napco 9600 stopped communicating via serial connection

[cmjindy]

I've had a setup for about 4 years with a Napco Gemini 9600
communicating to HomeSeer without too much trouble until recently. I
can no longer communicate with the panel using the RS232 kit. The
serial ports on the HomeSeer computer are working fine. I've also
tried connecting via the QuickLoader software from a second computer.
Any ideas on how to troubleshoot the panel? Does one component fail
most of the time (e.g. the panel, automation chip, RS232 converter)?
Beyond cutting the power to the panel and disconnecting the backup
battery for a few minutes is there something else to try if the panel
communication is locked up?

I can still arm the panel from the keypads so at least the "security"
functions seem to be working.

Thanks,
Chris

 

[Jim]

I've had a setup for about 4 years with a Napco Gemini 9600
communicating to HomeSeer without too much trouble until recently. �I
can no longer communicate with the panel using the RS232 kit. �The
serial ports on the HomeSeer computer are working fine. �I've also
tried connecting via the QuickLoader software from a second computer.
Any ideas on how to troubleshoot the panel? �Does one component fail
most of the time (e.g. the panel, automation chip, RS232 converter)?
Beyond cutting the power to the panel and disconnecting the backup
battery for a few minutes is there something else to try if the panel
communication is locked up?

I can still arm the panel from the keypads so at least the "security"
functions seem to be working.

Thanks,
Chris

If you're a dealer, just call Napco technical support.

If you're not ..........

 

[Bob La Londe]

As to the question about common failure modes, Napco's panels don't
usually go bad at all. I installed Napco systems for over 20 years and
the panels rarely needed service.

I have only had two issues. Not long after I started installing Napco I was
sent a bunch of eproms for a highly reccomended upgrade on the P1632. A few
years later I had several P1632s with failed memory chips. Napco replaced
them all.

 

[Frank Olson]

I have only had two issues. Not long after I started installing Napco I was
sent a bunch of eproms for a highly reccomended upgrade on the P1632. A few
years later I had several P1632s with failed memory chips. Napco replaced
them all.

DSC has done much the same in the past. I'm sure some of you will
remember the problems with the PC-3000 and the early version Skyroute.
While replacing over 130 chipsets in the former and over 20 on the
latter, DSC has generally been pretty good stuff. It's still pretty
easy to install and program.

 

[Jim]

We mostly used the P3200 and P9600 on our own installations. �There were
occasional problems but nothing of any significance. �I only installed a few
P1632 systems over the years though.

Yep, we know how far behind you are in the latest technology.

But ....... we also know that soon, it really wont matter......
anymore.

 

[Petem]

Chris,

bAss took his fishing rod

Once in a rare while those can fail. They're cheap to replace -- under
$21 retail. If you want to try swapping it with a new one contact me.
I'll send you one to try and if it solves the problem you can buy it.
Otherwise, just return it.

Now he put the bait on the hook..

If that doesn't solve the problem, you *might* need a new panel. However,
on the off chance that the processor itself is at fault, you can try
upgrading it. Call if you want and I'll get you a replacement chip.

Now he swing the line... and wait for a catch...

As to the question about common failure modes, Napco's panels don't
usually go bad at all. I installed Napco systems for over 20 years and
the panels rarely needed service.

And now he try to bull shit his way to the fish about his experience as an
installer...

now let see if he can get a catch!!