Abstract: A center cluster module which checks connection failures of connectors and for problems in electronic components after electronic components have been inserted into connection slot portions and informs the worker of connection status of the individual electronic components, thus improving work efficiency. A center cluster module includes a connection slot portion which removably receives a plurality of electronic components to be mounted on a vehicle. Component detection sections provided so as to correspond to individual electric components detect whether or not electronic components are inserted into the connection slot portion. From a detection signal output from each of the plurality of component detection sections, an inserted component determination section determines the state of the electronic component inserted into the connection slot portion. A display section indicates the result of the determination made by the inserted component determination section.

Abstract: The Baffler is a small and simple assembly of modified common use components hidden within the steering column enclosure. Said components are attached to the upper and lower sections of a cut automobile steering rod and controlled by a mechanical linkage powered by a bi-directional electric motor controlled by a contact on the ignition key core. Said bi-directional electric motor powers said components to interlock to provide normal steering control of the automobile or converesly to seperate said components to provide free turning of said steering wheel without any correcponding effect on the lower section of the steering assembly.

Abstract: A vehicle anti-theft and anti-vandalism alarm system (10) having a vehicle monitor which comprises at least one vehicle battery (12), at least one vehicle microprocessor (14) electrically connected to the at least one vehicle battery (12), a vehicle transmitter (16), a vehicle audio generator (18), a vehicle motion sensor (20), a vehicle vibration/movement sensor (22), a portable monitor (110) in communication with the vehicle monitor.

Abstract: 1. An integrated vehicle and building alarm system for protecting at least one vehicle located adjacent a building, comprising at least one vehicle alarm device, located within the vehicle, having means for detecting an intrusion into the vehicle, means for producing an audible alert in response to said intrusion, and means for activating an alarm signal when said intrusion occurs. The system also comprises a building alarm device having a plurality of input ports corresponding to a number of protected zones, the device is located within the building and has means for detecting the alarm signal on the input ports. In addition, the device has means for generating an alert signal when an alarm signal occurs. A junction box, having at least one input port and at least one output port, is located inside the building. An attachment cable is electrically connected between the vehicle alarm device and the input port of the junction box.

Abstract: Antennas of an anti-theft system are controlled with a pulse width modulated square-wave signal by a power control unit and a phase control unit. The control is such that a change in power causes no change in phase, and vice versa. This is accomplished by varying the pulse width of the square-wave signal if a change in power occurs and at the same time shifting the pulse rise time such that the phase remains constant.

Abstract: A memory device having the function of detecting the locking or unlocking condition of a remote controller comprises a battery, a key circuit a memory unit, a light emitting element, a testing key, an encoding unit, an infrared ray or a high frequency emitting driving circuit, etc. The positive end of the battery is connected with the power source (V+) of the memory unit. The lock key and unlock key of the key circuit are connected with the respective input end of the memory unit and the encoding unit. The output end of the memory unit is connected with one end of the light emitting element. Another end of the light emitting element is connected with one connection of the testing key and another end of the testing key is grounded. By the action of the testing key, the condition of the remote controller may inform the user. That is, if it is in a lock condition, then the light emitting element will light, while if it is in a "unlock" condition, then the light emitting element will extinguish.

Abstract: A vehicle security system includes a local area pager and additional anti-drive away protection. The remote transmitter of the system preferably includes a housing that is separated into two portions. A first portion is retained by the vehicle owner while a second portion is provided to a parking attendant with the vehicle. The vehicle owner can use the first portion to generate a signal that is received by the second portion and provides an indication to the parking attendant that the vehicle owner desires the attendant to retrieve the vehicle. Additionally, the system allows the vehicle owner to place the vehicle into a limited operation mode when the vehicle is left with the parking attendant.

Abstract: The invention relates to a security system for a motor vehicle opening leaf, comprising at lest one sensor capable of emitting or of receiving an electromagnetic signal so as to detect, remotely, the presence of a user's hand, wherein the hand-detecting means comprise an internal module which contains the control circuit and which is arranged on the inside of the bodywork panel, and an external module comprising at least one casing which bears the sensor, and the external and internal modules comprise means of connecting the sensor to the control circuit, which automatically come into contact with one another when the two modules are mounted on the opening leaf.

