Pandora car alarm: review, characteristics, without key fobs, GPS and GSM, setup and management

In the market of Russian manufacturers, the Pandora car alarm brand is popular in the Russian market - the company's products are not inferior to foreign analogues, and in some respects even surpass them. The Pandora car alarm manufacturer uses advanced achievements in the field of security - a multi-level security system guarantees the vehicle's protection from hacking.

Review of Pandora car alarms

The LX or “Light” series is distinguished by its affordable price, small selection and excellent quality. All the necessary functions are present - automatic start, turbo timer, etc. The LX group includes models 3250, 3257, 3290, 3297.

Some systems in this series had identical functional characteristics, so Pandora optimized the product range and left 2 models - 3257 and 3297. Unlike 3257, 3297 is equipped with a CAN adapter, improved electronic components and software.

The DXL product line includes 90 percent of the Pandora brand assortment with extensive telematics features. Here you will find mid-class and luxury models - devices controlled without using a key fob, models controlled by a mobile phone, with the function of car control through a specialized resource on the network, etc.

The line includes models: 3210, 3210 slave, 3500, 3700, 3900, 3910, 3930, 3950, 4300, 4400, 4400 MOTO, 5000, 5000 new. There are outdated, but still sold models - DeLuxe 1870i and DXL 3000.

The Pro line is equipped with state-of-the-art base units and features improved functionality.

The best seller of this series is the 5000 Pro model.

All Pro security systems are compatible with Pandora RW watches.

The Pandect X range includes small-sized equipment, which allows it to be installed in hard-to-reach places on a car or motorcycle.

History of Alam Trade

The Pandora brand is the property of Alam Trade (a division of the Experimental Instrument Making Plant), Russia. The company successfully creates various security systems for cars. It began its activities back in 2004. Over the years, the alarm manufacturer Pandora has secured one of the leading positions in the field of creating car alarms not only in Russia, but throughout the world. To produce its alarms, the company uses the latest developments in the field of car protection. Particular attention is paid to the functionality of the devices. This makes Pandora's defenses not only high-tech, but also very practical.

Pandora car alarm: General functional characteristics

Features inherent to the Pandora product line:

• Protection against electronic hacking through an interactive encryption algorithm for data transmission between the alarm system and key fobs or tags.
• Low current consumption in security mode - there is no risk of rapid battery discharge.
• Control of the key fob communication channel in automatic mode. If the signal is lost, the vehicle owner will be notified of leaving the coverage area or attempting to jam.
• The presence of a sensor that responds to physical influences on transport.
• Slave mode function, which involves starting and deactivating the security mode using the original car key.

If the key fob or tag malfunctions, you can disable the security mode using the PIN code.

Quick flashing is carried out via USB or wireless communication. The function allows you to add additional features or adapt to new car brands. Full connection via CAN bus.

Most devices from other manufacturers are not equipped with such functionality.

Characteristics of key fobs

In the selection process, the characteristics of the key fob do not play a decisive role, but they require a careful approach - this is the key element with which the car owner will have to interact most often.

Key fobs of the LX 3257/3297, DXL systems: 3210, 3500i, 3700 and 3930 are classic and unremarkable elements. They are equipped with a display, have feedback capabilities and a classic design for the Pandora brand.

DXL 3900. The key fob stands out thanks to its creative hi-tech design and inverted display. Displays all possible information about the car. The “SOS” button can be programmed to send a message to the vehicle owner’s mobile phone.

Thanks to the GSM module, the system will send an SMS to your loved ones if the vehicle is in danger or there is no way to call from your phone. The GPS module guarantees quick orientation in any area.

DXL 5000. The design is close to standard, but the key fob is equipped with an “SOS” button.

DXL 5000 new. It does not stand out for its original appearance, but is capable of operating on the 868 MHz band, while others operate on 433 MHz, which makes it reliable and safe.

Modern Pandora key fobs are equipped with an LED status indicator that shows signals in those colors.

An icon in the form of single instant red flashes indicates that the security mode is on, alternate flashing of red and green indicates disarming and the immobilizer is turned on, an orange flash indicates the use of the “VALET” button, etc.

Cryptographic strength

Pandora car alarms currently have the highest level of cryptographic resistance to intelligent hacking. The transition to powerful 32-bit processors allowed the company to be one of the first in the world to switch to using dialog code with 128-bit encryption, since such computing tasks are too resource-intensive for energy-efficient low-bit microcontrollers. Further development of Pandora anti-theft systems has made it possible to further increase the systems' resistance to hacking:

• Refusal to use the 433 MHz frequency not only makes the code grabbers designed for it physically useless, but also allows for improved communication by removing the channel from the overloaded range. Modern Pandora systems either use 868 MHz/2.4 GHz frequencies or have completely abandoned key fobs in favor of wearable tags and telematics control.
• The transition to 256-bit encryption can even be called an excessive measure, since a brute-force attack on a key of such a length, even with a distributed computer network, is unrealistic in our time.
• Additional validation with a wearable active tag was also an innovation introduced by the company at the time: here, scanning the radio range is even more difficult due to the fact that the range of the tag is extremely small, it is interrogated in the immediate vicinity of the car and, just like a full-fledged radio key fob, communicates in interactive mode.

