02/26/2022 2,169 Diagnostics
Author: Victor
The anti-theft and protective functions of the Starline alarm system make it possible to ensure the safety of the vehicle even in extreme conditions of urban radio interference. The device can be installed on car models both foreign and ours. Despite its advanced system and high technology, installation and configuration will not be difficult.
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Description
The key feature of the Starline security car alarm is the use of an interactive signal encryption method. Thanks to this, the pulse is protected from being read by various digital devices used by burglars. Almost all models included in the line - A61, A90, A91, A92, A93 eco, A94 - are characterized by a large range of up to 1.5 km. The Starline system has a self-diagnosis option that allows you to promptly identify problems. Thanks to this, the system controls the operation of all modes and sensors. If one of the controllers is damaged or the modes are inoperable, the car owner will receive a message about the problem on the remote control.
The manufacturer of the anti-theft installation has taken the following measures to protect the signal:
- the impulse cannot be intercepted using dynamic code;
- the car owner can interrupt the alarm without turning off the protection;
- the signal activated during an alarm has a limited number of cycles;
- when the system is disconnected from the on-board network, the alarm will retain all settings;
- If you need to quickly turn off the device, an individual access code is used.
Specifications
Let's look at the main features of the system using the A91 model as the example of the most popular:
- the operating frequency range varies between 433.05-434.39 MHz;
- the signal reception range from the key fob is 800 meters;
- operating temperature range is from -40 to +80 degrees;
- the range of operation of the system without feedback is 15 meters;
- the operating voltage for the on-board network is from 9 to 18 volts;
- alarm consumes 15 mA current;
- the number of control channels is 128.
Reviews show that this anti-theft system is quite reliable and allows the car owner not to worry about the operation of the security systems. But the correct operation of the alarm depends on high-quality power in the electrical network of the machine.
The Starline car anti-theft system includes:
- instructions for use and installation;
- remote control with battery;
- adapter for signal reception and transmission;
- control module or central processor;
- impact controller;
- remote control case;
- button for installation under the hood;
- service button;
- temperature controller;
- diode light bulb;
- set of wires for installation and connection.
The package may include two remote controls depending on the model. One will be the main one and is equipped with a liquid crystal screen, and the second will have only buttons on the body.
System capabilities
Briefly about the main capabilities and functions of the Starline alarm system with auto start and feedback:
- Advanced radar recognition system.
- Remote engine start. The driver can set a temperature threshold, upon which the internal combustion engine will start on its own. Or you can set the time for remote engine start.
- Full control, as well as blocking the motor in the event of an illegal break-in attempt. For this, a digital or conventional relay is used.
- The anti-theft system does not respond to radio interference.
- Reliable protection for all doors, trunk and hood. Achieved through the use of limit switches.
- If the driver applies the handbrake, it will not be possible to remove it until the protection is turned off.
- Controllers are installed inside the car interior to monitor the condition of the car.
- Special two-level controllers are installed on the machine body and glass, providing an additional level of protection.
- The remote control body is covered with rubberized plastic. This allows the user to protect the keychain from breakage if accidentally dropped.
- The control panel is equipped with an energy-saving battery characterized by a long service life.
The video, which describes the nuances of controlling the key fob keys, was filmed by the REALAUTO channel.
Principle of operation
The Starline anti-theft system uses technology that operates over a secure channel. When the device's central processor receives a pulse from the controller, it checks the authenticity of this signal. If it passes the test, the alarm sends a response request for confirmation. This impulse is given in the form of coded numbers.
Thanks to the use of a specific algorithm and secret encoding, the system's remote control quickly processes the impulse received by it and submits a response request. If the received and sent signals match, the anti-theft system will remove protection from the car. The pulse transmission procedure takes about one second.
Price issue
The cost of anti-theft systems belonging to the budget segment of the market, without installation, is about 5,500-10,000 thousand rubles. Starline alarms, which belong to the middle price range, cost around 10-20 thousand rubles. More expensive systems will cost the buyer 20 thousand rubles or more.
Malfunctions and their elimination
Experts name several main reasons why remote controls may fail:
- Battery low. In this case, you need to replace it.
