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Top alarm systems with feedback without autostart. Which car alarm is better than others? Our rating. A simple inexpensive model with a self-diagnosis mode

On the modern automobile market there are numerous examples of car alarms, varying in their functional qualities and reliability in operation. This article will provide a brief description of the most popular and reliable alarm models with links to expert opinions and user reviews. In addition, we will not ignore budget models of car alarms.

Protection from car theft, from intruders entering the cabin, from breaking locks or other actions still remains an important aspect when operating a vehicle. Every car owner is interested in the safety of his car, in its inaccessibility and protection from vandals.

Types, types, classification of car alarms

To understand what we are talking about, and also in order to eliminate different interpretations of certain terms, let’s understand the structure of the modern car alarm market: what types (types) of devices are used to protect cars.

Main types (types) of alarms according to functional qualities:

  • One-sided;
  • Two-way (with feedback);
  • Satellite.

This division is conditional, since the automotive market often offers a number of models with modified characteristics.

Based on price criteria, car alarms can be divided into:

  • Budget;
  • Economy class;
  • Standard consumer grade;
  • Premium class.

Budget alarms contain the simplest functionality, which consists of an “on/off” mode and does not support remote communication with the car owner. Such alarms are used on outdated and/or inexpensive cars and do not provide reliable protection against burglary and theft.

Economy class car alarms contain a basic set of functions without additional features. These alarms attract consumers due to their low price and relative protection against theft.

Perhaps the most optimal price/quality ratio is found in standard devices consumer class. The owner of such an alarm system can use more advanced functionality; the key fob and the car are in constant contact, and the signal is quite securely encrypted.

Premium Alarms have a qualitatively high, expanded range of functions, including communication with the owner via the GSM system, interacts with the immobilizer built into the car and other systems. In addition to the above, premium alarm systems have a high degree of protection against code grabbers - code crackers.

A one-way alarm system generates alarm signals using lights or sound when an unauthorized opening is attempted.

A two-way alarm system consists of transmitting a signal to the car owner's key fob; it is also capable of performing a number of service functions remotely, for example, starting the engine. This type not only signals with headlights and sound, but also transmits information about the location of the break-in, which is reflected on the mini-display of the key fob. The two-way alarm key fob also has a number of other indicators.

An alarm system with a GSM module sends an alarm signal via satellite communication. This signal is received by the car owner’s mobile phone or other device that is connected to the SIM card (smartphone, tablet). In addition to the fact that satellite alarms are equipped with a number of functions, the alarm signal emanating from them can be received not only by the car owner, but also by family members or employees of a security company.

Reliability and functionality determine the fairly high cost of this type of alarm. As a rule, satellite alarms are installed on luxury and premium cars.

Selection criteria and terms when describing car alarms

When choosing an alarm system, the car owner determines what kind of protection he wants to provide to his vehicle.

Types of car protection:

  • Mechanical: wheels, doors, gearboxes and other vehicle components are blocked. With mechanical protection, a burglar cannot open the hood or turn the steering wheel;
  • Electronic protection covers such external influences as shock, vibration, displacement, penetration of foreign objects into door locks, etc.;
  • The notification function includes sound or light signals, as well as messages sent in the form of SMS to the car owner’s mobile device.

After familiarizing yourself with some of the basic functional criteria of car alarms, you can move on to an overview of the modern Ukrainian market: who is leading in it, who has a reputation as a reliable manufacturer, which brands and modifications of car alarms are the most popular among car enthusiasts.

TOP 5 car alarm manufacturing companies

  1. Pandora
  2. Shcer-Khan
  3. Sheriff
  4. Magnum

: the company operates on the Ukrainian market under the name “StarLine” and is part of the “UltraStar” group. The company produces car alarms and other security systems for cars and motorcycles, as well as for real estate. The official website of the representative office in Ukraine is www.starline.in.ua, where you can get acquainted with the range of products, place an order or receive technical advice from a company representative.

Pandora : the legal name of the company is IInkam LLC, which is an official dealer on the Ukrainian market and has been operating since 2007, supplying security systems such as Pandora, Pandect and Prizrak. The official website of the dealer is www.pandora.ua, which contains information about the company, range of products, conditions and service provided (installation, warranty and post-warranty repairs).

Scher-Khan also produced the best car alarms in 2018, taking third place in the ranking of manufacturing companies. This brand produces security alarms of varying degrees of complexity, including those using telematics for both personal and commercial vehicles. On the official website www.scher-khan.ru, for interested customers there is a maximum of useful information on the assortment and model range.

Sheriff : this brand, along with CHALLENGER and E.O.S, produces PIT (Progressive Innovative Technology) with head offices in Moscow and Kyiv. The company's products are sold through dealers and a wide retail network, as well as in auto service centers. The main markets for the company's products are the CIS countries, the Russian Federation and Ukraine. The company has been operating for more than 10 years and is a major manufacturer of mobile electronics for the automotive market.

Magnum : The MSS Ukraine company is the owner of this brand. Under this name, it is known in the automotive market for car and motorcycle alarms, security systems with GPS monitoring and other devices.

The company recently successfully tested a tracker linked to a fuel sensor. Information exchange between the tracker and the sensor occurs through the LLC exchange protocol.

It is worth noting that the share of the top three is more than 70% in the car alarm market, which are in demand by consumers. This indicator indicates the reliability of these brands and high technical characteristics that ensure the safety of the vehicle.

The unifying quality of the leaders in our rating is two-way communication, which ensures communication between the installed base and the control panel, which is located at a distance. Two-way alarm, as mentioned above, ensures that the car owner is informed about the location of the car, its safety and inaccessibility. In the event of unauthorized access, the owner of the vehicle will be notified of the emergency situation, even if he is outside the range of the audible alarm signal.

