✅ Project Highlights

Exterior keypad intercom surrounded by green and white ivy.
  • Location: Mercer Island, Washington
  • Client Type: Residential property
  • Scope: Gate access control modernization
  • Old System: Sentex analog callbox
  • New System: Akuvox X912S Smart IP Intercom
  • Connectivity: Upgraded from analog line to cloud-based IP system
  • Special Note: Existing wiring and door strike reused—no trenching required

🔧 Project Overview



Rivas Technology Group was hired to modernize an outdated Sentex gate callbox system at a private residence on Mercer Island, WA. The original analog system lacked reliability, had no video capability, and relied on a legacy landline connection. The homeowner wanted better security, smart access features, and remote management—without tearing up the driveway or replacing expensive gate hardware.

🚧 Challenges


  • Aging Sentex analog system with frequent failures
  • Limited features — no remote access, no mobile control, no video
  • Client required reuse of existing door strike & wiring
  • ISP fiber line was improperly installed with tight bends causing high signal loss
  • Needed secure IP networking at the gate without relying on Wi-Fi


Electrical panel and wiring mounted on a wooden board, near a closet with shelves and artwork.

✅ Solution Delivered


We upgraded the system to an Akuvox X912S Smart Intercom—a cloud-connected access control device designed for modern residential gate entry.


🔹 Smart Access Features Now Available:



  • Facial recognition (AI powered)
  • NFC key cards/fobs
  • PIN code entry
  • Bluetooth unlock
  • QR code visitor access
  • HD video intercom with night vision
  • Remote control via smartphone app
  • Cloud-based call routing & monitoring




Black Eufy video doorbell mounted on a textured brick wall with a keypad, screen showing a connection icon, and camera.

🛠️ Technical Installation Summary



Component

  • System Upgrade
  • Mounting
  • Networking
  • Connectivity
  • Wiring
  • Door Strike
  • Fiber Issue
  • Power
  • Pre-Staging

Details

  • Sentex > Akuvox X912S
  • Surface Mount Stainless Enclosure
  • Alta Labs Route 10 router installed at gate
  • Switched from analog to IP/Cloud Managed
  • Existing low-voltage gate wiring resued
  • Existing strike retained and integrated
  • Replace damaged ISP fiber due to improper bend radius
  • Added UPS backup for reliability
  • System configured/tested in the lab before deployment

🧪 Tested in the Lab First


Before installation, we staged and configured the Akuvox X912S and S567 monitor in our integration lab. This allowed us to:

  • Preload directory and user settings
  • Test SIP communication
  • Configure cloud profiles
  • Speed up on-site deployment



A black keypad device with a small screen sits next to a tablet on a table; both have displays. A cable connects the keypad.
White box with blue light and black power strip mounted on a wall with wires and shelving.

🔧 Correcting ISP Fiber Cabling


During the install, we discovered the homeowner’s fiber line at the SNI (Service Network Interface) had extreme bends—well outside manufacturer bend radius specs—causing signal distortion and poor connectivity.



✅ We replaced the fiber and restored signal integrity before integrating the network equipment.



📦 Equipment Used



  • Akuvox X912S IP Video Intercom
  • Alta Labs Route10 Router
  • Structured media network enclosure
  • UPS battery backup
  • Shielded CAT6 patching
  • PoE injector
  • Replacement fiber jumper

⭐ Client Feedback


“Night and day difference. We went from a frustrating old callbox to a truly smart gate system. Being able to unlock the gate from our phones and issue QR codes for deliveries is amazing. Rivas Tech Group did a clean, professional job.”
— Mercer Island Homeowner


🔚 Conclusion


This project shows how legacy gate access systems can be modernized without replacing existing infrastructure. By reusing wiring and intelligently integrating IP hardware, we delivered a powerful smart access system with long-term reliability and security.


📞 Need a Gate Upgrade Like This?


Rivas Technology Group specializes in:


Gate access control
Smart intercom systems
Cloud access upgrades
Fiber + network integration
Home security technology


👉 Serving Mercer Island, Seattle, and the Greater Eastside


Contact Us

PoE lighting system for Seattle and Tacoma businesses showing LED fixtures powered and controlled th
By Ivan Rivas July 22, 2026
How PoE lighting works, why Seattle and Tacoma businesses are moving lighting onto the network, and what infrastructure a Power over Ethernet system needs.
Home security systems in Tacoma WA guide with professionally installed kit pricing from Rivas Techno
By Ivan Rivas July 22, 2026
How Tacoma homeowners choose a professionally installed home security system — cameras, monitoring, and what local installation should include in 2026.
By Ivan Rivas July 22, 2026
What structured cabling installation includes, when your business needs it, and how professional network cabling is planned for Seattle and Tacoma spaces.
By Ivan Rivas July 22, 2026
Real installed video wall cost ranges for Seattle and Tacoma — LCD and direct-view LED pricing, hidden costs, and the five drivers that set your price.
Ajax MotionProtect wireless motion detector in black, mounted on a restaurant wall
By Ivan Rivas July 16, 2026
Real Ajax alarm system pricing: kits $899-$1,699, install from $390, monitoring $44.99/mo, no contract. Published by an Ajax Certified Dealer in Kent, WA.
By Ivan Rivas April 8, 2026
Your home's lighting affects your sleep and energy every day — whether you know it or not. Learn how circadian lighting systems automatically shift with your body clock.
By Ivan Rivas April 6, 2026
Got five apps and a smart home that still feels dumb? Learn why device fragmentation kills the experience — and what a professionally integrated system actually delivers.
By Ivan Rivas April 6, 2026
Smart Home Design That Disappears | Rivas Technology Group
Show More