- Fall or mechanical impact. In this case, it is necessary to remove the housing to assess the extent of the damage. You may need to repair the Starline car alarm key fob circuit.
- Water ingress. The remote control should be disassembled as soon as possible and dried away from heat sources.
- Hardware failures.
If you cannot identify the cause of the malfunction, you should contact a specialist. You may need to replace some parts in the key fob.
- Mechanical anti-theft device
- Setting up a JVC radio
- Car radio JVC KD X153
- Setting the time on the Starline A93 key fob
Car alarm installation
You can install an anti-theft system yourself or with the help of specialists. Let's look at how to do it yourself. The instructions are valid for all models, including A91 and A93.
Required Tools
To complete the task, prepare:
- set of wrenches;
- two screwdrivers - with a slotted and a Phillips head;
- drill;
- pliers;
- soldering iron;
- heat shrink tubes;
- tester for diagnosing the condition of an electrical circuit.
What you need is a tester. If a conventional indicator is used instead of the device, it may damage sensitive system components.
The ZAVXOZZ channel provided instructions for installing a Starline alarm using the example of a Toyota Fielder car.
Algorithm of actions
The installation procedure is as follows:
- The power in the on-board network of the car is turned off; to do this, open the hood and disconnect the negative terminal from the battery.
- The location for installation of the main components of the system is determined. The central processor, considered the “brain” of the alarm, must be placed so that intruders cannot find it. Once you reach the control module, you can easily turn off the system. Mount the central processor under the seat, under the center console, or behind the control panel. Remove the dashboard and place the module behind it, securing it securely. The six-pin CPU connector is connected to the ignition switch.
- The siren is installed in the engine compartment of the car. When installing, you should choose a location that will be protected from the influence of high temperatures emanating from the engine, as well as moisture. A temperature controller and a hood limit switch are installed in the engine compartment.
- The antenna adapter is mounted in the upper part of the cabin, near the ceiling. This will ensure high-quality transmission and reception of signals. There should be no metal components or wiring near the antenna.
- All controllers are installed indoors, since exposure to moisture will cause them to break. Install the impact sensor in the central part of the car body, this will allow you to take into account the impact on the vehicle body from all sides when setting the sensitivity threshold. After installing the controllers, they are connected to the central processor in accordance with the diagram that comes with the kit.
- The service button is mounted either in the car interior or in the engine compartment. It should also not be affected by moisture and elevated temperatures. The best option is to mount the button on the inner surface of the wing or under the center console.
- To understand whether the alarm is on or not, a diode indicator is used. It is mounted on the car dashboard. All elements - switch, light bulb, and service button - are connected to the central processor in a protected mode. When the connection of the elements is completed, check the entire circuit according to the diagram.
- Reinstall all dismantled interior trim elements. Now you can check the functionality of the alarm.
1. Remove the instrument panel
2. Connect the alarm plug to the tidy connector
3. Install the service button
4. Bring the indicator to the windshield
Settings options
The security system has a multi-level scale, divided into several divisions. There can be up to ten of them. Zero in our case means turning off the sensor, 10 means setting it to the maximum sensitivity level. At the factory it is usually set at the golden mean: 4–5 points.
You can adjust the function as you wish. Just don’t strive for “ten”, otherwise the siren will be triggered even by raindrops and a cat walking nearby.
Be prepared for the fact that the settings you give will be valid for 10 operations. In the future, the system will return to the original settings, and the adjustment will have to be made again.
Change the sensitivity of the sensors taking into account:
- vehicle weight without loading;
- method of mounting the alarm unit;
- features of the situation at the site of long-term parking.
If the siren sounds too often, reduce the level of shock sensor perception. If the alarm does not go off when you push the wheel with your foot, then you will have to add numbers to the scale.
@ilifia-club.ru
How to setup?
The installed anti-theft system must be configured. First, you need to attach a key fob to the Starline alarm system.
Keychain binding
To prevent malfunctions in the operation of the remote control, it is not recommended to carry it in the same bundle with metal keys.
Before setting up the key fob, you need to perform basic settings:
- set date and time;
- if necessary, set the alarm time;
- adjust the timer correctly;
- adjust the volume of the key fob signals according to your preferences;
- choose the optimal tone.
