Remote keyless system

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Entry remote for a Chrysler vehicle

A remote keyless system is a system designed to remotely lock, or unlock, access to premises or automobiles. Most RKE systems today rely on KeeLoq algorithm and protocols.

In the case of automobiles it duplicates all of the features of a standard car key with the added convenience of operating the power door locks, eliminating the need to physically manipulate a key into a lock as well as being able to do so at a distance.

A remote keyless system can include both a remote keyless entry system (RKE) and a remote keyless ignition system (RKI).

It works on the same principle as some television remote controls — sending pulses of radio frequency energy on a particular frequency, rather than most television remotes which use infrared. These pulses are interpreted by the receiver in the automobile, which, in turn, performs the appropriate function. Newer systems implement encryption to prevent car thieves from intercepting and spoofing the signal.

For the door locks, the system works in two ways by either providing confirmation of successfully (un-)locking the car through a light or a horn signal. Usually the system offers an option to easily switch between these two variants. While both versions provide almost the same functionality, the light signals are more discreet while horn signals might create a nuisance wherever other people are around, but especially in residential neighborhoods, in front of office buildings and other busy parking areas (e.g. short-term parking lots). This is because most people perceive the horn signal as a warning sound. The more widespread the use of the horn signal for the remote keyless system becomes, the higher the risk that the horn signal loses its warning function in dangerous situations.

The functions of a remote keyless entry system are contained on a small, hand-held fob attached to the keychain or built into the ignition key handle itself. Buttons are set aside to either lock or unlock the doors, plus open the trunk (or, on sport utility vehicles and station wagons, unlock/open the rear tailgate). Some cars will also close any open windows and roof when remotely locking the car. On many newer cars, the remote keyless fob also contains a button to activate the car alarm.

Some cars engines with remote keyless ignition systems can be started by the push of a button on the handheld fob.

For offices, or residences, the system can also be coupled with the security system, garage door opener or remotely activated lighting devices.

1 Programming Keyless Remotes
2 Trunk remote opening and closing
3 Advanced Key
4 External links

[edit] Programming Keyless Remotes

Programming fobs can be rather difficult and is often taken care of by dealerships. As fobs have become more prevalent in the auto industry sales of unprogrammed devices on sites like eBay have become popular. Some sites sell steps to program fobs for individual models of cars as well as accessory kits to remotely activate other car devices.

Remote keyless entry fobs emit a radio frequency with a designated FCC radio ID. In fact it is your car that is programmed in the process not the fob. In general, a procedure is done to put the car in 'programming mode'. This usually entails engaging the power in the car several times while holding a button or lever. It may also include opening doors, or removing fuses. The procedure can be different for different make, models, and years. Once in 'programming mode' one or more of the fob buttons is depressed to send the FCC radio ID to the cars on board computer. The computer saves the ID and the car is then taken out of 'programming mode'. The fob is ready for use.

Wiki users are encouraged to post links for How to's for different makes and models or simply add a section to this post.

[edit] Trunk remote opening and closing

On cars where the trunk release is electronically operated, it can be triggered to open by a button on the remote. Conventionally, the trunk springs open with the help of hydraulic struts, and thereafter must be lowered manually. Premium models (like SUVs with tailgates possibly out-of-reach for some) may have a motorized assist that can both open and close the tailgate for easy access and remote operation.

This section is a stub. You can help by expanding it.

[edit] Advanced Key

Some cars have a proximity system that is triggered if a keylike transducer (Advanced Key) is within a certain distance of the car. It is sometimes called hands-free.