Signaling Starline A8, its hidden capabilities: control without a key fob, etc.

The alarm system of the Starline A8 model became the first Starline security system equipped with auto-start. The 6-pin connector provided on the signaling housing allows you to “duplicate” the ignition switch contacts. The connection diagram for 6 terminals is given in the basic instructions, and all connections are usually simple to make. During operation, the owner quickly gets used to the controls, activating “software neutral” and turning on the security mode. But many of the capabilities of the signal, designated A8, often remain unused. And this gap needs to be filled.

Arming with “software neutral”

The Starline A8 alarm key fob has an interesting property. The function activated by pressing the first key can be changed programmatically. By default, the security management option is set, but in general this can be any other action. And to activate security while the engine is running, the system has a separate command. Serve it by pressing and holding button 1.

Starline A8 main keychain

Whatever function is assigned to key 1, pressing it for a long time while the engine is running will arm the security system.

Summarizing the above, let's look at how to activate “software neutral” and arming:

Without turning off the ignition, you need to engage the handbrake, and then press and hold button 1 until a melodic signal sounds;
The key fob display will show a “smoke” icon;
The ignition is turned off “with the key”;
After 30 seconds, during which they leave the car and close the doors, two actions will be performed: the engine will stall and “software neutral” will be activated, allowing autostart;
All that remains is to activate the security by briefly pressing button 1 or activating the desired mode using the cursor method.

You don't have to wait 30 seconds to complete “step 5.” The engine will not be stopped, but the security will be activated immediately. Thus, the car will remain protected with the engine running.

“Program neutral” allows you to start the engine automatically. If you do not activate it, this feature is forcibly disabled. The above is true for cars with a manual transmission. For cars with an automatic transmission, program neutral does not need to be activated.

It remains to consider what the words “cursor method” mean. Press key 3 twice and go to “cursor” mode:

Main key fob display

Then press the third key to select one of the icons. And by using the G or F icon, you can immediately turn on the security - just press button 2. No questions can arise here.

Specifications

Equipment technical parameters:

control signal transmission frequency - 433.92 MHz;
range of operation of the remote control with screen - up to 600 m;
command transmission distance using a spare remote control is no more than 15 m;
operating temperature range is -40°… 85°С;
current consumption (in standby mode) - up to 25 mA;
switched current (depending on the circuit) - up to 40 A;
The permissible voltage in the vehicle's on-board network is 9-18 V (DC).

Equipment

The kit includes components:

head unit with processor unit and connectors for connection;
control panels (with display and auxiliary);
block for receiving and transmitting signals with an integrated temperature sensor;
sensor for recording impacts on the car body;
status indicator;
button to enter programming mode;
separate key to enable anti-robbery mode;
a set of switching harnesses;
installation and operating instructions.

Advantages and disadvantages

Advantages of the equipment noted by car owners:

high sensitivity of the shock sensor;
automatic start supported;
Dialogue signal coding is provided.

Disadvantages of the security complex:

fragile plastic of the key fob body;
lack of original components on sale due to discontinuation of production of the complex;
Breakdowns and malfunctions in the operation of the antenna unit were noted, which makes it difficult to control the alarm.

Main key fob capabilities

Button 1, as stated in the basic instructions, can be assigned any function from A to L (see photo above). One short press will activate the function, the second will disable it. Press the 3 key twice to select one of the icons. Then simply hold this key for 6 seconds or longer - button 1 will be assigned the function you selected.

It is important not to confuse the options related to autorun. Icon C corresponds to a temperature start, D is a daily start.

Cursor moves over icons

To simply start the engine without adjusting anything, select the E icon. Another way to get the same thing is to press button 1 for a long time.

As you know, the Starline Twage A8 system controls the temperature in the cabin, but not the engine temperature. To find out the current value, place the cursor on the CHECK icon and press button 2. By the way, the control sensor itself is located in the radio module, so it will be easy to make modifications:

The black and blue cord in the module cable is cut;
The end of the wire that goes to the main unit is connected to the orange-gray wire of the external sensor;
The black wire coming from the sensor is connected to the black wire of the main unit (signal ground).

An external temperature sensor can be taken from the kit of another, more modern Starline car alarm: A9, A91, etc.

