Advanced automotive automation and security system

Claim 2

An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having multiple levels of alert signal commensurate with the level of security threat to the area, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing input corresponding to the level of security threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible, commensurate with the level of threat received to the area, including: (i) a low level alert consisting of a voice warnaway, series of audible chirps or blinking lights; (ii) a medium level alert consisting of a combination of said voice warnaway, series of said audible chirps and said blinking lights; and, (iii) a high level alert consisting of an immediate full siren alert and said blinking lights, wherein said audible siren alert is generated by a voltage at a siren; c) means for permanently storing system operational parameters within an electrically programmable and erasable read-only memory; and, d) a controller for using said operational parameters for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said input devices and causes said means for communicating to issue said multiple levels of alert signals of a level commensurate with and in response to said sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting a sensor input signal corresponding to each said level of threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said level of alert corresponding to said sensor input signal; and, (iii) means for generating an additional output signal to said means for communicating said level of alert upon receipt of additional input signals from said sensors either at the same or higher threat level or within a set period of time following receipt of first said sensor input signal.

Claim 3

An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having a capability of selectively deleting audible alert signals following arm/disarm mode change, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and, d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means for selectively changing audible and visual alert signal to an audio free, visual only alert signal upon receipt of a first control signal transmitted from one channel of said transmitter to said receiver and thereafter receipt of a second control signal transmitted from another channel of said transmitter within a set time period so that said two transmission channels are thereafter available for other programmed functions.

Claim 4

An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having a capability of selectively deleting audible alert signals following arm/disarm mode change, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and, d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means for selectively changing audible and visual alert signal to an audio free, visual only alert signal upon receipt of a first control signal transmitted from one channel of said transmitter to said receiver and thereafter receipt of a second control signal transmitted from another channel of said transmitter within a set time period so that said two transmission channels are thereafter available for other programmed functions.

Claim 5

An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having a manual and remote capability of changing the mode of said security system between a security mode and a valet mode, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and, d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means for said controller to engage/disengage valet mode upon a user-activated input, decoding and acting upon a transmission of control signals from said transmitter.

Claim 6

An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having a manual and remote capability of changing the mode of said security system between a security mode and a valet mode, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and, d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means for said controller to engage/disengage valet mode upon a user-activated input, decoding and acting upon a transmission of control signals from said transmitter.

Claim 7

An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having a capability of testing the installation of said security system, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert, both visual and audible; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and, d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means for identifying the last two inputs tested using a visual indicator.

Claim 8

An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having a capability of testing the installation of said security system, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert, both visual and audible; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and, d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means for identifying the last two inputs tested using a visual indicator.

Claim 9

An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having a capability of testing the installation of said security system, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and, d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means for testing the range of transmissions from said remote transmitter away from and around the protected area in the form of a periodic chirp issued from said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals in response to said transmissions received by said radio frequency and decoded by said controller.

Claim 10

An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having a capability of testing the installation of said security system, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and, d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means for testing the range of transmissions from said remote transmitter away from and around the protected area in the form of a periodic chirp issued from said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals in response to said transmissions received by said radio frequency and decoded by said controller.

Claim 11

An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having capability in a controller for monitoring and analyzing each sensor input for stability, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; d) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and, e) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means for bypassing said sensor input found to be unstable for a period of time, and means for continuing to analyze all said inputs, including bypassed inputs, and returning said bypassed input to said security system when later determined to have regained stability.

Claim 12

An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having capability in a controller for monitoring and analyzing each sensor input for stability, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; d) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and, e) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means for bypassing said sensor input found to be unstable for a period of time, and means for continuing to analyze all said inputs, including bypassed inputs, and returning said bypassed input to said security system when later determined to have regained stability.

Claim 13

An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having capability in a controller for monitoring and analyzing each input for stability, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible; c) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; (iv) means for bypassing said sensor input found to be unstable for a period of time, and means for continuing to analyze all said inputs, including bypassed inputs, and returning said bypassed input to said security system when later determined to have regained stability; and, (v) means for counting the number of activations from each input that cause the security system to actuate an alarm, over a period of time, in making a determination whether an input has become unstable.

