Automotive Training For Do-It-Yourselfers
by admin on September 2nd, 2010
filed under General
Automotive training used to be a more common part of our society. Shop class was a commonly offered elective in high schools nationwide, ensuring that most boys knew their way around a car’s engine bay. Additionally, cars relied more on mechanical principles, rather than computerized systems. As a result, when a car broke down, the owner was much more likely to know how to fix it themselves, or at least have a friend or a family member who could fix it for them.
The situation has changed dramatically over the years. Today’s cars are much more complex, and their owners are much less likely to have had any automotive training. As a result, dealerships and garages are repairing a higher percentage of cars than ever before, and mechanics’ rates have risen in accordance with the increased necessity of their services.
Those who dislike the situation have another option. With a little automotive training, most people can perform more of the routine maintenance on their cars, reducing the expenses associated with car maintenance and allowing them the satisfaction of a job well done.
An oil change is an example of routine maintenance that frequently costs car owners far more than they need to spend. An oil change is a fairly simple procedure in most cars, requiring only enough automotive training for the individual to know the location of the oil filter and drain plug. A basic car care class should teach car owners how to locate major components under the hood and perform simple maintenance tasks, as well as imparting valuable tips for beginning do-it-yourselfers. For example, a good introductory class should warn students to beware of screwing a bolt or screw in crooked, known as crossing the threads.
A basic tune up is another routine maintenance task that do-it-yourselfers should be able to handle with a little automotive training. A basic tune up usually consists of changing the air filter, spark plugs, plug wires, distributor cap and rotor, and positive crankcase valve (PCV). Depending on the car and the mileage recommendations on the components, a basic tune up can also include replacing the fuel filter and/or the oxygen sensor. Rubber parts, such as drive belts and radiator hoses, may also be checked and replaced during a tune up. On most cars, these parts are easily accessed and require only a basic understanding of automotive functions.
A do-it-yourselfer who has had basic automotive training can also replace his or her own brakes. Changing the brake pads on a car is typically a dirty but simple job, requiring only a basic understanding of the braking components on a car. Additionally, there are numerous routine maintenance and repair jobs that an intermediate level amateur mechanic can usually handle on his or her own, such as replacing a battery, alternator, starter, timing belt, and many other components.
Of course, a significant advantage of having automotive training is that dealerships and garages cannot take advantage of you by recommending maintenance that may not actually need to be done. A basic understanding of auto mechanics will enable you to intelligently discuss any problems with your mechanic, understand what he or she is talking about, and recognize when his or her recommendations are exaggerated or downright unnecessary.
Obviously, knowing the basics of how a car operates can be extremely beneficial, saving you money in more ways than one. Beginning automotive training classes are usually offered at your local auto tech school or community college. Whether you intend to venture a few repairs on your own, or you simply want to be able to hold your own with your mechanic, taking a car care class ensures that you will not be a victim of your own ignorance.
Andy West is a freelance writer for VC Tech, The Automotive School. VC Tech is a world-class automotive training center, offering many exciting automotive programs. Please visit http://www.vctechnical.com to learn more.
Become a Automotive Mechanic
by admin on August 23rd, 2010
filed under General
Automotive mechanics are responsible for servicing and repairing motor vehicles. At various times, their work may involve inspection of problems, routine or preventive maintenance, replacement of parts, diagnostic troubleshooting, performance testing, and/or vehicle repair. Mechanics make use of a wide variety of tools, ranging from traditional hand tools to larger power tools to the computerized shop equipment needed for interfacing with the integrated electronic systems and complex computers which regulate most of today’s vehicles. During routine service inspections, mechanics will test and if necessary, repair or replace worn parts using a checklist to ensure that they examine every critical part. To handle more intensive repair jobs, mechanics may need to replace or overhaul major systems or components of the vehicle. Troubleshooting problems on many of today’s vehicles often requires a mechanic to compare readouts from a computerized diagnostic testing device with benchmarked standards provided by the manufacturer.