Rating of the best car alarms 2018

In addition to the fact that the StarLine company is a leader in the car alarm market, several of its models were included in the rating of the best alarm systems of the past year. In second place is a representative of the Scher-Khan family.

  • StarLine Twage A91;
  • Scher-Khan Magicar 5;
  • StarLine A93 CAN+LIN.

StarLine Twage A91 is a two-way alarm system that has the function of intelligent engine auto-start, a reliable “Quick Dialogue” signal code and is equipped with a GPS module. For installers, this alarm provides a number of benefits, including the ability to monitor the programmed function online. The car owner is offered a standard set of 60 functions and a number more that can be programmed.

A feature of the sales leader is the most favorable price/quality ratio for the consumer.

Scher-Khan Magicar 5 is somewhat behind the leader, but is also a popular model on the market. This is also a two-way alarm system, which also automatically starts the engine at a given temperature and according to a timer, has the function of locking doors while driving, and special modes “Panic” and “Driver Call”. The paging range is 1500 meters, the delivery package includes an immobilizer, antenna module, and blocking unit.

StarLine A93 takes third place in terms of the number of installations and is also a two-way car alarm. In addition to the standard functions for this class, this model has a GSM module, a paging range of 800 meters, a reception range of 2000 meters, an immobilizer, a siren and a three-level shock sensor. StarLine A93 has the “Driver Call” function.

StarLine A94 - another model from StarLine takes an honorable fourth place in our rating of car alarms. The two-way alarm has the function of blocking a stolen car, silently setting the alarm, a paging range of 800 meters and protection against scanning. The alarm system has a two-level vibration sensor and the “Driver Call” function.

StarLine A93 CAN+LIN completes the top five most popular models and is also a two-way alarm system. This model is equipped with automatic engine start based on a timer and temperature, window control, as well as the “Call Driver” or “Car Search” functions. The car alarm can turn on the “Panic” mode, the paging radius is 800 meters, and has a three-level shock sensor.

What is the best car alarm to install on an inexpensive car?

To answer the question “Which car alarm is better to install?”, We suggest that you familiarize yourself not only with the most “technological” samples, which differ both in their technical parameters and in price, since they are in the “above average” cost range.

You should not think that budget alarms are not capable of anything and cannot compete with recognized leaders. If we are talking about an old car that is used for trips to the country, out of town, or which is used in rural areas, then it is obvious that the level of risk of being stolen or hacked for this car is at a minimum level. The following models can provide minimal protection for the same minimal money.

  • daVINCI PHI-350 Dialog;
  • StarLine Twage A61;
  • Scher-Khan Magicar 4;
  • Pandora Deluxe 1870;
  • Magnum Elite MH-780.

daVINCI PHI-350 Dialog: among budget car alarms in the 2018 rating, the model with dialogue-type feedback is in the lead. Its price most optimally corresponds to the basic set of functions, the list of which includes a passive immobilizer, as well as a quiet arming mode, a turbo timer, car search in a parking lot and a number of others.

StarLine Twage A61: this is a two-way alarm system that has the functions of silent arming, blocking a stolen car, a paging range of 2000 meters, and a turbo timer mode. This model has 50 built-in and additionally programmable functions. It is deservedly in demand in its price range.

Scher-Khan Magicar 4: two-way alarm with a paging range of 1300 meters. Its functionality consists of standard operations plus silent arming, owner search mode, as well as programmable engine starting using a timer or temperature sensor.

Pandora Deluxe 1870: two-way communication, 1500 meters - paging range, silent arming mode, as well as control of power windows and trunk opening. Additional functions include displaying data on the temperature in the cabin and engine heating, as well as an alarm clock built into the key fob.

Magnum Elite MH-780: this is a one-way car alarm, a two-level shock or vibration sensor, an immobilizer, a blocking unit and a number of other functions that are typical for higher-class alarm systems.

Rating of car alarms with feedback 2018

This segment of car alarms belongs to the average price category; they are classified as an economy option. The functionality of such models allows the car owner to control his vehicle and use an excellent set of operations. Experts note the high level of reliability of such security systems that provide protection against theft.

The TOP 5 included:

  1. Pantera SLK-675RS;
  2. Scher-Khan LOGICAR 4;
  3. StarLine B64 Dialog CAN;
  4. StarLine D94 2CAN GSM/GPS Slave.

: a representative of the StarLine lines has the Call Driver function and a paging radius of 800 meters. This model has a turbo timer mode, as well as automatic engine start according to a specified time or temperature indicator. The functionality of the model has earned recognition from consumers due to its reliability and multitasking.

Pantera SLK-675RS: has a car auto start system. Its distinctive feature is its compatibility with the electrical equipment of vehicles with a turbo engine, gasoline or diesel engine.

At the time of writing, it became known that this model was discontinued. The reason why this decision was made was not stated by the manufacturer. Let's hope that a worthy example will take its place in the 2018 rating of car alarms.

Scher-Khan LOGICAR 4: paging range of 1500 meters, quiet security mode, blocking of a stolen car, “Panic” mode - these are the main distinctive functions of this model. It provides automatic engine start for cars with a manual or automatic transmission. There is also a number of programmable functions, for example, priority opening of the driver's doors, as well as a “Panic” mode.

StarLine B64 Dialog CAN and StarLine D94 2CAN GSM/GPS Slave: equipped with GPS/GSM systems, have an interactive control code and intelligent autostart.

Rating of alarms with automatic engine start

Among the many models, it is worth highlighting a popular direction - alarms with automatic engine start. This function consists of pre-starting the engine, which is performed by a command programmed by the car alarm. The practical application of this function is especially noticeable in the winter season: the driver can first turn on the engine warm-up and after that get into the cabin and immediately start driving.

