325 Upgrade Control Board – USAutomatic 500016
Designed to bring older gate systems up to modern compliance, the USAutomatic 500016 board is a versatile upgrade for Patriot and RSL operators. It is fully compliant with UL 325 (6th Edition, 2016), offering dual monitored input support for enhanced entrapment protection. Ideal for systems transitioning from pre-2016 builds, it also includes a backward compatibility jumper to simplify installation without rewiring the system.
Key Features:
- UL 325 6th Edition compliant
- Dual monitored device inputs (open and close directions)
- Jumper for pre-2016 compatibility
- LED diagnostics and adjustable current sensing
- Direct replacement for 500001, 500002, and 500017
Patriot Swing Gate Control Board – USAutomatic 500018
This next-generation red control board powers modern Patriot swing gate operators manufactured after August 2018. Fully UL 325 (7th Edition) compliant, it incorporates advanced diagnostics and enhanced safety features, including dual monitored inputs, current-sensing alerts, and a service-mode bypass switch. This board is ideal for new installations or upgrades where the highest level of safety and serviceability is required.
Key Features:
- UL 325 7th Edition compliant
- Red color for easy identification
- Dual monitored photo-eye inputs
- Battery-level LED indicator
- Current-sensing buzzer and diagnostic LEDs
- S4 bypass switch for servicing
Patriot Slide Gate Yellow Control Board – USAutomatic 500026
This yellow circuit board is designed specifically for Patriot slide gate operators using 4-conductor motor cables. It fully supports two monitored safety devices and meets UL325 entrapment protection standards. The board offers advanced LED feedback, reliable swing/slide compatibility, and a five-year manufacturer warranty. It is the go-to replacement when upgrading older slide systems or enhancing monitored safety integration.
Key Features:
- Designed for Patriot slide gate operators with 4-conductor motors
- Yellow PCB for quick identification
- Supports two monitored entrapment devices
- UL325 compliant
- Five-year manufacturer warranty
Ranger HD Swing Gate Control Board – USAutomatic 500027
The USAutomatic 500027 red control board is engineered specifically for use with Ranger HD swing gate operators. Built to meet UL325 entrapment safety standards, it supports dual monitored safety inputs and delivers durable performance for high-duty applications. With advanced diagnostics and compatibility for solar or AC power, this control board is an ideal replacement for HD swing gate systems requiring reliable performance and modern safety compliance.
Key Features:
- Designed for Ranger HD swing gate operators
- UL325 compliant with two monitored input ports
- Red PCB for clear model identification
- LED indicators for diagnostic feedback
- Compatible with both solar and transformer systems
Ranger 500 Swing Gate Control Board – USAutomatic 500028
Built for compact performance, the 500028 blue control board supports Ranger 500 swing gate operators and includes features similar to the HD board in a lighter-duty package. This UL325-compliant board includes two monitored safety input ports, a user-friendly LED interface, and seamless integration with solar and AC power systems. The blue board is optimized for installations where high performance and safety are essential, but the mechanical demands are moderate.
Key Features:
- Compatible with Ranger 500 swing gate systems
- Distinct blue PCB for easy identification
- Supports dual monitored safety devices
- UL325 compliant with built-in diagnostics
- Works with both solar and AC power options
USAutomatic Control Boards Comparison
| 500001 | 500002 | 500016 | 500018 | 500027 | 500028 | 500026 | |
| Board Color | Green | Green | Green (UL325) | Red | Red | Blue | Yellow |
| Gate Type | Swing / Slide | Swing / Slide | Swing / Slide | Swing | Swing (Ranger HD) | Swing (Ranger 500) | Slide |
| UL325 Compliance | No | No | Yes (6th Edition) | Yes (7th Edition) | Yes | Yes | Yes (2 monitored devices) |
| Monitored Inputs | One | One | Two | Two | Two | Two | Two |
| Diagnostic Features | Basic LED | Basic LED | Enhanced LED | Battery LED, Current Sensor Buzzer | Advanced | Advanced | Advanced + Dual Monitoring |
| Backward Compatible | Legacy Only | Legacy Only | Yes, includes legacy jumper | No (Post-2018 systems) | No | No | Limited (for specific Patriot slide motor with 4-conductor cable) |
| Typical Application | Older Patriot / RSL | Older Patriot / RSL | UL upgrade for Patriot / RSL | New Patriot swing systems | Ranger HD swing gate systems | Ranger 500 swing gate systems | Patriot Slide gate with 4-conductor cable |
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Understanding the Control Boxes and What They're For
The control board lives inside a control box, the enclosure mounted alongside the operator or on the actuator. Here's what those control boxes do beyond hosting the board itself:
- Provide power distribution: they include terminals for AC transformer or solar charging module, battery controllers, and battery connections. Power regulation happens here for both the board and the motor.
- Housing for safety accessories: J2 connectors inside the box link photo eyes, contact edges, lock inputs, and loop detectors, all wired into the control board through there. Expansion modules (e.g. part 500015) fit within or connect to the box for added monitored entrapment devices.
- Diagnostic access: you can access push buttons for service (Open/Close button, LED indicator button, S4 bypass button on red board) directly through the box cover. The LEDs and diagnostics remain visible or accessible inside the box.
- Form factor and protection: the enclosure protects all electronics from weather and ensures wiring is secure and organized. Some boxes differ depending on whether the operator is swing or slide, solar or AC, but all centralize the control elements.
In short, the control box is not a separate accessory. It is the physical housing that enables safe, clean installation of the control board plus wiring, power, and connection to sensors.
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Whether you're upgrading an outdated system or replacing a discontinued control board, understanding which USAutomatic model fits your gate operator is crucial. Still unsure which board is right for your setup? Our team is here to help you find the perfect replacement or upgrade for your gate operator. From technical support to compatibility checks, we’re ready to answer your questions and guide you toward a safe and efficient solution. Reach out today!
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