In 2019, Vega Security completed the installation of a security system for a 120-apartment residential building. The project initially featured access control and Hikvision 4K cameras, providing high-quality video surveillance for the premises. However, with evolving technology and increasing user demands, the decision was made to upgrade the system.
The modernization introduced the Ubiquiti UA-Intercom, a cutting-edge solution that replaced the outdated Mircom TX3 Nano-S3. This article explores the reasons for the upgrade, the installation process, and the advanced features of the new system, including mobile integration and camera synchronization.
Why Replace the Intercom?
The original Mircom TX3 Nano-S3 intercom had several limitations:
- No touchscreen, relying on only four physical buttons.
- Lack of integration with modern devices like smartphones.
- A manually installed keyhole for Canada Post deliveries.
- Frequent complaints from residents regarding its functionality and usability.
To address these issues, Vega Security installed the Ubiquiti UA-Intercom, which introduced:
- Touchscreen Technology: A sleek and intuitive interface for ease of use.
- Mobile Access Integration: Amazon delivery personnel and other authorized visitors can enter using smartphone-based access methods.
- Advanced Connectivity: Seamless integration with Hikvision cameras and access control systems via Ubiquiti’s AI Port and UA Hub.
“Residents wanted a system that’s intuitive, modern, and dependable, which made Ubiquiti the obvious choice,” Alex, Vega Security’s lead installer, explains.
A Base Setup of the UA-Intercom
The UA-Intercom Panel serves as the core interface of the upgraded system. Designed for ease of use and modern functionality, it offers:
- Resident Directory: Users can search for residents by name or apartment number, or use a unique dial code for direct access.
- QR Code Access: Service providers, such as maintenance staff, can use temporary QR codes for building entry. These codes expire after the assigned task is completed.
- Multiple Access Methods: Tenants can unlock the door using:
- PIN codes.
- NFC cards or NFC-enabled phones.
- Ubiquiti’s mobile application, which offers video call functionality with visitors.
Advanced Features of the Mobile Application
The UniFi Protect mobile application enhances the user experience and ensures full control over building access:
- Video Call Support: Residents can receive calls from visitors directly on their smartphones, see who is at the door, and unlock the door remotely.
- Real-Time Monitoring: The app provides live video streams of connected cameras, enabling residents and administrators to monitor building entries.
- Remote Access: Tenants can open the door even when they are away, making the system both convenient and secure.
“The mobile app offers unparalleled convenience, enabling residents to manage access from anywhere,” Alex notes.
Synchronization of Cameras with AI Port
The integration of Hikvision 4K cameras via the Ubiquiti AI Port delivers unmatched surveillance capabilities. Here’s how the system works:
- Camera Integration: Legacy Hikvision cameras were seamlessly connected to the UA Hub using the AI Port. This integration enabled the use of modern features, including facial recognition and license plate recognition.
- Synchronized Video Feeds: During access events, such as a door unlocking or visitor call, the system synchronizes video feeds from multiple cameras.
- For instance, when a resident opens the door via the app, both the intercom camera and a nearby Hikvision camera record the event simultaneously.
- These synchronized streams are displayed within the UniFi Protect dashboard, providing a comprehensive view of all activity.
- Event-Based Recording: The system is programmed to capture and store video footage triggered by specific events, such as unauthorized access attempts or visitor calls. Administrators can review these recordings for audit or security purposes.
A Step Ahead in AI Capabilities
The cameras connected to the AI Port also enable advanced AI-driven features, including:
- Facial Recognition: The system identifies residents or flags unauthorized individuals attempting to enter the building.
- License Plate Recognition: Ideal for monitoring vehicles in parking areas, ensuring only authorized access.
- Dual-View Security: Simultaneous monitoring from multiple angles, creating a multi-dimensional security perspective.
Future plans include installing additional cameras with facial recognition at face level, complemented by sirens to alert administrators about potential security threats.
“This system doesn’t just monitor—it proactively protects, ensuring a secure environment for all residents,” Alex explains.
Installed Devices and Initial Setup
The security system upgrade incorporated several key devices from Ubiquiti’s product lineup:
- UA-Intercom Panel: This sleek, modern intercom features a touchscreen interface, NFC support, and QR code access. It integrates seamlessly with UniFi Protect, providing live video streams and remote door access management.
- AI Port: The AI Port enhances the system’s video surveillance capabilities by enabling advanced features such as face recognition and license plate recognition. It also supports third-party cameras like Hikvision, making it a versatile solution for residential security.
- UA Hub: Acting as the central access control unit, the hub manages all connected devices and ensures smooth communication between them.
- UniFi Dream Machine (UDM): As the backbone of the network, the UDM provides reliable connectivity, network security, and easy configuration through the UniFi Network application.
Use Cases of Ubiquiti in Residential Buildings
The versatility and scalability of Ubiquiti’s ecosystem make it a preferred choice for multi-dwelling residential projects. Vega Security has replaced outdated systems in numerous buildings, installing Ubiquiti equipment to provide seamless and efficient solutions.
