The following is a glossary of terms, along with their corresponding definitions that you might run across while researching automotive security products from various manufacturers. This list is meant to help you identify certain features or functions considered important and desirable to consumers shopping for auto security systems for their vehicles. Although what follows is comprehensive, it is not able to be fully complete of course—but we hope that by compiling this list, you will be able to better inform yourself of the technology available to you for your vehicle’s protection…
1-Way Transmission
This applies to how the transmitter keyfab communicates with the alarm brain inside of the vehicle. In a 1-Way system, the keyfab transmits a signal to the alarm brain, that the alarm brain then decodes and acts upon—such as telling the brain to lock the vehicle’s doors, and arm the alarm. Because this is a 1-Way transmission, the keyfab receives no verification that the alarm brain did indeed execute directives, but if you are in close proximity to your vehicle you will of course hear the siren chirp and parking lights flash telling you the directive was executed properly. Should your vehicle’s alarm be triggered while you are away, you will not be made aware like you would in a 2-Way transmission system (see below).
2-Way Transmission
Just like a 1-Way transmission, this applies to how the transmitter keyfab communicates with the alarm brain inside of the vehicle. In a 2-Way system, the keyfab transmits a signal to the alarm brain, that the alarm brain then decodes and acts upon—such as telling the brain to lock the vehicle’s doors, and arm the alarm. However and different from a 1-Way transmission, the alarm brain then sends a verification in the form of a readout (in the case of an LCD/LED keyfab), or a signal chirp (for a non-LCD/LED keyfab) letting you know the directive was successfully executed. Also, should your vehicle’s alarm get triggered while you are away, the brain will communicate with the keyfab to alert you to the security breach as long as you are within the recommended transmission range of course.
Active Arming
Gives you the option to arm the system from the remote when needed. Personal choice, just like the light switch on the wall, lets you turn it on or off as desired. *See Passive Arming
Automatic Engine Disable
AED is a full-time, passive starter kill that works independently of the security system. Thieves can not start your car thanks to AED. Great if you go into a store without arming the vehicle. Automatic Engine Disable takes active arming to the next level.
Auxiliary Channel
Auxiliary channels allow for extra security and convenience features to be wired through the alarm and thus, activated by the keyfab. Features like window roll up and down, progressive door lock/unlock, sun roof open/close, or any other convenience option requires a dedicated auxiliary channel in order to function.
Auxiliary Channel 2
Auxiliary Channel 2 is activated by holding down Button 2 for three seconds. It can be used to control expansion features such as remote trunk release, windows open/close, gas cap or remote-start another vehicle. This offers enhanced convenience and security with the push of a button.
Bitwriter
This is a compatibility function that allows for PC programmability, by allowing customization functions to be programmed via a PC or laptop with the proper software configuration and compatibility.
Channel 3
To activate Channel 3, depress buttons 1 and 2 of the transmitter at the same time. Channel 3 allows for the use of additional fun and convenient features such as window roll-up, remote start or even garage door interface. 3-channel system press button 1+2 7/9-channel system press button 3.
Code-Hopping
Code-Hopping is an advanced form of vehicle security. This breakthrough technology never sends the same code twice. Code-Hopping was designed to address the growing threat of thieves who use intercepting devices to learn remote transmitting codes so they can disarm vehicle security systems. State-of-the-art security system enhanced by numerous code combinations and Code-Hopping for added peace of mind. Code Hopping provides state-of-the-art protection against illegal devices called code grabbers, which intercept and retransmit digital codes.
Current Sense Technology
Current Sense Technology is a method of detecting when a light bulb in the vehicle is turned on. It is typically used to sense when the dome or trunk light in the vehicle has come on. It is successful in ignoring other types of current flow by sensing the type of load that is applied and filtering out those that do not resemble a light bulb.
Customize Your Remote
Lets you dedicate transmitter buttons to a single function, making the system easy to use and easy to understand. Freedom of choice, flexibility, and open systems.
Data 2 Data (D2D)
Data-to-Data (D2D) allows remote starters and hybrids to seamlessly communicate with their matching XpressKit interface.
D2D Serial Data Port
Quickly connects your alarm system to other interface devices via D2D cables.
Domelight Supervision
Illuminates the car’s interior when disarming, making it easier to look inside the vehicle before getting in. Flashes the domelight during the alarm mode as an added deterrent, providing convenience and peace of mind. Activated automatically by the remote control, domelight supervision provides convenience and piece of mind. Turns on the interior light when disarming, allowing you to look inside the vehicle at night, for safety and security purposes.
Dual-Button Remote Controls
Engineered to achieve maximum range for your security system, the sleek two-button, low-profile design provides easy access with its natural contours. The transmitter automatically turns itself off after 10 seconds, ensuring that its battery won’t go dead even if you leave the button pressed in.
