A research team at Johns Hopkins University said it discovered that the
immobilizer security system developed by Texas Instruments could be
cracked using a relatively inexpensive electronic device that acquires
information hidden in the microchips that make the system work.
The radio-frequency security system being used in more than 150 million
new Fords, Toyotas and Nissans involves a transponder chip embedded in
the key and a reader inside the car. If the reader does not recognize the
transponder, the car will not start, even if the key inserted in the ignition is
the correct one.
It's similar to the new gasoline purchase system in which a reader inside the
gas pump is able to recognize a small key-chain tag when the tag is waved
in front of it. The transaction is then charged to the tag owner's credit card.
CEA 2006 Compliant
On May 28, 2003, the Consumer Electronics Association published
standard CEA-2006, Testing & Measurement Methods for Mobile Audio
Amplifiers. This voluntary standard advocates a uniform method for
determining an amplifier's RMS power and signal-to-noise ratio.
Using 14.4 volts, RMS watts are measured into a 4 ohm impedance
load at 1 percent Total Harmonic Distortion THD plus noise, at a
frequency range for general purpose amplifiers of 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz.
Signal-to-Noise ratio is measured in weighted absolute decibels dBA at a
reference of 1 watt into 4 ohms. This applies to both external amplifiers
and the amplifiers within in dash receivers.
CEA 2006 allows consumers to be able to compare car amplifiers and
receivers on an equal basis. Manufacturers who choose to abide by the
new standard are able to stamp their products with the CEA 2006 logo
that reads: Amplifier Power Standard CEA 2006 Compliant.
