An alarm system for a car is like 24-hour security for a home. It is a necessity, not a precaution. Depending on which manufacturer the alarm was installed, the level of safety of your car also depends. When choosing a Sheriff car alarm, you need to consider how functional it is, what additional options it has, and how useful they can be. Only if the alarm system is chosen correctly, taking into account all possible risks, will the car be reliably protected.
About choosing a car alarm manufacturer
At the moment, the most effective (and, as a result, widespread) are alarms produced under the Sheriff brand. The connection of the Sheriff alarm system is carried out exclusively by specialists; it is easy to use and maintain.
There are a large number of alarms from different manufacturers on the market, but Sheriff is among the leaders in this list.
In addition to the quality of workmanship, they differ in the following parameters:
- Availability of satellite module ().
- Possibility of locking doors/windows.
- Audio listening of the salon.
- Possibility of blocking.
All these parameters can increase the safety of the car, help detect it in the event of theft and prevent theft itself. Do not forget that a lot depends on the quality - it happens that many options are non-functional or simply missing, although they increase the cost of the car alarm. If your car is equipped with a Sheriff alarm system, the instructions for it will fully explain all its advantages. Due to the high quality, all the functions of such an alarm correspond to those declared by the manufacturer, they work perfectly and in a force majeure situation will not disappoint your expectations.
A complex Sheriff alarm connection diagram is a guarantee of safety
Many people believe that simpler alarms are more difficult to bypass or disarm, but this is not true. The Sheriff alarm system is complex - this is a consequence of its reliability. Modern hijackers have a large arsenal technical means, and the alarm wiring diagram is designed to withstand them. Each additional option or protection circuit increases the reliability of the system as a whole.
For example, if the car was still able to be opened and started, the ignition lock will turn off its engine, and if the attackers managed to bypass this point, then the Sheriff alarm system can be equipped with a radio beacon that will transmit information about its location to the owner’s phone. Depending on what means and levels of protection the Sheriff alarm system has, the instructions for action in the event of force majeure determine the order of manipulations that the car owner must take in order to effectively prevent intruders.
A modern car alarm will help you find your car
It is not difficult to hack a simple car alarm, so all modern alarms have one more goal - to make it easier to find a car. They integrate a large number of functions that allow you to track the actions of hijackers and complicate the task of theft. The logic of attackers when choosing a target is simple - the more expensive the car, the more complex the alarm system it has.
The alarm must perform three functions:
- be a deterrent for the hijacker,
- prevent car break-ins or theft,
- in the event of a car theft, provide effective assistance in finding it.
The car has all these qualities Sheriff alarm.
Accordingly, if your car is equipped with a car alarm with a large number of degrees of protection and additional functions, the thief will not be able to carry out his intentions, since he expects that it will not be difficult for him to steal the car and does not have the technical means.
Security experts advise equipping your car with an alarm system that corresponds to a more expensive class of car than the one to which it belongs. Faced with difficulties in hacking an alarm system, any attacker will give up trying to steal your car. The hijacker may not have the necessary funds and will not take risks.
As can be seen from the above, the issue of choosing a car alarm needs to be approached carefully. Often car owners think that it is enough to simply install a “cool alarm”, but in the end it turns out that it cannot protect the car from hacking and contribute to its search.
Sheriff security systems, if the number 1000 or higher is indicated in the name, are always equipped with an automatic start option. Judging by the reviews, for most owners all options work reliably, but problems usually arise with autostart. Any Sheriff car alarm is a rather complex programmable device capable of tracking and remembering events perceived through different channels and inputs. Some people, for example, connect signal inputs directly to ground, and then wonder why they can’t autostart. It was decided to list all such errors in the text. Happy reading.
The alarm must be used correctly
Alarm units belonging to the Sheriff brand and equipped with auto start have a gearbox selection loop. It is easy to notice that the statement is not true for all devices of the family in question - sometimes software settings are used. In a car with a manual transmission, the owner must perform certain actions, and only then will autostart be allowed. All connections, moreover, are made according to the basic diagram, which is true for any car.
Key fobs ZX-1070, main and additional
We hope everything is clear here.