To configure, use the main remote control. Learn step by step how to set up the anti-theft system with a key fob from the service book.
The procedure may vary depending on the model.
Alarm settings are performed using several methods:
- several presses of the remote control button, each of them should last no more than half a second;
- by pressing the button until the corresponding signal is heard;
- double key presses;
- successive button presses.
Description of symbols on the alarm key fob display
Cursor setting
The Starline alarm line includes models whose operating modes are configured using the cursor method. The service books included in the kit indicate all the functional buttons that configure the systems. The cursor method is used by double-clicking the buttons. The first time you need to hold down the key until a signal is heard, and the second time the button is pressed quickly so that the system can confirm activation. As a result, if the operation was successful, you will see an icon on the screen of the main remote control. Using the keys, you can move from one element to another, setting up the necessary functions. To enable one or another mode, use the buttons indicated in the service manual.
The cursor method allows you to enable and disable the following options:
- locking and opening doors;
- anti-grabber;
- silent protection when no signal is heard when the system is activated;
- third party service;
- activation and deactivation of the timer.
After setup, you need to check all functions. If you don’t have a service book, you can always download it from the Internet.
You can learn about service functions and their configuration from the video filmed by the Michael MNS channel.
How to configure system autostart?
To find out whether your alarm system supports the automatic start function and how to use it, check the service book. It clearly indicates all the nuances.
Step-by-step instructions for setting up this function look like this:
- First, the system is prepared. To do this, stop after the trip and do not turn off the engine.
- Shift into neutral and pull the handbrake lever.
- Press and hold key 1 on the remote control for three seconds, the key fob will emit a characteristic signal. You now have 30 seconds to complete the steps below. Promptly turn the key in the ignition and remove it. As a result, the engine should not stall, it will continue to function. Get out of the car and make sure that the doors, hood, and trunk are closed. When the last door is locked, the anti-theft system will automatically turn off the engine and protect the vehicle. This is just preparation. Without completing these steps, setting up automatic startup will not be possible.
If everything is done correctly, then you can start the car’s power unit using one of several methods:
- by pressing key 1 for three seconds;
- by selecting the “Start” indicator on the key fob screen and pressing key 2.
When you do this, the system will try to start the unit. If this does not happen, then try starting the engine again. With each subsequent attempt, the cranking time of the starter device will increase by 0.2 seconds. The Starline alarm system provides the consumer with four attempts to start the engine, after which the control panel will emit four beeps. If the engine starts, a corresponding indicator will appear on the key fob display. It may vary depending on the model of the anti-theft system, but, as a rule, it is an exhaust gas icon. As a result of starting the internal combustion engine, the car’s side lights should blink three times, and the siren will emit three beeps.
The Michael MNS channel published a video that talks in detail about how to put a car on autostart.
The vehicle will warm up for the set time set in the system settings. You can set the warm-up time to five, ten, fifteen or twenty minutes. When there is one minute left before the end of the time period, the message “r01” will appear on the remote control screen. If you do not have time to get behind the wheel and drive, the alarm will automatically turn off the engine, and the indicator on the key fob display will disappear, but the inscription “r00” will appear.
During the cold season, a motorist may need to warm up the car at night so that the engine starts safely in the morning. The Starline alarm allows you to set the air temperature at which the engine will automatically start. You can set it to -5, -10, -20 or -30 degrees. To activate this option, on the key fob display you need to select the Start indicator, next to which there is a thermometer, and press key 2. As a result, a short melody will be heard, and the temperature threshold at which the start will occur will appear on the screen. To disable this option, select the same indicator on the display of the key fob with a thermometer and press key 2.
To unlock the locks while the engine is warming up, if you need to get into the car interior, press key 1. Then, within thirty seconds, you need to have time to install the key in the lock and turn it, activating the ignition. If you ignore this requirement, the door locks will close again and the protection will be activated. To disable the automatic start feature, simply release the parking brake lever. As a result, the side lights of the car will blink once and the corresponding melody on the key fob will sound.
How to turn down the volume or turn off the sound completely?
Alarm sound is one of the main functions. After all, it is he who, when attempting to steal or steal property from a car, will inform you about it, attract the attention of others and frighten the criminal. Think seriously before turning it off.