The TOP best versions of car alarms with this autostart function include:

  • Scher-Khan Magicar 7 is distinguished by the fact that for an affordable price the user receives excellent functionality, which, like a cherry on the cake, is decorated with autostart. Car enthusiasts noted the most optimal ratio of cost and quality results;
  • Black Bug Super: this model is installed in business and premium class cars. The model has increased cryptographic protection, a five-stage dynamic dialogue and a number of other functions. Data transmission occurs in two frequency ranges;
  • Pandora DXL 5000 provides two-way keyless communication. Autostart occurs according to a timer and a set temperature mark. This is one of the most expensive car security alarms, which has connected GPS/GLONASS receivers and can automatically send SMS if there is a threat to the driver’s life or an accident has occurred;
  • X-Keeper Drive Elite, together with the autostart function, can scan a car;
  • SORB-GSM works together with a mobile device, sending messages to the car owner’s smartphone.

In terms of reliability of car alarms, rating 2018

You can describe the technical parameters of a particular model as much as you like, but car users will give their sympathies to those alarms that have become the faithful guardian of their vehicle.

User surveys indicate that multiple functionality is worthless if the alarm cannot work, for example, in cold or high humidity conditions, if the key fob body is fragile, and the vibration sensor does not respond sensitively enough, etc. All this can be called in one word – reliability.

Based on this criterion, the final rating of car alarms was compiled:

  • StarLine A91 Dialog;
  • Scher-Khan Magicar 7;
  • Pandora Deluxe 1870;
  • Jaguar EZ-ULTRA;
  • Sheriff ZX-1070.

The first four models belong to the same cost class, their prices range from 3,700 UAH to 4,500 UAH. Sheriff ZX-1070 is an inexpensive alarm system: according to some sources, the price of the model starts from 1800 UAH. This model is highly reliable and provides excellent vehicle protection.

The rating of car alarms in 2018 will most likely consist of models that are already familiar to us. However, the automobile market is in constant development, placing high demands on manufacturing companies on the quality and functionality of such an essential element for a car as a security system.

Throughout the year, we will monitor the best car alarms of 2018 in order to compile a new rating a year later. We hope that this article has brought some clarity to the information flow and helped to navigate among the many market models. Car security is not only about taking care of property, but also a guarantee of the personal safety of the car owner.

Plus

In order to eliminate the possibility of theft or entry into the car, many owners use such technological devices as car alarms. There are various variations of such equipment on the market today, but the most effective are considered to be models of car alarms with feedback, which have become widespread due to their reliability and functionality. From this article you will learn more about how to choose a car alarm with feedback, what criteria you should pay special attention to when purchasing, and we will also tell you about the most popular models today.

What is feedback alarm

It must be said right away that a two-channel alarm or, if it is easier, a car alarm with feedback is a whole complex of technical elements, the coordinated work of which allows you to protect cars from theft or unlawful influence with the aim of causing damage or penetration. Typically, a set of such alarms consists of: a siren, shock sensors, a special device that receives notification of external attacks, usually a key fob or a GSM module. It is thanks to the presence of these components that this technology is called “feedback”, because any action aimed at violating the integrity of the vehicle - a blow, penetration for the purpose of theft or theft - is immediately recorded and a message about this is sent to the same key fob of the owner.

Such feedback alarms, depending on the technical capabilities that the company equipped them with during production, can perform a wide range of tasks. Some, for example, are only able to report the opening of doors, trunk or hood, signal about engine start or impact. While more functional and, accordingly, expensive models of well-known brands, in addition to the above options, can also remotely start the engine or recognize the driver only by the key fob itself, located near it, even without the need to use it.

The principle of operation of a car alarm with feedback

A feedback alarm works like this: a special unit is placed inside the car, which is capable of receiving signals from several sensors, which are also part of the security system. Any unlawful influence on the car by an attacker will be instantly read by sensors and transmitted to the unit, from which information will be sent in the form of signals to the owner’s key fob or module. Depending on the design features of the key fob, the owner of the vehicle will either see the flickering of LEDs, which will indicate unauthorized entry, or on the LCD screen he will be able to quickly learn about the real state of the car and its location. Feedback in car alarms also allows you to control your car. Options such as auto engine start, pre-heating of the interior, remote trunk opening and other functions that make life easier for car enthusiasts become available to the user. But there is a significant drawback in alarms; attackers can intercept the signal and open the car or turn off the car alarm. In this regard, alarm developers continue to develop and implement new forms of protection for this signal, change the frequency, switch to GSM signals and use all kinds of data encodings.

Data encoding in car alarms with feedback

The connection between the block and the key fob occurs in encrypted form; the more complex the code algorithm, the more difficult it will be for attackers to hack it. A distinction is made between dynamic and interactive coding, as well as the connection of elements via mobile communications.

In modern alarm systems, there are 3 main ways of signal encoding:

  1. Dynamic coding;
  2. Conversational coding;
  3. Coding via mobile data transmission.
  1. The simplest and easiest for hijackers to crack is a system that uses dynamic coding. The whole encoding logic boils down to the fact that the key fob contains a permanent code that is transmitted to the receiving unit in the car. And after a request from the main unit, the key fob reports this code. An attacker only needs to intercept this code once, and he will have complete control of your car.
  2. Dialogue codes can provide more reliable protection, but the alarm systems in which they are used are also more expensive. The operating principle of this coding is that the main unit of the car and the car alarm key fob contain the same, but unique (between different alarm systems), code recognition algorithm. After the key fob sends a signal to remove the car from protection, the alarm control unit sends its randomly generated request, to which it waits for the correct answer. In turn, the key fob, according to its algorithm (which coincides with the algorithm of the car alarm control unit), generates a response. The main unit compares and if the response from the key fob matches the expected response, then the alarm is removed from protection. Even if an attacker intercepts the response from the key fob, then next time the request will be different and the response will be different accordingly. It is impossible to decipher the “response” algorithm from one intercepted response.
  3. Mobile data exchange is today the most expensive type of signal transmission for models with feedback, which can provide reliable protection of cars against theft. As you know, GSM encoding has a very complex structure and is almost impossible to crack. But this option cannot be called ideal, since thieves can use jammers to unlock such systems.

