DroneMobile Smartphone Vehicle Control Response Time vs OEM

Being able to lock, unlock or remote start your car or truck using an app on your smartphone is handy. In listening to what owners of these solutions have been saying over the last few years, we’ve noticed a disturbing pattern: Most factory-installed remote systems are agonizingly slow. Nobody wants to wait around for their vehicle to unlock. So let’s do some research and see how the DroneMobile system from Firstech stacks up in terms of responsiveness.

What Is a Telematics System?

In the context of cars and trucks, telematics is a way of remotely controlling basic vehicle functions using an app on your smartphone. In essence, these systems replicate the operation of a key fob to let you lock or unlock your vehicle, pop the trunk or hatch, or remote start the engine. In addition, many systems include a GPS receiver that can locate your vehicle on a map or configure location-based security alerts.

DroneMobile is the aftermarket telematics system offered by Firstech – the company behind Compustar remote car starter and security systems. DroneMobile can be integrated with a Compustar remote car starter to provide unlimited control range. So long as your vehicle is parked somewhere with cellular service and your smartphone has access to the internet, you can send commands quickly and easily.

Smartphone Control Response Time

In addition to reliability and ease of use, impressive response time is one of the main reasons thousands of people have upgraded their cars and trucks with this system. Firstech moved its authentication services to AWS a few years ago to increase reliability and responsiveness. AWS is one of the world’s premier cloud computing platforms and is used by companies like Netflix, Amazon, Capital One, Coca-Cola, Expedia and thousands more to host their online platforms.

If you’re sitting at your desk at work and want to remote start your vehicle with your smartphone, it doesn’t matter significantly if the process takes 2, 20 or 120 seconds. However, if you’re walking up to your vehicle and want to use your phone to unlock it, response time matters. The last thing you want is to stand in front of your vehicle for 30, 40 or 60 seconds while data commands travel around the globe. You want the system to unlock as quickly as possible so you can be on your way.

We surveyed a group of friends to look at the response time of the telematics systems that came with their cars and trucks. The answers were surprising in all regards. Most response times were slower than we expected, with a surprisingly significant number of users completely giving up on these systems because they often didn’t respond.

If we average all the responses, it took just under 18 seconds from when an icon on the smartphone was pressed to when the vehicle responded on most factory-installed telematics systems. In most cases, this was a simple lock or unlock command. However, the time it took for these vehicles to remote start and then report their status back to the app was often more than twice that.

DroneMobile – The King of Vehicle Remote Control Speed

Most of the employees at BestCarAudio.com have Compustar remote starters installed in their vehicles. We also have DroneMobile telematics systems integrated with those starters. We surveyed our team and many of our peers and found that the average response time for a lock or unlock request was about 2 seconds. In some cases, it was less. Sending a lock command over LTE was often faster than using a one-button RF remote. This isn’t a failing of the remote – it waits a second before transmitting to see if you’re going to press the button again.

If you have remote started your car or truck from inside your home, work, a restaurant or movie theater and are approaching the vehicle, using the DroneMobile system to unlock the doors in about 2 seconds is, frankly, the way these systems should work.

Upgrade Your Vehicle with DroneMobile

Many friends we talked with for this article expressed an interest in replacing the factory system with a solution like DroneMobile. The slow response time or complete failure of the system to function had led many of them to abandon using the factory-installed solutions. If you’re shopping for a lightning-quick telematics system for your car or truck, drop by a local DroneMobile retailer today. You can learn more about this impressive smartphone control solution by visiting the DroneMobile website, their Facebook page, Instagram feed or YouTube channel.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Are Remote Car Starters Safe and Secure?

Many consumers ask if a remote car starter affects the safety and security of their vehicle. A while back, we talked about warm-up thefts and how thieves prey on people who start their vehicles with the key to let them warm up in the morning. Leaving your key in your vehicle is, of course, begging for trouble, and a properly designed and installed remote start system is the perfect solution. Let’s talk about how car starters work in terms of theft prevention and the safety of those working on or around the vehicle.

Remote Started Vehicles Are Safe

Modern car starter systems integrate with the security and anti-theft systems built into modern vehicles. Digital communication on the CAN and LIN bus networks in the vehicle not only handles all the required authentic protocols, but many of the ignition and start commands can be issued by data as opposed to the conventional analog signal method from days gone by. This technology has eliminated the chance of a vehicle being “hot-wired” by crossing a few wires under the dash like in a scene from an ’80s movie or TV show.