Education, Certification, Licensing
Strictly speaking, there are no mandated educational requirements for becoming an automotive mechanic. Some mechanics still learn the trade by assisting and learning from experienced workers. However, successful completion of a vocational training program in automotive service technology in high school or in a postsecondary vocational school or community college is highly recommended. Courses in math, physics, and to an increasingly important degree, electronics and computer science, will be extremely helpful. Even those who graduate from a formal automotive training program will still need a year or two of experience to become a fully qualified automotive mechanic. Complex specialties, such as air conditioning or transmission repair, normally require another year or two of training and/or experience.A standard credential for automotive mechanics is the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification. While not mandatory for automotive service work, certification is becoming increasingly common to the point where today there are about 400,000 certified professionals. Certification can be earned in one or more of 8 different areas of automotive service (e.g., engine repair, brake systems, electrical systems, etc.) and is based on a combination of education/experience and the ability to pass a certification exam. Those who are skilled in multiple auto repair services and would like to increase their marketability as an all-around mechanic can pursue ASE certification in all eight areas, which will earn them the designation of Master Automobile Technician.
This article on baking schools and jobs has been provided courtesy of City Town Info.
Market for Automotive Artworks Grows
by admin on August 12th, 2010
filed under General
Automotive Art
More Artists See And Feel The Beauty of Chrome and Metal
Online art marketplace www.DiscoveredArtists.com reports a growing number of artists who are caught up in capturing cars on canvas. Although these artists can choose from a world of subjects ranging from naked ladies to breathtaking landscapes and crashing waves, they are fascinated by the lovely curves and flashing metal of car bodies.
Automotive art typically falls into three categories. Beauty shots that usually are very tight, detailed fine art photographs, nostalgia artworks that set a mood or capture a feeling, and realism portraits where the artist creates a photo quality image of a vehicle using brush and paint.
Automotive beauty art typically is the work of fine art photographers who can turn a tight shot of a hood ornament into a masterpiece. The fascination and the challenge for an artist is to capture the reflection of light and shadow on polished metal. The artist sees beauty in the interesting lines, curves and intricate details of grills, chrome strips and other ornamentation that distinguishes one make and model from another.
Working with different types of lenses and by using a number of lighting and digital processing techniques, a fine art photographer focuses his lens on an intricate detail of a car’s body. His challenge is to capture the reflected light and shadow created by the bends and curves of the metal, and to use his artistic eye to effectively frame the image.
The successful result produces a balanced image of vibrant color and contrast that at first glance is simply a beautiful artwork. But, what adds interest to the artwork is that the image invites the viewer to puzzle over and then decipher the make, model and featured body part. What appears to be a colorful portrait may on further study be a hood vent, the chromed curve of a fender, a door handle, or a tail light shot with a macro lens.
Classic Car Orange 07.15.07-018 is one in a series of 36 images by fine art photographer Paul Hasara. Art buyers appreciate this artist’s attention to detail, his artistry and his technical skill. Hasara skillfully captures the small shadow of the hood ornament, the vibrant color and interesting mirrored reflections in the chrome. His artistry is evident in the framing of the photo and in his viewpoint. This fine art photo is the result of flawless execution, an artistic eye and attention to detail that is a classic example of automotive beauty art at its finest. 16″ x 11″ high quality prints of this photo are available online.
Metal Melt by fine art photographer, Vlad Bubnov redefines hot rod. This example of automotive beauty art is actually the reflection of a 1957 Ford Thunderbird in its own chrome bumper. Bubnov is a master of fine art photography and is especially adept at creatively capturing and playing with light on metal. His colorful fine art photos sell as limited edition prints that are signed and numbered by the artist.
But, fine art photographs may not completely satisfy a car lover who appreciates the artistry of brushed oil on canvas. For him, there is a wonderful gallery of automotive nostalgia art and very likely he’ll find a portrait of a long lost love.