If the sound bothers you when disarming and arming, then use the “silent” mode. On each model of the security system key fob, it is activated differently, but basically, you need to hold down the key with the loudspeaker crossed out, and then the key to open or close the doors (depending on what you need). In this case, the car will signal you that the command has been completed only by flashing the turn signals. The message will also be displayed on the key fob.
To completely turn off the sound on a car alarm, you can use the following methods:
- disconnecting the wires from the sound detector is the easiest method;
- key fob commands (if provided);
- through specialized equipment by connecting to the security system software.
You can turn off the sound of the car alarm remote control or reduce its volume by going to its settings.
Detailed instructions can be found in the manufacturer's instructions. If you need to turn off the sound of the standard security system, then you can turn it off in two ways:
- in the settings of the on-board computer (if the system allows it);
- from an authorized dealer using specialized diagnostic equipment.
Turning down the volume of signals is no longer such an easy task. The sound emitter has certain characteristics and cannot be louder or quieter. The issue can be solved in one single way - by installing a lower power speaker.
Attention! To reduce the volume, we do not recommend covering the sound detector with rags, wrapping it with tape, etc. Finding such things in the engine compartment increases the chance of a fire! They can also get stuck in moving parts of the car and lead to dire consequences.
Sensitivity adjustment
Starline alarms use a two-level shock controller. The principle of its operation is the piezoelectric effect, that is, the sensor picks up a sound wave immediately before the moment when an impact occurs on the car body. Such sensitivity of the controller is possible only if it is firmly fixed to the surface of the car body. To adjust the sensitivity, you need to increase the warning zones and decrease the other two. After this, the protection mode is activated, and after 40 seconds a light blow is performed on the car body. If the system response is very acute, the sensitivity level can be reduced.
The Practice of Life channel published a video that talks in detail about adjusting the sensitivity parameter.
The technical manual for the vehicle will indicate the installation location of the central processor if the car uses a standard alarm system. If not, you will have to work with the Valet service button; the wire from the button is connected to the control module. You can reduce the sensitivity of the alarm by adjusting the component responsible for its operation. The operating range is from 0.1 to 14 units.
To ensure normal operation of the system, you need to set the value to around 4-5 units:
- Disable the car security function and put the alarm into programming mode to make the appropriate changes. In older alarm models, setting is carried out by turning a special screw; in modern systems it is performed using keys.
- Set the system sensitivity to approximately 4-5 units. In most alarm models, the user is offered ten attempts to adjust, after which he must repeat the procedure for arming the car.
- When making adjustments, take into account the total weight of the vehicle. By adjusting the sensitivity, reach the point where the system does not operate without a reason.
What is alarm sensitivity?
This means adjusting the sensitivity of alarm sensors. These include:
- Shock sensor. It is the main and only one in most systems. It perceives vibrations that spread throughout the body upon contact and impact. Its sensitivity is assessed by the strength of perceived vibrations.
- Motion sensor. It evaluates movement in space and will sound an alarm if your car starts to move. Adjustable depending on the amount of movement.
- Volume sensor. Measures the volume of a car's interior . If it changes to a larger (broken window) or smaller (penetration into the interior) side, it will signal an alarm. The percentage of change at which the sensor generates a signal is adjusted.
The shock recognition sensor is the most common in car security systems. Its correct configuration allows car alarms with one sensor to work with sufficient efficiency. Therefore, adjusting the sensitivity level will be discussed using his example.
Alarm Modes
The Starline alarm system supports the following functions:
- immobilizer;
- anti-robbery;
- diagnostics of alarm and controller performance;
- panic option;
- the ability to silently install protection both with the engine running and with the engine turned off;
- silent activation of controllers during physical impact on the car body, door glass and wheels;
- GPS monitoring option and identifying the exact coordinates of the vehicle;
- function of automatic configuration and binding of a new remote control if the old one is lost, while the system will destroy the existing signal encryption encoding;
- option to automatically lock the wheels if the car is subject to evacuation.
You can learn more about the functions of the key fob from the video filmed by the Michael MNS channel.
How to program them?