Abstract: A battery disconnection system (10) comprising a first electrical conductor (12) electrically connectable to a terminal of a battery; a second electrical conductor (16) electrically connectable to an electrical load (18); a first electrical contact (22) attached to the first electrical conductor; a second electrical contact (24) attached to the second electrical conductor; electrical connecting means (22) reciprocally movable in an axial direction (A) between a first position in which the connecting means electrically connects the first and second contacts and a second position in which the first and second contacts are disconnected; electric drive means (26) for moving the connecting means from the first position to the second position on receipt of a predetermined signal. The predetermined signal may be generated by a crash sensor, anti-theft device, or other adverse condition sensor, or a manually operable switch.

Abstract: A keyless access control system (10) controls access through an entranceway (e.g., a door 16) into a vehicle (12). A sealed security input module (14) of the system (10) is mounted on the vehicle (12) at a location to be accessible by an operator (18) located outside of the vehicle (12). The module (14) includes a keypad (22) manually actuatable by the operator (18) to enter a security code. The module (14) also includes a code-transmitting transmitter (26 and 28). A code-receiving receiver (38 and 40) is located in the vehicle. An induction power coupling (50) connects the security input module (14) and a vehicle power system (58). Preferably, a first half (48) of the induction coupling (50) is located in the module (14), and a second half (52) of the induction coupling is adjacent to the first half (48). During operation, power from the vehicle power system (58) is transferred to the module (14) via the induction coupling (50). The operator (18) manually inputs the security code to the module (14).

Abstract: An enabling device for a motor vehicle having an electronic ignition system and a passive anti-theft system includes an engine control circuit controlling the electronic ignition system of the motor vehicle, a passive anti-theft control circuit electrically connected to the engine control circuit for controlling the passive anti-theft system, and a latch electrically connected to the passive anti-theft control circuit to selectively enable the electronic ignition system.

Abstract: An antenna apparatus for a keyless entry device is also used for receiving a radio wave transmitted by a remote control unit within a vehicular compartment. The keyless entry device and the remote control unit are configured to generate respective radio waves having a common frequency. Both radio waves can be received by at least one antenna of a column switch and a steering wheel. The antennas are placed distant from the steering shaft and common ground pattern to improve transmitting and receiving sensitivity.

Abstract: A method of and system for enabling pursuing police cruisers or the like to remotely and safely stop the engine of an appropriately equipped stolen or improperly operated vehicle, wherein the cruiser transmits a control signal to a receiver pre-provided in the vehicle, to initiate, preferably through modified engine control modules, a forced and over-riding multiple-stage reduction in fuel supplied to the engine, first to slow down the vehicle below idling speed, and then to stall the engine by total fuel shut off.

Abstract: A door unlocking device for a vehicle includes transmit/receive device activated to send an operation signal to a portable transceiver and receives an identification code from the transceiver, the transmit/receive device unlocking a door locking mechanism when the identification code matches a preset registration code, a starter switch activating the transmit/receive device when a door knob of an exterior door handle is pressed toward a vehicle body through first door handle actuation, and the door knob actuated to a first operation position and unlock unit unlocking the door locking mechanism when the door knob of the exterior door handle is actuated to a second operation position as a result of second door handle actuation subsequent to the first door handle actuation in the direction opposite to the direction of the first door handle actuation.

Abstract: An anti-tampering circuit for a vehicle includes an operational circuit providing a predetermined function for the vehicle to be protected, and a control circuit connected to the operational circuit for enabling and disabling operation thereof. The control circuit includes a semiconductor substrate, a communications circuit formed on the semiconductor substrate receiving data corresponding to an identification code from at least one external source within the vehicle, and a non-volatile memory formed on the semiconductor substrate and connected to the communications circuit for storing only once a predetermined identification code. The communications circuit writes the received data to the non-volatile memory as the predetermined identification code when the control circuit is within the vehicle if the predetermined identification code has not already been stored therein.

