))) Automotive Immobilzer Anti-Theft Systems Experience Rapid Growth in 1999

RFID Technology from Texas Instruments TIRIS™ Helping to Set Automotive Security Standard

))) DALLAS, TX (June 1, 1999)

You've watched the scenes replay a hundred times: a blaring horn or screaming siren falls on apathetic ears; heads turn to flashing lights only in annoyance. Clearly, traditional automotive security systems are not thwarting car theft in the U.S. Yet, auto theft rates in Western Europe dropped by over 1/3 from a peak of 144,000 in 1993 to 95,349 in 1997*. Why?

The answer lies in an anti-theft immobilizer system based on Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology from manufacturers such as Texas Instruments' TI-RFid™. First introduced to the European market in 1993, immobilizer systems became mandatory equipment on all new vehicles sold in Europe starting in 1995. With theft rates of immobilizer-equipped vehicles dropping by 90% in 1997 *, immobilizer systems have become the most effective option in automotive security available.

Following this success, factory and aftermarket immobilizer systems are now featured on many models sold throughout North America including Chrysler, Ford, Hyundai, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Suzuki, and Toyota. In 1999 alone, more than 12 models came equipped with immobilizer-based security systems including - the Ford Windstar, Contour, and Crown Victoria; Jeep Grand Cherokee; Nissan Pathfinder; Toyota Landcruiser and 4Runner; Dodge Neon; Plymouth Breeze; Lincoln Continental and Town Car; and the Mercury Marquis.

A Higher Standard of Security

The heart of an immobilizer system is a tiny electronic device, called a transponder, which is embedded into the vehicle's ignition key. The transponder contains a unique and unalterable identification code that corresponds to that particular vehicle.

Every time the key is inserted into the ignition, a radio frequency (RF) reader located in the steering column is triggered. The reader is comprised of a small antenna integrated with the ignition switch and the steering lock cylinder, and a transceiver, which is connected to a control module in the engine's central computer. The computer controls vital automotive functions, such as the ignition and fuel supply circuits.

As the ignition is turned, the reader is activated and sends out a wireless signal to the transponder. The signal powers up the transponder's capacitor, allowing it to transmit its unique code back to the reader. The code is then sent to the control module, which compares it to the code stored in its memory. If the two codes match, and the appropriate additional security challenges are passed (depending upon the type of transponder featured in the immobilizer system), the control module enables the engine's computer or the fuel pump relays. If the codes do not match, an alarm indicator will show and the engine will not start, rendering the vehicle impossible to drive until the proper key is inserted for ignition.

Advantages of Immobilizer Security

RFID technology offers many advantages over other traditional anti-theft systems. The battery-free, or passive, system is extremely rugged and lasts the lifetime of the car. Because the technology is RF-controlled, its performance exceeds factory-installed contact-based solutions, which develop high error rates because of dirt and wear-and-tear.

The technology's unalterable codes offer a higher level of security than other systems. For instance, infrared systems can be easily overridden now that electronic supply stores sell low-cost equipment that can intercept and emulate an infrared signal.

TI-RFid™ is also the most user-friendly system available. Its presence is completely transparent to the driver, who is expected to do no more than put the proper key in the ignition. This contrasts with PIN (Personal Identification Number) keycode systems, which require a driver to remember a code and take the time to punch it in. In addition, PIN systems are unsuitable for cars with many drivers, since the PIN number can easily be passed to an unauthorized driver.

The Future of Automotive Immobilizer Systems

Texas Instruments also plans the introduction of products for a true "keyless" entry system in the near future. This vehicle, without outside mechanical locks, will look for the driver's transponder, perhaps embedded in a plastic card carried in their wallet, and will then authorize the unlocking of the doors for driver and passenger entry. Future transponders could even learn a driver's profile ¾ where seating, climate control, and other adjustments would be made automatically based on the driver's preferences.