Hardware covered in this guide

• ButterflyMX AI Camera Gateway
• ButterflyMX LPR Bullet Camera (Short Range 0-50 ft / Long Range 50-100 ft)
• Two-Door Controller (see separate installation guide)

In this article

1. Package contents
2. Before you start
3. System overview
4. Wiring overview
5. Network requirements
6. AI Camera Gateway hardware specifications
7. LPR Bullet Camera hardware specifications
8. Camera placement and mounting guidelines
9. Site and environmental factors
10. AI Camera Gateway installation
11. LPR Bullet Camera installation
12. Third-party camera installation
13. Two-Door Controller
14. LPR testing and calibration
15. Provisioning and configuration
16. Troubleshooting
17. Safety

Package contents

ButterflyMX AI Camera Gateway

• AI Camera Gateway
• 12V/5A DC power supply (barrel connector)

ButterflyMX LPR Bullet Camera

• LPR Bullet Camera - Short Range (0-50 ft) or Long Range (50-100 ft)
• RJ45 and barrel connector cable (attached)
• 7/64" hex key
• (3) 1/4" drywall screws and anchors
• Drilling template
• Waterproof cable gland

Two-Door Controller (separate installation guide)

The Two-Door Controller is required for all LPR Access configurations. It is not covered in this guide. Refer to the ButterflyMX Two-Door Controller Installation Guide for package contents and installation steps.

Not included - must be sourced by installer

Before you start

A site visit is required prior to installation to determine camera placement, capture zone distances, network architecture, and hardware requirements. Use this guide alongside the LPR Access Implementation Guide for detailed placement and configuration standards.

• This guide is for certified ButterflyMX installers only.
• The AI Camera Gateway is for indoor use only. Install in a secure, weatherproof location. LPR Bullet Cameras are IP67 rated and suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
• All LPR Access installations require three components: AI Camera Gateway, LPR Bullet Camera, and Two-Door Controller. The Two-Door Controller must be installed and connected - refer to its separate installation guide.
• All components must be on the same local network.
• Security camera systems must meet all relevant local, state, and federal codes. Compliance is the responsibility of the installer and property manager.

Attention: The AI Camera Gateway must be installed in a weatherproof, secure indoor location. Recommended ambient temperature: 50°F to 122°F (10°C to +50°C). The Gateway will capture footage during an internet outage and upload to the cloud once connectivity is restored. Audio is not supported.

Activate all systems while the installer is on-site. Call ButterflyMX Support at (800) 398-4416, ext. 2 to complete activation.

For pre-installation connectivity questions, contact SolutionsArchitecture@butterflymx.com.

System overview

The ButterflyMX LPR Access System uses one or more LPR Bullet Cameras to capture license plates at an access point. The AI Camera Gateway processes plate recognition and communicates with the Two-Door Controller, which makes the access decision, triggers the access point (gate, door, or barrier), and logs all events in ButterflyMX OS.

Attention: This is a system overview, not a wiring diagram. For Two-Door Controller wiring, refer to the Two-Door Controller Installation Guide. For third-party cameras, refer to the manufacturer's documentation.

Wiring overview

Attention: The AI Camera Gateway requires internet access. All hardware components, including the AI Camera Gateway, LPR cameras, PoE switch, and Two-Door Controller, must be on the same local network. LPR cameras connect to the PoE switch.

Standard configuration

LPR Cameras and AI Camera Gateway connect to a PoE switch. The Two-Door Controller connects to the same local network.

The AI Camera Gateway should ideally connect to the same PoE switch as the LPR cameras. If that's not possible, it may connect to a different switch or directly to the router, provided all components remain on the same local network.

Never splice Ethernet cables. Do not use couplers, extenders, or data jacks.

Network requirements

Internet

• A stable internet connection is required for optimal AI Camera Gateway performance. The client is responsible for maintaining this connection.
• The AI Camera Gateway and LPR Cameras require direct Ethernet connections. Wi-Fi is not supported.
• All cameras and the AI Camera Gateway must be on the same local network.
• DSL connections are not supported.
• LPR access control continues to function without internet. Event logs sync to ButterflyMX OS once connectivity is restored.

Bandwidth

LPR Cameras record 24/7. Footage is stored locally and uploaded to the cloud in intervals to avoid network saturation.

• Bandwidth requirements: 6 Mbps dedicated upload/download per camera (minimum)

Cellular connections may not consistently meet bandwidth requirements - test to confirm before committing to a wireless setup.

Latency and segmentation

• Target network latency: under 50 ms for optimal performance.
• Place cameras on a dedicated VLAN to isolate them from other devices and reduce congestion.
• Configure QoS settings to prioritize camera traffic when multiple cameras are streaming simultaneously.
• A managed switch is recommended but not required. Managed capabilities allow VLAN segmentation and QoS configuration for optimal performance. Installers reusing existing unmanaged infrastructure should note that advanced network isolation will not be available.

