Advanced automotive automation and security system

• US 5,534,845 A
• Filed: 09/16/1992
• Issued: 07/09/1996
• Est. Priority Date: 09/16/1992
• Status: Expired due to Term

• Current Assignee: Directed, LLC (VOXX International Corporation)
• Original Assignee: DEI Holdings Incorporated
• Inventors: Ward, Kenneth A., Birchfield, Jerry W., Issa, Darrell E., Busse, Glenn R., Perdue, Sidney B.
• Primary Examiner(s): Peng, John K.
• Assistant Examiner(s): TONG, NINA C
• Application Number:
  US07/945,667
• Time in Patent Office: 1,392 Days
• Field of Search: 340/425.5, 340/426, 340/457.2, 340/469, 340/439, 340/460, 340/458, 340/430, 340/429, 340/384 E, 340/384 R, 340/531, 340/ 541, 340/539, 340/561, 340/565 , 340/567, 340/551, 340/309.15, 307/9.1, 307/10.1, 307/10.2, 108/167
• US Class Current: 340/425.5
• CPC Class Codes: B60R 2025/1013 Alarm systems characterised by the type of warning signal, e.g. visual, audible
• CPC Class Codes: B60R 25/1003 Alarm systems characterised by arm or disarm features
• CPC Class Codes: B60R 25/1004 Alarm systems characterised by the type of sensor, e.g. current sensing means using door lock sensors B60R25/1001
• CPC Class Codes: B60R 25/1018 Alarm systems characterised by features related to the general power supply
• CPC Class Codes: B60R 25/104 characterised by the type of theft warning signal, e.g. visual or audible signals with special characteristics
• CPC Class Codes: B60R 25/24 using electronic identifiers containing a code not memorised by the user
• CPC Class Codes: G01P 13/00 Indicating or recording presence, absence, or direction, of movement electric switches H01H; counting moving objects G06M7/00
• CPC Class Codes: G01P 15/0891 with indication of predetermined acceleration values G01P15/135 takes precedence
• CPC Class Codes: G07C 2009/00238 the transmittted data signal containing a code which is changed
• CPC Class Codes: G07C 2009/00793 by Hertzian waves
• CPC Class Codes: G07C 2009/00849 programming by learning
• CPC Class Codes: G07C 9/00182 operated with unidirectional data transmission between data carrier and locks
• CPC Class Codes: G07C 9/21 having a variable access code
• CPC Class Codes: G07C 9/28 the pass enabling tracking or indicating presence
• CPC Class Codes: G08B 13/1436 with motion detection
• CPC Class Codes: G08B 25/008 Alarm setting and unsetting, i.e. arming or disarming of the security system
• CPC Class Codes: G08B 25/10 using wireless transmission systems G08B25/009 takes precedence
• CPC Class Codes: G08B 29/183 Single detectors using dual technologies G08B13/1672, G08B13/2448, G08B13/2494 take precedence
• CPC Class Codes: G08B 29/26 by updating and storing reference thresholds
• CPC Class Codes: G08C 17/02 using a radio link
• CPC Class Codes: G08C 19/28 : using pulse code
• CPC Class Codes: G08C 2201/51 : Remote controlling of devices based on replies, status thereof
• CPC Class Codes: H04J 13/0074 : Code shifting or hopping

Abstract

An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having multiple levels of alert signal commensurate with the level of security threat to the area; a siren for communicating multiple levels of alert signal, both visual and audible, progressively including: a low level, medium level and full level alert consisting of a voice warnaway, a series of audible chirps, or blinking lights; an electrically erasable and programmable read only memory for permanently storing system operational parameters and a controller for using the operational parameters for controlling the operation of security system, the security system including a remote transmitter to remotely test all input sensors and remotely disable specific sensors from operation, thus having control of any combination of variable audio and/or audio-visual alarm response, the security system further including a light control for automatic light engagement and mutual cooperation with windshield wipers.