Abstract: The invention relates to an anti-theft method for a vehicle. In accordance with the invention, a code word (K1) chosen by the user, and the serial number ESN or IMEI of the telephone (K2) are stored in a fastener element (4) connected to the vehicle (5) and serving as a cradle for the portable telephone (1). Before starting, the user is to put his telephone in its place in the fastener element. The telephone automatically verifies whether its serial number ESN or IMEI is identical with the one that is stored in the fastener element. In that case, the starter means of the vehicle are unblocked so that the action of the ignition key makes a start possible. In the opposite case, the starter means remain blocked.

Abstract: A vehicle door latch device comprises a locking lever displaceable between locked and unlocked positions, an antitheft member displaceable between an antitheft position for disabling an unlocking operation of an inside locking button and an antitheft cancelling position, a motor for changing the locking lever into the locked position by a predetermined amount of normal rotation thereof and for changing the antitheft member into the antitheft position by a continuous normal rotation thereof beyond the predetermined amount, a controller for carrying out a locking operation and an antitheft operation, and a power supplying circuit having a normal rotation circuit for supplying power to the motor for normal rotation and a brake circuit for causing the motor to generate electrical brake. The motor is connected to the brake circuit after the locking lever is changed into the locked position by the locking operation.

Abstract: A vehicle theft deterrent system for controlling the operation of a vehicle engine when the engine is in an unattended idle mode of operation wherein a vehicle ground speed sensor, an engine speed sensor, an operator input device actuatable to enter a security code, a power takeoff (PTO) switch operable to provide power from the engine to a remote location, a throttle position indicator sensor, cruise control switches, and an ignition key switch are all coupled to an electronic controller in a particular manner such that the proper combination of a valid security code and certain signal inputs from the various system components will enable and disable a secure idle mode of operation, and will limit vehicle operation if unauthorized use is detected while the system is enabled.

Abstract: A battery disconnection system (10) for mounting directly on a terminal (12) of a battery (16) of a motor vehicle comprising a housing (32); a battery terminal connector (17) secured to the housing; a normally closed electrical switch (20) mounted inside the housing; an electrical conductor (18) connected to the battery terminal connector and to one side (21) of the switch; one or more fuses (28) mounted inside the housing, and connected between the other side (23) of the switch and output terminals (29) mounted on the housing; a sensor (22) for detecting an adverse condition; an electromagnetically operated device (24) mounted inside the housing and electrically connected to the sensor, mechanically connected to the switch, and actuable on receipt of an adverse condition signal from the sensor to open the switch; and a manual control (26) mounted on the housing and mechanically connected to the switch for manually operating the switch. Reversible protection system with manual operation.

Abstract: A new add-on vehicular system is capable of responding to large area or nation-wide commands over paging networks, to remotely foil the unauthorized use or theft of a vehicle or a fleet automobile or a group of fleet vehicles, as well as to help the recovery of stolen vehicles. The preferred embodiment of the system comprises a paging receiver and decoder, a microcontroller with embedded programmable software and memory and a vehicular systems control interface. The system does not require central monitoring systems, or portable controls or vehicular user set controls or portable key chain controls or keypads or cellular phones or separation of vehicular transceivers from owner carried transceivers to activate the system. In a second embodiment, a two-way radio paging approach is employed in the system to expand its capabilities and to additionally provide remotely controlled transmission of data from vehicles, including data pertaining to the position coordinates of the vehicle.

Abstract: A lock for a vehicle such as a motorcycle includes a housing having a U-shaped portion and a transverse portion attached thereto. A first terminal end of the U-shaped portion is removeably received within an opening on the transverse portion allowing the housing to be secured about a portion of a vehicle. Removeably received within the transverse portion is a tubular insert having a keypad thereon in communication with an audible alarm means. The alarm means is in communication with a wire disposed within the U-shaped portion for emitting an audible alarm if the U-shaped portion is severed. The alarm means also activates a cellular transmission means for automatically dialing a predetermined number upon the alarm means being activated.