Firewall - required ports

AI Camera Gateway hardware specifications

The AI Camera Gateway must be installed in a weatherproof, secure location with ambient temperature between 50°F and 122°F (10°C to +50°C).

Power budget

The AI Camera Gateway requires up to 40 W. Each LPR Bullet Camera requires 12 W via PoE. Calculate the total power budget before installation to confirm the PoE switch can support all cameras.

Battery backup

To maintain operation during power outages, connect network equipment to a generator-backed circuit or install a dedicated UPS. Battery backup duration varies based on number and type of devices.

LPR Bullet Camera hardware specifications

Both LPR Bullet Camera models share the same physical form factor, IP67 rating, and NDAA compliance. Select the correct model based on the distance from the camera mount to the license plate capture zone.

Short Range (0-50 ft) vs. Long Range (50-100 ft)

Camera placement and mounting guidelines

Camera mounting is the most important factor in LPR read accuracy. Review all guidelines below before selecting a mount location. Refer to the LPR Access Implementation Guide for additional site-specific guidance.

1. Front vs. rear plate capture

• Front plate capture: Best for states that legally require front plates. Position the camera to face oncoming vehicles.
• Rear plate capture: Recommended for properties expecting out-of-state vehicles or in states without front plate requirements. The entrance should be at least 10 ft wide and 20 ft deep so the full vehicle and plate are visible when stopped at the access point.
• Both: Requires two separate cameras, each independently positioned. Capturing both plates doubles the chance of a successful read - if one is affected by glare, weather, or a dirty plate, the second provides a fallback.

2. Capture distance

• Front capture: Camera mounted at or adjacent to the access point, no minimum distance requirement.
• Rear capture: Effective range is 15-100 ft from the access point, depending on camera model (Short Range: 0-50 ft; Long Range: 50-100 ft).
• Speed vs. selectivity tradeoff (rear capture): Mount farther back to give the system more time to read and trigger before the vehicle arrives. Mount closer to reduce the risk of a vehicle further back triggering access.

3. Mounting height

Mount the camera between 3 and 6 ft from the ground. This covers the plate height of most vehicle types - sedans, SUVs, and trucks. Mounting lower reduces the vertical angle to the plate. If a lower mount is not structurally feasible, mounting higher in the range is acceptable but should be paired with a slight downward tilt.

4. Camera angles

Position the camera as straight-on to the license plate as possible - both horizontally and vertically. Angled shots can compress or skew characters, reducing recognition accuracy.

Attention: Practical check: Use the camera's live view during installation to confirm the plate appears flat and undistorted. If characters look skewed or compressed, the angle is too steep - adjust before proceeding.

5. Optimal framing

At the point of closest approach, the vehicle and license plate should fill at least 30% of the frame.

Verify framing in the camera's live view during installation and adjust zoom as needed, either directly on the camera or by contacting ButterflyMX OS Support.

6. Camera settings and IR illumination

ButterflyMX automatically configures image settings and IR illumination for nighttime capture - no manual adjustment is required. If image quality or nighttime performance is poor after go-live, contact ButterflyMX Support to adjust settings remotely.

Site and environmental factors

The following conditions can affect LPR read accuracy. Evaluate each during site assessment and account for them during installation.

Backup access method

In the rare event a plate is not read due to a dirty or damaged plate, extreme glare, heavy snow, or other obstruction, residents can use Swipe-to-Open in the ButterflyMX App to gain entry without interruption. Confirm this backup method is active and working during the implementation test.

AI Camera Gateway installation

Wiring

Installation steps

1. Connect the AI Camera Gateway to power and Ethernet.
   • Plug the 12V/5A DC barrel connector into the Gateway's power port and into a power outlet.
   • Connect the Gateway to your network switch via Ethernet (RJ45).
   • The Gateway uses Ethernet only - Wi-Fi is not supported.
2. Confirm gateway connectivity.
   • Normal LED operation: status light = solid purple.
   • If there is no purple light, check your power source before proceeding.
   • The Gateway discovers cameras at one-minute intervals once connected.
   • If the Gateway is not connecting to the internet, contact ButterflyMX Support.
3. Place the Gateway in a secure, weatherproof location.
   • Place on a flat, stable surface with at least 2 inches of clearance on all sides for airflow.
   • Do not place in direct sunlight or areas outside 50°F-122°F (10°C-50°C).
   • The Gateway is not rated for outdoor installation.

Attention: Never splice Ethernet cables. Do not use couplers, extenders, or data jacks. Always use proper ESD protection when handling the Gateway.

