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Introduction To The Latest Telematics

January 2nd, 2009 by admin

Introduction To The Latest Telematics

There was a time when the term “connected car” only brought images of a vehicle at the gas pump or being towed. Today, the phrase has an entirely different meaning. Telematics is the automotive technology that allows a car to connect with other systems. Through that connection, information and data can be exchanged. The popular OnStar system from General Motors is a perfect example of telematics. It can track your vehicle, check the diagnostics systems, and monitor service jobs remotely.

The technology is expanding quickly. While GM has enjoyed most of the field to itself, that’s changing as competitors are licking their lips over the potential subscription fees. Below, I’ll take you on a quick tour through the latest in telematics technology.

Application Overview

When OnStar is mentioned, most people instantly think of roadside assistance services. That is, they mistakenly think the system’s functionality is limited to emergencies. One of the reasons why millions of people instantly think of emergencies is because of the way OnStar was marketed. Commercials mostly showed drivers broken down on the side of the road. In truth, the technology is capable of much more, including GPS tracking, satellite navigation, and hands-free cellular service.

Into The New Year

As predictable as auto sales are, subscription fees are even more reliable. The automakers know this and beginning in 2009, GM will be forced to protect its ground from Chrysler and Ford. In fact, Ford’s new telematics system is a joint venture with Microsoft. Chrysler’s service will allow drivers to take advantage of a number of useful features. They’ll be able to access their email while driving, track another vehicle (from the same household) on a computer, and observe emissions.

The companies that are developing the technology for the automakers continue to build new functionality within their systems. Features that will likely be introduced in the near future include automatically notifying your doctor in the event of a traffic accident and daily traffic modeling. The latter feature will monitor your normal route (for example, to the office) and update it with the best possible alternative, given traffic conditions.

The War Rages On

Due to aggressive competition, the field of telematics is growing wildly. Each company is struggling to launch creative and useful solutions before its competitors, in the hopes of carving out a substantial customer base. For you and I, that’s good news. The competition breeds innovation and lower prices. While it’s impossible to know where the technology will take the automotive industry, the end result is sure to provide additional driving convenience.

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An Introduction To Advanced Key Fobs

December 31st, 2008 by admin

An Introduction To Advanced Key Fobs

We live in an era that promotes progressive convenience. That is, society is deeply interested in a never-ending pursuit to make our lives more convenient. In the past 20 years, that pursuit has led to the invention of the television remote, gas pumps that accepts credit cards, and even drive-thru coffee shops. In the automotive world, key fobs that allow you to crank your car’s engine without sticking the key in the ignition are becoming commonplace.

Today, I’ll describe how they work. I’ll also explain the safety features that are built into the system in order to prevent mistakes and reduce incidents of theft.

How They Work

When you approach your vehicle, a sensor that is built within identifies the key fob. The two devices share information in order to authenticate your identity. Once you’ve been identified, your driver’s door will unlock, allowing you entry, even if the key fob is in your pocket or purse. Once you’re in the driver’s seat, you’ll be able to start the engine by simply pressing a button on the ignition.

All key fobs rely upon batteries for their power. As you can imagine, that leads a lot of people to ask, “What happens when the battery dies? Will I be locked out of my car?” If the battery within the unit dies, it will continue to share information with your car. That means you’ll still be able to gain entry and start the engine.

Averting Common Problems

Some of the common mistakes that have plagued drivers for years include locking themselves out of their vehicles and unwittingly locking their keys within. With these advanced devices, there’s little chance of that happening. The sensors built within your car can detect the presence of the device. Specifically, if the system identifies that the remote device is within the vehicle (including the trunk), it will keep the locks disengaged, allowing you access.

The 2 Main Benefits

You might be tempted to rationalize why you “need” a system that lets you to unlock your car doors and start the engine while your keys remain in your pocket or purse. In the end, it’s mostly about convenience and theft prevention. For example, reaching into your pocket to grab your keys may be inconvenient, especially if you’re carrying other items. Meanwhile, thieves who lack the remote device required to gain entry and “push button” start the engine are left with no opportunity to steal your vehicle.

These systems aren’t widespread at the time of this writing. However, given society’s continual trend toward convenience, that’s likely to change. Over the next few years, automakers will begin producing larger portions of their fleets with advanced key fob options.

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Overview Of Car Parts In An Emissions System

December 29th, 2008 by admin

Overview Of Car Parts In An Emissions System

The emissions system is one of the areas that most drivers happily ignore. They might diligently have the oil in their cars changed every 5,000 miles. And they may replace the filters religiously. But, when it comes to the parts and components that comprise their emissions system, many people close their eyes and hope for the best. The problem is that there are a lot of parts that contribute to that area and things can go wrong with each of them. When they malfunction, which can happen as your vehicle ages, the fuel-efficiency and performance of your car can suffer dramatically.

Today, I’ll provide you with a quick overview of the components that make up your vehicle’s emissions system. I’ll also explain the tasks for which they’re responsible, and what can happen to them over time.

Catalytic Converter

The catalytic converter is supposed to help eliminate hydrocarbons that are in the exhaust. There are several chemicals within the part that allow it to perform this function. However, those chemicals don’t last forever; they diminish with constant use. When they’re exhausted (no pun intended), your vehicle can fail an emissions test. Just remember, a catalytic converter may look fine, but the chemicals within can be depleted.

The Muffler

Very few people ever think about their car’s muffler and when they do, it’s normally in the context of how their engine sounds without it. In truth, the muffler plays an important role in managing the pressure that results from your engine’s combustion process. Plus, it also helps the catalytic converter regulate the temperature at which it burns hydrocarbons.

Oxygen Sensor

Your engine requires both gas and oxygen during combustion. Its operational efficiency depends largely on the mixture of both elements. When there’s too much oxygen present, the exhaust will contain too many hydrocarbons, causing the catalytic converter to work harder. Your car’s oxygen sensor helps to regulate the mixture of gas and air used during combustion. However, they can wear out quickly, so plan to change the sensor every 4 or 5 years (of course, double-check your owner’s manual).

PCV Valve

PCV values are relatively cheap and they perform a simple function, but they’re critical to your car’s emissions. The crankcase has a tendency to accumulate gases. The valve’s job is to redirect those gases over to the intake manifold. If that doesn’t happen, the fumes contained inside the crankcase can “dirty” your vehicle’s exhaust. PCV valves can get blocked or clogged over the years, so you’ll need to replace it periodically. But, it’s a simple job and doesn’t take much time.

A Team Of Car Parts

The components that I’ve mentioned above work as a team in order to clean up your vehicle’s emissions. That means if one component malfunctions, the effectiveness of the others can be impacted. Have them checked the next time you visit your mechanic. By keeping the entire system in good shape, you’ll enjoy better fuel-efficiency and performance.

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