OpenTech Alliance Inc., a Phoenix-based provider of self-storage kiosks, call-center services and other technology, announced that its Insomniac CIA (Centralized Intelligent Access) cloud-based system now integrates with gate keypads from PTI Security Systems. Facility operators can now connect their existing PTI Apex or VP keypads to CIA to upgrade their access control, according to a press release. The new integration is the 10th supported by the OpenTech IoE (Internet of Everything) platform.

As remote facility management is now a key concern for self-storage operations during the coronavirus pandemic, the CIA/PTI keypad integration provides a solution with little capital expenditure, the release stated. “This will allow us to roll out touchless gate access at a much faster pace, utilizing some of our existing equipment,” said Randy Weissman, vice president of operations for iStorage, which operates facilities across 20-plus states. “Touchless entry has been well-received by our customers, especially in light of the current situation caused by COVID-19.”

CIA allows tenants to enter a storage property using the Storage Genie mobile app. The IoE Control Center also allows users to remotely open or close a gate, hold a gate open, and open it for emergencies. For operators, it provides predictive maintenance alerts based on gate-operator usage, encrypted communication between the gateway and keypad, and access-code configuration at the keypad.

Reports and real-time data provide insight to tenant behaviors such as popular times on property, length of tenant visits, tenant access events and more. This information been successfully employed by self-storage operators to enhance revenue management, settle tenant disputes, optimize staffing schedules and more, according to the release.

“OpenTech has always been dedicated to providing open solutions, allowing integrations with devices and software from different vendors,” said Jon Loftin, vice president of OpenTech and IoE product owner. “While the Insomniac CIA keypads have been designed to address maintenance, installation and functionality issues with older self-storage access-control systems, we realize that some operators need the benefits of cloud-based access control without the additional cost of replacing all of their keypads.”

PTI offers access-control and other security technology for the self-storage industry. From concept to completion, it helps facility operators design and implement a package tailored to their specific sites. The company has installed more than 36,000 systems in 30 countries.

OpenTech provides several models of Insomniac self-serve kiosks as well as a range of self-storage rental solutions including the Insomniac Live! Call Center, Insomniac Online Web and mobile applications, LiveAgent! software products, and the Insomniac ILock Security System, all available through the company's self-storage cloud.