Post-installation network verification

1. Connect your laptop to the same switch/network as the Gateway.

   Plug into the same PoE switch, or same LAN segment, that the Camera Gateway and cameras will use. Confirm the switch port is active by checking for link/activity LEDs.

2. Check IP configuration.

   Set your laptop to DHCP, or manually assign a static IP in the same subnet if the network uses static addressing.

   Run ipconfig (Windows) or ifconfig / ip a (Mac/Linux) to confirm you received a valid IP on the same subnet as the Gateway and cameras.

3. Confirm same subnet/VLAN.

   The Gateway, cameras, and your laptop must all be on the same LAN subnet - this is critical.

   If your laptop pulls an IP from a different subnet/VLAN than expected, flag it. This likely means the port is misconfigured or on the wrong VLAN.

4. Ping test.

   Once you know, or can confirm, the Gateway/camera IP, run ping [gateway or camera IP]. Successful replies confirm Layer 3 connectivity on that segment.

5. Check internet/cloud reachability.

   Confirm the laptop can reach the internet from that same port. This is needed for the Gateway to communicate with ButterflyMX cloud.

   A quick ping 8.8.8.8 or browser test confirms outbound connectivity.

6. ONVIF/device discovery (optional but useful).

   When validating third-party cameras, an ONVIF Device Manager tool on the laptop can confirm cameras are discoverable on that same network segment. This mirrors what the Gateway itself will need to do.

7. Bandwidth check (if needed).

   For multi-camera setups, a quick speed test from the laptop on that same port helps confirm there's enough bandwidth. Each camera ≈ 8 W power / 6 Mbps per camera per the install spec.

LPR Bullet Camera installation

Installation steps are identical for both the Short Range (0-50 ft) and Long Range (50-100 ft) models. The only difference is the camera's effective LPR capture distance from the access point - select the correct model during site assessment before installation begins.

Short Range: Mount so the license plate capture zone is within 0-50 ft of the camera. Long Range: Mount so the capture zone is within 50-100 ft of the camera. In both cases, confirm framing and angle during the live feed check in Step 6 before finalizing the mount.

Installation steps

1. Install the mounting box.
   • Use a compatible outdoor junction box.
   • Use the provided drilling template to mark mounting holes at the target height.
   • Mount the camera between 3 and 6 ft from the ground. See Camera Placement & Mounting Guidelines for height and angle requirements specific to LPR.
   • Drill holes and secure the junction box using screws and anchors appropriate to the surface material.
   • For outdoor or pole installations, ensure mounting hardware is rated for outdoor use.
2. Route the CAT6 cable.
   • Run the CAT6 Ethernet cable through the junction box and conduit to the PoE switch.
   • Leave sufficient slack inside the box for connections. Maximum run length: 328 ft (100 m).
   • Do not splice cables or use couplers, extenders, or data jacks.
   • For outdoor runs, use weatherproof shielded Cat5e or Cat6 cable.
3. Mount the camera to the junction box.
   • Align the camera base plate with the junction box mounting holes.
   • Secure the camera with the provided screws.
   • Pull the barrel connector pigtail cable through the opening.
4. Connect the Ethernet cable and seal the cover.
   • Plug the CAT6 cable into the camera's RJ45 port.
   • Close and screw down the waterproof cable cover.
   • Ensure the waterproof cable gland is properly seated around the cable entry point.
5. Connect the camera to the PoE switch.
   • Plug the other end of the CAT6 cable into a PoE (802.3at) port on the switch.
   • Camera settings are configured automatically once cameras and the AI Camera Gateway are both connected to the internet.
6. Adjust tilt, pan, and zoom - verify framing with a live feed.
   • Loosen the 2 hex screws on the ball joint to adjust tilt and pan (0-90° tilt, 0-360° pan - non-concurrent).
   • Adjust the motorized zoom lens to fill the capture zone appropriately.
   • Open a live camera feed viewer and confirm: plate appears flat and undistorted; no horizontal angle exceeds 30°; no vertical angle exceeds 30°; plate fills at least 30% of the frame at the point of closest approach.
   • Do not finalize the mount until framing has been verified on a live feed. Cameras can only be adjusted manually.
   • Once framing is confirmed, tighten all hex screws on the ball joint.

Attention: Always use proper ESD protection when installing cameras and the AI Camera Gateway.

Third-party camera installation

The ButterflyMX AI Camera Gateway is compatible with the vast majority of IP ONVIF cameras. However, ButterflyMX LPR Bullet Cameras are strongly recommended for all LPR implementations. Third-party ONVIF-compatible cameras may be technically compatible but have not been tested for LPR performance - results cannot be guaranteed.