Internet and Wi-Fi Integration
In one of their recent projects, Vega Security implemented UniFi Dream Machine (UDM) and access points to extend internet connectivity throughout the building:
- Garage-Level Internet: Ubiquiti devices provided Wi-Fi access for car chargers and communication in the underground garage.
- Administrative Offices: Reliable Wi-Fi was installed for building management purposes, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity for administrative tasks.
Surveillance and Event Monitoring
The project also included integration of Hikvision 4K cameras with Ubiquiti’s AI Port and UniFi Protect, enabling advanced video monitoring capabilities:
- Unified Event Logging: Administrators can view all events, such as door access attempts, in real-time through the UniFi Protect dashboard.
- Facial Recognition Base: Even older Hikvision cameras from 2019 were upgraded with advanced recognition features, allowing identification of residents and visitors.
“For instance, just yesterday, we identified a person waiting for unauthorized access. With high-resolution footage from our cameras, we were able to analyze the event in detail,” Alex explains.
Advanced Access Control Features
Access control has been enhanced to address the diverse needs of tenants and service providers. The following features are now part of the building’s access control system:
- Amazon Access Integration: Delivery personnel from Amazon can use their phones to enter the building, improving efficiency and security.
- Comprehensive Tenant Management: A digital directory tracks the frequency of tenant access, providing valuable data to building administrators.
- Streamlined Installations: Ubiquiti’s hardware design requires only a single Cat6 cable to connect intercom panels and other devices, simplifying the installation process for technicians.
“From an installer’s perspective, Ubiquiti equipment is extremely comfortable to work with. You only need to run a single Cat6 cable, and everything works seamlessly,” Alex notes.
Use of Event History for Problem Solving
One notable feature of the system is the ability to investigate building incidents using UniFi Protect:
- Administrators can search recorded footage by event, such as door openings or unauthorized access attempts.
- High-resolution synchronized feeds from multiple cameras provide comprehensive coverage of each incident.
- Future upgrades will include sirens and a database to register and alert staff about unauthorized individuals attempting entry.
Access Control Installation Details
The installation process demonstrated the efficiency of Ubiquiti equipment:
- Access Control Boxes: Vega Security configured 12 doors, each equipped with secure access mechanisms powered by Ubiquiti devices.
- Power Integration: Power adapters for maglocks were seamlessly integrated, ensuring reliability across all access points.
- Cable Management: All devices, including intercom panels, were connected using a single Cat6 cable for both power and data, eliminating the need for additional cabling.
Installer-Friendly Design
“One of the standout benefits of Ubiquiti is its installer-friendly approach. The streamlined wiring and intuitive device setup save time and reduce complexity,” Alex explains.
Example of System Scalability
Even though the system initially included Hikvision’s video recorder, Vega Security plans to transition all legacy cameras to the Ubiquiti UniFi Protect ecosystem.
- Temporary Bypass: A Hikvision camera in the lobby was temporarily connected to the system using the AI Port, demonstrating the flexibility of Ubiquiti’s ecosystem.
- Future Expansion: The building’s infrastructure is prepared for additional upgrades, such as AI-driven features and expanded camera networks, without significant rewiring.
All Ubiquiti Devices in Action
The final component of the Ubiquiti-powered security system is the UniFi Dream Machine (UDM), a central element that ensures seamless connectivity for the entire building.
- Direct Fiber Connection: The Dream Machine connects directly to the fiber-optic internet from the service provider, bypassing outdated modems for a more reliable connection.
- Centralized Internet Distribution: The UDM provides stable internet for all residents and building systems.
- Connection to the Intercom and Cameras: The system integrates intercom panels and cameras through the UA Hub, ensuring uninterrupted communication and surveillance.
Power Backup for Reliability
To ensure system uptime, Vega Security installed:
- UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply): Providing backup power for critical components.
- Generator Support: For extended power outages, ensuring that security systems remain operational at all times.
“Reliability is the cornerstone of every security system. We’ve ensured that even in unexpected situations, the Ubiquiti system will keep the building secure,” Alex emphasizes.
Expertise from Vega Security
With over 20 years of experience, Vega Security has established itself as a trusted partner for multi-residential and commercial projects in Canada. Their team handles every stage of security installations:
- Initial project design.
- Installation of access control, cameras, and intercom systems.
- Training building managers to ensure they can efficiently operate the systems.
“We are proud to offer up to five years of warranty on all our labor and equipment. Most of our projects come from client recommendations, which speaks to the quality of our work,” Alex adds.
Conclusion: A Holistic Security Solution
This case study highlights the capabilities of Ubiquiti’s comprehensive ecosystem in transforming security systems for residential buildings. From seamless integration of access control and surveillance to advanced AI features and installer-friendly design, the Ubiquiti UA-Intercom and supporting devices have redefined building security.
Whether you’re managing a residential complex or planning a new security system, Ubiquiti’s solutions provide the reliability, scalability, and modern functionality that today’s buildings require.
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