Criterias of choice

Choosing a car alarm is not an easy task; the modern market presents many models with many characteristics. How to correctly evaluate a specific model, how to understand which characteristics are important and which are not. We have collected the main criteria that you should focus on when choosing a car alarm with feedback. By assessing these criteria, you can understand how good this alarm system is.

  1. The main criterion for any buyer is, of course, price. If you want to choose a truly reliable alarm system, then you should focus on models from companies that cost at least 70-90 dollars;
  2. the method of encoding signals - it determines how difficult it will be for an attacker to break into your protection. Dialogue coding has the most optimal price/quality ratio. Transmission of control signals via mobile communications is the safest, but at the same time the most expensive. Dynamic encoding has the least weak protection and is correspondingly cheaper than others;
  3. signal range - in accordance with this parameter, you can focus on how far you need the car alarm to warn you of danger and how far from the car you can drive it. To choose the right alarm model, you should determine for yourself the average distance at which the car is located;
  4. manufacturer – not only the price, but also the quality and protection of the car alarm will depend on the manufacturer. Also, don’t forget little-known companies. As a rule, attackers do not waste time developing systems for hacking little-known companies due to the fact that the alarm systems of these companies are quite rare. This gives some advantage to little-known brands;
  5. additional functions (autostart, warming up the car, remote trunk opening, various car tracking sensors, etc.).

Advantages and disadvantages

Like any alarm system, feedback alarm system has both advantages and disadvantages. The main advantages and disadvantages inherent in car alarms with feedback are described below.

As for the benefits:

  1. allow the owner to constantly monitor the condition of his car at a sufficiently large distance, receiving all the information on a special device - a module or key fob, since the car should not be in sight or audibility;
  2. have several options for transmitting encoded data: dynamic and interactive encoding - more affordable financially, mobile communications - more reliable security systems, which, however, are more expensive;
  3. the ability to install additional options - remote engine start, interior heating, calling a car and others.

As for the disadvantages:

  • oddly enough, the key fob can be called the weak point of the entire system, since it runs on a battery and if you forget to charge it, then at the most inopportune moment you can simply be left without communication with the car;
  • systems with dynamic and interactive encoding have one common drawback - a limited range of action. And even if a company indicates a figure of 1000 or 2000 meters, then it means ideal conditions without interference. In fact, the average distance for data transmission is 500 m;
  • the cost of high-quality feedback alarms often requires large financial investments, and even if you choose one of the budget models presented in 2015, you will still need to pay extra for its installation or equipment, if desired, with additional options.

Rating of the best alarm systems with feedback

As we have learned, car alarms with feedback are very attractive to car enthusiasts. They reliably protect the car from theft and have additional functions for ease of use of the car. The modern car alarm market has many different models. Our experts have prepared the top three feedback alarms that are worth paying attention to.

Starline has well established itself as a reliable brand, and its products are widely used due to their highest quality and functionality. This two-way alarm model is one of the best options. Conversational signal coding, range of up to 2000 m, durable control unit - this is not a complete list of advantages characteristic of this model. The system is capable of operating in extreme temperatures from -50 to +85 degrees Celsius, and the battery charge is enough for 60 days of operation in security mode. The price of this model varies between 10,000 rubles, and together with installation you will have to pay approximately 13,000 rubles.

The model uses a dynamic BACS code with all the resulting positive and negative nuances. Control is carried out at a distance of up to 2000 meters, optionally the system is capable of monitoring 7 security zones, transmitting information to the driver about the temperature conditions of the cabin and engine compartment, and auto-start is possible. A good option with many practical options for protecting your car. This model costs around 5,000 rubles, together with installation you will have to pay about 8,000 rubles.

Rich experience in the development of security systems for cars has allowed the company to win the love of consumers. Its products have become in demand, and most importantly, the alarm system can perform the functions assigned to it to ensure vehicle safety. The data transmission radius is 1500 meters, scanning protection is provided by block-streaming technology of information transmission, auto-start of the engine is possible, the key fob is powered by one AAA battery. The cost of this model varies between 7,000 rubles, and with installation it costs about 10,000 rubles.

The variety of feedback car alarms on the market allows consumers to make the most appropriate choice, which will allow them not to worry about the safety of the car. The most popular among buyers are models that offer high reliability and good functionality at an affordable price. We tried to tell you how to find and choose such a car alarm depending on your budget in our article and are confident that it will help make your purchase optimal.

How to choose an alarm? Expert advice

Hardly anyone will argue with the need to protect a car from theft - too many have already had to deal with this. Another thing is that the combination of “I would like it cheaper” (and double - both for the alarm and for its installation) has led to many adherents beating their chests, claiming that “no alarm system will protect against theft.” Hidden in the very logic of this phrase is a serious error, indicating a misunderstanding of the very principle of countering theft as such: not a single anti-theft device will protect against theft, if you really look at it that way. Its task is to make theft so difficult that it becomes impractical for the hijacker.

