How to install a GSM module to control the StarLine A93 alarm system

The main disadvantage of car alarms with feedback is the limited radius of this connection. This was the result of several reasons:

1. Legislative restrictions on the power of unlicensed transmitters;
2. Requirements for economical consumption of car batteries and key fob batteries;
3. The city airwaves are overloaded with interference, mostly from other alarms.

Main alarm unit A93 with two additional boards (CAN adapter and GSM module).

Advantages of installing a GSM module in the Starline A93 car alarm

The main advantage of connecting a GSM device to an alarm system with automatic engine start A93 through a software interface is monitoring the coordinates of the car. Thanks to the presence of the module, the car owner can receive data on the location of the car on the phone at any time. The error in identifying coordinates can be up to several meters, provided that there is a minimum of interference on the ground. This will allow you to timely determine the location of the car in case of theft and return the car.

Using a GSM device for Starline A93 will provide the ability to monitor the vehicle within the mobile coverage area, that is, almost everywhere.

The M22 and GSM master modules installed in the A93 have the following advantages:

1. Notifying the car owner, devices from Starline work with SIM cards of any operators, regardless of country. The consumer can record up to four numbers in the card memory to which notifications with text will be sent. The car owner can choose the notification method for a specific number individually. If an alarm is triggered, the system reports the reason why it happened.
2. Effective protection. The M22 module can be used independently of the alarm system. The processing unit is equipped with three connectors; limit switches for doors, luggage compartment, brake pedal, etc. can be connected to them. Each input is programmed separately; when activated, a message with specific text for the selected type of notification will be sent to the owner’s phone.
3. If the vehicle is equipped with a pre-heater, the GSM device can be used as a pager to control this system. The activation procedure is carried out by sending a signal via an additional channel. There are nuances to using the function. To control Webasto preheaters, the car owner must first connect the device via W-Bus.
4. The compactness of the module allows for hidden installation. The small size of the device is due to the fact that the antenna adapter is integrated inside the processor unit.
5. Thermal resistance of modules. All Starline security products are manufactured taking into account temperatures that can prevail in both the southern and northern regions of Russia. The device copes with its tasks perfectly at -40 and +85 degrees. The module comes with a special card that operates over a wide temperature range – from -45 to +105 degrees. It is noteworthy that this card can operate in conditions of vibration, high humidity, pollution and shock.
6. Another advantage of the module is energy saving. Thanks to innovative technologies used in production, the consumer will be able to install the device and not worry about battery discharge. Operating the device will not reduce the battery capacity.
7. The GSM-master model has an anti-robbery mode, which will protect not only the car, but also the car owner. If a forced stop occurs and the driver is forced out of the car, the module will detect a robbery and allow the attacker to drive a certain distance away from the owner. After this, the power unit lock will be automatically activated. Information about the event will be sent to the car owner’s phone, and other participants will be warned about the imminent stop of the car through an emergency alarm. The power unit is blocked when the speed decreases to 30 km/h.
8. Another advantage is the ability to control additional devices connected to the Starline car alarm and service options. For example, a consumer can start a motor remotely, from a distance. You can also configure automatic activation of the protection option under specific conditions. Arm the car with or without siren confirmation, etc.

Stason Nissan provided a brief description of the configuration and main advantages of the Starline M22 device.

About the receiver

The manufacturer promises us to determine the location of the car using LBS (identification by codes of base stations of GSM networks), direct control of the alarm system and additional equipment, as well as notifications about the security status.

All this stuff is completed with the module itself, 4 SIM cards from cellular operators (Tele2, MTS, Megafon, Beeline), voluminous instructions for installation and use on 62 pages and other minor waste paper:

The price of the module is unreasonably inflated: 4,450 rubles , but there is nowhere to go, if the GPS antenna for Starline alarms can still be converted from Chinese handicrafts for 600 rubles, then there are no alternatives.

SIM cards with approximately the same tariffs, the essence of which boils down to a daily subscription fee of 3 rubles . The only difference is in all sorts of discounts when paying in advance.

SIM cards are registered to a legal entity; in fact, they do not belong to you. No one forbids using your own SIM card, but its difference from the supplied ones is that Starline SIM cards are heat-resistant and have a special tariff that does not limit the operation of the module in cellular networks. An example is the newfangled Internet packages from operators that work only on smartphones and tablets. If you try to use them in modems, access is blocked or an additional fee is charged. The IMEI of this module also does not apply to telephone ones, so problems may arise.

