most likely he is discovering the difference between either 1.
different " rolling code " GDOs or a mix of older conventional
PCM GDOs and 2. the newer " rolling code " types.

the older PCM types have a row of circuit board switches that
have to be matched to operate properly. different brands may
have subtle differences that prevent them from being compatible
with other brands. ( different length of code , 1 , 2, or 3 different
operating freqs, etc. )

the newer " rolling code " encryption types must usually be
programmed
to match each other in order to be comparable. this must be done by
the retailer , at the store , much like getting your car key chain
remote ( also rolling code ) reprogrammed. here , again, different
brands have different codes or freqs and equipment from different
makers will not likely be comparable.

older , PCM, type openers can be " hacked " by both eavesdropping on
their " fixed " digital code ( from a nearby location ) or by brute
force , high power , " code sweep " generators.

most newer garage door operators have the " rolling code " type
openers and these cannot be hacked by any public means.
here again the openers must be matched by code types ( freq,
maker codeing , etc ) in order for the accessories to work.

search Google for " rolling code garage doors " for 50.000 hits

many suppliers have " universal " openers , both rolling code and
PCM that are designed to work with a number of different systems ...

search Google for " universal garage door openers " for about 54,000
hits .




k..................................



On Wed, 9 Jun 2004 10:15:25 -0400, "Lou"
wrote:

Anyone do this sort of work or have a pretty vast knowledge of brands and
compatibility?

Someone here in town has installed a Garage Door opener. He presented me
with the following two devices when asking the question or more so
presenting me with the problem.

Wards Magikey Model 702. There is a freq and a code listed on the unit.
Sears Model #139.53718. FCC ID # HBW3CQ53718

I'm not real clear on their installation - but they're telling me that the
Sears unit (remote) isn't working to open the door. Also the "Garage Keypad"
isn't working either (Sears brand - presumably the mate to the remote) but
the button inside the garage does work to raise and lower the garage door.
He is thinking the remote and key pad need set to work with the motor
assembly. I've never laid eyes on it, so I have no clue. IF anyone has any
info on either or both of these units, please let me know. Also, if you can
lead me - more so "him" in the right direction to get him straightened out,
that would be nice. "I" don't fool with openers so, I admit, I'm clueless
here.

Actually, I have a suspicion, he may be trying to piece together a couple
different systems as evidenced above - and though he swears the Keypad and
remote are Sears, "I" am thinking they may be of different models and not
compatible. "I" do not know nor did he say, what brand or model the motor
was for the opener. Not sure why he didn't go and buy "A" new unit -
complete. I suppose he is trying to save a few bucks, but I have a feeling
in the end he may screw around and waste more time and have more aggravation
than it is worth.

He nor I (certainly) have no paperwork on these two devices. If anyone does,
we'd appreciate any help. Please reply directly.

Thanks in advance.

Lou