Nostalgia art typically is in the realm of the oil painter. He is the artist who adds feelings to rusted, old metal and makes us long to see the USA in the old Chevrolet. These are the paintings that make you sigh when you see them and make you feel sad for the old, trusty rusty. They’re wonderful to own especially if the artist has chosen one of your old favorites for his subject.
Out to Pasture is an original oil painting by artist Robert Hare. The artist painted this canvas from a photograph he took while on a visit to Whidbey Island in Washington state. His immediate reaction was that the car had been put out to pasture after faithfully serving its master, abaondoned, and left to rust in the weeds. The artist felt compelled to honor the old beauty with a portrait in oil.
But, automotive oils aren’t always about a sad story. Realism artists love to create perfectly painted portraits of vehicles that have won their hearts. Similar to a portrait of a favorite lady, you’ll find many artists who showcase their heart’s delight in oil on canvas. They apply their artistic skill to transforming a plain, white canvas into an image of a vehicle ready to roll. A portrait of pipes and valves, shiny chrome, painted metal, and tires so real you can smell the rubber.
The 61E by artist Robert Goldsberry is a large, 24″ x 30″ original oil painting and is a perfect example of realism in automotive art. The artist writes, ” My favorite year and make of motorcycle,” and notes that he painted a ”Wild One movie bill and Pabst beer ad” in the background to complete the picture. The original painting is available for purchase, although it’s not unusual for artists to hold onto realism paintings much the same as car collectors hold onto their favorite autos.
So, the American love affair with the automobile continues strong as evidenced by the growing art sales and interest in cars as subjects. Many artists paint what they love, but more artists paint what sells. The popularity of automotive art among collectors, as well as among regular folks is growing. Good to report that the popularity of cars as artists’ subjetcs is growing, too. Why paint naked ladies when you can paint a ‘59 Impala that sells?
About DiscoveredArtists.com
www.DiscoveredArtists.com is a marketplace for buying and selling original and limited edition artworks. Independent artists sell directly to the general public. Prices are set by the artists and artwork is shipped from the artist’s studio. All major credit cards are accepted. Artwork may be purchased online and is backed by a satisfaction guarantee of a full refund plus return shipping expense.
The author is Business Development manager for DiscoveredArtists.com an online marketplace for buying and selling original artwork. She is focused on promoting the use of original and limited edition artwork for home decorating.
Mission: Original Art for Everyman !
Advanced Technology Solutions for Automotive & Semi Conductor Industries
by admin on August 2nd, 2010
filed under General
Advanced Technology Solutions for Automotive & Semi Conductor Industries
An ever-increasing range of leading-edge technologies emerging into the manufacturing, more so in the automotive & semi-conductor sectors, make them two of the most exciting and dynamic manufacturing sectors in the world.
Automotive & Semi-conductor industries are facing an extremely challenging business environment today with increase in product heterogeneousness, higher dependence on outsourcing, and a growing need to collaborate with an unending list of business partners. Moreover, with the automotive electronics market exploding and semiconductor consumption booming worldwide, the tremendous opportunity for semiconductor companies brings with it the increasing pressure to keep pace with the shortening development cycles and the need for newer and more innovative products. However not all the products that hit the market are successful since the consumer today is extremely particular about price and performance, leaving semiconductor companies to grapple with the triple challenges of increasing complexity, shorter timelines and increasing risk. In fact the need to excel by improving quality, creating product differentiation while meeting safety and other regulations has kept both the industries on their toes.
This kind of situation has given impetus to Advanced Technology Solutions, solutions that enable the automotive as well as semi-conductor industries to attain performance advancements and improved efficiency. Partnering with an organization offering industry specific advanced technology solutions in the focused areas of Automotive Electronics, Engineering Design, Product Engineering, Auto Infotainment & Telematics, Instrument clusters, Industrial automation, Powertrain, Chip design, Embedded software, Analog mixed signal design, Electronic design, Physical design, Semiconductor design outsourcing, ASIC/SoC development, Vlsi design, FPGA design solutions, and support services such as Verification & Validation, Offshore testing and Automotive embedded software, is a viable option that can leverage the technology expertise in automotive electronics & semi-conductor solutions. It further helps in accelerating product development cycles and push the envelope of innovation.