You can control the activation and deactivation of functions and modes using the keys on the remote control. All adjustments made to the operation of the anti-theft installation are accompanied by both sound and visual impulses. The corresponding icons and indicators will appear and disappear on the key fob screen. To program and activate a particular function, you need to press a certain combination of buttons on the remote control. Moreover, it is important to observe not only the sequence of pressing, but also the duration of holding the key.
As an example, let's look at several options for setting up functions:
- To activate the option of setting the car to silent security, you need to press the first and second buttons in turn;
- if you press buttons 1 and 3 alternately, this will start the power unit;
- pressing buttons 2 and 1 will turn on the security system when the engine is running, but there must be an interval of one second between presses;
- if you press buttons 2 and 3 in turn, the anti-theft system will automatically turn off the running engine;
- to lock the keys on the remote control, you need to hold down buttons 1 and 3; to unlock, press elements numbered 2 and 3;
- activation of the panic mode is possible if you hold down keys 1 and 2, while the motor must be turned off, and if it is started, the anti-robbery function will turn on.
Semi-automatic setup
Such adjustment is not available for all models of signaling devices. The idea is to put the sensor into memory mode. Next, blows are made on the car body with different intensities.
The microprocessor stores the amplitude and force of the blows into memory. In the future, he uses the acquired knowledge to recognize impacts.
Attention! Impact on different parts of the car with the same force will be perceived by the impact sensor differently.
The sensor may remember a hit to the hood, but ignore one to the wheel. There may also be confusion with the “alertness” of the gadget and the need to turn on the siren.
Possible faults
Malfunctions that a car owner may encounter:
- Batteries in the remote control. If the alarm begins to work incorrectly, you must first check the functionality of the battery. The batteries in Starline remote controls do not have a long service life, so at the first symptoms of discharge they must be replaced. A decrease in charge is characterized by dimming of the diode and screen.
- If you have problems with power supply, this may be due to a dead car battery. The reason must be sought in malfunctions of the safety unit or the power circuit of the anti-theft system.
- Malfunctions in the operation of the central processor. Its breakdown will lead to the need for expensive repairs, because along with the control module, it is necessary to change the remote control, as well as other components of the anti-theft installation. It is not recommended to repair the central unit yourself.
- Failure of controllers. These components can be replaced with new ones if the alarm model is not too old.
In practice, all failed elements, except the central processor, can be replaced with new ones without any problems.
Vladimir Korovin made a video in which he spoke in detail about the repair of the Starline central alarm unit.
If the key fob does not respond
The remote control may not work due to a dead battery.
If the battery is intact and replacing it does not produce results, the causes of the problem may be the following:
- there are high-voltage lines or a radio station near the car, this leads to signal disruption that cannot reach the central processor;
- the car battery is dead;
- The remote control is out of range of the alarm antenna.
If the problem lies in one of the listed reasons, then the car must be driven to another place and the remote control is checked for functionality.
Device repair is performed as follows:
- Disassemble the remote control housing using a small screwdriver. Make sure there are no cracks or other damage to the internal circuitry. There should be no signs of poor soldering.
- Using a regular construction brush, clean the internal components. Remove all dust from the case; it is not recommended to use cleaning liquids, as this may harm the board.
- If, during the diagnostics, detached elements are found on the circuit, they must be carefully soldered into place.
- The electrical circuits inside the key fob must be checked with a tester.
If the diagnostics did not allow the breakdown to be determined, then the cause must be sought in the capacitor element. In programming mode, hold down the key and rotate it 10 degrees. The process continues until the remote control and key fob are synchronized.
You can learn more about the step-by-step repair of the alarm key fob from the video filmed by the AlanMorfreeman channel.
Starline alarm repair
Repairing an anti-theft device involves replacing failed components with new ones. Faults related to the sensor or damaged wiring can be resolved independently. Failed controllers are replaced by dismantling and replacing with new ones. As for electrical circuits, if the damage is minor, the wire can be additionally insulated, and if the defect is serious, it must be replaced. Repair of problems related to the control unit should be entrusted to specialists.
How to increase the range?
In urban environments, there are many obstacles to signal transmission between the key fob and the alarm unit. These include high-rise buildings, other cars, and a large number of other radio waves. Sometimes there is so much transmission interference that the communication range becomes unsatisfactory.
