Brivo Systems, LLC, the leader in Web applications for access control and security systems, has announced that the Conejo Homeowners Association (HOA) has chosen Brivo ACS WebService™ remote management system as the main interface and access control system for their security upgrade. Absolute Security & Technologies, Inc. is the integrator of record for the ongoing installation.

The Conejo HOA comprises more than 1,000 homes. The traditional lock and key system was difficult to manage as homeowners moved out or duplicated keys for non-HOA members. Vandalism and excessive use of the common areas also led to additional costs for the homeowners’ association. To overcome these problems, AS&T was chosen to design and install an integrated access control and video surveillance system, including smart card access technology. The new security system, which reduces maintenance costs and allows remote management, will be implemented over the next few months.

The overall security system will be controlled by Brivo Systems’ ACS WebService remote management system, which integrates the surveillance cameras with the access control system. Brivo allows access to the management system from a wide array of platforms, via cell phone, laptop, or desktop computer. Security management is truly remote with the Brivo system—the management company or the HOA board members can access the information at anytime from any Internet-connected computer, anywhere. Thanks to the Brivo system, there is also the added benefit of providing a combined access record of who uses a card, when they used it and where, along with the photographic evidence provided by integrated video surveillance. It is difficult for an offender to argue when such hard evidence is presented.

“Brivo’s unique design allows the end user’s critical information to be backed up remotely and securely,” said Bob Mosler, Brivo Executive VP Sales and Marketing. “This saves time and money for the HOA, especially should there be a breakdown at the site. Everything is backed up offsite, so no data is ever lost.”

“With the previous system, keys would be lost, or left untracked as homeowners moved,” said Richard Perini of AS&T. “Now access is easier to manage, and with video surveillance on the same system, you can confirm identities in real time. If a card is stolen and then used, it will be monitored and tracked through the integrated system.”

The contactless Mifare smart cards and readers will be provided by DigiOn24 and issued by AS&T as part of the overall security system. AS&T selected DigiOn24 because of their expertise in RFID, as well as their capabilities to customize the solution and make it compatible with the Brivo remote management system.

“We have definitely minimized our exposure to maintenance costs and potential lawsuits by selecting an integrated solution,” commented Lance Marsh, Community Association Manager for Gold Coast Property Management. “Before, we had an individual company in charge of the guards, another for the cameras, and another for the keys. Now, by integrating the various elements into one cohesive system, security can be handled more efficiently, intelligently, and inexpensively in the long run.”

Not only will the Brivo-managed system minimize unwanted entry by non-HOA members (including previous homeowners), but it will also track after-hour usage at the pool and frequency of service provided by gardeners, pool maintenance crew, etc. The audit trail from this advanced system provides peace of mind, as well as efficiency and security.