Abstract: A remote convenience system (10) for remote control performance of a function includes a portable transceiver (14) and a controller transceiver (16). Preferably, the system (10) is for a vehicle (12), and the controller transceiver (16) is vehicle-based. The portable transceiver (14) is operable for remote control requests, and includes circuitry (42, 52, 54, and 60) for transmitting a function request signal (18) that contains a function request (C) and a security key (T.sub.1). Also, circuitry (42, 52, 54, and 60) of the portable transceiver (14) receives a response signal (36) that contains a new security key (T.sub.2), and updates to the new security key. The vehicle-based transceiver (16) includes circuitry (30, 74, 78, and 82) for processing valid function requests and for controlling performance of the requested function.

Abstract: A transmitter (12) for a remote control convenience system (10) has a housing (22). A pushbutton (e.g., one of 24-30) is located on the sousing (22) and is manually actuatable for requesting remote control performance of a function by a remotely located receiver (14). Transmit circuitry (32) of the transmitter (12) is located within the housing (22) and is operatively connected to the pushbuttons (e.g., one of 24-30). The transmit circuitry (32) outputs an electrical signal that conveys a message requesting performance of the function in response to actuation of the pushbutton. A flexible antenna (34) is operatively connected to receive the electrical signal from the transmit circuitry (32) and to output a signal (18) intended for reception by the receiver (14). The antenna (34) has a stored position coiled inside the housing (22) and an extended position extending outside of the housing.