About A Transponder Key - Everything You Need to know

A transponder key is a device that sends or receives data from another device. Taking a car for example, the answer key is usually found in the ignition key itself, which gives the car another level of security and allows the driver to enter their car through keyless entry. These keys can load over a trillion unique codes.

Function

When the car key is ignited, the engine control unit (ECU) on the car sends an electronic message to the key, and the car is allowed to start only when the correct message is received. Therefore, even a simple car key without any buttons must be properly cut off the key to turn the lock and properly programmed to disarm the immobilizer. The car key chip can be programmed with special equipment.

Transponder

A transponder is shortage for: transmitter + responder.

The word came into use around 1944. In basic terms a transponder is a miniaturized electronic chip that has what is called non-volatile memory. Non-volatile memory is the type of memory that does not need constant energy for retention. Along with that electronic chip is a set of windings; very fine wire coiled around a tube. These windings look similar to the windings you would find in an electric motor. There are two basic types of transponders. The first are the electric coupled transponder systems. Electric coupled transponder systems are not limited to small areas for transmission but can transmit messages or signals for different ranges of distance including several inches to miles, as used in satellites and airplanes. These systems require large amounts of constant electricity to operate.

The second type is what automobile manufacturers are using and they are called magnetic coupled transponder systems. Magnetic coupled transponder systems are passive in nature. This means they do not require constant electricity and thus do not need a power source of their own. They operate in the frequency range area of 125 kHz. Since magnetic coupled transponders do not have their own power source they are very limited in range of communication and generally operate in the range of 1 cm to 15 cm. Since this is a radio frequency it can penetrate materials that would make the transponder not directly visible, such as the plastic or rubber in the bow of a key.

The process of key identification is similar in most automotive transponder systems. Once a key is inserted into the ignition lock and turned to one of the ‘on’ or ‘run’ positions, the induction coil that is mounted around the ignition lock sends out an electromagnet field of energy. The windings in the transponder key chip absorb that energy and power the electronic chip to emit a signal. The signal is usually an alphanumeric sequence which is considered the identification code. The induction coil reads the signal and sends it to some type of computer device to recognize the signal. If the signal is recognized as being already in the computer’s memory the signal is accepted and other electronic components in the vehicle are set into motion to allow the starting of the vehicle or the continuation of the engine running.

Immobiliser systems based on Transponders may not be as safe as they are considered to be. Some immobiliser systems tend to remember last key code for so long that they may even accept a non-transponder key even after a few minutes of taking out the original key from ignition.

Programming

Remote keyless entry Remote control transmits radio frequencies with different assigned digital identity codes. In terms of "programming", FOB is a proprietary technical process, usually performed by a car manufacturer. (In fact, this is a computer in the in-process programming car, not the FOB itself.) Normally, the program puts the car computer in "programming mode." This usually requires turning on the vehicle's power multiple times while holding the button or lever. It may also include opening the door or removing the fuse. The program varies by breed, model and year. Once in "programming mode", one or more remote control buttons are pressed to send the digital identity code to the on-board computer. The computer saves the code, then the car is taken out of "programming mode."

With the popularity of remote keyless remote control systems in the automotive industry, the secondary market for non-programmed devices has emerged. Some web site sales steps to individual car model remote control keys, as well as remote start kit other car equipment.

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