All LPR Access installations require a ButterflyMX AI Camera Gateway, regardless of whether ButterflyMX or third-party cameras are used.

Compatibility criteria

• Compatible with most cameras using ONVIF 20.06 and above, released June 2020 or later.
• Compatible with ~99% of ONVIF cameras using firmware versions earlier than 20.06.
• Not compatible with analog cameras.

Compatible cameras must support ONVIF Profile S or Profile T. Verify compatibility at onvif.org/conformant-products or contact your ButterflyMX representative.

Required camera settings

Apply on the camera's web configuration page for both the main and substreams before connecting to the Gateway:

H.265-only cameras are not compatible with the AI Camera Gateway. Cameras must support H.264 output. Verify compression support before purchasing or deploying a third-party camera.

Enable automatic firmware updates or schedule regular checks for firmware updates.

Installation steps

1. Factory reset the third-party camera.
2. Install the third-party camera per the manufacturer's documentation.
3. Apply the required camera settings listed above using the camera's web configuration interface.
4. Verify the camera is on the same LAN as the AI Camera Gateway.
5. Confirm username and password.
   • Have each camera's username and password ready for the ButterflyMX Support provisioning call.
   • Verify credentials are correct before the activation call.

Two-Door Controller

The Two-Door Controller is required for all ButterflyMX LPR Access configurations. It makes the access decision, triggers the access point (gate arm, door, or barrier), and logs all vehicle events in ButterflyMX OS.

The Two-Door Controller is not covered in this guide. Refer to the ButterflyMX Two-Door Controller Installation Guide for all wiring, mounting, and configuration steps.

Key integration points

For the Two-Door Controller Installation Guide, visit butterflymx.com/resources/installers/documentation.

LPR testing and calibration

A live test is required before sign-off. Conduct the test during the ButterflyMX Support activation call with a vehicle on-site.

Pre-test checklist

• All cameras are mounted, connected to the PoE switch, and visible in ButterflyMX OS.
• AI Camera Gateway is powered, connected to the network, and showing normal LED status.
• Two-Door Controller is installed, wired, and connected to the network (see Two-Door Controller Installation Guide).
• All components are on the same LAN.
• Swipe-to-Open backup access is configured and active in ButterflyMX App.

Live test procedure

1. Test denied entry: Drive an unauthorized vehicle toward the camera. Confirm access is correctly denied and the event is logged in ButterflyMX OS.
2. Test granted entry: Add the test vehicle's plate as a temporary visitor. Drive toward the camera again. Confirm the plate is recognized, access is granted, and the event is logged.
3. Revoke and retest: Revoke the temporary visitor pass. Confirm the vehicle is once again denied access.
4. Test backup access: Confirm the Swipe-to-Open function in the ButterflyMX App is active and working at this location.

Attention: Do not sign off on the installation without completing the live test with a vehicle on-site. All four test steps must pass.

Provisioning and configuration

Attention: All systems must be activated while the installer is on-site. Cameras will not function without activation.

Activation verifies all systems are operational, documents installed hardware, and activates the system. Call ButterflyMX Support at (800) 398-4416, ext. 2 while on-site.

• ButterflyMX will onboard the client during the activation call.
• Have the username and password for any third-party cameras ready, if applicable.
• Have all gateway and camera serial numbers ready before calling.
• The Two-Door Controller must also be activated during this call - confirm it is installed and connected before calling.
• All documentation: butterflymx.com/resources/installers/documentation

Troubleshooting

Common installation issues

AI Camera Gateway LED diagnostics

Safety

Read before installation. For use by certified ButterflyMX installers only.

Electrical

• The AI Camera Gateway operates on 12V DC via the included power supply. Do not substitute with an unapproved supply.
• Do not operate with damaged cables, connectors, or enclosures. Disconnect power before servicing.
• Use proper ESD protection when handling the Gateway or cameras.

Thermal and ventilation

• The Gateway generates heat during normal operation (up to 40 W). Maintain at least 2 inches of clearance on all sides. Do not obstruct ventilation.
• Do not install in locations exceeding the rated ambient temperature range (50°F-122°F / 10°C-50°C) or expose to direct sunlight.

Installation and mounting

• Ensure all camera mounts and junction boxes are rated for the installation environment and load. Improperly secured hardware can fall and cause injury or property damage.
• For outdoor runs, use weatherproof cable rated for outdoor use. Route cables to avoid trip or pinch hazards.

Contact ButterflyMX Support

• Phone: (800) 398-4416, ext. 2
• Email: support@butterflymx.com
• Hours: Monday-Friday, 6am-10pm ET; Saturday-Sunday, 8am-8pm ET

Source: License Plate Recognition Access Installation Guide, Rev 1.0, June 2026.