Car alarm "Starline A94": reviews, user manual

2024 Author: Erin Ralphs | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-02-19 11:42

Alarm systems for cars become more complex every year, replenished with new functions, protection systems and communication systems. As they improve, so do the prices. As a result, intermediate segments appear, in which compromise solutions appear with new opportunities, but at affordable prices. These offers include the Starline A94 car alarm, which can be purchased for an average of 11-12 thousand rubles. Despite the modest price tag, it is a security and telematics complex with a full range of popular features.

General alarm information

The system is a security module balanced in terms of technical and optional parameters, designed to protect the car from theft. However, the functions of the package extend far beyond the purely protective value. Unlike most budget telematics systems, Starline A94 includes a wide range of comfort tools, including the following:

• Regulation of preheating parameters.
• Automatic seat control.
• Function of automatic return of the steering wheel to the originalposition.
• Dip and high beam control.

At the same time, the basic set of functions is still focused on managing car access systems. The user has a GPS system, a GSM signal transmission sensor, alarm controls and a standard set of control mechanisms for locking doors, hood, windows, etc.

Installation "Starline A94"

The basis of the kit is the central control unit for the alarm functionality. It is recommended to fix it under the dashboard with complete ties or self-tapping screws. During installation, it is important to consider that the unit must not be affected by high temperatures, vibrations and physical shocks. Then a radio receiver module is installed, which will allow transmitting signals to the user's key fob. It should be placed on the surface of the windshield or under the same dashboard - but in this case, the effectiveness of communication over remote communication will be lower. Next, a light indicator is placed, which will provide external visual information for the Starline A94 car alarm. The installation of this component is carried out in the most visible place in the cabin. Fasteners are also carried out with complete fixtures. Sound informing will be provided by a horn siren. The best place for her is in the engine compartment. But it should be placed with the horn down - this will eliminate the risk of water getting into the electromechanical filling.

Connection of security channels

Mechanical blocking is implemented using CAN bus channels. Blocking devices are connected to the relay through appropriate communication channels. In this way, you can arm the hood, trunk, door locks and starter. In accordance with the typical connection diagram, the CAN interface is connected to the central control unit, the on-board network and is programmed for a specific lock control mode with the ability to control it through the key fob. But not all car models support the ability to enter the CAN bus into the power grid. As an alternative option for controlling blocking devices, the Starline A94 car alarm allows you to use an additional channel for connecting the 18-pin connector to the central unit relay. In this case, a complete shutdown of the CAN bus at the software level will be required.

Activate Slave mode

This mode is relevant for security systems, in which the emphasis is on the management of standard protection systems. In other words, in addition to the complete Starline A94 key fob, the user will be able to control the system using a standard remote control tool and other devices introduced into the infrastructure of the complex via a GSM module.

You can connect the mode in two ways - using a computer or through a service button. In the first option, it is necessary to connect to the central control unit via a USB cable and, entering the programmer, activate the Slave option. In the second case, you can directly enter the same programmer through the CAN interface andsection with additional functionality enable the mode. But it is important to take into account certain risks in this format of operation of the Starline A94. The instruction notes that access to the car in this case can be controlled not only by connected remote devices. For the convenience of expanding the range of controls allowed for control, you will have to pay with the likelihood of third-party devices entering the infrastructure that could be accessed using a code grabber.

Instructions for managing autorun

Autostart allows you to control the turning on and off of the engine with the heating system at designated time intervals. A key fob can be used to regulate the operation schedule of the equipment. Through it, the time and parameters of the engine are set. This can also be done directly through the interface of the Starline A94 central unit. The instruction manual also indicates that the remote activation of autorun will make it impossible to open the door lock without a key fob with a radio tag. This is an additional security measure due to the risk of theft, which increases with the engine running.

Maintenance instructions

The manufacturer recommends periodically testing the operation of sound and light alarms, which should work in alarm mode. Even during the configuration process, it is important to determine the situations in which the Starline A94 complex will send an alarm signal. The default instruction recommends programming the alarm to trigger an alarm when the doors are opened,turn on the ignition, apply the brake, release the handbrake, etc.

Electrical wiring channels are checked separately. This applies to power lines and signal transmission circuits to the central unit from functional components. They must be provided with insulation and protected from third-party negative influences that may affect the operation of the Starline A94 system. The operating manual also recommends that when arming using a remote device, check the operability of adjacent electrical devices in the cabin, on which the alarm functions depend.

Positive feedback about Starline A94

The complex, by the standards of its class, offers a completely modern solution for car protection. The alarm system is highly valued for its wide range of functions, reliability and versatility in terms of compatibility with different car models. Users also attribute a variety of sensors to the advantages of the system. This applies not only to sensitive elements that are responsible for access control, but also to auxiliary devices. These, for example, include the Starline A94 temperature sensor. Ergonomics reviews are also positive. Many point to the extensive possibilities of communication with the system, including through the channels of the GSM module.

Negative reviews

If the nominal characteristics of the system looks quite decent, then the practice of operation reveals certain difficulties in the process of working with individual functions. One of the unpleasant surprises for many was the reduction in the operating distance of the Starline A94 radio module. Reviews indicate this shortcoming in a variety of conditions, which excludes the possibility of the problem area affecting the signal quality.

A common problem of telematic security systems with auto start is a conflict between the ignition system and the immobilizer. The system under consideration is not free from this shortcoming. The essence of the problem lies in the fact that the immobilizer, as an additional blocker, does not allow remote activation of the engine start function. As a result, it is necessary to supplement the Starline A94 complex with an immobilizer crawler. To do this, special transponders are used, into the connector of which a key label simulator is inserted. At the moment of sending the autostart signal, the key fob first contacts the transponder, which, in turn, unlocks the immobilizer.

Conclusion

Mechanical anti-theft devices are gradually losing demand under the onslaught of more technologically advanced and easy-to-use electronic alarms. Nevertheless, the practice of using security telematics systems shows that they are far from ideal. They have problem areas in ergonomics, the operation of mechanisms and electrical communications. In this regard, the Starline A94 alarm system is also not free from weaknesses, but experienced owners of such systems also note that you can get used to the shortcomings and minimize their impact on the effectiveness of the protective function. The main problem, whichworries the owners of this module, lies in the risks of stealing a radio tag using a code grabber. Although the manufacturer claims that the radio sensor used advanced shielding and protection against remote scanning, experts, in turn, declare that it is impossible to completely exclude such actions by intruders. However, this applies not only to the Starline system, but also to other similar complexes, which can be fully protected only with the complex use of traditional anti-theft devices.