Can I control my old napco security system at home?

Seeking Advice
1

Hello,

I am a homeowner running a small business from home. I have an older Napco GEM-P3200 system, which is only local and uses wireless door sensors. The main purpose is to alert me if a resident from my adult group home goes outside at night. Is there any program I can buy or download to control this system? I want to manage when it turns on and off, especially with daylight savings time affecting the alarm settings. Any advice?

2

If the sticker with the 6-digit number is still inside the control box, you can program it. Without that, the Napco software won’t connect, and there’s no way around it. This is a common issue, and the system often becomes unusable. We usually recommend upgrading to a newer model since it also limits changing codes or station info.

3

@Lenox
The sticker is still there. I thought I needed to hire someone for this. Can I handle it myself?

4

Unclewaffl3s said:
@Lenox
The sticker is still there. I thought I needed to hire someone for this. Can I handle it myself?

If you have the code, you can search for Napco’s downloader software. It’s old and outdated, but it should be manageable for a DIY project. You’ll also need a special cord to connect to the panel directly.

5

@Lenox
Got it. I noticed the board has a telephone connector port. Do you know the exact type of connector I’ll need?

6

Unclewaffl3s said:
@Lenox
Got it. I noticed the board has a telephone connector port. Do you know the exact type of connector I’ll need?

You’ll need a serial port with an RJ connector on one end and a serial connector on the other to connect to your computer. A USB-to-serial adapter will also be necessary. The setup is pretty old-school. Napco’s website might have more details, but some info may be locked for dealers. The software you’ll need is called Quickloader, but I’d have to double-check on my laptop for specific part numbers.

7

You could contact a Napco dealer to install a communicator and set you up with the Gemini app.

8

Ameliascarlet said:
You could contact a Napco dealer to install a communicator and set you up with the Gemini app.

I thought the Gemini app was only available for dealers. Can regular users like me access it?

9

@Unclewaffl3s
That’s correct. You’d need a dealer to handle that for you.

10

Just a heads-up—there’s a known issue with older chip versions on some Napco panels. For example, the 9600 model won’t accept dates past 2021. I’m not sure if this affects the 3200. For programming, you’ll need Napco Quickloader software and a PCI-Mini adapter. Be cautious about using a generic cord; only the one that comes with the adapter will work. Using a regular cord might damage the adapter. After connecting, create a new account for the Gemini 3200 in the software. Enter the 6-digit security code, select local connection (icon looks like a phone), and upload the settings from your panel. Be careful not to overwrite it with blank data.

11

@Raphael
Thanks for the info. This helps a lot!