Code learning system for a movable barrier operator

DETAILED DESCRIPTION The invention relates, in general, to an apparatus for controlling an actuator in response to receiving a coded transmission.
The apparatus includes a portable radio frequency transmitter, a fixed radio transmitter, such as a keypad device, a wired control device connectable via direct wire connection, all connectable to a head unit or other actuator device.
The system includes means for learning a new code from a transmitter or learning a new code from a fixed keypad having an RF transmission system.
In the event that the fixed keypad is employed, the operator typically has an alphanumeric keyboard associated with the keypad having keys.
A code may first be entered which allows the person to have access.
This code is then followed by a learn authorization code which, for instance, may be 0000 or some other easily remembered combination of alphanumeric characters.
At that point, the head unit authorizes receipt of a new code.
The new code is then typed in on the alphanumeric pad of the keypad and is received by the head unit and stored therein as a new code from which to respond.
In an alternative mode of operating the code learning system, a radio frequency transmitter or the like may be used to enter a code which is to be stored within a receiver in the head unit.
If such a radio frequency transmitter is to be used, the security to prevent unauthorized changing of the transmitter code is achieved through the use of the control pad which is located on the inside of the garage.
The light switch for the control pad is held down and as it is held down, the command switch is actuated.
The combination of the command signal and the light or work light signal is received by the head unit and the head unit then switches into a learn mode.
The radio frequency transmitter must be up and transmitting a code at the time that the command button is pushed so that a code is immediately received by the antenna of the head unit.
The code will then be stored in the receiver associated with the head unit and, from then on, actuation of the transmitter having that code stored therein will cause the garage door operator to be actuated