If you’re trying to troubleshoot your Genie garage door opener or replace a remote, you might come across the term “Type Two Genie Garage Door Opener.” But what exactly does that mean? Many homeowners find this label confusing—especially when setting up new remotes or wall consoles.
In this article, we’ll explain what a Type Two Genie garage door opener is, how it differs from other models, and what accessories work best with it. Whether you’re programming a new remote or identifying your opener type, this guide will help you do it with confidence.
Understanding Genie Garage Door Opener Types
Before we define Type Two, it’s helpful to know that Genie categorizes its openers into different “types” to make remote pairing and compatibility easier.
Each “type” represents a generation of opener technology. These classifications are especially important when programming new remotes or keypads because different types use different frequencies and security systems.
Genie Opener Type Overview
| Type | Frequency | Security System | Typical Models |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type One | 390 MHz | Intellicode I | Early models (pre-2010) |
| Type Two | 315/390 MHz dual-frequency | Intellicode II | Modern models like Genie 2028, 3055, 7035 |
| Type Three | Wi-Fi-enabled | Intellicode II + Aladdin Connect | Smart models post-2020 |
The Type Two Genie Garage Door Opener falls into the middle category — a bridge between traditional and smart openers.
What Is a Type Two Genie Garage Door Opener?
A Type Two Genie Garage Door Opener is a dual-frequency model that uses the Intellicode II security system. This means it can transmit on both 315 MHz and 390 MHz, allowing it to avoid frequency interference from nearby devices (like Wi-Fi routers or LED lighting).
Type Two openers are designed for reliable signal performance and enhanced security, automatically changing the access code every time you use the remote.
Key Features of Type Two Models:
- Dual-band 315/390 MHz transmission
- Intellicode II rolling code security
- Compatible with HomeLink® and Car2U®
- Supports both Series II and Series III wall consoles
- Works with Genie remotes like G3T-R and GM3T
Type Two is the most common Genie system in homes built between 2010 and 2020.
Identifying If You Have a Type Two Genie Garage Door Opener
Not sure whether your opener is Type Two? You can check easily in three ways:
1. Look at the Learn Button Color
- Purple or Red = Type One
- Green = Type Two (Intellicode II)
- Blue = Type Three (Wi-Fi models)
2. Check the Model Number
Common Type Two models include:
- Genie 2028 / 2028B
- Genie 3053 SilentMax® Connect
- Genie 3055 SilentMax® 750
- Genie 7035 StealthDrive® Connect (early versions)
- Overhead Door equivalents (since Genie manufactures for them)
3. Read the Manual or Label
If your manual or motor housing says “Intellicode II” or lists both 315/390 MHz frequencies, it’s definitely a Type Two model.
How a Type Two Genie Garage Door Opener Works
At its core, a Type Two opener combines mechanical lifting power with digital signal security.
Here’s a quick breakdown of how it works:
- You press your remote button.
- The opener sends a coded radio signal on either 315 or 390 MHz.
- The receiver identifies the code using the Intellicode II protocol.
- If the code matches, the door motor activates and opens or closes the door.
- The code resets instantly to prevent reuse by potential intruders.
This “rolling code” system is the same technology used in modern car key fobs — making Type Two openers both safe and convenient.
Compatible Accessories for Type Two Genie Garage Door Openers
✅ Remotes
| Model | Description | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|
| Genie G3T-R | 3-button remote, Intellicode II | Full |
| Genie GM3T | Universal 3-button remote | Full |
| Genie G1T-A | Compact single-door remote | Full |
| Overhead Door OCDTR-3 | Compatible sister brand remote | Full |
✅ Keypads
| Model | Description | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|
| Genie GK-R | Wireless keypad, PIN protected | Full |
| Genie GK-BX | Weather-resistant, 3-door support | Full |
✅ Wall Consoles
| Model | Description | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|
| Series II Wall Console | Lock & light button | Full |
| Series III Console | Motion detection & LED indicator | Partial (depends on model year) |
Type Two vs Type One and Type Three: A Comparison
| Feature | Type One | Type Two | Type Three |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frequency | 390 MHz | 315/390 MHz Dual | 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi + 390 MHz |
| Security | Intellicode I | Intellicode II | Intellicode II + Smart |
| Smart Capabilities | None | Optional (Aladdin Connect) | Built-in Wi-Fi |
| Compatibility | Older remotes only | Wide range of remotes | App-based |
| Common Models | CM7500, IS550 | 2028, 3055, 7035 | 7155, 7055, 7155L |
📘 Intellicode II is more secure than the original Intellicode because it uses encryption algorithms to generate billions of rolling codes, making hacking nearly impossible.
How to Program Remotes to a Type Two Genie Garage Door Opener
If you’re pairing a new remote, follow these simple steps:
- Locate the Learn Button on the opener motor unit (green).
- Press and release the Learn button — the LED will begin blinking.
- Press and hold the desired button on your remote until the LED stops flashing.
- Test your remote by pressing the same button again to ensure the door operates.
🧠 Tip: You can store up to 7 remotes or keypads on a single Genie Type Two opener.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Remote not working | Dead battery | Replace with CR2032 battery |
| Door won’t open fully | Misaligned limit switch | Adjust up/down travel limits |
| Keypad not responding | Out of range or unpaired | Reprogram via Learn button |
| Light flashing | Sensor obstruction | Check Safe-T-Beam® sensors |
For deeper technical references, see Wikipedia for how garage door openers function across brands and frequencies.
Benefits of Type Two Genie Garage Door Openers
- Improved Security: Intellicode II protects against code grabbing.
- Reduced Signal Interference: Dual-frequency ensures reliable remote performance.
- Broad Accessory Support: Works with a wide range of Genie and Overhead Door accessories.
- Upgradeable to Smart: Can add Aladdin Connect® Wi-Fi control.
- Cost-Effective: More affordable than Wi-Fi models but still modern.
FAQ – What Is a Type Two Genie Garage Door Opener
Q1: What makes a Type Two Genie opener different?
A: It uses dual-frequency Intellicode II technology for stronger security and better signal reliability.
Q2: How can I tell if I have a Type Two opener?
A: Check the Learn button — if it’s green and marked “Intellicode II,” it’s Type Two.
Q3: Are Type Two openers compatible with universal remotes?
A: Yes, as long as the remote supports Intellicode II or dual-band frequencies.
Q4: Can I connect my Type Two opener to Wi-Fi?
A: Yes, with the Genie Aladdin Connect® adapter.
Q5: Is Type Two still supported by Genie?
A: Absolutely. It remains one of the most common models used in North America.
Q6: What batteries do Type Two remotes use?
A: Most Genie remotes for Type Two openers use a CR2032 lithium coin cell.
Conclusion
Now you know exactly what a Type Two Genie garage door opener is — a dual-frequency, Intellicode II system that bridges the gap between older analog openers and today’s Wi-Fi smart models.
If you’re looking for a reliable, secure, and upgradeable system, your Type Two opener still has years of life left. Simply match it with compatible remotes, keypads, or smart kits for seamless operation.