Radio module from the A8 kit

By modifying the method discussed here, you will lose the ability to use the driver call. The call button is mounted on the radio module and connected directly to the black and blue wire.

Is it possible to restore settings after a factory reset?

It is necessary to disable the Starline security system only as a last resort.
After it is decided to reboot the alarm, all button settings return to the factory settings. The car is deprived of the turbo timer mode, start by clock or temperature, additional alarm functions and other parameters previously programmed with the keys. After the reset procedure, the owner will need to re-set all Starline car alarm tasks.

Modern car alarms are very different from older security systems. They are capable of not only protecting the car from theft, but also remotely starting and warming up the engine, reaching the set temperature, or starting it on a timer. But sometimes these functions may fail, so it is recommended to reset the Starline A91 to factory settings.

Unreasonable alarm activation;
failure to start the engine based on alarm, time or temperature. Or vice versa, the car may start on its own at the wrong time;
spontaneous locking or unlocking of the central lock;
lack of response to commands from the key fob.

Controlling the alarm without a key fob

The Starline Twage A8 system retains security functions even in the absence of key fobs. Using the service button, the security mode can be turned on or off. All the actions that will be discussed are given in the standard instructions, which indirectly increases the likelihood of theft, but the point is that the attacker does not know where the service button is located. And finding it in 20 seconds is unrealistic.

So, to disarm a car, follow these steps:

They open the door;
The sound alarm starts to sound;
The ignition is turned on without starting the engine;
In 20 seconds, press the service button 4 times;
The ignition is turned off;
If option 12 is programmed to value 2 or 3, you need to turn the ignition on again, and after 10-15 seconds turn it off again.

Actually, the service button is also called the Valet button. And she looks like this:

Item from kit A8

The problem is that during operation the service button is not used, and usually it is not connected.

Let's look at how to activate the security rather than disable it:

The engine is turned off;
Turn on the ignition without starting the engine;
Press the Valet button 8 times;
The ignition is turned off;
Leave the cabin within 20 seconds and close all doors (a siren will sound).

That's all, actually. By the way, this sequence can be used to find a key fob. At step 5 it should beep.

According to the instructions, it is easier to search for a key fob by pressing the call button on the radio module. But if modifications are made, the option will not work.

Common problems and their solutions

The design of the security complex includes a zone diagnostics unit when the security system is armed. If a malfunction is detected, a series of 4 siren signals is given, accompanied by a 4-fold flash of the lamps. The remote control display shows an open body element. After restoration of functionality, the zone automatically enters the security circuit, and the corresponding icon on the display goes out.

The reason for the failure of standard door locks is damage or jamming of the moving elements or failure of the fuse. After lubricating the guides and replacing the insert, the devices operate normally again. False alarms caused by the noise of passing traffic indicate increased sensitivity of the impact sensor. After adjusting the parameter, the defect disappears.

Setting the clock on the Starline A93 key fob
Starline A64 instructions
Starline A61
Satellite car alarm

Shock sensor remote control

An external two-level shock sensor is connected to the Starline Twage A8 alarm. When the engine is started by autostart, the first level is locked immediately, so there is no need to worry about this. But the sensor can still be turned off during operation.

External sensor kit A8

Here, during installation, the rules were followed: the sensor module is located in the passenger compartment, the attachment to the surface is rigid.

The instructions say that the green indicator corresponds to the first, that is, warning level. This means that when setting up, you need to achieve the following: the red light should not light up separately from the green one.

Installation Guide

How should the anti-theft system be connected correctly? As stated above, it is better to entrust this procedure to specialists.

Below are brief installation instructions:

First, disconnect the battery and decide where the control unit will be installed. Its installation is usually carried out in a place inaccessible to a potential attacker. For example, it can be placed behind the control panel or hidden under the seat.
The siren is usually placed in the engine compartment; it must be protected from high temperatures and moisture, so it cannot be placed in close proximity to the engine.
The antenna is mounted on the inside of the windshield. When installing, make sure that the antenna module does not come into contact with metal parts or wiring, as this may cause interference.
As for the sensors, they are mounted inside the car. The impact controller is placed in the center of the body, this will ensure its sensitivity on all sides of the body. After installation, the controllers are connected to the control unit.
The panic button must be installed, for example, on the inside of the wing, since it must be located at least half a meter from the heat source.
It is advisable to install a diode indicator indicating that the anti-theft system is turned on or off on the center console. This will allow both the car owner and intruders to know that the car is protected.
The wiring is laid under the interior trim.
When all elements are installed and connected, the signaling is tested.