ESP2 Technology
ESP2 is a serial communications protocol that allows extra ultra-security, high-speed communication between systems and enables many of the security system’s key features.
Failsafe Starter Kill
The vehicle’s starter solenoid will remain connected unless a thief attempts to hot-wire the ignition switch. Failsafe Starter Kill keeps the vehicle where you parked it: No unauthorized user can operate your vehicle once you’ve armed it, even with your key. The difference between an alarm system and a security system is having this anti-theft feature.
Fault-Proof Starter Interrupt
Keep your car where you parked it with this layer of protection against “hot-wiring” by car thieves.
Forced Passive Arming
The next level of passive arming. Forced Passive Arming ensures that even if you leave your car door open, the system will arm and bypass that particular zone (door, sensor, switch etc.) after one hour. Passive arming must be selected for this feature to be enabled. Great if you leave your vehicle in a hurry and left it unsecured, Forced Passive Arming ensures you are protected always. Use an existing switch in the vehicle as your hidden override switch. Pick your secret switch, and the number of pulses—no thief will ever find it!
G5 Technology
G5 has arrived, the first major vehicle security advancement of the 21st century. Over the past quarter century, Clifford engineers have created five distinct generations of definitive vehicle security technologies. G5 systems are the most advanced, reliable and uncompromising Clifford systems ever built, and is backward compatible with G4 systems as well.
Ghost Switch
Ghost Switch is an innovative bypass method that sends a coded signal from an existing switch in the vehicle. Imagine you’ve lost your transmitter while the system is armed. With Ghost Switch, Just turn on the ignition and operate the assigned switch the appropriate number of times to bypass the system. Now you have a security feature that doesn’t require an extra switch and is very easy and convenient to use. No worries of a thief finding a valet/override switch in the vehicle, thanks to Ghost Switch.
Guaranteed Protection Plan (GPP)
Refunds your insurance deductible if your vehicle is stolen within one year, even if the vehicle is recovered. Offered by several companies including Directed Electronics but is subject to preregistration as well as other terms and agreements in most cases.
High Frequency
High Frequency (HF) systems operate at a “cleaner” spectrum with less interference and have a very stable signal. HF systems offer an increase in range, even in RF-congested downtown areas. HF series has value-added technology that empowers you to reach a higher level of performance and technology.
High Security Disarm
This feature is extremely useful when you can’t see the vehicle. If you hear the alarm sounding, you can be confident that when you stopped the siren with your remote, the system remained fully armed and the doors remained locked, just in case there is a continued threat.
Icon Mode
If what you’re looking for is an easy-to-use and understandable setup, with Icon Mode each transmitter button can be assigned a specific function. For example: Arm only on button one, Disarm only for button two, Panic only for button three and trunk release on button four. Standard or custom setup, it’s up to you.
Ignition-Controlled Door Locks
Automatically locks doors when ignition is turned on and unlocks them when ignition is turned off. This feature adds safety for vehicle occupants and increases security in threatening situations. It’s great if you have kids! Requires Remote Keyless Entry-Power Door Lock interface *See Remote Keyless Entry
Invisibeam
Surround your vehicle with two invisible sensing fields. When someone gets too close for comfort, Invisibeam triggers either Warn Away response or full alarm. Perfect for convertibles!
Keyless Entry
Lock and unlock your doors with the push of a button.
Learn Routine
Up to four individual transmitter codes can be can be programmed via Learn Routine. It makes replacements a breeze. Multiple car security with only one transmitter is easy to create, thanks to Learn Routine. Features and settings are programmed electronically and stored to EEPROM. They are retained in memory when the vehicle’s battery is disconnected.
Lifetime Warranty
Many manufacturers offer limited lifetime warranties on their security products that covers malfunctions and defects due to manufacturer error. Of course A Razor’s Edge offers complimentary installation labor guarantees for as long as you own the vehicle on the security systems we install.
Nitelite
Light your path or find your vehicle at night for added security and convenience.
Nuisance Prevention Circuitry
Nuisance Prevention Circuitry (NPC) is smart enough to adjust itself to a variety of environmental conditions such as thunder, jackhammers, or airport parking lots. If NPC activates, only the zone that activated three times in 60 minutes is ignored. All other zones remain active, and disarming with the transmitter doesn’t reset the NPC; it’s only cleared when the ignition is turned on. Best of all, NPC comes back on in an hour if no further problems are detected. No More False Alarms. Nuisance Prevention Circuitry means no more false alarms, whether you’re parked at the airport, on a busy street or next to a construction site.