Each Sheriff alarm key fob is equipped with a key that allows you to immediately perform remote start. For most models, this will be the Ch2 key, which is pressed twice. By the way, the sequence discussed above is suitable for a car with a manual transmission. But a car with an automatic transmission can also be equipped with autostart. The Sheriff 1000 car alarm, for example, in the options table has a special setting SF14, which allows you to select the type of gearbox. Initially, the value is set to “1”, that is, “Manual gearbox”.
The owner of a car with an automatic transmission is required to perform the same actions as listed in the text above. But at the same time, as stated in the instructions, the engine stops immediately, and you can leave the cabin at any time.
About connection and programming
Let's look at the part of the diagram where the “power connector” is shown:
Connecting the alarm to the ignition switch
The “red-blue” cord receives power for the “dimensions”, and then it is switched inside the main unit. And the current flowing through the “red” wire is switched by 4 built-in relays (see figure). The standard circuit protection with the “red” wire should be rated at 30 Amps or less. Everyone knows how to connect every cable except the “purple” one. But it is useless to connect the “purple cord” to the “15/2” terminal, if we talk about standard locks. Options for its connection are discussed below.
Let's understand the purpose of the 6th contact
The text of the instructions indicates that the “IGN3” contact can either duplicate the “IGN1” terminal, or it is used to control additional equipment. The latter in this case includes:
- Starter protection line: current enters it after the engine starts, and the line breaks simultaneously with the ignition being turned off. Note that when starting from the key, the line remains open.
- From the “IGN3” terminal you can remove the voltage used to emulate pressing the brake or clutch. The option is in demand if installations with a “START/STOP” button are equipped with autostart.
- The “IGN3” wire can receive a pulse that coincides in time with the end of the motor operation in the security mode. The pulse duration is controlled by software.
You will need to choose one from several algorithms. What is done even before connecting the wire itself, but after installing the signaling in the car.
If there is a terminal that duplicates the “IGN1” contact, it must be used to control the crawler, which allows you to “deceive” the standard immobilizer and start the engine. This statement is common, but in this case it is not true. The ZX-1070 alarm, for example, is equipped with a separate output, indicated in the first diagram by the abbreviation “Immo”. By the way, the operation algorithm of the “Immo” channel can be configured in different ways, and in the instructions it is designated as “CH4”.
ZX-1070 Customizable Options
For anyone who doubts what was said above, here is a screenshot of the basic guide.
Let us note once again: in the diagram, the crawler’s output is indicated by the abbreviation “Immo”. In the table, the same wire is called the “CH4 line”.
Typical user mistakes
The design of the Sheriff system, equipped with auto-start, provides for the following protection: if the engine was started automatically, then switching to alarm mode will result in its shutdown. Everything looks logical here, but now let’s look at another situation when theft protection is not active. In the “disarmed” mode, the engine can be started at any time. But if you open the door when the engine is already turned off by the system, this feature will be canceled. The latter is true for cars with a manual transmission, and bypassing this protection is easy:
- After unlocking the door, the engine is started “with the key”;
- The ignition is turned off, the “correct exit” procedure is repeated again (see above).
This is what the features of Sheriff brand alarms look like.
The system stores error codes caused by the owner and related to autostart in its memory. The decoding of all codes is given in the basic instructions:
Deciphering automatic startup errors
To find out what the last error code is, you need to switch the system to programming mode. We are talking about programming options related only to autorun and not related to protection functions. How to enable this mode is described in the manufacturer's instructions. Here you should read the next chapter.
Software system setup
So, let all connections be made according to the basic diagram. Cord “6” coming out of the “power terminal block” can remain free. Let's open the instructions and see how to program options related to autorun:
- The system is disarmed and the ignition is turned on;
- Within 5 seconds, the Valet service button is pressed 3 times;
- After the sound signal, the Valet button is pressed again;
- The ignition is turned off within 5 seconds, and after the sound signals are turned on again.
Press the Valet button to select the option number. The value is changed by pressing key 1 on the key fob.
The instructions for each signal contain a separate table. It contains the settings options discussed above. Here’s what, for example, the table looks like for the ZX-1070 system, the installation diagram of which has already been discussed:
Auto Start Options, ZX-1070
The values of options SF7, SF10 and SF11 are selected depending on the connection option. That is, everything will depend on the choice of the scheme that you implement.
Even if you make a programming mistake, nothing bad will happen right away. In extreme cases, the built-in protection will work or one of the fuses will burn out.
