CAR ALARM AND REMOTE START INSTALLATION GUIDE
Copyrght 2002-2004 Triple S Customs
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NOTE: This is only an example. Much more complex and much more simple systems exist, but this example is a
starting point to build an understanding of alarm and remote start systems.
C
C
O
O
N
N
T
T
R
R
O
O
L
L
U
U
N
N
I
I
T
T
The control unit or “brain” of the alarm and remote start system is the heart of the system. This is often a black
box that all harnesses and components connect to. The control unit is where the processing of various input and
output functions takes place. The control unit monitors signals from trigger inputs and sensor outputs to trigger the
alarm. The control unit also monitors signals from the remote transmitters to arm or disarm the system, lock and
unlock the doors, remote start the vehicle, or operate other accessories such as the horn or trunk release.
W
W
I
I
R
R
I
I
N
N
G
G
H
H
A
A
R
R
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N
E
E
S
S
S
S
The wiring harness may consist of one or more separate harnesses that plug into the control unit and connect to
various vehicle circuits, sensors, or switches. NOT EVERY WIRE IS USED OR CONNECTED. Alarm and remote
start systems are designed to integrate with a wide range of vehicles with many different types of circuits.
REMOTE TRANSMITTERS
One or more remote transmitters are used to control the various functions of the alarm or remote start system.
ELECTRONIC SIREN
Security systems and some remote start systems include an electronic siren. Most sirens have a positive and a
negative wire. The negative wire connects to chassis ground and the positive wire connects to the alarm’s siren
output wire. The electronic siren is the system’s sounding device. The system sounds the siren when the system
is armed or disarmed or when the alarm is triggered. Some electronic sirens have a self-contained battery to
power the siren if power to the alarm is disconnected.
VALET SWITCH
The valet switch is used for a variety of functions depending on the complexity of the system. The valet switch
connects to the control unit through a small harness. Generally, the valet switch is a momentary switch that plugs
into the system’s control unit. The valet switch supports functions of programming, sensor disable, and system
override.
L.E.D.
The L.E.D. (light emitting diode) shows visual status of the system. It connects to the control unit usually through
a small harness. It primarily serves as a theft deterrent. The L.E.D. shows that the system is armed and warns
potential thieves.
EXTERNAL SENSORS
Many security systems include external sensors, such as an external shock sensor. They connect to the system’s
control unit through a wire, cable, or ribbon harness. External sensors offer increased protection through their
ability to be mounted in locations where they would best detect a disturbance to the vehicle.
EXTENDED RANGE ANTENNA
Some systems include an extended range antenna. Generally the antenna is mounted on the windshield and
provides the user the benefit of increased range to control functions of the alarm or remote start.