Pandora alarms without key fobs

Devices that operate without a key fob include models 4300; 4400 and 3910 DXL series.

The function of the key fob is performed by a contactless tag that reacts to the presence and distance of the driver, and the alarm automatically activates and deactivates the security mode.

Tags work at a distance of two to three meters. Communication, control and reception of signals is carried out via a mobile phone.

The model range also includes fully functional equipment DXL 3900; 3930; 5000 and 5000 new, distinguished by a set of all control functions - key fob, tag and GSM channel.

GPS and GSM

When choosing a suitable device, buyers are guided by the ability to control it through calls from their phone and GPS positioning, which allows them to control the location of the car and track its route.

This approach makes sense from a security standpoint - mobile commands are more difficult to intercept and decode. And if the car is stolen, knowing its location greatly increases the chances of returning it safe and sound to its rightful owner.

GSM interface

The GSM interface involves integrating a mobile phone into a car security system into which a SIM card is installed.

The function allows you to find out all the necessary information or run the necessary commands via your mobile phone. DXL 4300 devices are equipped with a GSM module; 4400; 3700; 3900; 3910; 3930; 5000 and 5000 new.

Internet control

Equipment DXL 4300; 4400; 3700; The 3900 can be controlled and received information via a cell phone solely through the voice interface and keys. This is convenient, but you cannot see the visual picture.

Models DXL 3910; 3930; 5000 and 5000 new can be managed and requested information if the owner is registered on the p-on.ru website and use applications where the requested information will be displayed on the gadget’s display.

Alarms DXL 5000 and 5000 new allow you to track the movement of a vehicle on the website or through special phone applications.

You can be confident in the security of the cellular communication channel only if the SIM card number is not known to criminals, otherwise they can gain access to control the security system. Therefore, it is recommended not to leave the number in an accessible place and not to disclose it to third parties.

The DXL 5000 and 5000 new models deserve a separate review. They do not have important differences from each other, but the operating distance of the DXL 5000 new is twice as long, since the alarm operates on the 868 MHz band (see Choosing a GSM cellular signal amplifier).

Also, the improved model is more efficient, synchronous and easy to use.

GPS receiver

A GPS receiver will allow you to receive information about the location of a vehicle (see GPS beacon for a car). The information is transmitted as a link to the map. The GPS receiver cannot be used for its intended purpose without a GSM interface, since the map cannot be opened without a mobile phone.

The DXL 5000 and 5000 new are equipped with a navigation function, and for the DXL 4300; 4400; 3700; 3900; 3910; The 3930 GPS receiver serves as an auxiliary but not very useful capability.

What features of car alarms should you pay attention to when choosing?

For your information! When choosing a security system, it is recommended to pay special attention to the following points:

1. Purpose of purchase. First of all, you need to understand why an alarm is needed - from alcoholics, hooligans, unprofessional intruders or professionals. Depending on this, you need to pay attention to different price segments in ascending order.
2. Security functions. There is a huge selection of different functions that help protect the car: radio signal coding, radio signal range, etc.
3. Availability of intelligent engine start. Additional function for comfort. It also helps to effectively warm up the car before starting the car without the direct participation of the owner in the cabin.
4. Search for a car. Some alarms help not only warn the owner about theft, but also track the intruder.
5. Telematics. Ability to control the alarm system from a mobile device.
6. Intelligent signal setting. It allows you to control separately blocked elements of the car - only the rear or only the front doors, windows or energy consumers.

Pandora Car Alarm: Setup and Management

If necessary, all Pandora brand devices can be easily updated via USB or wireless communication.

Car alarms Pandora 3910; 3940; 3945; 3950; 3970; 5000; 5000new; 5000pro; The 3970 Pro can be controlled and configured through the P-On.Ru website or special free applications.

The car owner can configure the types of required notifications and the numbers to which they will be sent, see a list of all manipulations with the Pandora car alarm for the required period of time, adjust the sensitivity of the sensor, and turn on and off the necessary functions.

Repair

Unfortunately, even this seemingly reliable system is not immune to various breakdowns. What to do if the Pandora car alarm does not work?

Most owners note that it is quite easy to repair a security system from a domestic manufacturer if you follow the instructions:

1. Read the user manual that comes with each car alarm model - the reason may be due to improper operation.
2. Read the owner's manual for your vehicle - there may be a conflict between certain types of equipment that can be easily resolved.
3. Very often the problem lies in the batteries, which the owner simply forgot to replace with new ones.

If none of the proposed options could identify the cause of the malfunction, then it is recommended to seek help from a specialized service center.

Statistics is a fairly accurate science, and it has long confirmed the reliability and popularity of Pandora car security systems. According to research, products under the Pandora brand:

• It entered the top five sales leaders of similar equipment in our country in 2014.
• It was included in the top five brands that are distinguished by increased reliability and efficiency over the same period of time.

Looking for a good product to protect your car? Buy Pandora car alarms - quality at an affordable price!