START/STOP button
The option shown above is taken from the manufacturer's instructions. As you can see, there is nothing complicated here:
- Determine the polarity of the voltage switched by the button;
- If the polarity differs from “+12 Volts,” install an additional relay;
- To bypass the standard protection, the “purple cord” is connected to the contact at which positive voltage appears when the pedal is pressed;
- Program options SF10 (ZX-1070) or SF6 (ZX-1090).
Exactly as discussed above, power plants equipped with a “START/STOP” button are equipped with autostart.
The diagram above does not show how to connect the immobilizer bypass. But the instructions say that the crawler module is controlled by the CH4 wire. The operating mode of this output will actually need to be selected by configuring option SF11 differently. If this is not done, the standard anti-theft protection will not allow you to start the engine in automatic mode.
“Sheriff” with auto start and connection to Mitsubishi
Sheriff car alarms have long been known on the market and have gained fame as inexpensive and very reliable. The secret of reliability apparently lies in the fact that the PIT (Progressive Innovative Technology) company specially developed these car alarms for use in Russia. Not only Russian conditions of installation and operation were taken into account, but also methods of attacks on cars, causes of failures and false alarms. Recently, as a rule, dynamic coding of the control signal is used - KeeLog and KeeLog +, but this code is no longer suitable for the PIT company, from the point of view of cryptographic strength. Therefore, it was decided to develop new system coding, which is called CFM and CFM II. This made it possible to increase the security and anti-theft capabilities of the new models.
In terms of their capabilities and functional richness, Sheriff car alarms can give a head start to many other brands. The model range includes both one-way and alarm systems with feedback and auto-start. With a qualified installation, it is possible to realize the full potential inherent in these security systems, because The entire model range features a large number of additional and service channels. The latest models provide work with digital engine start blocking relays (ZX-750, ZX-930, ZX-940, ZX-1090).
The most interesting one-way Sheriff alarms are the APS-35PRO series, which is distinguished by original key fobs and good functionality. They have an additional line of protection in the form of a two-stage disarming function and the AntiHiJack function.
The Sheriff ZX-725v2 is different from car alarms with feedback. Inexpensive model with a full range of necessary functions. Its special feature is a very compact key fob with a multifunctional LED indicator that displays the status of the security system.
The PRO-9250 model is suitable for those who do not want to burden themselves with carrying additional key fobs. Control is carried out using a standard car remote control or the KeyLess system. Many Sheriff alarm systems can use an electronic transponder (LDT900/910) to disable engine immobilizers. It can also be used to provide anti-catch protection while the engine is running. In critical situations, the driver will not need to take any action.
Model range of SHERIFF car alarms
(Installation and Operating Instructions)
With feedback and autostart:
With feedback:
- ZX-925v2
- ZX-925v2 Style
- ZX-910 Ver.2
- ZX-750
- ZX-800
Today there are many different models of car alarm systems. The most popular products are those developed and manufactured by the American company PIT (Progressive Innovative Technology). The equipment of this manufacturer has been sold on the Russian market for more than ten years. The most famous brands of this company are Challenger, Sheriff and E.O.S. You can purchase products from the above company not only in Russia, but also in Ukraine, as well as in other CIS countries. Wholesale and retail protective equipment. Two-way communication with clients allows you to improve security lines in accordance with consumer requests, using latest technologies. Currently, car enthusiasts in Russia most often purchase Sheriff car alarms.
Overview of the model range of Sheriff alarm systems
The range of car alarms produced under the Sheriff brand is quite wide. Modern market offers a variety of kits that differ in price and functionality. The most consumed models are:
- ZX-700;
- ZX-900;
- ZX-1060;
- APS-2500;
- ZX-1050;
- ZX 1010.
The Sheriff ZX-700 car alarm is a budget option for security systems. All subsequent models were developed on the basis of this kit. They expanded the functional range and improved ergonomic characteristics. The listed types of car alarms have a built-in autostart module, an effective transponder operating algorithm, and improved electronic mechanisms. Key fobs in some configurations are equipped with a liquid crystal screen, which displays information about the current state of the vehicle, as well as commands for remote control the main subsystems of the machine.
What components does a Sheriff car alarm consist of?