In my practice, there was an almost anecdotal case - consistently once a week a silver all-wheel drive Renault Duster was brought to us, which in the morning refused to start with the standard key. In all cases, only one chip was registered in the immobilizer memory, which immediately prompted the idea of ​​an attempted theft. And, indeed, upon closer inspection one could see traces of impact on the ignition switch. The first car was saved by the lock on the checkpoint, the second, fortunately, had the start lock correctly connected... but this story ended precisely with the appearance in the local criminal chronicle of a story about the successful theft of a car, you know what brand and color it is. The moral is obvious - the more popular the car, the easier it is actually to protect it from theft - the criminal will have a large enough choice not to mess with the problem car.

Today we will try to figure out what you really need to pay attention to when choosing an alarm system, first of all paying attention to the protective functionality, and only after that - to the service functionality.

Validation method

The term “validation” in relation to security devices refers to the method by which the owner confirms his right to access the car and start the engine, in other words, the method by which he disables the security mode.

Radio key fob

The most obvious way is radio key fob. Historically, the most popular alarm range is 433 MHz, but the larger your city, the less it is worth recommending. The reason is simple - this range is already filled with many low-power devices, which nevertheless create a noise stream, sometimes comparable to a serious jammer (in common parlance - a “jammer”. Perhaps someone has already encountered the fact that his car stubbornly refused to open on in a supermarket parking lot - the signal from the key fob simply could not get through the background. Therefore, residents of megacities, when choosing a car alarm with a radio key fob, need to take this point into account.

There are two ways out of the situation at the moment. Can be used narrower communication channels- the smaller the channel width, the less interference will pass through it, and the easier it is to filter the signal. This is, for example, what StarLine does in its budget series - it still uses the 433 MHz band, but the narrow-channel transceiver provides good selectivity.

The second option is change frequency range at all. This, by the way, will also complicate the work of the hijacker - it will simply be impossible to read code messages with a grabber designed for 433 MHz. The pioneer on the Russian market in this regard was the domestic developer - AlarmTrade with their Pandora systems, which now operate in the gigahertz range. Large Asian manufacturers are already starting to use this - for example, modern Tomahawk alarm systems operate at a frequency of 868 MHz.

Any the radio protocol, of course, must be protected. Not so long ago, it was a vulnerable point of any alarm system - energy efficiency requirements simply did not allow the use of sufficiently powerful processors in alarm systems, and especially in key fobs, and it was necessary to complicate the opening of the code using workaround methods. It didn’t always work out - the Scher-Khan Logicar series was especially notable in this regard, which chronically stopped responding to the standard key fob, losing synchronization with it, but for car thieves it did not pose any problem in principle (I think you already understand what kind of alarm system was on the first car in the story from the introduction).

However, modern electronics have provided quite powerful and at the same time energy-efficient solutions. Thanks to this, it became possible to implement the only method that currently provides protection against intelligent hacking - conversational code with AES encryption. The principle of the dialogue code is based on the fact that in each key fob-alarm communication session, each command must be confirmed by a request from the central unit, and only if the answer is correct will it be executed.

Initially, in our market only Magic Systems (actually, the inventors of the principle), StarLine and Pandora could boast of this, but now the dialogue code is used in many other systems - for example, KGB alarms switched to it in 2013.

AES encryption is currently considered irreversible, that is, the code message can only be determined by brute force. The shortest option used in signaling is AES128 with a 128-bit key, which already provides... Hmm... What is the name of a number with 38 zeros?

However, high-end alarm systems also use more complex keys - for example, the current Pandora alarm line has already partially switched to AES256, and, I’m afraid, the appearance of AES512 is not far off.

But the radio key fob is not the only way of validation. Often, developers abandon them altogether in order to increase system security.

GSM alarms

The first option, which is increasingly gaining popularity, is GSM alarms (telematic systems). In the first of them, the alarm was controlled by sending an SMS or calling, which was not very convenient. Now, with the spread of high-speed mobile Internet networks, Internet access to alarms is most often allowed through the manufacturer’s website or a mobile application for smartphones released by it. All the “whales” of the domestic market have already switched to this method, but owners of smartphones on Windows Phone will have to choose between StarLine and StarLine GSM alarms: other manufacturers have not released applications for this platform.

Wearable tags

The second validation option is wearable tags, which are being actively implemented in Pandora systems. This company even managed to release its own smart watches RW-04 and RW-71, which simultaneously work as an alarm tag. The main advantage of radio tags is that they practically do not “glow” in the surrounding air - from the point of view of the thief, the car owner uses only a standard radio key, however, as soon as he opens the car, the system, which has not detected the tag, sets off an alarm and blocks the start.

A smartphone can also be used as a tag - alarms with Bluetooth support provide this opportunity. But this should rather be considered a marketing ploy, especially considering the speed with which modern smartphones drain their batteries.

Security zones

This term refers to events that clearly lead to the activation of the alarm mode and the activation of interlocks. The classic set is opening the doors/hood/trunk, breaking glass (shock sensor), turning on the ignition. But this set cannot be called sufficient: for example, the wheels from the car can be easily removed.

It is best to choose a car alarm with a built-in or external accelerometer - today this is a must-have for alarms. Accelerometer, also known as tilt/roll sensor, is triggered at critical speeds or amounts of movement of the car along any axis - so that when you try to jack up the car or tow it, an alarm will sound. By the way, such sensors help solve another problem that installers often have to face - many clients complain about the ineffective operation of the shock sensor after minor road accidents involving the “grinding in” of a guarded vehicle. The fact is that the shock sensor should not be triggered in such cases - its “area of ​​responsibility” is sharp impacts that reverberate throughout the body, that is, primarily glass breaking. By raising its sensitivity to such a level that the alarm will go off when you rub or push the bumper, you can become an object of hatred from all your neighbors. In such cases, the accelerometer can be adjusted quite adequately.

