The Evolution of the Renault Key Card
The hands-free cards are a vital component of every Renault car. It is the size of a standard credit card and has many buttons that control the car.
Initially thought of as a device worthy of 007, this little object, which is barely bigger than a credit card – is among the top Renault innovations. It has revolutionized the way we use cars.
The Story of the Hands-Free Card
Like many inventions that have revolutionized the way that people use cars the hands-free card was designed as an answer to a particular problem. In this case the driver was required to press the handle on the door to unlock the doors to their car when they entered their vehicle. This was annoying and caused people to miss their cars or, worse to lock themselves out!
Bernard Dumondel, the product leader of Laguna II had an idea to address this issue. He realised that they could utilize the key card to enable a range of functions, and he decided that hands-free was the most effective one.
The first hand-free cards were small and were simple in design – a minimalist plastic case that contained an electronic core programed to communicate continuously with the vehicle it was paired with. When renault clio replacement key is close to the vehicle, it transmits the radio signal that contains an access code. The car recognized this, and when it was confirmed then it unlocked the doors.
The card that was handed out for free contained a microtransmitter, which allowed the user remotely to activate the horn and lights. This is helpful in times of emergency or to draw attention when a vehicle is parked illegally. They also had buttons that allowed the owner to start their engine.
Hands-free Card Evolution
In the 20 years since its inception the hands-free cards have gone through continuous change in terms of appearance, but also, most importantly technology inside. It has reached the point where it can be considered as a kind of ‘car passport’, thanks because it can store vital information regarding the vehicle: its serial number and registration details, as well as details about the owner, the equipment including mileage and tire pressure.
Inside its sleek plastic case the hands-free device is programmed to continually ‘communicate with the vehicle it is linked to. It transmits a radio signal to the car, which checks that it is authentic before unlocking the doors. The process is completed in less than 80 microseconds, a fraction of a blink of an eye.
Once the card is in your pocket, you can make use of it to remotely trigger your car’s systems:
For example, pressing button 4 turns on your dipped headlights as well as interior lighting. This is a great option if you must exit your vehicle in the dark or when it is parking on a road that isn’t familiar to you. The dipped beam can also assist you in identifying your car from a distance, when you park in a parking area. If the battery on your card runs out you must replace it (see “Related Products”). It is essential to keep the card from contact with metal objects, since this could cause it to malfunction.
The Evolution of the Smart Access Card
Since its inception the hands-free card has adapted to new technology and improved to meet the needs of the users. From Magstripe to Prox, the smart access card has evolved and provides greater capabilities. The design of the key card has also been modified to accommodate smart cards.
Modern smart cards come with a microprocessor built in that allows them to perform a variety of functions. It can, for instance store security codes, and also encrypt data. These features offer greater security, and make it easier to use. It is able to purchase online, allowing users to enjoy the convenience and security of shopping without putting their personal information at risk.
Smart cards are more secure than Magstripe or Prox. They don’t need to be swiped to activate and can give more accurate readings than traditional proximity cards. They reduce the cost of maintenance and boost administrative and user efficiency. There are many factors that determine if the system should be upgraded to a smart card such as cost, convenience and security.
The smart card in the Renault Captur can unlock the car’s doors as well as activate the rearview camera, and start its engine. It can be used to control lighting and locate the car in a parking lot.
The Evolution of the Keyless Entry System
Keyless entry systems are getting more sophisticated as they go. The cost of integrating this technology into cars has also decreased. They can decide to incorporate keyless entry systems into their vehicles, or purchase them.
The first keyless entry system was designed in 1982 by the manufacturer of equipment Valeo and was referred to the “practical card”. It was akin to an electronic remote, allowing the user to lock and unlock his vehicle by simply pressing a button on the card. This was a huge advancement in terms of security and convenience for car owners because it did not require them to hold keys in their hands.
In commercial buildings keyless entry systems can also be employed to safeguard sensitive data. Instead of using traditional locks, employees scan a badge or type into a code to gain access to the building. The technology also assists in preventing theft by logging who is able to enter and leave at all times.
Keyless entry systems can be an excellent way to improve security in rental properties. Tenants often hide a spare outside the property. This poses a security risk for landlords because thieves are aware of the practice and are able to easily find the spare key. Keyless entry systems on the other hand permit tenants to receive notifications when they are going into or out of the property and can be removed immediately if someone tries to enter the property without authorization.