Problems encountered

The advantages of Pandora car alarms include a 3-year service guarantee and adaptation of the security system to common modern cars.

It is worth noting the attractive price-quality ratio for consumers and the absence of counterfeits on the market.

Common problems include the following:

• Not responding to the additional key fob. To solve the problem, you need to register the key fob in the electronic unit.
• Autostart does not work. Possibly due to damaged wiring or incorrect contacts between the alarm unit and the immobilizer bypass. Autorun may not work due to incorrect programming.
• No sound signal. Indicates that the siren has failed or the contacts between it and the alarm have been damaged.
• Not responding to the key fob. There are two common reasons: a faulty key fob and a lack of power.

For complete safety of the vehicle, it is recommended to regularly diagnose the anti-theft equipment, which will prevent the occurrence of malfunctions and maintain it in working condition, as well as install a DVR on the vehicle.

The best models with autostart

Note! Autostart is very useful, because not every time a person wants to wait for the car to warm up.

With autostart, you can start your car a few minutes before leaving and immediately go about your business.

Rating and review of the best Pandora models with autostart based on customer reviews and ratings.

Pandora DX 90B

A modern and more functional model of Pandora DX 90B compared to its predecessors.

The stylish and ergonomic key fob D-010 with an OLED display ensures comfortable use of the system.

It is possible to control using a smartphone without using the Internet at a distance of up to 50 meters.

You can install the Pandora NAV-X GSM/GPS module, which will allow you to control the car from any distance.

Specifications:

• type of encoding: interactive;
• notification methods: light, sound, vibration;
• GSM: optional;
• other telematics: LIN module, GPS;
• control options: key, key fob, smartphone;
• Warranty: 36 months.

Advantages

• attractive price compared to competitors;
• variety of functions;
• multi-level protection system;
• control of various parts of the car: mirrors, power windows, and so on;
• good communication range.

Flaws

• temperature autostart works with inaccuracies;
• sometimes glitches are possible;
• no siren.

Pandora DX 9x

The most current and time-tested solutions in one security system.

Intelligent engine starting is exclusive to this Pandora DX 9x model - you can set any starting conditions.

Safe and comfortable connection to standard digital buses.

The high-performance processor implements the latest algorithms, ensuring high-quality and reliable operation of the security system under any circumstances.

Specifications:

• type of encoding: interactive (Advanced Encryption Standard (AES));
• notification methods: sound;
• GSM: optional;
• other telematics: 2CAN, CAN module, LIN module, GPS;
• control options: key, key fob, smartphone;
• Warranty: 36 months.

Advantages

• impressive response range;
• wide functionality;
• intuitive and convenient setup;
• good price;
• Autostart works without problems.

Flaws

• the screen on the key fob is difficult to see in sunlight;
• Bluetooth often falls off;
• Batteries are used up quite quickly (from 1 to 3 months).

Pandora DX 90 LoRa

Fundamentally different from its predecessors in higher quality.

The security system works perfectly with Bluetooth—the connection lasts up to 2 kilometers.

Autostart works on most modern cars.

Comfortable control is realized using a smartphone, where you can monitor all system states.

You can also replace the key fob with a smartphone, the system will understand that the owner is approaching the car and will come to work.

Specifications:

• type of encoding: interactive;
• notification methods: sound, light;
• GSM: optional;
• other telematics: 2CAN, LIN module, GPS;
• control options: key, key fob, smartphone;
• Warranty: 36 months.

Advantages

• range;
• increased functionality;
• intuitive and convenient control;
• convenient to use the application;
• high information content of the key fob.

Flaws

• unpleasant alarm sounds;
• in daylight it is difficult to see the screen on the key fob;
• discharges quickly.

Pandora DX 91 LoRa v.2

More modern design and varied functionality.

For convenience, under the buttons there is a shiny insert that improves the appearance of the product.

From the key fob you can control all the functionality of the security system: turn off and start the engine, connect settings, receive notifications and much more.

Controlling using a smartphone has become even more convenient. Automatic start is possible without losing the original key.

Specifications:

• type of encoding: interactive (Advanced Encryption Standard (AES));
• notification methods: sound, light;
• GSM: no;
• other telematics: 2CAN, LIN module, CAN module, GPS;
• control options: key fob;
• warranty: 12 months.

Advantages

• rich functionality;
• good implementation of autorun;
• intuitive and easy-to-implement installation;
• all functions can be performed using a key fob;
• works over a long distance.

Flaws

• fast discharge;
• in daylight the panel on the key fob is not visible;
• reduced warranty.

How to make the final choice?

The higher the cost of the car, the higher the likelihood of criminal attacks on it, and the more advisable it is to install an expensive Pandora car alarm.

An unreliable system or its incorrect installation can provoke disruptions in the functioning of standard electronics in an expensive car. The recommended cost of security devices is 5-10% of the vehicle price.

When choosing, keep in mind that some functions are active subject to compliance with the technical specifications of the vehicle. 100% protection against theft is provided with a comprehensive installation of security equipment - Pandora car alarm, gearbox, hood and steering locks.