Owner Recognition
Remote control transmitters are his/her compatible. So if you like siren chirps and she doesn’t, you like ignition controlled door locks and she doesn’t, or you like active arming and she likes passive, no problem. Using a program like Bitwriter, up to four transmitters can be configured to control the system with independent settings.
Panic/Car Locator
Full alarm activates when Button 1 is held down, calling attention to the vehicle. You can deter a would-be assailant. This increases personal safety for the vehicle owner/operator. It also can serve as a quick and easy way to find your vehicle in a crowded parking lot.
Parking Light Flash
When the system is activated, parking lights flash to draw attention to the vehicle. When using the remote: One flash indicates on Two flashes indicates off Three flashes indicates that the system was activated while you were away Confirmation when the system is armed or disarmed makes it easy to use.
Passive Arming
When placed in this mode, the security system will arm itself 30 seconds after you leave the vehicle. Even if you forget to arm the system, passive arming will protect the vehicle from would-be thieves. This feature can be used in conjunction with power door locks and windows to fully secure the vehicle. *See Active Arming.
PC Compatible
Freedom of choice and easy to use; what could be better? Chose the features you like and have them work your way. You will see on-screen exactly what your choices are and even get a handy printout for reference.
Power Windows
Roll windows up or down directly from your remote. You will never forget to roll up your windows again.
Progressive Door Trigger
Prevents users of the vehicle from any undue embarrassment and noise if they open the door without using their remote to disarm the system. It immediately delivers a series of chirps prior to the continuous siren blast. This provides enough time for the user to disarm the system.
Rapid Resume Logic
Technology is made possible by a much smarter and more sophisticated micro processor, which will store vital information even when system power is lost. Thanks to Rapid Resume Logic, the system will always know what it’s supposed to do.
Remote Control Auxiliary Channels
You can get creative and design a custom remote control application, including popping the trunk with Channel 2, starting the engine with Channel 3, turning field disturbance sensors on or off with Channel 4. You can even turn on your car’s audio system, vent power windows and turn on headlights. *Some features require upgrade components.
Remote Keyless Entry
Activates vehicles power door locks* by remote control, when arming or disarming the system and in Valet Mode. You can lock or unlock the vehicle even with hands and arms full, with just one button on the remote transmitter. Why scratch the paint around your car’s keyhole? Use Keyless Entry to save your paint job. **Some additional equipment may be required. *See Ignition Controlled Door Locks.
Remote Start
Start your engine and your vehicle’s air conditioner or heating system from a remote location with Channel 3 of the transmitter. This is the ultimate in convenience and comfort. No more sizzling or freezing while waiting for the climate control system to take effect. *Only available for automatic fuel injected vehicles. Start your car by remote control from the comfort of your home or office.
Remote Valet
Where’s the Valet switch? Locked away in the glove box! Open the vehicle’s door and get in and out of Valet by pressing 1-2-1 on your remote. Remote Valet turns security off but leaves convenience on. You can turn off the system for servicing or valet parking directly from the remote control. Convenience by remote control: No more reaching for a switch installed in the vehicle.
Responder HD
Responder HD features DEI’s most advanced color remote, operating a one-mile range, 2-Way security and remote start system with an upgraded user interface, mini-USB charging port and patented menu wheel.
Responder LE Technology
The Responder LE 2-Way systems will protect your vehicle and its contents, from the comfort of either home or office and confirm all commands with GhostLight LEDs, all with unparalleled elegance, style and intuitive one-handed operation.
Responder LC3 Technology
Responder LC3 is the 3rd Generation of Responder SST, with one-mile range, an LCD screen that’s 20% larger, an upgraded user interface, 3 intuitive side buttons, and a mini-USB charging port for the built-in rechargeable battery.
Responder One Technology
Winner of the 2009 CES Innovations Award, Responder One offers one button remote start with range of up to 2,000 feet—plus LED confirmation It’s DEI’s smallest 2-way remote starter ever.
Silent Mode
Make your system quiet when you want, from your remote. Silent Mode is great for late-night arming and disarming. Simply press Button 2 for one second before arming or disarming, and the confirmation message will be eliminated for that one operation only. Silent Mode eliminates all messages and chirps, including the Bypass Notification and Tamper Alert. Patented Silent Mode lets you silence your arming and disarming chirps, right from your remote. Now you hear it-now you don’t! Great for late night arm/disarm.
Six-Tone Revenger Siren
It screams, shatters, pierces, blares, raps and zaps! The siren cycles through multiple tones, and by customizing, you can easily identify your car’s siren.
SmartStart Compatible
If you already have a compatible remote start system in your car, the DSM200 or DSM250 will add SmartStart capability to your system. Now you can remote start or lock and unlock your car just by pushing a button on your Smartphone using the exciting new Python SmartStart app from Directed Electronics. The simple graphical interface gives you control over the following features of your installed Python remote start or security/remote start system: Lock/arm, Unlock/disarm, Remote Start, Trunk release, Panic or car finder. You can also control multiple vehicles – great for families! – and assign more than one user to control a vehicle. It’s easy with SmartStart!
