The Moderne Apartments Avoids the Trap of High Costs, Complexity, and Disruption During IP Camera Deployment

3-minute read time 

Summary

• The Moderne Apartments in Milwaukee needed to upgrade from analog to IP security cameras, but felt trapped by the high cost, disruption, and long timelines of ripping and replacing existing infrastructure. 

• The systems integrator partner, DigitalBay, recommended NVT Phybridge Ethernet over Coax (EoC) innovations to avoid the trap by leveraging the existing and proven coax-based infrastructure. 

• The entire deployment of Butterfly MX IP cameras was completed in just one day, instead of the estimated month, with no business disruption. 

• By reusing existing infrastructure, the project significantly reduced infrastructure costs, time requirements, and electronic waste, aligning with environmentally responsible development practices. 

Problem

The Moderne Apartments, a luxury residential complex in Milwaukee, WI, was ready to modernize its outdated analog security system to enhance resident safety. However, the shift to IP-based Butterfly MX cameras posed a challenge, leaving the organization feeling trapped. Running new Ethernet cabling and addressing IDF closet requirements (due to the reach and cable-type limitations of standard switches) throughout the high-rise property would have required extensive demolition, higher costs, and lengthy delays, which were not an option in a fully operational residential environment. With tenants on-site and expectations for a seamless upgrade, The Moderne needed an innovative solution. 

Solution 

DigitalBay, a trusted technology integrator in the hospitality and property management space, recommended NVT Phybridge network innovations to overcome the reach and cable type limitations of standard switches. By leveraging the existing coaxial infrastructure, DigitalBay helped The Moderne Apartments avoid the trap of ripping and replacing existing and proven infrastructure. 

Using NVT Phybridge CLEER Ethernet over Coax switch innovations, the DigitalBay team successfully deployed the new Butterfly MX IP camera system across the building in just one day. The solution created a robust, secure, and high-performance PoE network, ensuring a fast and efficient deployment with no impact on residents or property operations. Integration with the building’s door access system further enhanced the safety and convenience features for residents and staff.

Result 

The project, initially projected to take nearly a month, was completed in a single day, exceeding expectations and delivering an immediate improvement to building security. The deployment was seamless, with no technical issues or downtime. Alex Twite from DigitalBay said, “The NVT Phybridge solution allowed us to deliver an efficient and cost-effective IP camera deployment for The Moderne Apartments, exceeding their expectations while avoiding the high costs and disruption of a network overhaul. The speed and simplicity of the deployment allowed us to earn the full trust of our client.” 

Sustainability 

The Moderne Apartments project reflects a growing commitment in the property management industry to adopt sustainable modernization practices. By reusing the existing coax-based infrastructure and avoiding invasive construction, the project significantly reduced electronic waste and environmental impact. This approach not only saved time and money but also aligned with best practices in green building upgrades. NVT Phybridge’s environmentally responsible solutions help forward-thinking organizations like The Moderne achieve both technological advancement and sustainability goals. 

About DigitalBay 

DigitalBay is a Wisconsin-based technology integrator specializing in IP surveillance, network infrastructure, and unified communications solutions. With a strong focus on the hospitality and multi-residential sectors, DigitalBay delivers innovative and reliable systems that meet the evolving needs of modern properties. Their hands-on approach and commitment to customer satisfaction have earned them a reputation for excellence across the Midwest.

About NVT Phybridge 

Our mission is to help organizations maximize their IP migration return on investment by providing high-quality network solutions that are robust, secure, simple to implement, and environmentally responsible. NVT Phybridge is a global leader in PoE network innovations that eliminate the reach and cable type limitations of traditional PoE switches. Our diverse and award-winning portfolio of long-reach PoE switches and extenders help organizations deploy the latest IP technologies over any new or existing single-pair UTP, coax, multi-pair UTP, or 2-wire infrastructure without high costs, complexity, business disruption, or security concerns.