Utilizing these Advanced Technology Solutions, the automotive & semi-conductor industries can collaborate with a vast array of business partners and suppliers working in tandem to design and manufacture vehicles and focus on providing innovative silicon chip design and embedded software support.
About Author
With skilled system architects, ASIC design engineering specialists, and a dedicated Digital verification group, KPIT Cummins has executed multi million gate design verifications and also has expertise in conventional as well as HVL based verifications. KPIT Cummin?s authority on IP led advanced technology solutions and services for Automotive Electronics & the ability to build innovation into semiconductors to give products exciting features, is exhibited by its in-depth industry experience combined with a strong technology understanding
Choosing A Career For Life: Healthcare Industry Vs. Automotive Industry
by admin on July 22nd, 2010
filed under General
Choosing a career is an important goal for any individual. Most of us want to make a choice that will last forever. When looking into one field or another it is the long term benefits that help us make our final decision about what career path to take. The following tips will help you determine which career for life you are most interested in when thinking about the healthcare industry versus the automotive industry.
As a healthcare provider you are providing your services for the welfare of the society and to the people. The healthcare field has many opportunities from working in hospitals and clinical facilities all the way to in home care. Often there are benefits and competitive salary packages for healthcare professionals. These benefits often make the healthcare industry an ideal choice. The automotive industry has a range of opportunities as well. You can be involved in the development and production of vehicle components. This will allow you to be a part of new technology when it comes to the cars we all drive. There is also the sales side of the automotive industry that allows you to provide service and a product to people.
When you are thinking of making a choice like a career for life it is important to think about the features and benefits of your fields of interest. The following is a list of features and benefits that will help you choose between the healthcare industry versus the automotive industry.
Helping the Society: A healthcare professional has the opportunity to provide care to a large number of people. Lending this helping hand to society is not only rewarding but satisfying as well. The automotive field on the other hand is to make a better product and to sell it at a high price. Most often what the bottom line profit is tends to be more important than customer satisfaction. In addition, working to develop new designs and keeping up with the latest technology can make for a stressful environment to work in.
Training Programs: Considering the various levels of healthcare positions you are able to choose a program that specializes in the area you are most interested in. Once you complete a training program and have your diploma or certificate in hand you ready to start your career. In the automotive industry training is often conducted within the industry. Typically training is conducted for a period 12 to 24 months. You are educated on various subjects and then are able to choose the area in which you wish to specialize in.
Education Levels: A healthcare career usually requires less than 4 years of college education unless your goal is to become a doctor or practitioner. There are several areas in the field that you start working in with just a high school diploma. In the automotive industry you are looking at 4 years of college education to be in the top salaried positions. There is little opportunity for the high school graduate.
Choosing a career for life based on the above features and benefits can help you make an educated decision. When comparing healthcare vs. automotive industries the healthcare field is sure to be a more rewarding and achievable choice.
Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts offers health care training programs in their San Mateo, Modesto, Fresno and Concord Campus in CA. Enroll now for an exciting career.
Fresh, Up-to-date Automotive News
by admin on May 6th, 2010
filed under General
That’s right; the meeting place for all car fans is available by pointing your browser to automotive.media57news.com, the blog where fresh and up-to-date automotive news is cooking every single day, 365 days a year, open 24 hours.
Analyzing the different sectors of the automotive industry, Fresh, Up-To-Date Automotive News brings to you the latest vehicle developments, as well as statistical data that can help you to find the true facts about the different manufacturers contending in the automotive market.
People, who need to know the latest trends in car rental services, can also find an overview on car rentals around the world, including news affecting both, final consumers and the different car rental associations.
