One of the more popular topics that comes up at Extreme Audio when discussing remote car starters or security systems these days is “data modules.” A common question we hear is “what is a data module and why do I need one?” These are great questions. Let’s walk through the explanation together.
Data Modules Connect To Your Vehicle’s Network
Simply put, a data module is a device that allows the aftermarket remote start or security system to talk to the vehicle’s factory computer over its data network. In your home you may have a laptop, printer, scanner, and wireless modem all connected together. They “talk” to each other over a network. In modern vehicle the same thing is happening. The door locks, engine, brakes, stereo, and so on may be interconnected over what is commonly called a bus network. This all sounds great, but you may wonder why should you care about that?
Data Modules Are “Flashed” For Your Specific Vehicle
You may not care about how your vehicle works, but we can all agree everyone cares about their car and its accessories functioning properly. The most reliable, best performing and easiest to service, installations are done using a data module. Does that sound important to you? I thought so. Each vehicle network “Speaks” differently. So, before a data module is installed in your car, we “flash” or program the module to your exact vehicle. Now when you ask your vehicle to start, the data module sends a request to the factory computer over the bus network. This requested can be anything from actually starting the vehicle to disarming the factory security system, or any combination of things. The computer starts the vehicle, and all is good.
Data Modules Are Less Invasive
Data modules allow us to keep the factory safeguards in place, and keep your electrical system much more intact. We keep it more intact because we are eliminating many of the connections that needed to be made if it was installed the old fashioned way. Surprisingly, many people still do it that way trying to save a few dollars. Here at Extreme Audio we will not “cut corners” just to save a few dollars. We only know one way to do an install, and that is the correct way.
Using a data module makes your remote start or car alarm more reliable and also preserves the integrity of the whole vehicle. Any time a connection is made there is a small chance that a failure can happen in the future. We prefer to eliminate that possibility whenever possible. It also makes the vehicle easier to service because there are less wire runs behind your dash, so your auto repair technician can easily work around it.
Old Fashioned Values / Modern Technology
Feel free to call us, Contact Us, or even better, stop by with your vehicle and let us get to know you better. We like to think of Extreme Audio as the place that still treats people the old fashioned way in business, but provides installation services in the most modern and industry standard way. We look forward to meeting you.
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