Claims

1. An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having multiple levels of alert signal commensurate with the level of security threat to the area, comprising:

a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing input corresponding to the level of security threat to the area;

b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible, commensurate with the level of threat received to the area, including;

(i) a low level alert consisting of a voice warnaway, series of audible chirps or blinking lights;

(ii) a medium level alert consisting of a combination of said voice warnaway, series of said audible chirps and said blinking lights; and

,

(iii) a high level alert consisting of an immediate full siren alert and said blinking lights, wherein said audible siren alert is generated by a voltage at a siren;

c) means for permanently storing system operational parameters within an electrically programmable and erasable read-only memory; and

,

d) a controller for using said operational parameters for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said input devices and causes said means for communicating to issue said multiple levels of alert signals of a level commensurate with and in response to said sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising;

(i) means for detecting a sensor input signal corresponding to each said level of threat to the secured area;

(ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said level of alert corresponding to said sensor input signal; and

,

(iii) means for generating an additional output signal to said means for communicating said level of alert upon receipt of additional input signals from said sensors either at the same or higher threat level or within a set period of time following receipt of first said sensor input signal.

2. An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having a capability of selectively deleting audible alert signals following arm/disarm mode change, comprising:

a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area;

b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible;

c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and

,

d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising;

(i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area;

(ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal;

(iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and

,

(iv) means for selectively changing audible and visual alert signal to an audio free, visual only alert signal upon receipt of a first control signal transmitted from one channel of said transmitter to said receiver and thereafter receipt of a second control signal transmitted from another channel of said transmitter within a set time period so that said two transmission channels are thereafter available for other programmed functions.

3. An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having a manual and remote capability of changing the mode of said security system between a security mode and a valet mode, comprising:

a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area;

b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible;

c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and

,

d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising;

(i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area;

(ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal;

(iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and

,

(iv) means for said controller to engage/disengage valet mode upon a user-activated input, decoding and acting upon a transmission of control signals from said transmitter.

4. An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having a capability of testing the installation of said security system, comprising:

a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area;

b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert, both visual and audible;

c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and

,

d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising;

(i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area;

(ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal;

(iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and

,

(iv) means for identifying the last two inputs tested using a visual indicator.

5. An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having a capability of testing the installation of said security system, comprising:

a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area;

b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible;

c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and

,

d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising;

(i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area;

(ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal;

(iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and

,

(iv) means for testing the range of transmissions from said remote transmitter away from and around the protected area in the form of a periodic chirp issued from said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals in response to said transmissions received by said radio frequency and decoded by said controller.

6. An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having capability in a controller for monitoring and analyzing each sensor input for stability, comprising:

a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area;

b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible;

c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver;

d) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and

,

e) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising;

(i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area;

(ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal;

(iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and

,

(iv) means for bypassing said sensor input found to be unstable for a period of time, and means for continuing to analyze all said inputs, including bypassed inputs, and returning said bypassed input to said security system when later determined to have regained stability.

7. An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having capability in a controller for monitoring and analyzing each input for stability, comprising:

a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area;

b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible;

c) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising;

(i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area;

(ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal;

(iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals;

(iv) means for bypassing said sensor input found to be unstable for a period of time, and means for continuing to analyze all said inputs, including bypassed inputs, and returning said bypassed input to said security system when later determined to have regained stability; and

,

(v) means for counting the number of activations from each input that cause the security system to actuate an alarm, over a period of time, in making a determination whether an input has become unstable.

8. An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having capability in a controller for monitoring and analyzing each input for stability, comprising:

a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area;

b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals both visual and audible;

c) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising;

(i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area;

(ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating stimulate multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal;

(iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals;

(iv) means for bypassing said sensor input found to be unstable for a period of time, and means for continuing to analyze all said inputs, including bypassed inputs, and returning said bypassed input to said security system when later determined to have regained stability; and

,

(v) means in said controller to readmit said unstable input into said security system only after being determined to have regained stability not withstanding said security system undergoing cycling through said arm/disarm/arm modes.

9. An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having capability in a controller for monitoring and analyzing each input for stability, comprising:

a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area;

b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible;

c) an electrically programmable and erasable read-only memory; and

,

d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising;

(i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area;

(ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal;

(iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals;

(iv) means for bypassing for a period of time an input found to be unstable, and means for continuing to analyze all said inputs, including bypassed inputs, and returning said bypassed input to said security system when later determined to have regained stability; and

,

(v) means for permanently storing system operational parameters in an electrically programmable and erasable read-out memory and for restoring said security, and upon restoration of power, to the same state as it had when power was curtailed.