When it comes to unveiling the mystery of car models still in designer’s studios, our Buick News Flash, Audi News Flash, and Acura News Flash are just a few of the sections where you can find a premier of the upcoming automobile stars.
Need to find the best auto parts? Perhaps you need a review on car dealers. Or maybe just a heads up toward the car purchase zone? Worry not; all of them are some of the popular categories that Fresh, Up-To-Date Automotive News offer to its loyal visitors.
In addition you should not miss our Car Auction Inquirer, the place where all the news about classic and vintage cars for sale and showcased is at your entire disposal. With a little luck, you can find that unique car that you have been chasing for many, many years.
Cars Stereo News Bonanza is one of the favorite spots inside Fresh, Up-To-Date Automotive News blog, because a well-equipped car requires an audio system featuring the last advances of technology, including Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity to download your music while being on the road.
However, if your car does not have this option enabled, pay a visit to our Car Accessories News to stay informed on the latest hi-tech equipment that will make your car a 21st century automobile, regardless whether you drive an old car model.
Psst, psst, there is a well-kept secret at Fresh, Up-To-Date Automotive News… The Body Kits Fresh News, where car owners hang out to dress their cars and enjoy some of the beautiful car show models that sometimes comes along with the pics of body kits for your favorite car.
Not such a beauty and a little dirty, the Auto Mechanic News Zone rounds out our content for keeping your car running for miles and miles. There is more news and more categories for you to discover by visiting Fresh, Up-To-Date Automotive News.
Hernard B Garcia offers Fresh and Always Up-To-Date Automotive News Visit their website for provide quality news straight from the automotive industry.
10 Top Mechanic Schools and Automotive Colleges
by admin on May 6th, 2010
filed under General
You are a gearhead. Why not get paid big bucks for it?
You love the roar of the horsepower and smell of the rubber hitting the road. You would rather restore a rusted-out piece of you-know-what to it’s former glory than buy a car new.
You would tear apart a big-block V8 and see what makes it tick – than watch football for 8 hours on any given Sunday. You, my friend, should be doing what you love, and getting paid good top dollar for it.
The schools listed below may be just the ticket you need to take the next step and become a professional mechanic. Get real-world mechanic training in state-of-the-art shops from automotive instructors who know what they’re doing.
Universal Technical Institute
Universal Technical Institute (UTI) offers the training you need for an exciting career as an Automotive, Diesel or Collision Repair & Refinishing technician in a little more than a year. With nine locations nationwide, manufacturer specific training for Audi, BMW, Ford FACT, International, Mercedes, Nissan, Porsche, Volkswagen and Volvo, and the incredible high performance training at Hot Rod U, you need to take a look at what UTI has to offer.
WyoTech
WyoTech is dedicated to superior quality, college-level, career-oriented education in the automotive, diesel, motorcycle, aviation, marine watercraft and collision/refinishing industries. Most WyoTech diploma programs can be completed in less than a year and a half, and there are seven WyoTech campuses located across the country. WyoTech prepares students for the post-graduation working world by teaching on a workday, not a school day schedule. Most students attend classes approximately eight hours a day, five days a week. This is real world technician training for Automotive, Motorcycle, Collision & Refinishing, Aviation, Diesel and Marine technology.
NASCAR Technical Institute
Shift your training into high gear and let over a half a century of racing heritage work for you! NASCAR and UTI have teamed up to open the first-ever NASCAR Technical Institute (NTI) – a training facility committed to high performance, not only on the track, but also in the classroom. Here you’ll receive a wide range of automotive technology courses to train you for a rewarding career as an entry-level automotive technician with the added boost of NASCAR-specific courses and a Ford FACT elective that revs up your training and delivers a fast-paced, well-rounded course of study.
YTI Career Institute
Motorcycle popularity has become mainstream – proven by the increase in riders. With this growth comes the demand for skilled technicians for motorcycle repair and maintenance. At YTI Career Institute’s new Motorcycle Technology Center, you get real-world training in a 15,000 square foot facility which includes motorcycle diagnostic & test equipment – including a DynoJet ® 250i dynamometer – 16 fully equipped service bays, wireless Internet access throughout the campus and student laptop computers.
