Handheld transmitters for gate drives in the ultimate comparison
Everything about Sommer, Marantec, Hörmann, Novoferm, Crawford, GfA, Nassau, and universal models – frequencies, channels, protocols, accessories, buying advice, and XXL FAQs.
Why a handheld transmitter is important
Hand-held transmitters are the link between you and your gate opener. They provide convenience, security, and flexibility. Modern hand-held transmitters offer secure radio protocols, multiple channels, and functions such as status queries and vibration.
Important differences
- Frequency: 868 MHz (standard) vs. 433 MHz (older systems).
- Channels: from 1 to 15 – depending on the number of gates/functions.
- Protocols: SOMloq2, bi·linked, BiSecur, rolling code.
- Design: key chain, mini, sun visor, code keypad, wall keypad.
Sommer handheld transmitter
| series | Channels | Special features |
|---|---|---|
| Pearl | 4 | SOMloq2, classic |
| Pearl Vibe | 4 | with vibration, many colors |
| Pearl Twin | 2 | Compact, keychain |
| Telecody 12 | 12 | Radio code keypad, wall |
All products: Pearl , Pearl Vibe , Pearl Twin , Telecody , Touch wall switch .
Marantec hand transmitter
| series | Channels | Special features |
|---|---|---|
| Digital 382 | 2 | Mini, Multi-Bit |
| Digital 384 | 4 | Compact, robust |
| Digital 663 | 3 | Status query, bi·linked |
Hörmann hand-held transmitter
| series | Channels | Special features |
|---|---|---|
| HS1–4 BS | 1–4 | BiSecur rolling code |
| Compatible models | 2–4 | Alternative, cheaper |
All products: Original HS4 , Compatible .
Novoferm hand-held transmitter
Crawford handheld transmitter
Industrial handheld transmitters (1–15 channels), e.g. 15-channel .
GfA handheld transmitter
Robust for industry, e.g. SKX4 .
Nassau handheld transmitter
Special hand-held transmitter →Product link .
Universal & Clone
Accesories
Suitable: receivers , antennas , wall brackets , batteries .
Buying advice in 7 steps
- Check frequency.
- Determine channels.
- Observe protocol.
- Choose original or compatible.
- Define design.
- Add accessories.
- Consider future viability.
Practical examples
Mainz: Summer Pearl Vibe for Garage + Gate.
Wiesbaden: Marantec Digital 663.
Frankfurt: Crawford 15-channel for industry.
XXL FAQ – 20 questions
1) What does 868 MHz mean?
Standard frequency, low interference.
2) What is 433 MHz?
Old frequency.
3) What is rolling code?
Every signal new → protection.
4) What is bi·linked?
Marantec feedback.
5) What is SOMloq2?
Summer AES-128 radio.
6) What is BiSecur?
Hörmann protocol.
7) How many channels?
Private 2–4, industry up to 15.
8) What is a code keypad?
Wall switch with PIN.
9) Handheld transmitter with vibration?
Summer Pearl Vibe.
10) Clone handheld transmitter?
With clone models.
11) Change battery?
Open the lid and replace.
12) Range?
30–50 m, depending on the environment.
13) Use in the car?
Yes, sun visor holder.
14) Multiple goals?
Yes, with multi-channel.
15) Compatible and safe?
With rolling code, yes.
16) Remote control dead?
Check battery, re-learn.
17) Programming?
Via receiver or master.
18) Status query?
Marantec bi·linked.
19) Compatibility?
Same frequency/protocol only.
20) Is replacement sensible?
Yes, always have a spare remote control.