The module is an expansion board with three male-type contact pads, with a SIM800F modem located on it from the manufacturer SIMCom. This modem cannot boast of anything special: it only works in 2G networks (GSM 850⁄900 / 1800⁄1900 MHz) and GPRS (85.6 kbit/s).

Control methods and capabilities

Overview of ways to control a GSM device:

1. Commands can be transmitted by calling a number whose card is installed in the GSM device. To further protect your device from hacking, you can configure it to work with a specific phone number and not respond to calls from other numbers.
2. Options can be managed using SMS messages containing commands. When attempting to steal, the consumer can send a command to the GSM device to immediately block the motor.
3. You can control the device via the network by installing a special program on your phone.

Opportunities provided by installing GSM modules on alarm systems:

1. The consumer can send a request to the module to verify the quality of the GSM signal. Also, by sending messages, you learn about the status of the car’s battery, whether the battery is low or not. If necessary, you can find out the version of the software installed on the module.
2. By means of a message, you can find out the balance on the card installed in the device.
3. The message may contain information about speeding to the car owner.
4. It is possible to record individual message texts for receipt.

The AutoAudioCenter channel talked about the main options and features of the GSM module Starline model M22.

Characteristics

The Starline 93 module is a small-sized expansion board equipped with a GSM modem, a navigation element and an additional slot for a SIM card. There are no antennas for receiving signals. To operate, the GPS/GLONASS navigation communication unit is equipped with an external antenna that allows it to connect with satellites.

Technical parameters of the GSM-GPS block for Starline alarms:

• supported communication standards - 900, 1800 and 1900 MHz;
• supply voltage - 9-18 V;
• permissible operating temperature - -50...+85°С.

How to install?

Let's look at the procedure for installing a GSM device with our own hands using the example of a Mitsubishi Lancer car:

1. Before direct installation, it is necessary to dismantle the trim on the center console if the “signaling” control module was placed behind the dashboard. You need to gain access to the processor unit; it can be installed anywhere, but is usually placed behind the instrument panel. If you don’t know where the device is located, contact the installer of your alarm system. In the Mitsubishi Lancer, it is necessary to dismantle the front panel, heater deflectors, the lower part of the cladding, as well as the dashboard itself.
2. Then remove the audio system trim. This will be required to dismantle the console, since in these car models it is protected on all sides by cladding.
3. When the center console is dismantled, the instrument panel is removed. In a Mitsubishi Lancer, for disassembly, you will need to remove the heater deflector in advance. After disconnecting the clamps, you must disconnect the INFO key connector. Dismantle the device and set it aside.
4. Now you have access to the processor device of the security complex. You need to disconnect all the plugs and put the unit aside.
5. Disassemble the processor module; you will need a screwdriver to unscrew the bolts of its housing. Then disassemble the device and remove the main circuit from it. The GSM device is installed in a specially designed groove located on the processor unit board. It is impossible to place the device incorrectly, since all mounting locations are marked on it. To facilitate the connection procedure for consumers, the manufacturer indicated on the board of the Starline security complex a diagram for installing a GSM device.
6. After successful installation, a SIM card is installed, which is included in the package. Remove the card and install it in the special slot on the GSM device.
7. The installation of the GSM device is completed, now you can assemble the device. The procedure is performed in reverse order. The previously extracted circuit is installed in the processor module; nothing can be confused, since there is only one installation method.
8. Then the processor unit is connected to the alarm connectors behind the dashboard. Secure the device in place and reassemble the center console trim. When connecting, leave access to the service button, which will be used to program the module. This key will also allow you to reset all settings.

Remove the panel trim to gain access to the processor

Remove the unit from its installation location and disassemble it

Connect the GSM module and install the mobile operator card into it

Setting up an alarm after installing a GSM module

Using the GSM module for Starline A93 after installation will be impossible if you do not link it to the alarm system.

To ensure high-quality communication between the GSM module and the car alarm, after installation the device must be registered:

1. Find the Valet service key. If you installed the alarm yourself, remember where you placed it. When the installation of the security complex was carried out by specialists, check with the installation center where the technician hid the button. Usually it is placed under the dashboard and disguised in one of the bundles with standard wiring.
2. Click on the service button seven times, the ignition should be turned off.
3. Turn the key in the ignition to turn it on. The security complex will begin an automatic search for new installed modules and register them in the memory of the processor unit. After successful binding, an indicator in the form of a satellite will appear on the communicator display. This indicates that telematics options are ready to be configured.