Marine Mechanics Institute
The Marine Mechanics Institute (MMI) provides real-world marine technician training programs to start your career in the marine industry. With support and/or endorsements from major marine manufacturers such as American Honda, American Suzuki, Mercury Marine, Volvo-Penta, SeaDoo, Polaris, Bombardier, Kawasaki Motors Corp., USA, and Yamaha Motor Corp. you can train to be a marine technician and launch your career in as little as 60 weeks.
Baran Institute of Technology
Since our founding in 1979, Baran Institute of Technology has emphasized exciting hands-on training in our automotive technical programs and electrical technical programs. You get to work and learn on real projects — for practical knowledge you can use in the real world. Programs include auto body, automotive, CDL, diesel and motorcycle training.
Nashville Auto Diesel College
Love cars and trucks? Get the technical training you need for a rewarding mechanic career at NADC. For over 80 years, Nashville Auto-Diesel College (NADC) has been providing students like you with the hands-on training they need to succeed. Career focused diploma and associates degree programs are available in diesel, collision and refinishing repair, and high performance technologies.
Motorcycle Mechanics Institute
The Motorcycle Mechanics Institute (MMI) Motorcycle Technology programs provide the knowledge and skills you need to become a successful entry-level motorcycle technician. Motorcycle Mechanics Institute (MMI) has two great locations: Phoenix, Arizona or Orlando, Florida, each offering a wealth of exciting places to explore and enjoy with people who share your passion for motorcycles.
Lincoln Technical Institute
Are you looking for hands-on training at a well-respected technical school? Since its founding as a post-war job skill training source in 1946, Lincoln Technical Institute has been helping people just like you achieve their goals in the skilled trades. With national accreditation, state licensing, career education and career placement expertise, Lincoln Tech knows what it takes to help give you the competitive edge you need to not only compete but be successful in today’s fast-paced marketplace.
Regardless of whether you’re still in high-school trying to figure out ‘what you want to be’ or a bit older and looking for a career change to get you out of your current dead-end job, a career in automotive mechanics may be the answer you are looking for. The top mechanic colleges listed above are the best in the business. Take a look at what they have to offer and decide for yourself. Good luck!
Mike Gracen is the founder of Loud Market (www.loudmarket.com), a mechanic college directory that offers free information from top mechanic schools for people looking to get into the automotive industry.
Choosing A Good Automotive School Is Crucial To Your Career
by admin on May 5th, 2010
filed under General
Automotive school is a necessity for anyone who wants to pursue a career as an auto mechanic. However, the school you go to can affect the path your career takes after graduation. Factors such as quality equipment, knowledgeable instructors, strong degree and ASE certification programs, the school’s qualifications and reputation, and student services all lend themselves to the overall quality of your education. Therefore, it is important to thoroughly research the automotive schools you are considering before making a final decision.
Your goal in attending automotive school is to learn as much as possible about auto mechanics; therefore, it is important to ensure that the school will provide the training you need. Part of this training is plenty of hands on experience. A good automotive program should include not only classroom lectures about automotive principles and mechanical theories, but also ample opportunity to work on cars and practice your skills. Be sure to ask how the school gets an ample supply of cars for students to train on; some schools may rely on donations, while others may attract paying customers in the community with discounted rates.
The school you attend should also have an ample supply of up to date equipment. A school with a shortage of the proper tools will make it difficult for you to get sufficient practice, and old or damaged equipment can be a safety hazard. Since your education depends a great deal on the amount of hands on experience you get, the automotive school you attend should be fully equipped to meet the students’ needs.
Naturally, the curriculum is a major factor in the quality of your education. The school you attend should have several different degree programs to choose from, allowing students flexibility in choosing their career paths. A good automotive school also offers an Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification program, where students can become certified in different areas of expertise, adding to their qualifications and increasing their potential salaries. ASE certification requires passing at least one of more than forty available tests, as well as proof of at least two years of relevant work experience; the school you attend should fully support students in acquiring these certifications.