Soft Chirp
When arming or disarming, audible confirmation will chirp at 6dB lower than full siren. Now you can have the option of having muted or full chirps. Allows for custom tailoring of chirp sound level.
SST One Mile Range
Range is important, and now some companies offer transmitter range up to a full mile using Digital Spread Spectrum Technology (SST). SST uses digital frequency hopping and multiple frequency transmission to assure that, if a frequency is blocked, the signal still goes through.*One Mile Range based on line of sight, unobstructed testing in ideal conditions. Actual range will vary due to local conditions including but not limited to environment, terrain, physical obstructions, vehicle location and orientation, interference and other possible impediments.
Status LED
Status LED flashes as a visual deterrent and to report on important security modes. Status Reporting alerts the operator to any violation that occurred while the vehicle was armed. In Valet Mode, the LED will turn off when the ignition is on.
Stinger Doublegard Shock Sensor
Proven to the best, the Stinger DoubleGuard shock sensor discriminates between normal everyday occurrences and potentially harmful intrusions. Warn Away or full response depends on the threat. State-of-the-art sensor technology provides Warn Away output for light impact, or full alarm for stronger impacts. Your system will react accordingly with a standard series of chirps, or a salvo of sirens.
SuperCode
SuperCode is the technology that defines the functionality of the Responder LE and the intelligence that drives its advanced features. Its protocol encompasses software-based system signal encryption (replacing hardware-based Clone Safe Code-Hopping). Multi-car operation is designed into the SuperCode protocol, so users will have all of the possible operations for two cars controllable by one remote. 2-way confirmations and notifications of many different events and commands have been designed into SuperCode, so all SuperCode-enabled 2-way systems can tell the user more about their vehicle than any other system on the market.
Transmitter Code Linking (TCL)
A great automation/convenience feature. With TCL, each driver’s transmitter can be code-linked to auxiliary channel 4, 5 or 6. Picture this: Your memory seat setting can be activated because the system recognizes your remote! Functions can be automatically activated through TCL upon disarming. One remote for winter, the other for summer. TCL one to remote start, the other to vent the sunroof, etc.
True Alarm Technology
True alarm technology offers an array of features and functions that virtually eliminate false alarms while enhancing vehicle protection and convenience. Concerns about annoying and embarrassing false alarms are eliminated. If you hear your system, it’s definitely cause for alarm. Also see Nuisance Prevention Circuitry (NPC), Soft Chirp and Progressive Door Trigger.
Trunk Pop
Ask for the convenience of remote control trunk release that pops your trunk from your keyfab.
Unauthorized Transmitter Alert
A technology designed to prevent crime due to unauthorized transmitter access to vehicle systems. You can now have instant knowledge of any unauthorized access to your keyless entry system.
Vehicle Recovery System (VRS)
VRS is activated when unauthorized use of the vehicle occurs. The Failsafe VRS has three levels of response: The first stage flashes the LED. Soon after, the second stage begins by pulsing the siren and flashing the parking lights. The third stage energizes the starter interrupt until the VRS is disarmed. If your keys are stolen, you still have security and vehicle recovery, even if someone else takes your remote. A must for areas where carjackings are a concern. The vehicle Recovery System is the safest and most reliable anti-carjacking system on the market. Forces the carjacker to abandon your car within minutes.
Virtual Tach
A dedicated A-to-D converter samples your vehicle’s voltage hundreds of times each second, eliminating the need for a tachometer wire connection.
Warn Away
Warn Away reacts with a series of chirps and light flashes* when a light impact is detected. Warn Away delivers more accurate security, providing a response based upon the level of threat. The system will respond appropriately, with proactive protection. Note: Some optional sensors can activate Warn Away *Some Systems Optional Note: Optional voice modules can be used for Warn Away response.
XCR Onboard RelaysExtreme capacity remote start relays are built-in to Avital remote start systems. Relays are required in remote start systems in order to sync with the vehicles ignition system and thus facilitate remote starting from a keyfab.
XR Plus
XR+ Extreme Range superheterodyne receiver has an improved sensitivity specification of between 3 dB and 6 dB, which equates to a measurable range increase on the order of 15 percent. It also offers improved image rejection for certain types of RF interference, resulting in improved reliability.
Zone Out
You can easily select the level of protection appropriate to your environment. Zone Out offers multi-level security for you and your vehicle, right from your remote.
Zone-2 Impact Sensor
Detects blows or impacts to your vehicle with this 2-stage sensor that can react either with chirps or the full wrath of the siren.
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