In accordance with the operating instructions, the device itself is configured. To do this, you can use the voice interface. From your phone, make a call to the card number installed in the unit. If the module binding was successful, the voice menu will be enabled. After listening to the greeting, you can configure two passwords - PW and PS. Then the phone number from which the call was made will be automatically linked to the “signaling” as the main one, and an SMS message with confirmation will be sent to it.

Mike Jackson's channel spoke about the specifics of setting up a GSM module before use.

Assigning passwords:

1. P.W. It is used to send various commands from telephone numbers that are registered in the alarm memory as M2 (additional), etc. That is, this code can be used to control the security system from a non-main number of the car owner.
2. PS. Used to bind a new main telephone number. The use of this code is relevant when changing your phone.

If you connected the GLONASS module, then you need to activate the satellite geopositioning function. To do this, you should send a message with the combination 00492 to the number of the SIM card installed in the module. If you do not do this, the procedure for determining coordinates will be carried out not by the GLONASS satellite, but by mobile network towers.

pros

In accordance with the reviews, the following advantages of the module can be highlighted:

1. The notification mechanism can be configured regardless of the type of SIM card the device operates with. If necessary, the car owner will be able to find out the coordinates of the location of the vehicle while in another region or country.
2. Possibility of connecting the device to work in autonomous mode without synchronization with the anti-theft system. In some block models, it is possible to connect modules to limit switches installed on the hood or doors. Separate configuration of program outputs is possible.
3. If a heating device is installed in the car, then the module can be used as a remote control. To configure this option, the unit must initially be connected to the W-Bus.
4. The small dimensions of the device allow for hidden installation of the module. If an attacker manages to find the control unit of the security complex and disable it, the module will still transmit coordinates to the phone.
5. The device can operate without loss of quality in any temperature conditions. Even in severe frost down to -40 degrees, the module quickly transmits coordinates if high-quality communication with the satellite is established.
6. All Starline modules have an energy saving function. This helps prevent possible discharge of the vehicle battery while the device is operating.
7. If additional equipment is connected to the anti-theft system, the user can control it. It is important that all devices work synchronized with the security system.

How to use it correctly?

Before using the module, please read the instruction manual.

Setting up autorun

By sending text messages to the number installed in the device, you can configure the remote start of the internal combustion engine:

• 0067+1#N, where parameter N determines the motor starting period, and number 1 corresponds to one hour (numbers can range from 1 to 24);
• 0067+1#0, this command is used to disable the option of periodically starting the internal combustion engine;
• 0067+2#t, in this case the parameter t means the motor start temperature, it can be from -1 to -30 degrees in steps of 1 degree (if t is 8, then the unit will start when the temperature decreases or increases to -8 degrees );
• 0067+2#0 – command to disable the option of remote engine start based on temperature.

An overview of the main features and nuances of controlling the Starline GSM-master module is presented by the AutoAudioCenter channel.

Commands for system management

Control commands:

1. 40. Used to obtain coordinates about the location of the vehicle. In response to the user's message, coordinates will be sent, which will be displayed in decimal format or in degrees, minutes and seconds. If signal reception is difficult due to lack of interference, the search will continue for fifteen minutes.
2. 43. This command is also intended to receive data about the location of a car, only the information is sent in the form of a map fragment. In a response message, the owner’s phone will receive a link to a web resource used to view data on the smartphone display. The text of the link sent to the consumer will contain encoded coordinates, which means that after loading, the page will show the position of the car immediately on the map. To use this feature, you need to make sure you have Internet access on your smartphone.
3. 0040X, where X is the number of minutes. The command is intended for periodically sending a report on the car’s coordinates. The maximum time interval can be up to 1440 minutes. Coordinates will be sent if the time set by the consumer has passed or the ignition has been turned on or off. To disable the report option remotely, send command 00400.
4. 0043X, where X is time. This command is used to periodically send a coordinate report. Only location information will not come in the form of numbers and letters, but as a fragment of a map. To disable the option, a message with the text 00430 is sent to the module’s mobile number.
5. 0046X, where X is the vehicle speed, measured in km/h. The command is used to send a driving speed report to the car owner's number. If the command 004655 is sent, then if the speed limit is exceeded 55 km/h, the car owner will be notified about this by a message. A warning is sent only if the vehicle has been driving at a speed greater than the set speed for fifteen seconds. To disable the option, you need to send a message with the command 00460 to the module number.
6. 0047. The command is used to warn the car owner about the movement of the vehicle when the alarm mode is turned on. The use of this option is relevant if the car is being towed or criminals are trying to drive it away. To enable the function, a message with the text 00471 is sent; to disable the option, command 00470 is used.
7. 00490 – the command is used to disable all reports. After turning off the functions, re-activation is performed according to the algorithms described above.

