Most cars nowadays use a transponder car keys already. Gone are the days that you have to lock or unlock manually. With the recent technology, these transponders have evolved from a simple lock/unlock to GPS incorporated transponders. How cool is that? But let’s learn what a transponder car key is?

A transponder key is a car key with an inbuilt chip that is needed to deactivate an engine immobilizer. Transponder is the words “transmitter” and “responder” combined. The word emerged at around 1945. A transponder is a small electronic chip that has a “non-volatile memory” which doesn’t need constant electricity for data retention. A transponder also features a set of windings, or coil, which is made of fine wire wrapped around a tube. This is similar to the windings in an electric motor.

There are two kinds of transponders – electric coupled systems, and magnetic coupled systems. Electric coupled systems can transmit data anywhere from a few inches to many miles, such as those used in aeroplanes and satellites. They require significant amounts of constant energy to function. Magnetic coupled systems, in contrast, are passive – they do not need constant energy or a power source. They transmit and receive data on the 125kHz bandwidth. Because they are un-powered, they have a limited transmission range – anywhere from 1 to 15 centimetres. This radio transmission can penetrate certain materials such as the plastic surrounding the chip built into a car key.

How it Works

Most car transponder chips have a similar process for key identification. There is an induction coil mounted around the ignition lock. This generates an electromagnetic field when a key is inserted into the ignition and turned. The windings in the key absorb that energy and use it to power the transponder chip which then emits the code signal to the ECU. The signal is most often an alphanumeric code. This process allows the electronic components in the car to function which in turn allows the engine to start or continue running.

If you are looking for someone to program a transponder in Kalamazoo, Auto Lock Specialists LLC offers the highest level of experience to fit your automotive locksmith needs. If you lost your car keys or simply want a spare set we can help. We also offer fast and reliable service to Auto Auctions and Dealerships. Our services are quick, convenient, high quality, and affordable. Call Auto Lock Specialists LLC at 269-762-3753 for your transponder programming needs in Kalamazoo!