1. Connection diagram for 18-pin connector

2. Door solenoids connection diagram

3. Connector connection diagrams

Price issue

At the moment, Starline no longer produces the A8 model. However, if necessary, this alarm can be found on sale in stores where this model is still available. Depending on the store, as well as the region of residence, the cost of the alarm can vary around 7000-8500 rubles.

Hidden features of key fobs

During operation, sometimes you have to set the time on the main key fob. Everyone knows how to do this:

Button 3 is pressed and held until two short beeps;
By pressing buttons 1 and 2 the value is increased or decreased;
To switch between minutes and hours, press button 3 briefly;
Exit the setup mode by pressing and holding key 3.

If after step 1 you press button 3 briefly, you will proceed to setting the alarm or timer. That is, it is necessary to change the value in step 2. What the instructions don't say.

Replacing the battery - recommendations

The design of the main key fob contains a flat battery. It is needed so that the clock readings do not go astray.

Keychain without housing and antenna

The AA battery, not shown in the photo, runs out in six months during normal use. Of course, it has to be replaced. And as a result, synchronization is sometimes lost.

To replace the battery, follow these steps:

The key fob is located near the radio module;
Remove the old battery, then press key 1;
The key is released and a new element is installed;
The key fob can be used.

The standard instructions do not say about pressing key 1. It also doesn’t say that the interval between steps 2 and 3 should not exceed 5 seconds. You can decide for yourself what to do. Still, it is better to adhere to well-known rules, including those given here.

Let's say the synchronization has gone wrong and the signaling system does not respond to the key fob in any way. Then all key fobs, including additional ones, will have to be registered “from scratch”.

Additional remote control A8

Consider the sequence that is taken from the basic instruction:

Turn on the ignition without starting the starter;
The service button must be pressed and held until 4 beeps sound;
On the main key fob, press keys 1 and 2 simultaneously;
Successful recording is confirmed by a siren signal;
Steps 3-4 are repeated for each of the additional key fobs by pressing combination 3-4 (see figure);
The ignition is turned off.

Most often, in the third step you need to press the keys briefly. But for some firmware versions everything looks different - the buttons must be held until the signal.

The duration of pressing in step 3 is the same as during operation. A short press, for example, corresponds to an interval of 0.5 seconds. And the long one is 3 seconds.

Interchangeability of main key fobs

Sellers claim that the same key fobs are suitable for Starline Twage A8 systems as for the A9. These elements have no external differences:

Screenshot of the seller's website

If you buy a key fob from the 9th model, you can write it into the memory of your system without any problems. In addition, the following functions will be available:

Enabling and disabling security mode;
Turn on and off options related to autorun - icons C, D, E.

The remaining options are unlikely to work.

Such an issue as the interchangeability of different elements is not considered in the standard instructions. Buy original products and there will be no problems.

Instructions for using Starline car alarms marked B

Each Starline alarm kit comes with detailed operating instructions. It contains color graphic diagrams of connecting all elements and a detailed operating manual for the security system.

Instructions starlineb92

Instructions starlineb94

starline b95 manual

starline b62 manual

starline b64 manual

Connection diagrams for alarms B92 and B94 are presented below:

We train the system to control the engine

Let’s say that when installing the signaling system, the control method using a tachometer was selected, and then the corresponding option was configured. The control itself is needed so as not to “twist” the starter for unnecessary time. That is, the control option is associated with autostart, but not with security. Here we consider the “training” procedure that the owner himself can perform.

Tachometer sensor signal

During operation, you may find that the starter operates for a fixed time, regardless of when the start occurs. If the control cord is connected to the tachometer correctly, there is only one thing left - to carry out “training”.

