Upgrading Your Perimeter: Why It’s Time to Ditch GSM for UniFi Gate & Access G3 Intercom

Every property owner knows the frustration of legacy GSM intercoms: expired SIM airtime, dropped cellular calls, missed deliveries, and zero video visibility. You end up blindly hitting 9 on your phone keypad to let a visitor through the gate without actually seeing who is standing outside.

It is time to modernise your perimeter access. Ubiquiti’s UniFi Access G3 Intercom and UA-Hub-Gate deliver high-definition video screening, flexible visitor access, and direct integration with Centurion gate motors and electric locks—all over your local network, with zero recurring airtime or monthly SIM fees.

Why Ditch Your GSM Intercom System?

While GSM gate units were once the standard for automated entrances, relying on mobile voice calls introduces daily friction and ongoing overhead:

• Zero Video Visibility: GSM systems are strictly audio-only. You cannot visually verify visitors, delivery drivers, or contractors before opening your gate.
• Airtime & Subscription Hassles: Managing SIM card top-ups, monitoring data balances, and dealing with cellular network downtime or tower congestion creates constant maintenance headaches.
• Call Delays & Missed Visitors: Dialing out over cellular networks often introduces 10-to-15-second delays. If you are on another call or in a low-signal area, the intercom call drops completely.
• Rigid Visitor Access: Adding temporary access for guests or service providers requires saving numbers to a GSM whitelist. You cannot easily issue temporary PINs or timed passcodes.

The Modern Solution: UniFi Access G3 Intercom & UA-Hub-Gate

Ubiquiti’s gate hardware transforms your entrance into an intelligent, high-security checkpoint:

• UniFi Access G3 Intercom: Features a bright 7-inch touch display, an HD camera, and clear two-way audio housed in an IP65 weatherproof enclosure. Visitors can place instant video calls directly to your smartphone or dedicated indoor viewer.
• Flexible Access Methods: Keyholders and guests can enter using customised PIN codes, temporary QR codes, NFC keyfobs, Apple/Google Wallet credentials, or mobile unlock via the UniFi Identity app.
• UA-Hub-Gate Controller: Purpose-built specifically for gate automation, this hub manages primary vehicle gates and pedestrian side doors. It features built-in dry contact relays, position sensors, and inputs for exit loops or safety beams.

Direct Integration into Centurion Motors & Electric Locks

Upgrading to UniFi does not mean replacing your existing motor infrastructure. The UA-Hub-Gate seamlessly hooks into South Africa’s leading gate operators—such as the Centurion D5 Smart, D10, and Vector series:

• Centurion Gate Motor Control: The UA-Hub-Gate’s dry contact operator relay connects directly to the TRG (Trigger) or PED (Pedestrian) terminals on the Centurion control board.
• Pedestrian & Side Door Locks: If your entry includes a side gate with an electric strike or magnetic lock, the UA-Hub-Gate includes a dedicated 12V powered output relay to drive locks directly without needing auxiliary power modules.
• Automated License Plate Recognition: Pair your gate setup with UniFi Protect AI cameras to automatically trigger your Centurion gate motor when pre-approved license plates approach.

Upgrade Your Gate Security with Local IT Guy

Say goodbye to dropped cellular calls and monthly SIM fees. At Local IT Guy, we specialise in designing and installing end-to-end UniFi network infrastructure, access control systems, and commercial IP security camera setups across Midrand, Sandton, Centurion, and surrounding Gauteng areas.

Whether you need a sleek residential gate upgrade or a multi-user commercial access solution, our team handles cabling, Centurion controller wiring, and cloud configuration.

Ready to modernise your gate access? Contact Local IT Guy today at 082 670 3622 or connect via WhatsApp to schedule a site assessment.