Abstract: Multiple pieces of equipment installed in a vehicle are freely installed and removed to equipment connection slots. A bus line interconnects the multiple pieces of electrical equipment installed in the equipment connection slots. Multiple operating switches arranged in a single unit on an operating section are provided in correspondence to the multiple pieces of electrical equipment for producing control signals to control each of the multiple pieces of electrical equipment. When any one of the operating switches is manipulated, a head unit controls, via the bus line, the electrical equipment corresponding to the manipulated operating switch.

Abstract: A switching arrangement for a security circuit as for an automobile, in which an arming switch is mounted behind a covering structure at a concealed location. A switch is normally attached to a position covering spaced conductors turning on the security circuit. A latching magnet is positioned over the concealed locations to pull the switching magnet off the conductors and disarm the security circuit.

Abstract: A vehicle immobilization system has an electronically controlled locking mechanism which requires interconnection with an electrical supply for it to be switched between a locked state and an unlocked state. The locking mechanism remains in the state to which it is switched when disconnected from the electrical supply. The immobilization system includes control means which operates to connect the locking mechanism to the electrical supply to switch it from one state to the other, and to disconnect the locking mechanism from the electrical supply when the vehicle engine is running or the vehicle is moving. The immobilization system also includes means to prevent cranking of the engine when the locking mechanism is in it's locked state.

Abstract: A communication apparatus for preventing an unauthorized use of a lost transmitter, and for making a use of that transmitter possible by a simple operation when the lost transmitter is subsequently found, including a receiver having a storage unit for storing an ID code, a signal processing unit for comparing a received ID code transmitted from a transmitter with the stored ID code, and for transmitting a control signal corresponding to a function code received from the transmitter to a controlled unit when the received ID code matches the stored ID code, and a mode control unit for either setting the operation mode of the signal processing unit to a ID code write mode in which a the received ID code is written into the storage unit, for setting to a control signal output stop mode which stops an output of the control signal from the signal processing unit to prevent unauthorized use of a lost transmitter, or resetting from the control signal output stop mode to a normal mode to allow re-use of the lost trans

Abstract: A vehicle security system includes an antenna carried by a first housing for positioning adjacent the front windshield area of the vehicle, a control switch carried by the first housing, and a security controller positioned in spaced apart relation from the first housing and being responsive to signals from a remote transmitter and also being responsive to the control switch. The antenna is for receiving signals from the one or more remote transmitters. The control switch may be a momentary contact switch. The security controller is preferably switchable between armed and disarmed modes. According to one aspect of the invention, the security controller may include a coded override feature for switching to the disarmed mode from the armed mode responsive to operation of the control switch in a predetermined pattern based upon a user override code. The coded override may accept an override code input as a series of control switch operations.

Abstract: A car remote control system utilizing a signal in the form of electromagnetic wave or infrared ray called `keyless entry`. When receiving a predetermined wake-up signal, an MPU is once operated even when the received input signal is a noise signal to perform only judging operation of whether or not the input signal is normal. Only when judging that the input signal is a normal wake-up signal, the MPU controllably causes an electronic circuit to be shifted to a usual operation mode. When judging that the input signal is the noise signal prior to full input of the tuner signal, the MPU immediately shifts to a sleep mode. Thereby current consumption of an electronic control circuit can be suppressed.

Abstract: The Frustrator Model E consists of a small unique claw-lever interacting with a toothed collar attached to the automobile steering rod to lock or unlock said steering rod, and activated by a simple arrangement of gears and levers powered by a bi-directional electric motor controlled by electric contacts on the ignition key core, all contained within the automobile steering column enclosure.

