Have you ever encountered a dumb thief who got a heart attack while unlocking a car? How funny it will be to see him startled by a loud alarm that comes from nowhere but your ride.
Car alarm systems have been prevalently used in the US not just to witness stupid thieves run but to keep their invested cars from troubles of vandalism. A lot of cars today are equipped with sophisticated electronic sensors, remote-activation systems, and blaring sirens. Such gadgets will also provide ample security to your ride, even with your wheels that can possibly attract thieves.
So what basically is an alarm?
Most modern alarm systems are much more sophisticated as they are composed of:
- Sensors that have switches, motion detectors, and pressure sensors.
- Siren that provides you with a distinct sound for your ride
- Auxiliary battery that gives emergency power
- Radio receiver that facilitates wireless control from a key fob
- Computer control unit (CCU) that stands as the brain of the system
The CCU is a small computer that closes the switch to activate the alarm devices, which include the headlights, horn, and siren. Security sensors may differ on how these devices are wired into the CCU.
As the brain of the alarm, CCU should be properly powered by the battery. This power supply device is often backed up with a hidden battery that kicks in when somebody cuts off the main power source. Cutting the power is one of the possible indications of a trespasser; thus, the brain will be triggered, consequently sounding the alarm.
Here are some of the alarm sensor elements to which the CCU communicates:
DOOR SENSORS
Door alarm is a basic element in a car alarm system. Once the hood (or other doors including the trunk) is opened, the CCU will trigger the alarm system. In modern car models, the inside lights are turned on when any of the doors is opened. The switch regulating this mechanism is the same as that with your refrigerator. Once you close the door, it presses a small spring-activated button or lever that opens the circuit. On the other hand, when you open the door, the spring pushes the button open closing the circuit. This is the reason why the inside lights are turned on.
SHOCK SENSORS
Highly-advanced alarm systems principally depend on the shock sensors. These sensors are very effective in deterring thieves and vandals. Once somebody moves you car, shock sensor will send a signal to the CCU. Consequently, this unit will communicate with the alarm system, giving off warning horn beep or other sounds.
Setbacks…..
You may have heard about a lot of cases for false alarms. For this issue, many vehicle manufacturers are not anymore designing factory fit simple noise making alarms. They are instead offering silent yet effective immobilizers. Also, vehicle tracking systems are also used to have stolen vehicles traced. These systems are however more expensive.
Installing an alarm system in your vehicle is quite complicated. Make sure that you have it done by an experienced auto mechanic. Otherwise, the thief will be the one laughing at you.
No comments:
Post a Comment