The Evolution of the Renault Key Card
The hands-free cards are an integral element of every Renault car. It's as big as a standard credit card and comes with a variety of buttons to control the car.
Initially thought of as a device worthy of 007, this small object, which is barely bigger than a credit-card - is one of Renault's leading innovations. It has changed how we use cars.
Hands-free Card: A Brief Background
The hands-free card, along with numerous other inventions which have revolutionized how people drive automobiles, was invented to solve specific issues. In this case, it was the fact that when a driver steps into their vehicle, they need to press the door handle to unlock the doors. This was annoying and caused many to leave their cars, or worse to lock themselves out!
Bernard Dumondel, the product leader of Laguna II had an idea to tackle this issue. He realized that they could use the key card to trigger a variety of functions, and he determined that hands-free functions were the most useful one.
The first cards that were hands-free were small and had a simple design - an unassuming plastic case that contained an electronic core that was programmed to communicate continuously with the vehicle it was linked with. When the card is near to the vehicle, it transmits an audio signal that contained an access code. The car detected this and in the event that it was valid, unlocked the doors.
The card that was handed out for free contained an electronic microtransmitter that allowed the user to control remotely the horn and the lights. This is very useful in emergency situations or to draw attention when an automobile is parked in a parking spot that is illegally. There was also buttons that allowed the owner to start the engine.
Hands-free Card Evolution
In the 20 years that have passed since its creation, the hands-free card has changed continuously - both in terms of appearance, but also, most importantly the technology inside. It has now reached the point that it can be regarded as a kind of 'car passport' due to its ability to store crucial information about the vehicle: its serial number and registration details, as well as details about the owner, the vehicle mileage, and even tire pressure.
The hands-free card that is hidden in its simple plastic case, is programmed constantly "communicate" with the car that it is paired. It sends a signal to the car which verifies that it is genuine and then opens the doors. This is achieved in less than 80 milliseconds - just a fraction of the blink of an eye.
Once the card is in your pocket, you can utilize it to remotely turn on your car's systems:
Pressing button 4 turns on your interior lighting and dipped headlights. This is a great option if you are required to exit your car in the dark or you are in a street that is not familiar to you. The dipped beam will assist you in identifying your vehicle from a distance, when you park in a parking space. If the battery on the card has run out then you must replace it (see "Related Products"). It is important to keep the card out of contact with metal objects, as this may cause it to malfunction.
The Evolution of the Smart Access Card
Since its debut the hands-free card changed to the latest technology and evolved to meet the demands of users. From Magstripe to Prox, the smart access card has become more sophisticated and has improved capabilities. The key card's design has also changed to accommodate smart cards.
Modern smart cards come with an embedded microprocessor that allows them to perform a range of functions. It can, for instance store security codes, and secure information. These features offer greater security, and make it easier to use. It can be used to make online purchases which allows users to enjoy the convenience and security of shopping without putting personal information at risk.
Comparatively to renault key battery change and Prox Smart cards are more secure. They do not have to be swiped to activate them and can provide more precise readings than traditional proximity cards. These features reduce maintenance costs as well as increase efficiency for the user and administrative. There are many aspects to take into consideration when deciding whether not to upgrade a system to a smartcard including cost as well as convenience and security.
The smart card in the Renault Captur can open the doors of the car and activate the rearview camera and even start the engine. It can even be used to control the lighting and find the car in a congested parking lot.
The Evolution of the Keyless Entry System
As time passes by the technology of keyless entry has been upgraded. They are also becoming more affordable for car owners who are keen on integrating this technology into their automobiles. They can choose to include keyless entry systems in their vehicles or purchase them.
The first keyless entry system was designed in 1982 by the manufacturer of equipment Valeo and was referred to as the "practical card". It functioned in a similar way to remote controls that allowed users to lock and unlock their cars with a touch of one button on the card or on the door handle. This was a great improvement in terms of convenience for car owners, as they no longer had to carry a physical key.
In commercial buildings keyless entry systems can also be used to protect sensitive information. Instead of traditional locks, employees scan their badges or punch in a code to gain access to the building. This technology also helps in preventing theft by recording who is able to enter and leave at all times.
For rental properties Keyless entry systems can be an excellent method to increase security. Tenants are known to conceal a spare key outside the property. This poses a security risk for landlords because thieves are aware of this practice and can easily locate the spare key. Keyless entry systems, on the other hand let tenants receive notifications when they are in and out of the house and can be removed immediately if someone tries to enter the house without authorization.