The current branded, factory-installed devices are much more humane and at the same time much more efficient.
ELECTRONIC RESOURCES
One of the most common conveyor belt antitheft is immobilizer. Electronic systems that block the engine when trying to start it without the permission of the owner appeared in the last century. Today they are installed on many domestic cars, not to mention foreign cars.
The driver inserts the key into the ignition switch and turns to start the engine. Devices exchange encoded signals, “recognize” each other and issue a command to the anti-theft system unit. In some models, she at the same time checks whether the driver squeezed the clutch or moved the selector to the "parking", and passes the baton to the engine computer. The engine has started, and the code for the next start is updated.
In some modern models, you can turn the larva in the ignition switch with any key or even with another suitable object - there are no mechanical protections, everything is under the control of electronics. Tricky notches and cloves of the key are a thing of the past, an increasingly common alternative is an electronic card. The driver inserts it into the slot on the panel and presses the "Start" button. Then everything happens according to the same scenario as in the “key” version.
More and more companies are abandoning the traditional scheme for the sake of comfort and are offering “contactless” key rings and cards that are enough to carry in your pocket or bag. Such transmitters send a radio signal to an antenna hidden between the front seats. If your “password” is correct, the motor comes to life, just press the start button. But a child who accidentally finds himself in the driver’s seat will not be able to start the car when dad got out of the car. Naturally, if that out of forgetfulness did not leave the keychain inside.
One of the most complex systems identifies the driver by fingerprint. The owner does not need any trinkets or keys - the authorization code is always with him. A sensor integrated in the start button will verify the print with a sample from the electronic archive. If at least 80% of the footprint area matches, access is open. Are several drivers driving? The memory device will adjust the seats, steering column, mirrors, find your favorite radio station, take care of the climate. Nevertheless, electronics sometimes malfunctions - for example, if your hands are wet. And for those who have damaged skin on their fingers, they are not at all recommended to use such devices - the fingerprint reader will often be mistaken during identification. However, in the event of a malfunction or failure, complex anti-theft devices are almost always duplicated by a mechanic - a spare key.
COMFORT AT DISTANCE
Nevertheless, the ignition key is losing ground. Perhaps in a few years it will become history, such as, for example, a “crooked starter”. After all, we are already used to doing without it when unlocking the doors. True, keyholes are not yet in a hurry to refuse, and the buttons are still located on the key head. By pressing a button, the driver sends a radio signal to the receiver so that the control unit opens the car. However, as an option, especially demanding customers are increasingly offered systems that independently recognize the owners. Once you take the door handle, the built-in sensor informs the control unit: it’s time to unlock the lock. At the same time, the transmitter in the driver’s pocket sends signals to antennas located around the perimeter of the car. If the transmitter and receiver codes are the same, welcome to the salon.
It is curious that such systems already "see" which side a person is approaching. The on-board computer can be programmed to open only one, for example, a driver's door or any other that a transmitter is approaching. After the trip, just press the button on the handle to activate the antenna - the locks will close, the windows will rise, the engine will lock and a new code will appear on the card or key fob for the next access.
The usual mechanical ignition lock also blocks the steering wheel. Therefore, it is located next to the steering column, which is not safe for the driver. And electronic "substitutes" can be placed anywhere, even under the seat. But at the same time you have to refuse additional protection or … install a steering column with an electromechanical lock. Conveniently! No need to look for a position in which the steering wheel locks - it will freeze as soon as the engine stops working.
Anti-theft devices are becoming more sophisticated and more sophisticated - they are overgrown with new functions, get convenient controls, and protect more from the enemy. But after all, hijackers are gaining mind and reason. This confrontation will last … At least for a long time. Well, we, car owners, will "cheer" for the manufacturers.
DO NOT STEAL
