Vehicle anti-theft system uses radio frequency identification

Car and light van thefts are increasing alarmingly around the world and new guidelines driven by the insurance companies, are being set for vehicle manufacturers to make their products more secure. Ford has developed a new passive anti theft security system (PATS) using Texas Instruments' Registration and Identification System (TIRIS), a radio frequency technology which meets these new requirements. This new sytem is based on a tamper-proof electronic link between the driver's key and the ignition system. Each key features a tiny transponder that electronically links it to a specific vehicle. The transponder contains a unique and unalterable identification code that is accessed by radio signal from a transceiver unit in the car whenever someone tries to start the vehicle. The engine will not start unless the proper ignition key with a transponder is present, even if the ignition keylock is broken or bypassed. This method based upon radio frequency technology adds a new level of theft protection to vehicle security systems in a manner that doesn't require any effort from the drivers. In addition, this approach eliminates the normal wear and replacement of keys common to contact based security systems.<>