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FAQ

Frequently asked questions.

Answers about our systems, privacy, pricing and process. Don't see your question? Ask us directly.

General

General.

Do you offer free site assessments?

Yes. We visit, look at your property and existing equipment, and talk through what you want to accomplish before preparing a proposal.

What brands do you install?

Our standard platform is UniFi for networking, cameras and access control, and we also work with Ruckus and Cisco Meraki. We choose equipment to fit the property and how it will be managed.

How long does a typical installation take?

Most Wi-Fi or camera projects take one to three days on site. Larger integrated systems and new construction follow the building schedule.

Systems & privacy

Systems & privacy.

Can you integrate with equipment already installed?

Yes, where it meets our standards. The site assessment identifies what can be retained, what limits performance and what should be replaced.

Where is camera footage stored?

On a network video recorder at the property by default. Footage remains private and recording continues during internet outages. Encrypted off-site backup is available.

Is a monthly plan required?

No. Systems operate fully on their own after commissioning. Managed care is optional for clients who want proactive monitoring and maintenance.

When should we involve you on a new build?

Ideally during design, before framing. Early involvement allows proper pathways, equipment space and device placement, and avoids costly changes later.

What does a private AI system involve?

We assess what you want to automate, size and build the server, install and tune the models, connect the agents to your tools, and train you to use it. Where a task needs more capability than a local model offers, we can set up a hybrid that uses a cloud model only for the jobs you approve.

Is my data used to train anyone's AI?

Not with an on-site system. The models run on hardware you own, and your files, messages and conversations stay on your network.

Are you licensed?

Yes. We are a licensed California C-7 low-voltage systems contractor. License details are provided with every proposal.

Private AI

Private AI.

What hardware does a private AI system need?

A dedicated computer with a capable graphics card (GPU), plus fast storage and a solid network connection. We size the hardware to the models and number of users you need, so you are not paying for more than the job requires.

How does it compare to ChatGPT or other cloud AI?

Models that run locally are very good at writing, summarizing, searching your documents and everyday questions, but the largest cloud models are still stronger for the hardest tasks. That is why we offer a hybrid setup: local by default, cloud only for the jobs you approve.

Is my data private?

Yes, with an on-site system. The models run on hardware you own, and your files, messages and conversations stay on your network unless you choose to use the cloud option.

Can AI agents take actions on their own?

Only the actions you allow. We configure each agent's permissions, and anything that sends a message, spends money or deletes data waits for a person to approve it.

Can my whole team use it?

Yes. A private AI server can serve multiple users in an office, with separate access for different people or departments.

AI Automation

AI Automation.

Which smart home platform do you use?

We choose the platform for each property based on its size, the devices you want and how you like to control things. We favor systems that keep working locally when the internet is down.

Can you use the smart devices I already have?

Often, yes. During the assessment we identify which devices are worth keeping, which can be integrated and which are holding the system back.

What happens if the internet goes down?

Core functions like lighting, locks and climate keep working on the local network. Remote access and cloud features return when the connection does.

Will the whole family be able to use it?

That is the point of the design. Everyday control is simple, through voice, a few clear buttons or an app, and we walk everyone through it at handover.

Security Cameras

Security Cameras.

Wired or wireless cameras?

Wired. PoE cameras get power and data over one cable, so there are no batteries to replace and no Wi-Fi drops. They are more reliable and harder to defeat.

Do I need a monthly subscription?

No. Recording and AI detection run on equipment you own. Optional off-site backup or monitoring plans are available.

How many cameras do I need?

It depends on entry points and what you want to see. Most homes are well covered with four to ten cameras; we design to the property instead of selling a kit size.

What about privacy and audio?

We aim coverage at your property, not your neighbors'. Audio recording is off by default, since California law generally requires consent from everyone being recorded.

Can I watch from my phone?

Yes. Live view, playback and alerts are available on your phone and computer, securely.

Access Control

Access Control.

What happens in a power outage?

Systems include battery backup, and each door is configured to fail safely: locked for security or unlocked for emergency exit, as the door and code require.

Do you keep fire code exits working?

Yes. Doors that are exits always allow free exit from the inside. Access control only controls who gets in.

Can it work with my existing doors and gate?

Usually. Most standard doors accept smart hardware, and most gate operators can be integrated. We confirm during the assessment.

Can I manage it from my phone?

Yes. Add or remove people, change schedules, unlock doors and answer the intercom from anywhere.

Wi-Fi & Networks

Wi-Fi & Networks.

Why not just buy a mesh system?

Mesh works in small spaces, but each wireless hop cuts speed. Wired access points deliver full speed everywhere and handle many more devices.

Which equipment do you install?

We work with UniFi, Ruckus and Meraki and choose based on the size of the property, your budget and how it will be managed.

Do I still need my internet provider's equipment?

Usually only the modem or fiber terminal. We replace the provider's router with a proper firewall and access points.

Can you monitor the network after installation?

Yes. With a care plan we monitor the network, apply updates and often fix issues before you notice them.

New Construction

New Construction.

When should we bring you in?

Ideally during design, before framing. Early involvement lets us plan pathways and equipment space, which saves money and avoids rework.

How do you work with the electrician?

We handle the low-voltage scope and coordinate rough-in locations and power needs with the electrician so nothing is missed.

Can you price from drawings?

Yes. Send plans and a scope, and we return a device schedule and itemized proposal.

Business

Business.

Can you install after hours?

Yes. We schedule disruptive work outside business hours when needed.

Do you work with our existing IT provider?

Yes. We handle the physical systems and network infrastructure and coordinate with whoever manages your computers and software.

Do you support multiple locations?

Yes. Cameras, access control and networks across locations can be managed from one place.

What does managed care include?

Proactive monitoring, firmware and security updates, priority response and an annual system review.

Custom projects

Have an idea? We'll engineer it.

If you can picture it, we can design it. Bring us the technology you've always wanted in your home or business, even if you're not sure it exists yet. We'll work out the hardware, the integration and the automation, and make it real.

Gate that opens when your car pulls up Whole-home audio you control by voice Pool, spa and landscape lighting on one schedule Starlink and Wi-Fi for a ranch or remote property Workshop or garage with live power and camera monitoring A home theater that sets itself up with one word Alerts when the wine room or server closet gets too warm Connectivity for boats, RVs and guest houses
Consultation

Begin with a site assessment.

Share a few details about your property and objectives, and we'll arrange a time to evaluate it in person.

ServiceVentura & Los Angeles counties

We respond within one business day. Your information is never shared.