Concerning volume sensors, then their need is more relevant for minivans or minibuses, where control of the rear part of the body would not be superfluous. In a passenger car, they will actually duplicate the door limit switches (opening) and the impact sensor (glass breaking).

Alarms with feedback

Initially, car alarms worked using a completely one-way protocol - the key fob contained only a transmitter, and the central unit contained only a receiver. All possibilities for notifying the owner of an alarm were assigned to a siren, or, at best, to a plug-in pager module (this, in fact, was a one-way prototype of modern telematics).

To improve the security of the car, a logical idea was used - to make the key fob itself a detector. In alarms with feedback, both the key fob and the central unit operate in duplex mode - having received a command, the alarm executes it and sends a data packet with information about its status to the key fob. When an alarm is triggered, a corresponding message is also sent to the key fob - if it is in the radio reception area, then an alarm indication will go off on it.

Previously (and even now in cheap alarm systems) LEDs were used to indicate alarms, now - liquid crystal screens. To make sure the owner notices, a vibration signal and a piercing buzzer are built into the key fob. In order to have maximum warning capability, alarm manufacturers had to seriously increase the power of transmitting devices in central units - antenna modules became remote so that the installer could place them in the most optimal place for work. Compared to cheap one-way systems, the “range” of the channel has increased significantly. However, when choosing a car alarm with feedback, you need to remember that real urban conditions greatly limit the radius of radio communication - even if the manufacturer claims a radius of up to 2 kilometers, then perhaps this will only be in an open field. You shouldn't expect a range of more than 300 meters in the city.

Moreover, the warning radius is always greater than the distance at which the car will receive a command from the radio key fob: the different power of the transmitters in both devices affects it. However, this is often enough (for example, when the car is parked on the other side of the house). The presence of feedback for modern alarm systems can confidently be called a mandatory component - in the budget segment its capabilities are assigned to the radio key fob, in more advanced models they are significantly expanded by telematics.

Autorun

Another stumbling block in the debate. I have a strong suspicion that more than half of the readers of the article will think “after all, it’s easier to steal a car, they say, the thief will immediately start looking for where the key is hidden.” This is a grave mistake, and in the future you should not listen to those who believe in it.

Firstly, the thief does not need to waste time searching for where the immobilizer bypass is hidden in the car - and a competent installer can hide it very skillfully. It is much easier to register your chip into the controller’s memory - and much faster, and it is speed that is important for a hijacker. So even in the most primitive version, when the entire key is inserted into the frame crawler, there is no serious reason to fear a deterioration in security.

In addition, the technology for keyless alarm bypass has been developed for quite some time. On cars with a CAN bus, it is possible to simulate chip recognition without its physical presence at the reader. First, keyless crawlers appeared as separate units (for example, Fortin F1 or the iDataLink series), then the alarm systems themselves began to provide this opportunity. If you need auto start, and the list of alarms that fit into your budget includes options that offer keyless bypass for your car, it is better to choose just such an alarm. There are already such offers in a fairly budget segment - you can recall, for example, Pandora DX-50.

We can talk about the real need for autostart only for gasoline cars - alas, diesel engines practically do not heat up at idle, and even with long warm-up intervals in winter, you will not be able to enjoy a warm car in the morning. However, a pre-heater can also be connected to the autostart channels, which would be an ideal option for a diesel car.

Autostart control itself is most convenient in telematic alarms. In urban conditions, the signal from the radio key fob cannot always get through even to the other side of the house, while a mobile application or SMS command will start the engine with almost one hundred percent probability.

The only real disadvantage of autostart systems for cars with manual transmission is the impossibility of simultaneous operation with the gearbox locks - they block the gearbox at reverse speed, which naturally excludes the possibility of using autostart. For automatic transmissions, everything is simpler - they are locked with locks in the “parking”, which in no way prevents them from starting. In general, due to the peculiarities of automatic transmissions, autostart is much more convenient on them - there is no need to perform the “software neutral” algorithm, which on cars with manual transmission prevents leaving the gear engaged when arming.

Satellite systems

Integration with geopositioning systems (first GPS, and then GLONASS) is now the second mandatory component of telematics systems. The main thing when choosing such an alarm is to understand that all the functionality of a satellite alarm will not provide real protection - it is enough to jam the ranges used by geopositioning systems or cellular communications with interference, and the ability to track the position of the car will become inaccessible.

When choosing a satellite alarm system, you need to take one point into account - in the cheapest of them, the ability to determine coordinates using satellite systems is an option that requires the additional purchase of a GPS antenna. “Out of the box,” the coordinates are determined by LBS - base stations of the cellular network, which provides acceptable accuracy only in the city.

The systems themselves sometimes enter the market frankly crude. This was the case, for example, with Scher-Khan Universe 1 - having an external GPS/GLONASS antenna and having found a sufficient number of satellites, the alarm could give an error of up to 500 meters (!), and in the standard application, a phone working exclusively via LBS turned out to be much more accurate than information received from two satellite constellations.

The best alarm brands on our market

As is customary to say in such cases, the following information reflects solely the opinion of the author and so on.

Speaking about domestic manufacturers of car alarms, we, naturally, are talking primarily about Pandora And StarLine. Their products can really provide a high level of protection, plus there is a developed network of branded installation centers and technical support works well - for example, having installed the StarLine alarm system in a certified CA, you can even count on a technician visiting the Nizhnye Vasyuki - Perelygino highway if problems arise. However, only StarLine operates in the budget segment, while Pandora is positioned more in the mid-range and premium segment - accordingly, they will not support your idea of ​​​​buying a regular alarm system with a regular key fob for reasonable money. Systems of both brands have some disadvantages and nuances - it is better to consult the installers of the company center when choosing an alarm system for your car. For example, at one time the “canal” Pandora DXL did not have firmware for the Renault Kangoo, and the analog connection to this car was by no means the most convenient. StarLine, having switched to a modular system in the current generation, can confuse many - the same alarm system can be sold in several configurations, and you need to carefully familiarize yourself with them so as not to buy a kit without a CAN module for a car where a CAN connection is optimal .