You can increase the communication range between the car alarm and the remote control in the following ways:
Check that the antenna is installed correctly. This greatly affects the range of reception and sending of signals. Here are some rules for correct installation:
- Do not place it on metal parts or close to them. This material prevents the passage of radio waves and distorts them;
- It is not recommended to place it under or inside the instrument panel. A large amount of electrical wiring in it also interferes with the signal.
The best place for the antenna is the windshield. However, there are nuances here too:
- it cannot be placed in the silk-screen printing (darkening) zone, as it contains metal particles;
- if the glass has heating filaments, then the antenna rod should be oriented parallel to the horizon. If it doesn’t have it, then the stem is down;
- If the car is left-hand drive, it would be best to place it in the upper right corner of the windshield. For a right-hand drive car - in the upper left.
Extending the antenna of the control unit or alarm key fob will only help if the alarm does not have feedback.
The most effective method of increasing the communication range of the alarm system is to install a GSM module. This type of communication between the key fob and the unit uses cellular communications and has an almost unlimited range
There is one “folk” method of increasing the signal coverage area. If you need to turn on autostart while in your apartment, but the signal does not reach the car in the yard, then there is one way:
Reference! Attach the key fob with the antenna to the handle of the plastic glass unit. It, in turn, will act as an amplifier and the signal may have enough power to reach the car.
Advantages and disadvantages
Advantages of Starline products:
- Easy to install. The product comes with instructions that clearly indicate all the steps for installation and connection, as well as setting up the system.
- Versatility. The system can be installed on any vehicle. The type of power unit and gearbox does not matter.
- The included remote control comes in a fairly durable case that is resistant to impacts.
- Reliable signal protection from interception and impulse interference.
- The system is resistant to operation in conditions of different temperatures, both critically low and extremely high.
- Availability of automatic start option.
The main disadvantage is the presence of many electronic components in the kit, the failure of which will lead to the inoperability of the installation as a whole. But if you monitor the condition of the car and the alarm system, then such problems will not occur.
If all else fails
It is not recommended to go into the settings system of a car that is under warranty. Otherwise, you risk being left without a free service. But even in a used car, adjusting sensors can lead to unexpected negative consequences.
It is possible that the shock sensor will continue to trigger for no particular reason. Then you will have to reset the settings to factory settings.
Use the universal method for any model:
- With the engine off, press the VALET button 9 times in a row.
- When you hear a short beep and the lights flash twice, you know that the alarm is disabled.
- Start the engine. The headlights will blink repeatedly and the siren will make 9 short sounds. This means that the device has reset all settings to their original settings.
- Press VALET until the siren sounds.
- Press the key with the speaker icon on the key fob. The remote control should also beep with a long sound.
- Turn off the ignition and wait until the protective system exits reset mode.
- When the signal light blinks the headlights several times and the remote control beeps, the work is completed and you can use the device again.
Before starting this delicate procedure, we strongly advise you to carefully study the instructions for your specific model. Some alarms are designed in such a way that in case of incorrect actions they block the car. So, in order to avoid troubles, you should act according to clear instructions.
Video “Detailed review of the A93 model”
The main functions and features, as well as an overview of the characteristics, are shown in the video made by the user ORJEUNESSE
Do you have any questions? Specialists and readers of the AUTODVIG website will help you ask a question
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How to reset
If the device did not save the changes during setup, then you need to reset them to factory settings and adjust them again. The ignition is turned off, the key does not need to be removed. The Jack button is clicked 9-10 times. The number of clicks depends on the specific model. This is stated in the Starline operating instructions. Next, start the engine. A certain number of sounds will pass, which depend on the number of clicks on VALET.
VALET must be pressed again, the owner of the car must wait for a response from the system. You need to press 1, the device should beep, after which you need to confirm the reset mode. To leave the menu, you must activate the engine. If everything is done correctly, the turn signals will blink 5 times. Then you can program the options again.
The StarLine car alarm can be called an excellent “security guard” that can protect a car of any price. Easy installation, many options, additional modes, intuitive interface, reliability - all this is worth installing Starline security.