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How to Program LCD Keypads

LCD keypads are the control devices for whatever electronic device we have installed. As such, they are as different as the companies which make them, and the devices they are used to control. LCD keypads may contain only a few buttons for a simple device with limited capability, or up to 12 or more buttons for more complicated devices with multiple commands and functions. Keep in mind that keypads are input devices that use single keys to enter commands that may be several lines in length. In order for the keys to function correctly, the information that guides them must be installed.

Things You'll Need

  • Screwdriver
  • Wire strippers
  • Wire cutters
  • Electrician tape
  • Pliers
  • Multimeter
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Instructions

    • 1

      Set the data bus address and enrolling device(s) on the system first. This establishes the needed communication link between the keypads, related devices and the control. Each device has a unique address that matches the device type. Refer to your specific device manual if the following steps are different, as steps for every device can be different. There is no general process that fits every device, but most LCD programming involves most of the following.

    • 2
      Data busses are the information carriers for your system.

      Set the data bus address first. Depress and hold the star key (*) until the LCD displays. Press the F1 key, and the current address setting should appear. Set the new, preferred address by entering a number from 1 to 16, or whatever number range your own manual gives. Hit "Exit" to save and exit the address setting menu.

    • 3

      Use the arrow key to scroll next to "Installation Programming," or refer to your manual and press the button entitled "Installation Programming." Enter the "Installer Program Code" from your manual. The first Installer Programming menu should be "Bus Module Enrollment." Press the arrow key to select "Enrolling Bus Modules." Use the arrow key and select "Edit" to view the enrolled devices or remove if you wish. Press "Exit" to leave this menu.

    • 4
      When splicing these wires, be sure to match wire colors.

      Install an external proximity card reader next, if you like. This is optional for most LCD keypads. Turn off the power to the control panel. Take the keypad off its mount, and disconnect the cable assembly (usually 6 wires). Splice the red and black wires from the eternal prox reader to the red and black wires of the data bus and cable assembly. Do the same with the green and white wires from the external prox reader and the green and white wires of the connector. Turn the M1 power switch and follow enrollment instructions for the enrollment cards.

    • 5

      Use the same procedures to enroll prox cards as you use to add or change user PIN codes. Go to the "Change User Codes" display, usually button/key 6, but refer to your manual. Enter the Master User code to access this menu. Either enter a 3-digit number you will remember, or scroll through the list of 3-digit codes and select one.