10. An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having capability in a controller for reducing volume of alert siren chirps, comprising:

a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area;

b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible, including a siren wherein volume of audible siren alert is generated by a voltage at said siren;

c) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising;

(i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area;

(ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal;

(iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and

,

(iv) means in said controller for reducing said volume of siren chirps by effectively reducing the voltage and current at said siren input, includes other means in said controller for reducing said volume of said siren chirps including means for temporarily changing said immediate audible/visual notification signal to an immediate reduced volume audible/visual notification signal upon receipt of a first control signal transmitted from one channel of said transmitter to said receiver and thereafter receipt of a second control signal transmitted from another channel of said transmitter within a set time period so that said two transmission channels are thereafter available for other programmed functions.

11. An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having capability in a controller for reducing volume of alert siren chirps, comprising:

a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area;

b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible, including a siren wherein volume of audible siren alert is generated by a voltage at siren input;

c) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising;

(i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area;

(ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal;

(iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and

,

(iv) means in said controller for reducing said volume of siren chirps by effectively reducing the voltage and current at said siren input by pulsing said siren input power at a low duty cycle rate.

12. An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having multiple levels of alert signal commensurate with the level of security threat to the vehicle, comprising:

a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the vehicle, including such as switches, shock sensors or field disturbance sensors, each for sensing a threatening event and providing a sensor activated input of a level corresponding to the level of security threat to the vehicle;

b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible, commensurate with the level of threat received to the area, including;

(i) a low level alert consisting of a voice warnaway, series of audible chirps or blinking lights;

(ii) a medium level alert consisting of a combination of said voice warnaway, series of said audible chirps and said blinking lights; and

,

(iii) a high level alert consisting of an immediate full siren alert and said blinking lights, wherein said audible siren alert is generated by a voltage at a siren;

c) means for permanently storing system operational parameters within an electrically programmable and erasable read-only memory; and

,

d) a controller for using said operational parameters for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said input devices and causes said means for communicating to issue said multiple levels of alert signals of a level commensurate with and in response to said sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising;

(i) means for detecting a sensor input signal corresponding to each said level of threat to the secured area;

(ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said level of alert corresponding to said sensor input signal; and

,

(iii) means for generating an additional output signal to said means for communicating said level of alert upon receipt of additional input signals from said sensors either at the same or higher threat level or within a set period of time following receipt of first said sensor input signal.

13. An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having a capability of selectively deleting audible alert signals following arm/disarm mode change, comprising:

a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area;

b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible;

c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and

,

d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising;

(i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area;

(ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal;

(iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and

,

(iv) means for selectively changing audible and visual alert signal to an audio free, visual only alert signal upon receipt of a first control signal transmitted from one channel of said transmitter to said receiver and thereafter receipt of a second control signal transmitted from another channel of said transmitter within a set time period so that said two transmission channels are thereafter available for other programmed functions.

14. An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having a manual and remote capability of changing the mode of said security system between a security mode and a valet mode, comprising:

a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area;

b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible;

c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and

,

d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising;

(i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area;

(ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal;

(iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and

,

(iv) means for said controller to engage/disengage valet mode upon a user-activated input, decoding and acting upon a transmission of control signals from said transmitter.

15. An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having a capability of switching from stored programming to other operational function programming, comprising:

a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area;

b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible;

c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver;

d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising;

(i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area;

(ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal;

(iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals;

(iv) means for switching from operational function programming, stored in said electrically programmable and erasable read-only memory and initially preset therein, to other operational function programming, using a user activated input, decoding and acting upon receipt of control signals from said transmitter.

16. An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having a capability of testing the installation of said security system, comprising:

a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area;

b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible;

c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and

,

d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising;

(i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area;

(ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said variable alert signal corresponding to said sensor input signal;

(iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and

,

(iv) means for identifying the last two inputs tested using a visual indicator.

17. An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having a capability of testing the installation of said security system, comprising:

a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area;

b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible;

c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and

,

d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising;

(i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area;

(ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal;

(iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and

,

(iv) means for testing the range of transmissions from said remote transmitter away from and around the protected area in the form of a periodic chirp issued from said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals in response to said transmissions received by said radio frequency and decoded by said controller.