Abstract: A communication system and method for keyless-entry alarms includes a vehicle-mounted alarm transducer (215) controlled by a vehicle-mounted control system (250) that includes a receiver (207). The system also includes a hand-held R.K.E. transmitter device (200) for transmitting a radio-frequency message. The vehicle-mounted alarm transducer (215) is deactivated when receiving the transmitted radio-frequency message. If the vehicle-mounted alarm transducer (215) was active when it was deactivated, and a deactivate-alarm command code is not received in the radio-frequency message, then the vehicle-mounted alarm transducer (215) is reactivated after the transmitted radio-frequency message is completely received and decoded.

Abstract: A passive remote operating system is disclosed which may be employed to gain entry to a vehicle. A remote control, carried by a driver, periodically transmits a command signal whenever the remote control is moving. As the driver approaches the vehicle, the remote control comes within the reception range of a control circuit in the vehicle, which then receives the command signal. Receipt of the command signal activates the control circuit to begin sensing for an action by the driver, such as operation of a door handle, which indicates an intention to enter the vehicle. Upon sensing that action within a given period after receipt of the command signal, the doors of the vehicle are unlocked.

Abstract: A multifunction vehicle security system, which includes a receiver connected to a control unit which processes received information and enables various functions. The user can increase or decrease the sensitivity of the system sensor, by merely pressing a button on the remote control to increase the sensor sensitivity, and another button to decrease the sensitivity. A special programming mode resets the system programmable features and values to factory settings, to quickly re-establish to a known state all or only preselected features. The system provides automatic silencing during night conditions of the system's arming/disarming chirping to confirm the change of system state. The security system generates a door unlocking command to the vehicle's power door locking system to unlock the doors in the event of a vehicle collision. A theft warning LED energy management system conserves battery power when the vehicle is left unattended for long periods of time.

Abstract: A control system, particularly for a motor vehicle, having at least one control device which, in order to produce control parameters, is connected with a timer circuit for the production of a time parameter. In order to provide a control system in which a timer signal is available at all times, without the voltage supply system of the motor vehicle being under load when the engine is turned off, the timer circuit is located outside the control device.

Abstract: In an engine start control device useful as a vehicle robbery prevention device, a reference code is stored in EEPROM (20a) of an immobilizer ECU (20), and a processor (20b) compares a key code transmitted from a transponder (12) of a key (10) with the reference code. Subsequently, in case of an inconsistency, a signal L is transmitted to an engine ECU (24) to stop an engine (30), but when the collation is not completed or when another communication is not performed, the immobilizer ECU (20) transmits to the engine ECU (24) a start code encoded in an encoder (20c). The engine ECU (24) decodes the start code by a decoder (24b) to recognize it. Subsequently, if the start code cannot be recognized, the engine (30) is stopped. Thereby, in a case where a communication line connecting the immobilizer ECU (20) and the engine ECU (24) is disconnected, the engine (30) can be stopped.

Abstract: A system which can detect a vehicle that is missing or stolen on the basis of a missing vehicle signal which is transmitted from a car audio system in which a transmission apparatus is installed for transmitting the missing vehicle signal. When the car audio is initiated, a transmission control part causes a first display to show a message requesting to input a password and causes an audio part to mute an outputting of the audio sound. When the password is inputted by a keyboard, the control part causes an audio part to stop muting the audio sound, and causes a transmission part to transmit the missing vehicle signal when the password inputted from the keyboard is different from a password stored in a first memory.

Abstract: A emergency trunk release apparatus of disclosed, comprised of comprising a lock bypass panel, located inside a trunk compartment. The lock bypass panel consists of an activation switch that is wired in parallel with a vehicle's electric trunk release such that its actuation will cause the trunk to open. The activation switch is a depression-type activation switch with an enlarged pad surface that allows it to be found easily in a dark trunk environment. The activation switch may be illuminated by any conventional means, so as to facilitate viewing in the darkness of the trunk. The present invention also includes a manual deactivation switch that takes the present invention temporarily out of service during times where cargo may accidentally activate the activation switch. It is envisioned that the present invention may be installed as a retrofit kit on existing automobiles or as original equipment on new vehicles.