The name of the St. Petersburg company is less well-known MagicSystems, although a loss in marketing does not mean a loss in reliability or degree of protection - their anti-theft systems like MS Agent Pro can be called one of the best offers on our market.

Of the more affordable options, modern alarms are good Tomahawk- this concerns both the build quality and their compliance with current requirements. It was nice to see high-frequency radio modules, conversational code and 128-bit encryption from an Asian manufacturer at an affordable price. Close to them and alarms KGB, which can also be considered a worthy budget choice.

Low-end alarm systems (thousands of them!) have little to offer in terms of protection. And, although even here there are already models with dialog code, their resistance to brute force hacking cannot be called serious, if only because of the impossibility of creating distributed launch blocking chains. If we take into account that when buying a cheap alarm system and trying to save money on the installer’s work, then it is difficult to talk about the seriousness of car protection.

Proper installation

In the end, the effectiveness of any anti-theft device depends on the work of the installer. I have repeatedly seen cars where, to remove the central unit along with a bundle of wires, it was enough to kick under the “torpedo” - what kind of protection is there?

An alarm system for a car owner has become not a luxury, but a necessity. Every year more and more new developments appear on the market to protect the car, but the standard equipment of the car includes only engine blocking and a shock sensor, blocking the car doors, hood and central locking. An attacker has long learned to neutralize this type of alarm, and it is impossible to calculate the location of the car due to the short range of the key fob. Technology does not stand still, and today the best manufacturers of car alarms have been identified.

The price category of protection varies, as does the cost of cars. Before purchasing an alarm system, you should think about it. For example, for a Moskvich you should not purchase the most expensive alarm system. In addition, other factors need to be taken into account:

  • Car parking place. In the garage or in the parking lot, or under the house?
  • Car cost. The cost of VIP security is expensive and unjustified for a budget car.
  • Frequency of car use. How long can a car be left in free parking lots?

How to choose a car alarm

By considering these factors and drawing conclusions, you can save money, because no manufacturer will provide one hundred percent protection, and expensive car alarms are not affordable for everyone. Protection for cars is divided by price category:

  • Budget car alarms up to 150 USD One-way or two-way type, including dynamic code, auto-arming and disarming, emergency disarming and disabling protection without disarming.
  • average price fluctuates around 300 USD. Central locking and power windows, remote engine start and adaptive sensor, dynamic code.
  • Expensive: from and above 300 USD Such systems primarily include satellite car alarms. The cost of such devices, of course, is high, but your iron horse will be almost completely protected.
  • Installation of an expensive car alarm is possible with a unit for connecting cars and GSM / GPS modules to the CAN bus.
  • Protection of a certain type for a car has become a mandatory condition when applying for CASCO insurance.

Car alarms: rating of manufacturers

Let's look at popular car alarms by sales level for 2015:

1. Starline– a major manufacturer of car protection. An experienced market player with a huge selection of models, including autostart.

Advantages:

  • The conversational encryption method is the main and necessary function in the latest generation Dialog and Andromeda devices with the ability to protect cars in the GSM coverage area throughout the CIS and Western Europe.
  • Protection range radius is up to 1800 meters.
  • Start the engine at a specified time or at a specified interval. Forced start using the remote control. For example, when the temperature drops in winter, the engine will turn on according to the specified setting and turn off after the set hours.
  • Built-in Anti-Hi-Jack, which prevents the violent method of taking possession of the car.
  • During an attempt to open the car, the auto system notifies the owner and the security control panel about the penetration, and GPS determines the exact location of the car and its speed.
  • The system is not difficult to install and configure. It is possible to install it yourself.

Flaws:

The main disadvantage concerns satellite options. Those using a signal encoding algorithm can be hacked with knowledge of the protection and devices for calculating the code.

Nevertheless, such an alarm system copes with the task and the owner constantly has information about the location of the car, and the quick response of the defense in the event of theft instantly notifies the owner and this will allow him to react immediately.


2. Pandora– has occupied a leading position in the market for several years.

Advantages

  • Top class functionality. Control over signal quality.
  • Suitable for installation on almost all cars.
  • Quality and reliability of all elements of the car alarm system.
  • There are at least three shock, motion and tilt sensors.

Flaws

  • Expensive defense (but complaints are received very rarely).

3. Scher-Khan. Attracts owners with its range of up to two kilometers.
The popular MAGICAR line, the car alarm key fob has an excellent appearance, and accidental pressing of buttons is excluded. It has proven itself as high-quality and reliable protection against theft.

Advantages

  • Double encoding protection is not broadcast publicly, which greatly reduces the risk of theft. The system is blocked using a PIN code with external input, and if the key fob is accidentally lost, a stranger will still not be able to enter the car.
  • Adaptation to the harsh climate of Russia. Accurate operation in any weather conditions.
  • Low current consumption, which will reduce the likelihood of battery discharge during the cold season.
  • Strong protection for remote and direct hacking. Sends a threat of car break-in, key fob and key theft.
  • Start the engine from a distance. A signal notifying that an obstacle has been created by the owner's car.
  • 24-hour car monitoring at a distance of up to one and a half kilometers from the owner.
  • Receives a signal from a mobile phone or the Internet and through a special application from a smartphone.

Flaws:

  • High cost that not everyone can afford.
  • The protection is not prepared for installation on the electrical systems of certain models and brands of cars.
  • The need to set up the alarm and program it for the car, which leads to additional installation time and higher costs.