Remote Start Safety — Most push-to-start ignition systems use complex digital commands to start the vehicle. This technology makes these cars almost impossible to hot wire.

Most car starters ensure that the doors are locked after the start process is complete. The systems also require the presence of a factory-issued wireless fob or the use of the key in the ignition. Finally, if the vehicle isn’t “started” with the key (either mechanically or electronically), the starter system will shut down as soon as the brake pedal is depressed. The latter scenario assumes that a thief was able to get into the locked vehicle.

Starter Safety for Mechanics and Technicians

If installed properly, a modern remote starter will include a hood pin or a tilt switch, or it will be integrated with a factory hood pin so the system is disabled when a technician or mechanic is working on the vehicle. Likewise, a properly installed starter system will include a valet switch or a way to put the system into a Valet mode using the remote. Once in Valet, the remote start functionality is disabled, but door lock and unlock functionality continues to work.

Another safety feature is over-rev production. If the engine speed exceeds a preset level before the ignition is turned on with the key or start button, the engine will shut down automatically.

Manual Transmission Starter Safety

Dozens, if not hundreds, of discussions have looked at the safety of remote car starters designed for use in vehicles with manual transmissions. The question of just how safe these systems are depends directly on the solution you purchase. A basic solution requires that you use some type of reservation mode. The process involves stopping the car and setting the parking brake, then sending the start command from the remote control to the vehicle. The owner can turn the engine off and exit the vehicle. The engine will continue to run. Once the lock button is pressed on the remote, the system shuts the engine down. If a door is opened before the car is started, the reservation mode is canceled.

Some companies take manual transmission starter safety even further by including a motion sensor with the system. If the vehicle moves when the engine starts, the ignition is disabled. Compustar systems include a sensor called the DAS2 that monitors motion, shock and glass breakage to ensure that the vehicle is safe and secure.

Choose Your Remote Starter Carefully

As we’ve said several dozen times, the performance and reliably of your car starter system depends on the products you choose and how those solutions are integrated into your vehicle. Lots of inexpensive products are available for every category of the mobile enhancement industry. Your satisfaction depends on your choice. In terms of a car starter, saving a few dollars may not be wise. Drop by a few local specialty mobile enhancement retailers to learn about the solutions that are available for your vehicle.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

DroneMobile Is the Best Car Sharing GPS Tracking Solution

Just as Uber and Lyft have changed the way we move around when we don’t have access to a vehicle, car sharing is changing how we rent vehicles. If you’re sharing your vehicle through Turo, Getaround, HyreCar or Outdoorsy and you’re looking for the best GPS tracking and control solutions, DroneMobile is an excellent choice. Being able to check your vehicle’s location at any time gives you peace of mind, and best of all, the system is reliable, accurate and easy to use. Let’s take a close look at the features and information that make DroneMobile the top choice for people who own car-sharing vehicles.

Precision Vehicle Location Information

DroneMobile can be added to your vehicle as a stand-alone tracking solution or an accessory to a security or remote car starter system. This telematics solution provides state-of-the-art LTE-based communication with a vehicle using the DroneMobile app on your Android or Apple smartphone or tablet, or via the web interface on a laptop or personal computer. One key element is that the hardware is completely invisible and can’t be easily disabled by the end user.

Car Sharing GPS — As soon as you launch the DroneMobile app, the system displays the location of your car or truck.

Locating and tracking your vehicle in case of an emergency is as easy as launching the app on your device or logging in to the website. In a second or two, you’ll know the exact location of your car or truck. You’ll be provided with the address where the vehicle is, and you can check its speed if it’s in motion. You can even use your Apple Watch or a WearOS device to check the vehicle location.

Instant Alerts Add Peace of Mind

The DroneMobile system does much more than report a vehicle’s location. You can configure alerts for vehicle speed, operating hours and excessive idling. If you want, you can receive a notification any time the ignition is turned on or off. DroneMobile monitors battery voltage and can send you a warning message if its low, so the person renting your vehicle will never be stranded. If you add DroneMobile to a security system, you’ll know when the alarm is triggered and what caused the alert.

The system pushes instant notifications directly to your smartphone. LTE communication (with 3G fallback) between the vehicle and blazing-fast servers means you get these alerts usually within two seconds, if not faster!