Accreditation is also an important indicator of the quality of education a school can provide. Accreditation verifies that a school meets a predetermined set of standards; however, there are many different accreditation agencies, so it is important to research not only a school’s accreditation, but also the accrediting agency’s reputation and standards. If being able to transfer courses you have taken is important to you, be sure to find out how many other schools are accredited by the agency, and whether the credits you earn at the school can be transferred.
Additionally, you should consider the school’s reputation: an education from a school with a good reputation can make you stand out from the other applicants and help you get a job, but an education from a school with a bad reputation can also hurt your chances of getting a good job. By searching the Internet and talking to other mechanics, you can find out whether a school is known for providing quality education. You may also want to contact several dealerships and garages and ask whether they would hire a graduate of one of your top choices. After all, your education must do two things: not only provide you with quality training, but also indicate to potential employers that you have received quality training.
Similarly, student services are an important part of a good automotive school. Examples of student services are financial aid and loan offices, student housing or assistance in finding housing, and the availability of internships. Job placement services are particularly important; most good schools will offer some type of job placement assistance to students and graduates. A school that guarantees job placement after graduation may indicate a high success rate among its students. Also, many schools have relationships with local dealerships and garages, which is a considerable benefit to students and alumni of the school.
Naturally, there are other, more personal deciding factors when choosing an automotive school, such as the cost of tuition and the school’s location. Ultimately, your decision will depend on which features are most important to you. Whether you make your decision based solely on the quality of education the school offers, or on a more tangible benefit such as affordability or location, be certain that you choose a school that will help you achieve the career you seek.
Andy West is a freelance writer for VC Tech, The Automotive School. VC Tech offers world-class training in many exciting automotive programs. Please visit http://www.vctechnical.com to learn more.
Six Tips for Thwarting Auto Thieves With an Automotive Security System
by admin on May 5th, 2010
filed under General
According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics (www.ojp.usdoj.gov) over three quarters of all crimes in the U.S. are made up of property crimes and certainly automobile theft is among the most prevalent. Automobiles are easier targets than homes in many cases as they are high dollar items, in high demand, and can be driven away within seconds leaving behind virtually no clues as to the identity of the thief.
Although manufacturers have continued to provide basic automotive security features, additional measures are needed as thieves continue to adapt to devices on the market.
For first time buyers unfamiliar with the options, the decisions related to purchasing an automotive security system can be daunting. However, there are a core set of features that should be considered which will help consumers select an effective system with less frustration.
• An automotive security system should provide a first line of defense that warns would be intruders that a particular vehicle is protected. Some type of visual reminder such as a flashing light on the dash or stickers that indicate security are simple deterrents.
• A second line of defense is audible alerts; sirens and alarms that sound when a breach is attempted. This security feature brings unwanted attention to the break in and slows the thief down in attempts to eliminate the sound. These should be sufficiently sensitive and should detect any breach. They should trigger when windows are broken, doors are opened, the hood is raised, and so forth. Motion detectors and infrared sensing are common. A good siren will continue to operate even when power from the battery is cut off in attempt to eliminate the warning. Some of the best automotive security systems will also notify the owner when a breach occurs so that they can check on the vehicle or notify law enforcement.
• Another feature of an effective automotive security system is an immobilizer or kill switch to shut off the ignition/starter or perhaps the fuel pump. Certainly, such features make driving off with the car extremely difficult. Some systems will even lock the hood when activated to prevent access to the engine and other mechanical components. At this point it is also important to consider that a device that is located so that it is difficult for thieves to find and disable can be critical as well as this can additionally delay the thief.
• As thieves have continued to adapt to newer automotive security systems, higher tech methods are employed to gain access to vehicles. Code rolling is an excellent feature that prevents thieves from picking up the codes used to gain entry to the car by using a type of code grabbing device. Code rolling changes the codes used by a driver’s keyless entry device each time it is used.