4. Sheriff. Its car alarms are popular in part because of their full range of security options and affordable prices.

  • Popular ZX series systems and advantages.
  • Arming the protection in passive or active mode.
  • Control used to control door locks. Control of central locking control.
  • Remote control of security modes. Autostart and others.

Flaws:

  • The dynamic encryption method, the installation of additional security modules and the low level of theft with this function have become in demand by car owners.

5. Magnum- deserves a separate place among the popular ones because their advantage is a GPS module with reliable and stable communication.
Advantages

  • Vehicle location and control.
  • Blocking the movement of a car during theft.
  • Low cost with an increased degree of security with additional functions taking into account all the requirements for vehicle protection.
  • It is allowed to program the protection via a PC, which makes installation and configuration easier. The module restarts when it freezes, and the action is applied following the example of the phone.
  • Endurance at the lowest and highest temperatures.
  • Remote functions and diagnostics of sensors before arming and others.

Watch the video about what to look for when choosing an alarm system

Bottom line

The car owner should take the choice of a car alarm seriously, because this is the main protection of the car against theft.
It is worth considering the range of the key fob with three functions: turbo timer - will allow you to properly protect a turbocharged car, paging - will allow you to see the operation of the security system and autostart - will allow you to warm up the car interior in winter or use air conditioning to cool the interior in summer.
Taking into account the work on the range of the key fob, it will allow the driver to start the car from home and warm it up before personal arrival.

The range of car alarms from each manufacturer is constantly expanding, so motorists are increasingly hearing about new products in the field of car protection. At the same time, in this niche there are especially popular products that are in stable demand, which you should focus on when choosing a protective system for your car.

Overall rating

  • Starline;
  • Pandora;
  • Scher-Khan;
  • Sheriff;
  • Magnum.

The first three brands cover about 70 percent of the market in our country. These popular car alarms, equipped with a feedback system, provide good opportunities for car control and protection.

Undoubtedly, the products of each of the mentioned brands are distinguished by their unique capabilities, weaknesses and strengths. They all have one thing in common, namely the ability to establish feedback. It is installed between the alarm unit located in the car and the car owner’s key fob. This option provides the ability to control the condition of the vehicle and prevents attempts at theft, which will be easier to do when using one-way alarm systems.

In this regard, today special preference is given to car alarms with feedback, among which there are often models with an auto-start function. Current models of alarms of this type are included in the rating of car alarms with auto start and feedback.

Rating of car alarms with auto start

In first place in our rating are alarm systems with auto start from the Starline company. This is one of the most famous representatives of the auto protection market in our country. The products of this company are trusted by millions of motorists, and the line of systems with the Dialog index is in greatest demand. From the name it is clear the main advantage of this series, namely the interactive method of encrypting the transmitted signal. This advantage is associated with the system’s resistance to intelligent hacking tools, which are increasingly used by attackers today.

The following options add to the popularity of these alarms:

  • the ability to protect against industrial interference;
  • long signal range;
  • autostart system;
  • price.

All this, of course, comes complete with the usual options such as:

  • ignition circuit control;
  • shock sensor;
  • remote control of locks, etc.

Pandora is another popular brand on the Russian market, which ranks high in almost any rating of car alarms. These protection systems are distinguished by improved interactive code encryption, which is based on the “friend or foe” principle. Alarms have a CAN module, which expands the possibilities for connecting security equipment, but does not increase the degree of reliability of the system.

The main advantage of these alarms is the ability to read an expanded set of sensors, as well as a signal quality monitoring system. The latter may be necessary if there is a threat of leaving the key fob signal reception area.

The only disadvantages include the cost of Pandora alarms with the mentioned functionality. With auto start, a Pandora car alarm costs about 9 thousand rubles, and without it - about 7 thousand.

Alarms Scher-Khan

These car alarms attract ordinary motorists with their range - the transmitter receives the signal at a distance of up to 2 km. You can also highlight the high reliability of the system. In this lan, Scher-Khan models labeled MAGICAR 7 are becoming increasingly popular.

The new line of alarm products under this brand is distinguished by enhanced protection of the transmitted code, which is not broadcast publicly, unlike other alarms. Consequently, the risk of signal interception by attackers is reduced. An additional advantage for domestic consumers is the adaptation of car alarms to Russian climatic conditions. The standard equipment of Scher-Khan car alarms is not very rich, but this disadvantage is compensated by the low price of the systems - about 5-6 thousand rubles.

These protective equipment are very popular in our country, which is partly due to their affordable price - from 3 to 4 thousand rubles. The most popular systems are from the ZX series.

Sheriff car alarms are often ranked among the most popular systems, partly due to the fact that the brand's products have a full range of conventional car protection options:

  • arming in passive or active mode;
  • control of door locks;
  • control of central locking;
  • remote control of security modes;
  • autostart, etc.

Vulnerabilities include the dynamic method of signal encryption. Taking into account the possibility of installing additional modules or the low level of car theft with such alarms, these systems fully satisfy the requirements of most car owners.

Car alarms of this brand occupy a separate place in our rating, since the main advantage of these systems is GPS modules as opposed to radio transmitters of competitors. GPS is a more reliable and stable connection while providing control of the vehicle’s location and the ability to block movement in the event of theft. In the basic configuration, Magnum car alarms are sold with a set of many functions and sensors that increase vehicle protection. This, of course, is reflected in the price, which reaches 9-10 thousand rubles.

The most popular among car enthusiasts in our country are car security alarms, which protect cars taking into account the latest safety requirements and wide control capabilities. Additional options that increase the degree of protection of the car are presented in the form of separate sensors, which increase the popularity of alarms in cases where the price remains within small limits for the average motorist.