Retrofit Any Gate: ESP32, Tasmota, Sonoff & Waveshare Relay Compatibility
Your Gate Doesn't Need to Be New to Be Smart
Remote gate unlocking is one of DoorVi's most requested features — but many properties assume it requires replacing the gate motor, lock, or controller entirely. In most cases it doesn't. A small, inexpensive relay wired into the existing entry system is enough to bridge it to DoorVi's cloud platform, so the resident's one-tap unlock in the app actually triggers the physical gate or door. If your gate call box still runs on a landline, see what to do before the copper line is shut off.
For the supported relays and how a retrofit works, see the relay gate opener page.
Compatible Relay Hardware
DoorVi is built to work with widely available, low-cost relay hardware rather than a single proprietary controller.
ESP32-Based Relays
A general-purpose relay platform used for gate openers, smart locks, and general access-control retrofits.
Waveshare ESP32-S3 WiFi Relay
A Wi-Fi relay board suited to internet-enabling an existing gate or lock without running new cabling.
Sonoff Smart Switches
Off-the-shelf smart switches that can be repurposed as a relay interface for compatible entry points.
Tasmota-Based Relays
Open-firmware relays for teams who want more control over the retrofit configuration.
How a Relay Retrofit Works
The relay sits between DoorVi's cloud platform and the physical lock, gate motor, or maglock — translating an app tap into a real-world unlock signal. For Dubai towers on card access, see how visitors get through the lobby door with a relay unlock. In India, the same relay lets a small building run visitor entry with no security guard.
1. Relay Wired to the Entry Point
The relay connects to the existing gate motor, electric strike, or maglock circuit.
2. Relay Joins the Network
It connects to Wi-Fi or LAN and registers with the DoorVi cloud platform.
3. Resident Taps Unlock
During or after a visitor call, the resident taps unlock in the DoorVi app.
4. Relay Triggers the Lock
The command reaches the relay over the internet and the gate, door, or lock opens.
Why Retrofit Instead of Replace
For most properties, a relay-based retrofit is faster to install, far cheaper than a new access-control system, and lower-risk because the existing lock hardware never has to be removed. It's the same philosophy behind DoorVi's PDK, Brivo, Mobgate, and Intelbras integrations — add the missing capability instead of replacing what already works. If the building also has an access control panel, tie the relay into your access control panel rather than straight to the strike, so the panel keeps logging every unlock.
What this saves a condomínio: porteiro vs portaria remota vs portaria autônoma.
FAQ
Do I need to replace my gate motor or lock to open it from the DoorVi app?
No. A small relay wired into the existing gate motor, electric strike or maglock circuit connects it to DoorVi, so the lock hardware you already have stays in place.
Which relays work with DoorVi?
ESP32-based relays, the Waveshare ESP32-S3 WiFi relay, Sonoff smart switches and Tasmota-based relays.
Does the relay need an internet connection?
Yes. The relay joins Wi-Fi or LAN and registers with the DoorVi cloud, and the resident's unlock command reaches it over the internet.
What if my building already has PDK, Brivo, Mobgate or Intelbras?
Then you may not need a relay: DoorVi can open the door through those access-control systems (see the integrations).
How do I choose the right relay?
Tell the DoorVi team which gate, lock or motor you have, and they will help you pick a relay that fits it.
Have an Existing Gate You Want to Control Remotely?
Tell us what gate, lock, or motor you're working with, and we'll help you pick the right relay to connect it to DoorVi. Do relay retrofits for clients? Become a DoorVi partner.
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