Abstract: An anti-theft vehicle subsystem disabling device including a digital controller and one or more remote receiving vehicle subsystem interface units for randomly simulating problematic vehicle behavior. The system determines user authorization based on keycode entry of either a master code or a programmable user code. Once authorized all vehicle subsystems under control operate normally. While authorized, the system also allows optional entry into a valet mode and constantly monitors a hidden anti-hijacking button. Any time unauthorized use is determined, the digital controller randomly generates a unique controlling signal with random timing variations that is communicated to the remote receiving subsystem interface units. These units can be connected in series with vital vehicle subsystem components in order to interfere with typical subsystem component operation, thereby inducing the illusion of an actual vehicle problem severe enough to inhibit vehicle driveability.

Abstract: A key entry system having redundant communication between the IC card and the vehicle controller to ensure continuous operation. The ID card and the vehicle controller each includes a memory for storing an ID code, an electromagnetic induction power supply/transmission circuit for transmitting and receiving the ID code and an RF modem also for transmitting and receiving the ID codes. Thus, in the event that communication cannot be made between the RF modems, the key entry system will still function by communication between the electromagnetic induction power supply/transmission circuits.

Abstract: A vehicle security system includes a vehicle security sensor and associated sensor bus interface, an alarm indicator and associated alarm indicator bus interface, and an alarm controller and associated alarm controller bus interface for interfacing the alarm controller. The vehicle security system is for a vehicle of a type including a data communications bus connecting a plurality of vehicle devices. The security system preferably further includes a desired signal enabling circuit for enabling the alarm controller to operate using a set of desired signals for a desired vehicle from among a plurality of possible sets of signals for different vehicles. Accordingly, the desired signal enabling circuit permits the alarm controller to communicate with the vehicle security sensor and the alarm indicator via the data communications bus so that the alarm controller is capable of operating the alarm indicator responsive to the vehicle security sensor.

Abstract: An anti-vehicle-thief apparatus registers specific ID codes of a plurality of keys, and determines validity of a key, for example, in accordance with an operation of the key 1 including a transponder having one of the registered specific ID codes. The anti-vehicle-thief apparatus registers a code specific to the key and confirms an operation in which an ignition switch is turned on and off five times by using the key, where this operation is for changing the ID codes specific to the plurality of keys registered in EEPROMs. After the confirmation of the operation, ID codes specific to a plurality of new keys are successively registered, thereby preventing a third person from using the old keys, as well as making registration of the ID codes specific to the new keys easily.

Abstract: A siren unit including control means for controlling activation of a siren loudspeaker (8) at a selected frequency based on a frequency control signal, and input means for providing the frequency control signal to the control means. The input means further provides a volume control signal and a duration control signal. The siren loudspeaker (8) is activated in response to a trigger signal received by the input means which may be a plurality of predetermined data bits. The siren loudspeaker (8) can be activated on the basis of a data communications packet received and provided by the input means. The siren loudspeaker (8) is also activated when the data communications packet is not received.

Abstract: An apparatus for preventing unauthorized use of motor vehicle includes a shield attachable to an engine control module. The shield is attached to an underside of the engine control module and includes a top plate which extends immediately above a plurality of electrical connectors and prevents unauthorized withdrawal of the electrical connectors. The apparatus further includes a retaining bracket which cooperates with the shield to define a plurality of channels for receiving wire harnesses associated with the electrical connectors.

Abstract: An automotive vehicle anti-theft anti-vandalism and anti-carjacking system utilizing both an audible alarm and visual monitor system for reducing the incidence of theft or vandalism of an automotive vehicle and an emergency alarm device in connection with an emergency alarm station for preventing carjacking or emergency type situation involving the vehicle or the individuals of the vehicle. The alarm and monitor system comprises one or more video cameras mounted within a vehicle and which are adapted for scanning movement by means of a simple oscillating scanning motor. The video camera is equipped with an emergency alarm device designed to signal the emergency alarm station of an emergency type situation.