Detailed Information Makes Managing Your Rental Easy

If you choose the DroneMobile Premium Plus or Ultimate service package, you can see turn-by-turn details of where the vehicle has been driven. The data includes the total distance traveled and timestamps for stop and start locations and each turn made during the trip. If your car-sharing service uses per-mile billing, this information is perfect for invoicing.

Monitor Your Car-Sharing Vehicle with DroneMobile GPS

Renting out your vehicle can be stressful. DroneMobile helps to alleviate this stress by letting you monitor the vehicle usage, its security and location. More than 2,000 dealers across the United States and Canada are available to install DroneMobile in your vehicle. You can find one near you using the Dealer Locator on the DroneMobile website. Learn more about DroneMobile products by following them on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or their YouTube channel.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Product Spotlight: Compustar CSX7905-A Premium Car Alarm System

Protecting your car or truck from theft or vandalism requires constant monitoring. While sleeping in your vehicle all night might be one solution, it isn’t really an option. The Compustar CSX7905-A vehicle security system includes a long-range two-way RF remote control and the Drone X1-LTE with the DroneMobile App so that you know what’s going on – whether you’re six blocks or 60 miles away. Let’s delve into the features of Compustar’s flagship car alarm system and why it’s the best way to protect your investment.

Communication Enables Easy Monitoring

With the CSX7905-A, you have two ways of knowing if someone is tampering with your vehicle. The system includes a two-way T9 LCD remote control that offers up to 3,000 feet of range. The remote features an LCD screen that provides details on the security system status. Should the alarm go off, the remote will beep, and an icon will show you what zone triggered the alert.

Compustar CSX7905-A — The two-way T9 remote includes an LCD screen that will let you know when the security system has received and executed commands from the remote.

Even if your apartment is 15 floors up, or you work in a large factory or a building like a hospital, then the included Drone X1-LTE Smartphone Telematics module is the perfect solution. The Drone hardware uses the cell phone data network to relay information to the DroneMobile app on your phone and commands from the app back to your vehicle. If the shock sensor is triggered, a door opens or even something as simple as the ignition turns on, you get a notification on your Apple iOS or Android-based smartphone in a second or two. Based on those alerts, you can decide to check on your vehicle or alert the authorities.

The Drone X1-LTE module includes a high-sensitivity GPS receiver that adds a second level of protection. If someone were to drag your car or truck onto a flatbed, you’d get a tow alert on the DroneMobile app that lets you know your vehicle was moved without authorization. You can track its location and notify the police. In many cases, vehicles stolen this way are returned in a few hours instead of being shipped out of the country, never to be seen again. Your Compustar retailer can help you choose a DroneMobile subscription service that offers the communication and security features to suit your needs.

On-Board Security Features

The CM2400 security module at the heart of the CSX7905-A monitors door, hood and truck pins and includes a two-stage analog shock sensor. Compustar includes their E-Lock starter disable relay that prevents hot-wiring of your ignition system. Of course, Compustar includes a dash-mountable warning LED to let would-be thieves know they are up for a challenge. The included 105+ dB siren draws attention to the vehicle should a persistent thief decide he or she wants in.

The flexibility of the CM2400 allows your installer to add upgraded security features for advanced protection. Perhaps the most popular upgrade is the DAS-II sensor. This four-zone security module includes a two-stage digital shock sensor, a motion and tilt sensor and a microphone calibrated to monitor glass breakage. The optional FT-KP2 keypad works like the number pad many vehicle manufacturers include by the door handle on some vehicles. By entering a user-selected code, you can disarm the security system and unlock the vehicle. The FT-KP2 keypad mounts on the inside of the windshield. Touch the glass on the outside to enter the code and arm or disarm the system.

Another upgrade option is the Drone X1-MAX. The X1-MAX hardware includes a built-in backup battery. If a thief cuts a battery cable in hopes of disabling your security system, the X1-MAX will continue to send you alerts and allow you to monitor the vehicle location. The X1-MAX also includes a shock, tilt and glass-breakage sensor.

Of course, all Drone solutions let you monitor the temperature inside the vehicle and its battery voltage. You can lock and unlock the doors and pop the trunk or tailgate if your vehicle has an electronic release option.

