Centsys D5 Evo Smart Sliding Gate Motor Pro Kit Review: Feature-Packed and Great Value

By: Ivan G

The Centsys D5 Evo Smart Pro Kit delivers a genuinely impressive package for the price, bundling Wi-Fi app control, wireless safety sensors, a keypad, and two remotes into a single box at A$1,275. It handles gates up to 500 kg and 8 m in length, runs on a reliable 12V DC system with built-in battery backup, and reaches speeds of up to 24 m/min. For homeowners and light-commercial operators wanting smart gate automation without breaking the budget, this kit earns a strong 5 out of 5.

What It Is

The Centsys D5 Evo Smart Sliding Gate Motor Pro Kit is a complete sliding gate automation package from Centsys (Centurion Systems), a manufacturer with roots going back to 1986 and now part of the global FAAC Group. The Pro Kit includes the D5 Evo Smart motor with integrated control board, mounting plate, manual release keys, two Nova remote controls, a wireless keypad, fully wireless Photon SMART PE safety beams, built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, and 4m of gear rack. At A$1,275 (reduced from A$1,395), it represents solid value given the accessories bundled in.

Who It's For

This kit suits new or old sliding gates within residential or light-commercial properties who want a reliable, fast sliding gate motor with smartphone control. It's a particularly strong option for anyone upgrading from an older Centsys D3, D5, or D5-Evo installation, as the D5 Evo Smart is designed to retro-fit into most existing setups. Installers and contractors will also appreciate the straightforward setup process and the MyCentsys Pro app, which handles configuration via Bluetooth. One important caveat: this motor is recommended for flat or very light slope driveways only. If your driveway has a slope, Powered Gates Australia recommends stepping up to the 24V D6 Smart or D10 Smart for the extra torque needed on inclines.

How It Performs

Speed is one of this motor's standout qualities. At up to 24 m/min (400 mm/sec), it is one of the fastest 12V sliding gate motors in its class. The controller allows you to independently adjust opening and closing speeds, with smooth ramp-up and ramp-down profiles that reduce mechanical stress on the gate and frame. It supports up to 150 operations per day, which is more than enough for a busy household and adequate for light-commercial use.

The 12V DC battery-driven system includes a built-in 12V 7Ah battery, so the gate keeps working during power outages. That's a practical advantage in areas prone to storm-related blackouts or planned outages. The motor's starting push force of 30 kgf and rated push force of 17 kgf are well-suited to gates within its 500 kg capacity.

Positional accuracy comes from a non-contact Hall Effect Sensor, which is highly resistant to dust, oil, dirt, and insect ingress. In Australian conditions, where outdoor equipment cops heat, dust, and the occasional spider nest, this is a meaningful reliability feature. The controller also handles automated endpoint setup, pedestrian (partial) opening, positive close mode, and automatic beam testing for both opening and closing directions.

Smart Features

Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity set this motor apart from older models. Through the MyCentsys Pro app, you can open and close your gate from anywhere with an internet connection, receive status notifications, and even push over-the-air firmware updates without needing a technician on-site. 

The onboard Nova code-hopping radio receiver stores up to 1,500 remote controls at 433.92 MHz, using rolling-code encryption. That's serious capacity for multi-user environments like apartment complexes or commercial premises. The included wireless keypad adds another layer of access flexibility via custom pin code access.

Security

Physical security has been improved with a theft-resistant cage and a built-in tamper alarm. The motor is also fully compatible with the optional SMART Siren and GLX900 gate lock for those wanting a more complete security setup. The wireless Photon SMART PE safety beams included in this Pro Kit are always recommended by Centsys on any SMART automated installation, and their inclusion here means you're not paying extra for a critical safety component.

Pros

• The sliding gate motor available from Powered Gates Australia now features built-in Wi-Fi control so you can open your gate from anywhere in the world. Bang for buck, this is a great sliding gate motor kit.
• Powered Gates Australia recommends the use of wireless Smart safety sensors on all new D5 motors and provides Australia-wide delivery for Centsys products.
• Handles gates up to 500 kg and 8 m in length, covering most residential and light-commercial applications.
• Built-in 12V 7Ah battery backup keeps the gate operational during power failures.
• Hall Effect Sensor provides reliable positional accuracy and resists dust, dirt, oil, and insects.
• Up to 24 m/min gate speed, making it one of the fastest 12V motors available.
• Firmware updates via the MyCentsys Pro app, no technician visit is required.
• Retro fits into most existing Centsys D3, D5, and D5-Evo installations for a straightforward upgrade.
• The optional theft resistant cage and built- n tamper alarm are available for added physical security.

Cons

• The manual release lever and cover assembly can be a little fiddly, as it also closes and locks the motor cover since no screws are used to secure it. Strong end stops are essential, as the motor relies on pressure to determine gate limits.
• Recommended for flat driveways only. Sloped driveways require the higher-torque 24V D6 Smart or D10 Smart models.
• Note that the D5-Evo Smart (12V) and the D5 Smart (24V) are different products. Buyers should confirm they are purchasing the correct model for their needs. Powered Gates Australia stock the D5 in 12v version and the D6 in 24v version

The Verdict

At A$1,275, the Centsys D5 Evo Smart Pro Kit packs a lot into one box. Wi-Fi app control, wireless safety sensors, a keypad, two remotes, gear rack, and battery backup are all included, which saves you from buying accessories separately. The motor itself is fast, reliable, and well-suited to Australian conditions thanks to its dust-resistant Hall Effect Sensor and robust build quality. Backed by Centsys's heritage (now part of the FAAC Group) and Powered Gates Australia's expertise as an authorised distributor with over 5,000 happy customers, this is a kit you can buy with confidence.

The manual release mechanism could be more refined, and you do need to ensure your driveway is flat. But for the vast majority of residential and light-commercial sliding gate installations, this Pro Kit hits the right balance of performance, smart features, and price. We rate it 4.6 out of 5.

Need help choosing the right motor for your property? Powered Gates Australia offers free expert advice via chat, phone, or photo upload, so you can get a recommendation tailored to your specific gate and site.