18. An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having capability in a controller for monitoring and analyzing each input for stability, comprising:

a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area;

b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible;

c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver;

d) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and

,

e) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising;

(i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area;

(ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal;

(iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and

,

(iv) means for bypassing said sensor input found to be unstable for a period of time, and means for continuing to analyze all said inputs, including bypassed inputs, and returning said bypassed input to said security system when later determined to have regained stability.

19. An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and analyzing each input for stability, comprising:

a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area;

b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible;

c) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising;

(i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area;

(ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal;

(iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals;

(iv) means for bypassing said sensor input found to be unstable for a period of time, and means for continuing to analyze all said inputs, including bypassed inputs, and returning said inputs, including bypassed inputs, and returning said bypassed input to said security system when later determined to regained stability; and

,

(v) means for counting the number of activations from each input that cause the security system to activate an alarm, over a period of time, in making a determination whether an input has become unstable.

20. An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having capability in a controller for monitoring and analyzing each input for stability, comprising:

a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area;

b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals both visual and audible;

c) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising;

(i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area;

(ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal;

(iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals;

(iv) means for bypassing said sensor input found to be unstable for a period of time, and means for continuing to analyze all said inputs, including bypassed inputs, and returning said bypassed input to said security system when later determined to have regained stability; and

,

(v) means in said controller to readmit said unstable input into said security system only after being determined to have regained stability notwithstanding said security system undergoing cycling through said arm/disarm/arm modes.

21. An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having a capability in restoring said security system upon restoration of power following a power failure, comprising:

a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area;

b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible;

c) an electrically programmable and erasable read-only memory; and

,

d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising;

(i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area;

(ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal;

(iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals;

(iv) means for bypassing for a period of time and an input found to be unstable, and means for continuing to analyze all said inputs, including bypassed inputs, and returning said bypassed input to said security system when later determined to have regained stability; and

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(v) means for permanently storing system operational parameters in an electrically programmable and erasable read-only memory and for restoring said security, and upon restoration of power, to the same state as it had when power was curtailed.

22. An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having capability in a controller for reducing volume of alert siren chirps, comprising:

a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area;

b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible, including a siren wherein volume of audible siren alert is generated by a voltage at said siren;

c) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising;

(i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area;

(ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal;

(iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and

,

(iv) means in said controller for reducing said volume of siren chirps by effectively reducing the voltage and current at said siren input, includes other means in said controller for reducing said volume of said siren chirps including means for temporarily changing said immediate audible/visual notification signal to an immediate reduced volume audible/visual notification signal upon receipt of a first control signal transmitted from one channel of said transmitter to said receiver and thereafter receipt of a second control signal transmitted from another channel of said transmitter within a set time period so that said two transmission channels are thereafter available for other programmed functions.

23. An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having capability in a controller for reducing volume of alert siren chirps, comprising:

a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area;

b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible, including a siren wherein volume of audible siren alert is generated by a voltage at siren input;

c) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising;

(i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area;

(ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal;

(iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and

,

(iv) means in said controller for reducing said volume of siren chirps by effectively reducing the voltage and current at siren input by pulsing siren input power at a low duty cycle rate.

24. An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having a capability of providing a remote engine start signal, comprising:

a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area;

b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible;

c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and

,

d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising;

(i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area;

(ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal;

(iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and

,

(iv) means in said controller, for receipt of a transmission from said remote transmitter, activates a vehicle starting routine that checks the arm/disarm status of the vehicle security system, bypasses the lowest threat level inputs if the system is in the armed mode, locks the vehicle access doors if the system is in the disarm mode, and then outputs a signal to remote start the engine.

25. An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having multiple levels of alert signal commensurate with the level of security threat to the area, comprising:

a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different input levels of security threat corresponding to the level of threat to the area;

b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible, progressively including;

(i) a low level alert consisting of a voice warn-away, series of audible chirps or blinking lights;

(ii) a medium level alert consisting of a combination of said voice warnaway, series of said audible chirps and said blinking lights; and

,

(iii) a high level alert consisting of an immediate full siren alert and said blinking lights, wherein said audible siren alert is generated by a voltage at a siren;

c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver;

d) means for permanently storing system operational parameters within an electrically programmable and erasable read-only memory; and

,

e) a controller for using said operational parameters for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said input devices and causes said means for communicating to issue said multiple levels of alert signals of a level commensurate with and in response to said sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising;

(i) means for detecting a sensor input signal corresponding to each said level of threat to the secured area;

(ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said level of alert corresponding to said sensor input signal; and

,

(iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and

,

(iv) means for generating an additional output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals upon receipt of additional input signals from said sensors either at the same or higher threat level or within a set period of time following receipt of said first sensor input signal.

