10 Smart Car Key Programming Related Projects To Expand Your Creativity
Vehicle Smart Key Technology
The smart key technology found in vehicles allows drivers to unlock and start their car by just touching the door handle or placing the key into the pocket. It also permits a variety of other adjustments, such as the position of seats and temperature settings inside the car, mirror positioning and stereo presets.
This can also lead to security concerns.
Security
Smart keys are sophisticated computerized key fobs that communicate with the vehicle using one of the antennas in the car to open doors and start the engine. Smart keys, unlike traditional keys that emit the same frequency each time they're used, transmit encrypted signals that are compatible with the specific car to which they belong to. This makes it difficult for tech-savvy thieves to steal or spoof the signal and use the key to take your car.
For example, Mercedes' system -- called Keyless Go -- has an internal transponder that can identify the driver's key. When the Smart Key comes within 1.5 meters of a vehicle, it automatically unlocks the tailgate and door and starts the engine when a button on the key is press.
Some smart keys, such as the ones from BMW additionally have user-specific settings, which allow users to alter the mirrors, seat and the steering wheel's position and audio preferences with the touch of a single button. They also come with a backup lock, which will stop the car from starting if the key is not in the ignition.
This technology helps drivers avoid not locking their cars properly, especially when searching in the bag or purse to find keys in the parking lot of people who are not familiar with the area or where crime is high. Some systems will also notify motorists when the battery for their key is depleted, though this feature varies by the manufacturer.
Convenience
The smart key is ideal for those who are in a rush to get to their destination. By pressing the button on the trunk release or door handle you can unlock, lock and open your vehicle. The key fob can also communicate with your phone to track charging, location and other data about the vehicle, says Popular Mechanics.
It isn't safe to lock your keys in the car. The key fob is connected to an antenna in the vehicle to determine whether it's within range. If it's not in range, the engine will not start. This can deter thieves who could steal your vehicle in order to sell the parts.
The smart key also makes use of rolling codes to protect against hacking attempts and cloning, reports BMW. A computer within the vehicle reads the code and validates it prior to launching the engine. smart car key replacement cost uk have a backup mechanical system that is the key blade, which is hidden to enhance the appearance of the.
How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys can also detect the key when it is in use and adjust the vehicle settings accordingly. For instance, if turn on the car while holding the key fob in your hands, the windows and the sunroof are opened to let the air in the cabin breathe. You can also set an upper limit on speed that will only be applicable when the vehicle is started using the selected key, which could be useful if you loan your car to an inexperienced driver.
Battery Life
If you're looking for a way to get more mileage out of your vehicle's smart key, or just want to make sure it won't die during a trip to the grocery store, you can activate an auto manufacturer-specific feature called Power Saving Mode. To activate this feature simply press and hold the lock button while pressing the unlock button.
This will make it impossible for your smart key fob's smart device from being able to send or receive any radio waves. This will significantly extend the battery's life. You can always restart this feature by pressing the unlock and lock buttons once more.
Certain smart keys come with anti-theft functions that prevent them being copied by thieves. For instance, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to prevent unauthorized vehicle access. When a smart key is inserted into ignition, a computer within the car checks the code in milliseconds prior to beginning the engine. BMW offers a similar system with its Display Key, which has an LCD touchscreen on the smart key for added convenience, and allows drivers to lock and unlock their cars without ever removing it from their pockets.
Call Pop-A-Lock if you need to replace the battery in your smart key fob or if you are thinking of purchasing a vehicle with a smart-key. Our mobile locksmiths can change the battery of any smart key and assist you set it so that your car can recognize it.
Special Cases
While smart keys are not secure against theft, they can help to stop thieves. Smart key fobs are designed to prevent hackers from hacking the system. When they are inserted into the ignition of the vehicle, the computer verifies the code in milliseconds. This technology was invented by Mercedes-Benz and is currently used by many premium car brands.
A smart key system will continue to function even if you lose the key in the trunk or leave it in the restaurant. Some systems will alert the driver when the battery is not fully charged. Certain brands provide key covers specifically designed for smart keys. They ensure that the fob is protected from damage.