We need the system to start recognizing idle speed. “Training” is carried out like this:

It would be advisable to turn off all electrical equipment: air conditioning, glass heater, etc.;
The ignition is turned on without starting the engine, the service button is pressed 9 times;
The ignition is turned off, then 9 siren beeps sound;
The engine waits until the speed “levels out”;
Press the service button 1 time.

The interval between steps 4-5 should not exceed 3 minutes. Successful learning is confirmed by one beep.

It would seem that preparations for winter operation are carried out in the fall. But here this rule does not apply: training is carried out in the conditions in which the car will be used in the future. No other options are provided.

Setting up autorun

Autostart of the alarm system is initially carried out by the installer using a personal PIN code, which is entered into the modular unit. At the first start, all settings specified by the manufacturer and possible adjustments are automatically saved in memory.

The alarm practically eliminates the possibility of internal malfunctions (operation failures), but if this happens, you can use the function of resetting all previously set parameters and modes. (factory reset).

Owners' opinions on the operation of the B series alarm system from Starline

Reviews from owners of Starline alarms are divided into positive and negative. The quality of security of these systems generally satisfies the owners, as does the reasonable cost of the equipment from the Russian manufacturer. Complaints include software glitches and possible problems with setting up some functions. The opinions of real owners presented below are taken from the sites otzovik.com, avtozvuk.ua, www.drive2.ru. Car alarm B92

Positive	Negative
Ruslan I liked the keychain, it is very well made. Thanks to the built-in CAN module, connection is very easy. No extra wires or confusion with them. I bet on Kizashi, no problems. By the way, the brake pedal is output by a separate wire. In terms of functions, it’s very good, one might say good. The price suited me personally.	David The signal system works normally, but sometimes in a parking lot it doesn’t pick up the signal the first time. The buttons on the key fob are not very convenient; it is unclear what belongs to what, especially in the dark. My opinion is 50/50. Not good, but not that bad either.
Maxim I just bought a new car and immediately installed V92 on it. I chose this one because it has a built-in dialogue code and thieves will not be able to open the signaling with a code grabber.	Pasha Recently, a friend enlightened me that it turns out that Starline is made in China. If you take the keychain apart, you can see Chinese characters on almost all the parts. That's why they're so buggy, and I thought the Russians couldn't do it!

Positive	Negative
Vladislav Installed on Grand Vitara with connection via Kan-bus. Works very well, quickly and accurately. The connection is never lost, since the manufacturer has expanded the number of transmission channels. I am sure that the security is reliable, although thank God there has been no reason to check yet.	Stepan Ivashchenko Chose the starline b94 can car alarm, since it can be directly integrated into the CAN bus. Yes, indeed, the installation is much simpler, there are fewer wires and everything is installed quickly. But the quality of the software spoils the whole impression. Literally a couple of months later the first glitches began, and there are more and more of them. I have already contacted the service several times, but it doesn’t help for long.
Polina I like it very much. This is my second year using it, everything works well. True, I don’t use all the functions, but autostart and two-way communication make me happy. Compared to the previous one-sided one - heaven and earth.	Vitaly StarlineV94 is absolutely not worth the money. I installed it last year, but after six months the problems started. It is difficult to achieve anything in the technical support center; all specialists are constantly busy (if they exist at all). One key fob works when it wants, but the second one is completely dead. I do not recommend this alarm to anyone.

Positive	Negative
Roller I ordered starline b62 on the Internet, the price and set of functions are very attractive. The set did not disappoint. Everything arrived as promised, in a beautiful cardboard box. Installed it myself. The instructions are very detailed, everything is laid out step by step, straight to the point. Works good.	Eugene I’m writing a review here because negative reviews disappear somewhere on the official website. The alarm system is simply terrible. Constant triggering, engine blocking while driving. Keychain too It's buggy, and recently it just fell apart in my hands. This Starline is a rare beast.
Vasily The alarm system, although without autostart, is very decent. The range is even greater than stated in the specifications. The turbo timer works great. I did not use the Kan-module, since my machine does not support it.	Alexander The B62 alarm system attracted a large number of interesting functions, for example, control from the phone, and a high degree of protection, of course. But too many different “glitches” immediately alerted me. Very often she did not respond to commands or, on the contrary, worked when it was not necessary. Maybe there was some kind of defect, but I returned the alarm under warranty.