26. An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having multiple levels of alert signal commensurate with the level of security threat to the vehicle, comprising:

a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the vehicle, including switches, shock sensors or field disturbance sensors, each for sensing a threatening event and providing a sensor activated input of a level corresponding to the level of threat to the vehicle;

b) means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible, commensurate with the level of threat received to the area including;

(i) a low level alert consisting of a voice warn-away, series of audible chirps or blinking lights;

(ii) a medium level alert consisting of a combination of said voice warnaway, series of said audible chirps and said blinking lights; and

,

(iii) a high level alert consisting of an immediate full siren alert and said blinking lights, wherein said audible siren alert is generated by a voltage at a siren;

c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver;

d) means for permanently storing system operational parameters within an electrically programmable and erasable read-only memory; and

,

e) a controller for using said operational parameters for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said input devices and causes said means for communicating to issue said multiple levels of alert signals of a level commensurate with and in response to said sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising;

(i) means for detecting a sensor input signal corresponding to each said level of threat to the secured area;

(ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said level of alert corresponding to said sensor input signal; and

,

(iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and

,

(iv) means for generating an additional output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals upon receipt of additional input signals from said sensors either at the same or higher threat level or within a set period of time following receipt of said first sensor input signal.

27. An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having a capability of testing the installation of said security system, comprising:

a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area;

b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals both visual and audible;

c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and

,

d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising;

(i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area;

(ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal;

(iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals;

(iv) means for using a siren to generate a chirp, audible in and around the protected area, to indicate the change of state of a sensor installation from active to inactive and inactive to active; and

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(v) means for identifying the last two inputs tested using a visual indicator.

28. An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having a capability of testing the installation of said security system, comprising:

a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area;

b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals both visual and audible;

c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and

,

d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising;

(i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area;

(ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal;

(iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals;

(iv) means for using a siren to generate a chirp, audible in and around the protected area, to indicate the change of state of a sensor installation from active to inactive and inactive to active; and

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(v) means for identifying the last two inputs tested using a visual indicator.

29. An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having a manual and remote capability of changing the mode of said security system between a security mode and a valet mode, comprising:

a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area;

b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible;

c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver;

d) said valet mode selectively disengaging, a user defined subgroup of said input sensors; and

,

e) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising;

(i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area;

(ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal;

(iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and

,

(iv) means for said controller to engage/disengage said valet mode upon a user-activated input, decoding and acting upon a transmission of control signals from said transmitter.

30. An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having a manual and remote capability of changing the mode of said security system between a security mode and a valet mode, comprising:

a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area;

b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible;

c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver;

d) said valet mode selectively disengaging, a user defined subgroup of said input sensors; and

,

e) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising;

(i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area;

(ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal;

(iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and

,

(iv) means for said controller to engage/disengage valet mode upon a user-activated input, decoding and acting upon a transmission of control signals from said transmitter.

31. An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having a capability in said controller for reducing the volume of the alert siren chirps, comprising:

a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area;

b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible, including a siren wherein the volume of audible siren alert is generated by a voltage at the siren;

c) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system may be operated in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating alert signals, said controller comprising;

(i) means for detecting a sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area;

(ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal;

(iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and

,

(iv) means in said controller for reducing the volume of siren chirps by effectively reducing the voltage and current at the siren output by using a separate predriver transistor, which is driven by a separate chirp signal independent of the extended siren output, for generating the chirp base drive to the siren output drive transistor.

32. An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having a capability in said controller for reducing the volume of the alert siren chirps, comprising:

a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area;

b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible, including a siren wherein the volume of audible siren alert is generated by a voltage at the siren;

c) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system may be operated in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating alert signals, said controller comprising;

(i) means for detecting a sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area;

(ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal;

(iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and

,

(iv) means in said controller for reducing the volume of siren chirps by effectively reducing the voltage and current at the siren output by using a separate predriver transistor, which is driven by a separate chirp signal independent of the extended siren output, for generating the chirp base drive to the siren output drive transistor.