ELKA Introduces Multi-Contact Plug for Enhanced Protection of Barrier Systems

In parking environments, barrier systems are exposed to high daily operational demands. Even minor vehicle impacts can result in damaged wiring, unexpected downtime and costly service interventions. To address this challenge, ELKA has developed a new Multi-contact plug specifically designed for the barrier series PARKING P 2500 to P 4000.

The newly developed Multi-contact plug serves as the electrical interface between the barrier housing and the barrier boom. It ensures a reliable connection for the LED boom lighting while simultaneously helping to protect the barrier system in the event of an impact.

The system consists of two components: a plug integrated into the barrier boom and a corresponding socket located in the boom holder of the barrier. During installation of the barrier boom, both components are connected and establish the electrical connection between the barrier housing and the barrier boom. At the same time, the circuit for the integrated boom missing contact is closed.

One of the key features of the solution is its controlled separation principle. The barrier boom is mounted using three plastic screws with stainless steel lock nuts in order to create a predefined breaking point. If the barrier boom is hit by a vehicle, it can detach from the housing in a controlled manner while the Multi-contact plug simultaneously disconnects the electrical connection.

This effectively protects the supply lines from damage and significantly reduces the risk of torn cables. In many parking installations, collisions often lead to extensive repairs and prolonged downtime. By enabling a controlled disconnection of the electrical connection, repair efforts can be minimized and serviceability improved.

Another important safety feature is the integrated boom missing contact. As soon as the connection is interrupted, the control unit immediately receives a fault signal and can automatically stop barrier movement, helping to reduce the risk of additional mechanical damage. In addition, the detected “boom missing” status can be transmitted to higher-level systems such as the EJOIN IoT portal or the Easy Control Operator software. Within these systems, individual events can be defined, such as automatically notifying a technician or switching a traffic light to red. This supports fast and targeted reactions within connected access control and parking systems.

The Multi-contact plug has been developed for barrier systems equipped with LED boom lighting. In its standard configuration, the wiring supports two LED colors (red and green) together with the boom missing contact. Alternatively, the wiring can be modified to enable a third LED color (blue) instead of the boom missing contact.

The solution is compatible with ELKA barrier series PARKING P 2500 to P 4000 and is designed for standard barrier booms with a boom profile of 100×25mm in combination with plastic fastening screws.

With the introduction of the Multi-contact plug, ELKA further enhances the operational reliability and long-term protection of its barrier systems. The solution demonstrates how targeted mechanical and electrical improvements can help reduce maintenance costs, protect system components and sustainably increase the availability of barrier systems in demanding parking applications.

About ELKA

ELKA-Torantriebe is a German manufacturer of high-quality barrier systems, robust traffic bollards, high-performance gate drive technology and suitable accessories for modern access control solutions located in Tönning at the North Sea.

Over 45 years of experience, personal customer service, professional order processing and adherence to delivery dates make ELKA a reliable partner.