• Another option to consider is a tracking system. As far as automotive security systems are concerned these are not a deterrent but a retrieval system. This type of security system allows a vehicle to be tracked and recovered if it is stolen. Some systems are activated only once law enforcement is notified but ideally the system would activate immediately once the car is taken. Some of these systems will notify the owner by e-mail, pager, or phone when the car is moved.
• A final consideration when purchasing an automotive security system is how effective it will be in avoiding annoying false alarms. Some systems can have the sensitivity adjusted to keep false alarms to a minimum while others are able to identify malfunctioning sensors and shut them down until repaired. Newer automotive security systems also offer dual zone sensing which produce only a small chirping alarm for minor occurrences, such as a bump on the side of the car versus a full blown alarm for more intrusive occurrences.
Certainly cars are a significant investment that is attractive to amateur as well as professional car thieves but consumers can tilt the odds significantly in their favor with the addition of an up-to-date automotive security system.
Christine Peppler believes that consumers should not have to possess a technology degree to be able to choose home electronics and entertainment devices. Take advantage of the wealth of simple to understand, useful information and shopping available on her website at http://www.homemedias.info.
Driving Conveniently With the Help of Smart Automotive Electronics
by admin on May 5th, 2010
filed under General
We live in the digital age where technology makes our lives easier each day. Advance medical equipments are created to help doctors treat patients, kitchen tools are innovated to make it easier for home makers, and cars are made smarter to make driving easier for humans.
Automotive electronics paved the way for helpful features like anti-lock braking systems (ABS) and automatic weather adjustments which makes driving safer and more comfortable.
Car manufacturers spend about two thousand dollars in automotive electronics for every car that comes out of the assembly line. These automotive electronics transform the car into a vehicle with better performing engine, more adaptive entertainment systems, and safety features that are far more superior than its predecessors.
Automotive Electronics of the Modern Car
Control Area Network or CAN – There are several computers that run a modern car. The CAN is a network of computers that play vital roles in the different functions of the engine and its peripherals. The CAN serves as the bridge for the different computers so they can communicate with one another so everything are well coordinated. CAN controls the functions like cruise control, engine management, and the ABS.
Fuel Efficiency- automotive electronics can save a car owner hundreds of dollars in fuel consumption. This is done thru the EFI or Electronic Fuel Injection technology which ensures that the engine’s fuel consumption is at its optimal. In hybrid cars, a driver can easily switch from using gas and electronic power supply to run the vehicle.
Safety Devices- Most safety system is controlled by automotive electronics. Devices like the Acceleration Slip Regulation, Traction Control, Electronic Stability and Dynamic Steering wheel ensure the safety of the driver and the passengers. The simple but complicated timing of airbags during a road collision is also controlled by advanced automotive systems.
Added Features- Some cars today can even park themselves without any assistance from the driver. All the calculations are done by a computer making sure the car will not hit anything by making references to other cars and different objects in its surrounding.
One cannot imagine the evolution that took place with automotive electronics. The Apollo 11 which landed on the moon ran on a memory which is 150 kilobytes only. The sound systems of our cars today are running on 500 kilobytes of memory to ensuring our entertainment pleasure. Automotive electronics have gone far beyond entertainment and enhanced modern day vehicles in terms of safety, efficiency, and convenience.
The automotive industry projects billions of investments and sales in developing cars that are smarter, more fuel efficient and more environment-friendly in the future. Modern cars can be the answer to alleviate the adverse condition of the environment and the rising price of fuel all over the globe.
Cars are being developed to scan the traffic, the road, and all hazards so it can drive itself while the driver can do anything that he wants while in motion. The future cars can think for themselves with the aid of advanced automotive electronics. In that way, driving will be more than getting from one place to another.
If you are learning to drive you can practice your theory test at theorytest.co.uk. If you have been in an accident while driving Real Compensation can help you claim car accident compensation