The Sheriff brand alarm system, depending on the type, can be equipped with various elements. The common components of a car alarm are:
- Keychain;
- Control unit;
- Digital relay;
- Dual zone shock sensor;
- Antenna;
- Set of connecting wires.
The security line kit may include one or two key fobs that act as a transmitter. The control unit is mounted inside the vehicle.
Service and security options are controlled by pressing buttons on the key fob and interacting with the control unit. The alarm is turned off by pressing a combination of buttons on the electronic key, which must be known exclusively to the owner of the car.
Control commands are transmitted via a digital channel. Given digital channel contains encoded information, usually dynamic. The vehicle is controlled using the key fob at a distance of no more than two kilometers. If an emergency situation occurs, the operation of the security line can be transferred to a reprogrammable channel (for example, arming or disarming a car, as well as controlling the main subsystems by using an additional radio channel). A digital relay allows you to remotely control the engine and ignition system. For example, in the event of a vehicle theft, the owner can block the ignition and engine systems, as well as the door locks, power windows and luggage compartment.
Functionality of the modern security car system Sheriff
Regardless of which particular Sheriff alarm model was selected by the user, almost all kits can perform the following functions:
- Remote door locking with automatic vehicle arming;
- Control of the operation of window lifters;
- Disarming an object while simultaneously disabling the door locking mechanisms;
- Remote opening of the luggage compartment;
- Possibility of installation silent mode control, including arming and disarming the car;
- Automatic arming of the vehicle after a certain period of time;
- Setting the security mode in case of leaving the cabin or closing the last door;
- Identification of the car owner through information received via radio channel from the key fob;
- Automatic blocking of door locks when the car is moving;
- The ability to establish a security mode when the engine is running (for example, during a short absence of the owner of the car);
- Remote engine start;
- Setting a long-term shutdown mode for the security line;
- Turning on warning devices (sound or light) forcibly;
- Disabling the system using secret code or switch;
- Notification about the state of the vehicle when using the immobilizer;
- Protection of all security system mechanisms from illegal damage or replacement;
- Triggering of the alarm line in case of receiving information from the shock or volume sensor (when the state of the car or the volume of air in the cabin changes).
Advantages and disadvantages of using a Sheriff car alarm system
Today, among the purchased alarm systems, the Sheriff system is the most purchased. The main advantage of such a security system for cars is its low cost. The price for the set varies from 1000 to 4000 rubles. On the official websites of dealers of these products you can find a wide variety of reviews from users who purchased the Sheriff security system.
The video shows how the alarm works:
Another advantage of the Sheriff alarm system is the ability to install and configure the system yourself. The control key fob has beautiful design and easy to use, so almost all users like it. One of the main disadvantages of the described car alarm is the short range of the key fob. Based on the tests carried out, it was established that the maximum operating range of the control mechanism is 150 meters. Consumers also point out that the installation and operating instructions are unclear, which is why problematic situations often arise when performing installation and configuration work. Consumer reviews say that another significant drawback of the Sheriff security line is the frequency of false alarms of the system due to its poor interaction with the immobilizer.
It is known that when choosing a car alarm, the consumer must first decide on the functional set of the security system. Despite the fact that the Sheriff alarm system protects against theft and creates an appropriate level of vehicle security, it is important to remember: any alarm system can be opened by a code grabber if you have the necessary specialized equipment.
The video shows a review of the Sheriff alarm system:
How are Sheriff car alarm components connected?
Installation of the complex begins with choosing the location of the main control unit. As a rule, it is installed in a hidden place (for example, behind the glove compartment or under the heating or ventilation control unit). Using the screws included in the kit, fastening is carried out in the indicated place.
It is better to install the siren in the engine compartment so that moisture does not get on it, and it is also invisible.
The limit switch is mounted on a metal surface. It is important to remember that the limit mechanism rod moves approximately 6 mm when closing/opening the hood. It is better to place the shock sensor on a hard surface on the passenger compartment side. The LED element is usually placed on the front panel so that it is visible.
All connecting wires are connected from the ignition switch with a voltage of 12 V. When connecting, polarity must be observed. The instructions supplied with the equipment contain detailed description order of connecting connecting cable lines (by color). Also included is a general wiring diagram for the Sheriff alarm system for the car.
The final stage installation work is to stretch the antenna wire to its entire length and secure it with fastening ties.