To edit the password for management and configuration, use the following commands:

1. 06 – is intended to request the value of the PW code. Sending can only be done from the main number.
2. 0000ХХХХ, where ХХХХ is the new code. The password includes four digits. For example, if you need to write a new code 4581, then a message with the text 00004581 is sent to the main module number.
3. 0050ХХХ, command to write a new PS code. XXXX means new password. The code includes four characters, please keep this in mind when assigning it.

Channel CrossoveR 159 talked about telematics options and commands used to configure the Starline GSM device.

Other commands that are used for configuration:

1. 00591, with its help you can update the software of the GSM device, for this you do not have to remove the device. When the module receives the command, it will begin automatically connecting to the Starline remote update service. If the connection procedure was completed successfully, a message will be sent to the car owner’s phone confirming the start of the update. In this case, the connection will be automatically disconnected; the GSM module will not be able to perform functions during the update, after which the self-programming and restart procedure is performed.
2. 00911, used to activate the alarm protection function control mode by calling. Using command 00911, the security option of the module is activated by calling, but a voice connection will not be established. To disable the function, command 00910 is sent.
3. 009401, will allow you to activate all control commands for the second additional number of the car owner. As a result of sending the code from the second phone, all commands will be available, as for the main number, they will be executed by the GSM module. To disable the option, send command 009400.

Registration on starline-online

By registering on the Starline-Online service, the consumer will be able to access the security system from a computer or from a smartphone application.

The procedure for creating an account is as follows:

1. Go to the official web resource, click on the “Registration” button.
2. In the new form, you must enter your email address and code that will be used for authorization. Check the box confirming that you know the GSM module card number.
3. By clicking on the “Done” button, a message will be sent to your email with a link that you need to follow. As a result of the transition, you will find yourself in your personal account on the Starline-Online website.
4. Click on the “Add module” button, the device registration procedure is performed. Here you need to indicate the type of device, in this case we mean the GSM module.
5. Come up with a name for the module, provide a phone number and send a message with the password 00581 from the car owner’s main number. In response, you will receive a code that is entered into the required field on the site. The “Continue” button is pressed. Registration on the official website is completed.

Gaining access to your personal SIM card account

Even though the SIM card does not legally belong to us:

But I want to have some kind of control over her condition. At the beginning of the year, the Starline SIM cards of the mobile operator Megafon suddenly “had a glitch” and subscribers began to be charged 10 rubles instead of 3 rubles. To anticipate such cases, it is quite convenient to monitor the balance through the itemization of expenses:

To receive a password from your personal account, you will have to send a ticket to Starline technical support with a request to provide the password. This is done on this page:

Click on “ Request a password for your personal account for the SIM card included in the package .” The contact form will open:

Fill in according to the sample. If an account is not found at your Email address, you will be asked to register in the same form below. We enter all the data and create a ticket. After some time, a Starline employee will respond to the request:

And a letter with account data will be sent to your email. We go to the personal account of our operator and check the data. If everything is successful, then do not forget that the password is temporary and needs to be changed immediately (MTS offers to set a new password immediately after successful login). As a result, we get control over “our” SIM card:

By the way, on the topic of differences from simple SIM cards. Among the connected services you can see the following interesting items:

Services typical of IOT/M2M tariffs for telematics are connected on a free basis: Unlimited M2M, Preferential M2M roaming, Preferential M2M roaming - SMS and VGP. Privileged subscriber.

And thanks to the transaction history, you can calculate the consumption of Internet traffic as an alarm, in case someone decides to change the tariff and is interested in the required quota:

During the day there were 21 Internet sessions totaling: 48+49+46+60+60+48+54+54+62+49+73+50+48+56+60+44+52+55+56+58+55 = 1137 kilobytes . So how much traffic is needed for StarLine signaling? The monthly consumption is unlikely to exceed 50 megabytes .