Abstract: A vehicle door lock control apparatus includes a remote control unit that provides instructions to effect a lock condition or an unlock condition of a door look mechanism, a door handle switch which detects the operating condition of a door handle, a door lock control unit that effects the lock condition or the unlock condition of the door lock mechanism in response to signals produced by the door handle switch or the remote control unit, and a contact electrode connected to the door lock control unit for detecting operation of the door handle through contact by a user. The remote control unit has an electrode that establishes a capacitance combination between the remote control unit and the door lock control unit.

Abstract: A microwave frequency Doppler vehicle intruder alarm comprises an oscillator 3, a mixer 2 and an amplification stage 4, 5 having its output applied to a low-pass filter 7, whose output is split into two branches. A first branch, comprising a rectifier diode and a comparator, provides a signal on its output when a significant level of non-carrier microwave signals is received. This branch is sensitive to signals having Doppler frequencies of 0-200 Hz, which includes the intruder indicative frequencies. A second branch, comprising an amplifier 8, a high pass filter 9, and a comparator 10, provides an output signal on the detection of a significant level of signals in the 40-200 Hz band, which frequencies are indicative of externally generated interference. A logic element 15 mutes the output of the alarm when the second branch indicates the presence of externally generated interference. An antenna arrangement (FIG.

Abstract: When a control unit receives a second ID code within a specified time after receiving a first ID code in the ID code registration mode, and decides that the first ID code is coincident with the second ID code, the control unit stores the ID code as a newly registered ID code in a storage unit.

Abstract: An electronic authentication device has an authentication key unit for user authentication with respect to the target unit, which key unit communicates electronically with the target unit during an authentication communication process. An electronic authentication communication process is activated automatically when the key unit approaches the target unit or when a triggering element provided on the target unit is actuated. For increased protection against unauthorized authentication attempts, indicating apparatus are provided on the key unit to display the fact that an electronic authentication communication process is taking place. Also switching apparatus can be provided for allowing or blocking an authentication communication process, and a communication duration monitor can also be provided on the target unit to monitor the duration of an authentication communication process and block authentication if this duration exceeds a predetermined maximum duration.

Abstract: Robbery of a vehicle-mount electric apparatus can be prevented by only driving an operation panel to turn it upside down. The operation panel is disposed in front of the main body of the vehicle-mount audio apparatus, and is moved while being rotated about its rotary shaft. The operation panel moves between first and second states. In the first state, the normally used surface of the operation panel is used as the front surface of the apparatus, and in the second state, the surface other than the normally used surface is used as the front surface. When the operation panel takes generally a horizontal state during the motion of the operation panel 5, the rotary shaft thereof is positioned at one end of the motion range of the operation panel.

Abstract: A vehicle security system includes a controller for performing a function responsive to receipt of a corresponding command signal, and a remote transmitter for sending a command signal. A valet switch is included for placing the controller in a valet mode, such as to permit a service technician or valet to use the vehicle without triggering an alarm. The controller permits switching to the valet mode responsive to activating the valet switch whether the ignition switch is on or off and the controller is in the disarmed mode.

Abstract: A lock actuator assembly for a steering lock and ignition assembly has a two position knob for operating an ignition switch of a vehicle and for operating a steering lock mechanism of the vehicle. The knob is retained within a housing by a latch device until authorization by an authorization system is provided to the latch device. When authorization is received, the latch device releases the knob from the housing so that the steering lock mechanism can unlock the steering shaft and the ignition switch can be operated to start the vehicle.

Abstract: A low power transmitter for use in a vehicle security system includes an oscillator that is isolated from a transmitter antenna. An amplifier is coupled between the oscillator and the antenna to achieve the isolation. The amplifier and the isolator are tied to a single signal source so that each is initiated at the same time. The amplifier has a faster turn-on time than the oscillator so that the amplifier is fully operational at the instant it receives an output signal from the oscillator. The amplifier amplifies the single frequency of the oscillator and that amplified signal is transmitted by the antenna to a controller, which responsively controls the vehicle security system.