Mercer Island Gate Intercom Upgrade | Home Security Case Study | Sentex to Akuvox X912S

✅ Project Highlights

• 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Rivas Technology Group was hired to modernize an outdated Sentex gate callbox system at a private residence on Mercer Island, WA.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

✅ 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

🛠️ Technical Installation Summary



🧪 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

🔧 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