Protect Your Vehicle With the Best Car Alarm Available

If you’re worried about theft or vandalism, visit a local authorized Compustar retailer today to learn more about the CSX7905-A and how it can keep your vehicle safe and secure. You can find a retailer near you by using the Dealer Locator on their website. To learn more about Compustar car alarm systems, follow the brand on Facebook and Instagram, and be sure to visit their YouTube channel.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Product Spotlight: Compustar CS852-A Car Alarm System

A car alarm system like the Compustar CS852-A helps protect the contents of your car or truck and dramatically reduces the chances of vehicle theft. As a step-up solution from the CS697-A, this alarm system offers increased remote-control range and a high-output siren to ward off would-be criminals.

Reliable Vehicle Theft Protection

At the heart of the CS852-A is the Compustar CM2400 Security Control Module. This powerful yet compact microcomputer can monitor the doors, hood and trunk of your car or truck to alert you if someone has tampered with your vehicle. An integrated dual-stage shock sensor monitors the body of the vehicle for impacts. A mild impact will trigger a warning blast from the included high-output 105+dB siren. An impact from car door or an inattentive driver that will cause damage to the vehicle triggers the full siren. The system can also flash the parking lights and sound the horn to attract even more attention and scare off criminals.

Compustar CS852-A — The 105+dB siren included with the CS852-A helps scare away thieves to protect your car or truck.

Thanks to the included E-LOCK starter kill relay, hot-wiring your car by conventional means is nearly impossible. Even if you have unlocked the doors with the key, so long as the alarm is armed, thieves won’t be able to start the engine.

Long-Range Communication

The CS852-A security system includes a pair of PRO-Series G15 one-way long-range remote controls. These easy-to-use key fobs transmit lock, unlock, trunk release and auxiliary output commands from distances as far as 3,000 feet away from your car or truck. If you live in an apartment building or work in an office tower, this extra signal transmission power helps maintain communication with the vehicle through walls and other obstacles.

The CS852-A includes keyless entry functionality to upgrade almost any vehicle with power door locks. You can even opt for power trunk release and power sliding door or power tailgate operation as an option.

The PRO-Series remotes are backed by a three-year warranty, and the control module in the vehicle carries a lifetime warranty, so you can be confident with your purchase.

Upgrade Your Car Alarm for Added Protection

If you want to receive warnings or alerts from your car alarm, consider upgrading it with the Drone telematics system. DroneMobile combines a cellular communication module that talks to your Compustar car alarm and relays information to the DroneMobile app on your Android or iOS smartphone. You have all the same control features right at your fingertips, and you’ll know instantly if someone is tampering with your vehicle. You can also check the battery voltage and the temperature inside the vehicle. When combined with the Premium service plan, GPS locating functionality and location-based alerts are added for an additional level of confidence.

Another popular upgrade is the DAS-II security sensor. This four-in-one module includes a shock sensor, a digital tilt sensor, vehicle motion monitoring and a glass breakage sensor. If you are worried about someone stealing your wheels or a catalytic converter or smashing a window, adding the DAS-II is wise.

Protect Your Vehicle with Compustar Security Systems

If you’re concerned about automotive theft or vandalism, drop into one of the more than 2,000 Compustar retailers across North America and ask about their vehicle car alarm solutions like the CS852-A. You can find a shop near you by using the Dealer Locator on their website. To learn more about Compustar car alarm systems, follow the brand on Facebook and Instagram, and be sure to visit their YouTube channel.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

DroneMobile Smartphone Vehicle Control Response Time vs OEM

What Is a Telematics System?

Smartphone Control Response Time

DroneMobile – The King of Vehicle Remote Control Speed

Upgrade Your Vehicle with DroneMobile

Are Remote Car Starters Safe and Secure?

Remote Started Vehicles Are Safe

Starter Safety for Mechanics and Technicians

Manual Transmission Starter Safety

Choose Your Remote Starter Carefully

DroneMobile Is the Best Car Sharing GPS Tracking Solution

Precision Vehicle Location Information

Instant Alerts Add Peace of Mind

Detailed Information Makes Managing Your Rental Easy

Monitor Your Car-Sharing Vehicle with DroneMobile GPS

Product Spotlight: Compustar CSX7905-A Premium Car Alarm System

Communication Enables Easy Monitoring

On-Board Security Features

Protect Your Vehicle With the Best Car Alarm Available

Product Spotlight: Compustar CS852-A Car Alarm System

Reliable Vehicle Theft Protection

Long-Range Communication

Upgrade Your Car Alarm for Added Protection

Protect Your Vehicle with Compustar Security Systems

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