Cloud Gateways Switching WiFi Physical Security Integrations
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Cloud Gateways Switching WiFi Physical Security Integrations

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  1. Ubiquiti Help Center
  2. UniFi
  3. Door Access
  4. Features & Configuration

Configuring License Plate Unlock in UniFi Access

UniFi Access makes garage door and gate access seamless. With a UniFi AI Camera, doors or gates unlock automatically when a license plate is detected in the designated zone—no buttons needed! To unlock gates with license plate recognition, click here. For a complete list of supported unlock methods, click here.

Requirements

* Install entrapment protection devices to comply with regulations and ensure safe operation of motorized gates.

Camera Selection and Mounting

A UniFi AI Camera compatible with License Plate Unlock is required. This includes:

Cameras must be connected directly to the hub's PoE ports and paired with the hub.

For optimal visibility, mount cameras at the appropriate height and angle to capture the entire vehicle and clearly view the license plate.

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Pairing an AI Camera with the Gate Hub

Before you start, ensure the Access and Protect applications are installed on the same console.

  1. Navigate to Access application > Devices > UA Hub Gate > Overview > Locations > Gate > Overview > Paired Devices > Manage, then select your AI Cameras and click Save.
  2. Click the paired camera, go to Settings > Access Methods, and enable License Plate Unlock.
  3. (Optional) Edit the unlock zone and click Save.
    • The Vehicle with License Plate Number: The vehicle must be positioned at least 90% within the detection zone for accurate plate detection.
    • Only the License Plate Number
  4. Enable Record a Video Upon Door Unlock to automatically capture a short video whenever the gate opens.
  5. Click Apply Changes.

Assigning License Plate Numbers to Users

  1. Navigate to Access application > Settings > Admins & Users > Users.
  2. Click on a user, then go to Settings > Assignments > Add License Plate.
  3. Enter the plate number and click Add.

Unlocking Gates with License Plate Unlock

Users can unlock gates simply by positioning their vehicle within the designated zone. For more information, see our detailed License Plate Unlock User's Guide.

FAQs

Can a user have multiple license plate numbers?

Yes. You can assign multiple license plate numbers to a user.

Can License Plate Unlock work on both the Gate and Side Door of the Gate Hub?

No. License Plate Unlock only works with cameras paired to the Gate on the Gate Hub. Navigate to Access application > Devices > UA Hub Gate > Overview > Locations > Gate > Overview > Paired Devices > Manage.

Why does the gate open again when my license plate is detected, even with a cooldown set?

The License Plate Detection Cooldown only prevents the gate from reopening when the same plate is detected repeatedly within the set cooldown period. However, this cooldown does not apply if access is granted through other methods, such as an NFC card, Face Unlock, PIN, Touch Pass, Mobile Unlock via the Identity Endpoint mobile app, Remote Unlock via the Access web application or mobile app, or request-to-enter button. If your vehicle is detected again after any of these access methods, the system considers it a new event and opens the gate.

What should I do if License Plate Unlock doesn't open the gate when my vehicle is detected?

If you’ve configured License Plate Unlock according to the instructions but the gate doesn’t open when your Protect camera detects your vehicle, please follow the steps below.

Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Navigate to Protect application > Settings > System > General > AI Events and ensure Smart Detection is enabled.
  2. Navigate to Protect application > UniFi Devices > select your AI Camera > Recording Settings > Detection Zone & Privacy Blackouts > Edit Smart Zones > Detection Type.
    • Ensure Vehicle is ticked.
    • Enlarge the unlock zone for better detection.
  3. Try again to see if the gate opens properly when a vehicle approaches.

If the Issue Persists

If the gate still doesn't open after completing the steps above, please contact UniFi Access Technical Support via UI Account (https://account.ui.com/) > Support.

When submitting your request, be sure to include:

  • Screenshots and videos of license plate detection from Protect application > Find Anything.
  • Logs showing the failed gate opening attempt from Access application > System Log > Access Denial. 
  • The exact time of the failed gate opening attempt.
  • The latest Access Control Hub support file from Access application > Devices > select your hub > Settings > Download Support File. 
  • The latest UniFi Console support file from Access application > Settings > Control Plane > Console > Support File > Full > Download. 
  • The license plate numbers experiencing the issue.
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