UniFi Access - Selecting UniFi Access Control Hubs
The UniFi Access Control Hub is a key component of any door access system, serving as the broker between door locks and the UniFi Access Readers users interact with to unlock the doors. This article compares hub models to help you choose the right one.
Hub Overview
UniFi offers three types of Access Control Hubs, each designed for specific access control needs:
- Doors
- Gates
- Elevators
You can mix and match hubs within the same deployment to create a flexible, secure access control system.
A hub pairs with any Access Reader, allowing you to customize unlock methods and enhance functionality with features like doorbell notifications, two-way audio, and integrated cameras.
Hub Comparison
The table below provides a comparison of all UniFi Hubs. For more information on recommended use, see Hub Architecture.
| Solution Type |
Single-Door |
Multi-Door | Gate |
Elevator |
|
|
Hub Model |
Door Hub (UA-Hub-Door) |
Access Ultra (UA-Ultra) |
Enterprise Access Hub (EAH-8) |
Gate Hub (UA-Hub-Gate) |
Elevator Hub (UA-Hub-Elevator) |
|
Output Relays |
(2) Lock terminals (12V and dry) (1) AUX for door operator (dry) (1) AUX for siren/chime (12V) |
(1) Lock terminal (12V/1A) |
(8) Lock terminals (12V and dry) (4) AUX for chimes, sirens, or door openers |
(2) Gate lock terminals (dry) (1) Side lock terminal (12V) (1) AUX |
(18) Relays to support 18 floors |
| Input Terminals |
(1) Motion sensor (1) Exit button (1) Door position sensor (1) Emergency |
(1) Request to exit (1) Tamper switch |
(8) Request to exit (8) Door position sensor (1) Emergency |
(1) Gate exit request (1) Gate position (1) Side door exit request (1) Side door position (1) Emergency |
(1) Emergency (1) Car position (5-bit) (1) Car status: up/down/stop/full (1) Door status: open/close |
| PoE Ports |
(4) PoE for readers and cameras |
-
|
(8) PoE for readers and cameras | (4) PoE for readers and cameras | (4) PoE for readers and cameras |
| Power Method | PoE++ | PoE+ | AC power and 36V DC input | PoE++ | PoE++ |
| Maximum User Count | 6,000 | 3,000 | 10,000 | 6,000 | 6,000 |
Hub Architecture
UniFi has several models of Access Hubs. The key criteria in determining which should be used in an application consist of:
- Application Type: Select a Door Hub, Gate Hub, or Elevator Hub according to the application.
- Quantity of Doors: While most door hubs support a single door, the Enterprise Access Hub (EAH-8) accommodates up to 8 doors, making it ideal for managing multiple doors within the same area.
- Input/Output Functionality: Some hubs offer comprehensive I/O terminals to support advanced peripherals, including emergency overrides, chimes, sirens, door position sensors, push-to-exit buttons, and motion sensors for enhanced control and monitoring.
Single Door (Standard)
Door Hub (UA-Hub-Door) is the standard single-door solution, offering comprehensive I/O functionality for enhanced access control.
Single Door (Integrated Reader)
Access Ultra (UA-Ultra) is a single-door solution designed for basic security needs, such as meeting rooms, guest rooms, or locker rooms. Ideal when I/O requirements are limited to request-to-exit.
Multiple Doors
Enterprise Access Hub (EAH-8) offers the same comprehensive I/O as the standard Door Hub, except that it has support for up to 8 doors (4 if using push-to-exit buttons). Key features include:
- Battery backup support for continuous operation during power outages.
- Up to 8 cameras and readers support in total for multiple door management in the same area.
Gate Hub
Gate Hub (UA-Hub-Gate) is the standard gate solution, offering comprehensive I/O functionality for enhanced gate and garage door control. Key features include:
- License plate recognition support by integrating with UniFi Protect AI Cameras for vehicle access control. Learn more
- Various gate-type support, including sliding, swinging, barrier, and roll-up garage gates.
- One pedestrian side door support
- Up to 4 cameras and readers support in total for multiple gate management in the same area.
Elevator Hub
UniFi's Elevator Starter Kit (UA-SK-Elevator) is the standard elevator solution kit. Its Elevator Hub (UA-Hub-Elevator) offers versatile I/O functionality for enhanced elevator control. Key features include:
- Up to 18 floors support
- Up to 4 cameras and readers support in total for multiple elevator management in the same area.
- Floor-specific access control to enhance security by limiting user access to designated floors.