u/grass-fedd

Since it seems many building managers are reluctant to upgrade to the more modern intercom systems, I found a way to make my buzzer (just for my unit) smart.

It your buzzer system dials a phone number and then you need to press a digit (like 6 or 9) to unlock the door when someone buzzes, then it will work for you too.

Tested it using different intercom brands and also got approval from my HOA to do it.

The secret is to swap out the phone number you use with a virtual phone number (costs a few $ per month) that allows you to automatically answer the buzzer calls based on the rules/ schedules you set.

Here’s the GitHub if you want to do it yourself using n8n + twilio: https://github.com/drulofs/smart-buzzer-n8n

BuzzerBee is for building intercom systems that call your cell phone and require you to press a number (like 6 or 9) to unlock the door.

When you sign up, you get a dedicated phone number that you add to your buzzer system. This is what allows you to control access through the app instead of answering every call.

Nothing is installed in the building, and the existing buzzer, wiring, and door hardware stay exactly as they are.

It’s especially useful for roommates sharing a buzzer, people who receive a lot of deliveries, businesses that regularly buzz in customers, and Airbnb hosts managing guest access.

One of the more fun features is the “magic word.” You can set it up so BuzzerBee unlocks automatically during a scheduled access window, or require the visitor to say the access code/magic word first.

The Resident plan is $4.99 CAD/month. The Business plan is $10.99 CAD/month.

Use code BUZZ if you want to try it free for a month!

https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/buzzerbee/id6746742882

For the home automation nerds here…

If your apartment buzzer calls your cell phone and then you have to press a number (like 6 or 9) to unlock the front door, you can automate this in a fun way.

I now have the call answered automatically, ask the visitor to “say the passcode”, and then unlock the door if they get it right.

You can also make the passcode any phrase you want which is great if you want to embarrass your friends before they get access…

Great for deliveries too.

How it works

When someone buzzes, these intercoms dial a phone number, and then you answer and press a digit (like 6 or 9) to unlock the door.

That meant I could automate the process of granting access without touching any of the building hardware.

I used n8n and Twilio to build a workflow that:

• Answers the incoming buzzer call
• Asks the visitor to say a magic word
• Sends the unlock digit tone (9 in my case) if the magic word matches
• Keeps the door locked and ends the call if it does not match

The magic word adds some security and is safer than automatically letting in anyone who buzzes.

Number codes (for example, "123") have been the most reliable, although making friends say something ridiculous to get into the building is much more entertaining...

It costs a couple $ per month for the Twilio phone number, and then just the cost of the n8n workflow hosting.

If you want to do this yourself, check out the GitHub.

Or if you want the hosted version, there is an app called BuzzerBee.

I’ve got a 5ft bed with a topper and I’m looking for a tent extension so I can sleep in the back with the tailgate down.

I know the easy solution is get a 6ft bed but I’m not considering that option right now.

I’ve looked into TopperTent, but they don’t ship to Canada.

I’ve also seen one on Ali Express and I know people have had success with the Ali Express camper shells.

I’ve tried 2 of the generic Amazon truck/SUV tent extensions and they are garbage.

Anyone have any recommendations?

I’ve got a stock-height TRD Off Road running 265/70/17.

I understand the benefits of lifting for fitting bigger tires, improving approach/departure angles, gaining suspension travel etc, but I haven’t found myself in many situations where I’ve been limited by ground clearance.

For those that added a 2-3” lift, was it mainly because you wanted the look + bigger tires or did you find you were actually dragging on the trails at stock height too much?

Been loving the look of the truck at stock height and it’s very capable as is but also starting to get out on some tougher trails.