Claim 14

An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having capability in a controller for monitoring and analyzing each input for stability, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible; c) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; (iv) means for bypassing said sensor input found to be unstable for a period of time, and means for continuing to analyze all said inputs, including bypassed inputs, and returning said bypassed input to said security system when later determined to have regained stability; and, (v) means for counting the number of activations from each input that cause the security system to actuate an alarm, over a period of time, in making a determination whether an input has become unstable.

Claim 15

An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having capability in a controller for monitoring and analyzing each input for stability, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals both visual and audible; c) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating stimulate multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; (iv) means for bypassing said sensor input found to be unstable for a period of time, and means for continuing to analyze all said inputs, including bypassed inputs, and returning said bypassed input to said security system when later determined to have regained stability; and, (v) means in said controller to readmit said unstable input into said security system only after being determined to have regained stability not withstanding said security system undergoing cycling through said arm/disarm/arm modes.

Claim 16

An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having capability in a controller for monitoring and analyzing each input for stability, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals both visual and audible; c) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating stimulate multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; (iv) means for bypassing said sensor input found to be unstable for a period of time, and means for continuing to analyze all said inputs, including bypassed inputs, and returning said bypassed input to said security system when later determined to have regained stability; and, (v) means in said controller to readmit said unstable input into said security system only after being determined to have regained stability not withstanding said security system undergoing cycling through said arm/disarm/arm modes.

Claim 17

An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having capability in a controller for monitoring and analyzing each input for stability, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible; c) an electrically programmable and erasable read-only memory; and, d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; (iv) means for bypassing for a period of time an input found to be unstable, and means for continuing to analyze all said inputs, including bypassed inputs, and returning said bypassed input to said security system when later determined to have regained stability; and, (v) means for permanently storing system operational parameters in an electrically programmable and erasable read-out memory and for restoring said security, and upon restoration of power, to the same state as it had when power was curtailed.

Claim 18

An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having capability in a controller for monitoring and analyzing each input for stability, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible; c) an electrically programmable and erasable read-only memory; and, d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; (iv) means for bypassing for a period of time an input found to be unstable, and means for continuing to analyze all said inputs, including bypassed inputs, and returning said bypassed input to said security system when later determined to have regained stability; and, (v) means for permanently storing system operational parameters in an electrically programmable and erasable read-out memory and for restoring said security, and upon restoration of power, to the same state as it had when power was curtailed.

Claim 19

An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having capability in a controller for reducing volume of alert siren chirps, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible, including a siren wherein volume of audible siren alert is generated by a voltage at said siren; c) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means in said controller for reducing said volume of siren chirps by effectively reducing the voltage and current at said siren input, includes other means in said controller for reducing said volume of said siren chirps including means for temporarily changing said immediate audible/visual notification signal to an immediate reduced volume audible/visual notification signal upon receipt of a first control signal transmitted from one channel of said transmitter to said receiver and thereafter receipt of a second control signal transmitted from another channel of said transmitter within a set time period so that said two transmission channels are thereafter available for other programmed functions.

Claim 20

An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having capability in a controller for reducing volume of alert siren chirps, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible, including a siren wherein volume of audible siren alert is generated by a voltage at said siren; c) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means in said controller for reducing said volume of siren chirps by effectively reducing the voltage and current at said siren input, includes other means in said controller for reducing said volume of said siren chirps including means for temporarily changing said immediate audible/visual notification signal to an immediate reduced volume audible/visual notification signal upon receipt of a first control signal transmitted from one channel of said transmitter to said receiver and thereafter receipt of a second control signal transmitted from another channel of said transmitter within a set time period so that said two transmission channels are thereafter available for other programmed functions.

Claim 21

An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having capability in a controller for reducing volume of alert siren chirps, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible, including a siren wherein volume of audible siren alert is generated by a voltage at siren input; c) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means in said controller for reducing said volume of siren chirps by effectively reducing the voltage and current at said siren input by pulsing said siren input power at a low duty cycle rate.

Claim 22

An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having capability in a controller for reducing volume of alert siren chirps, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible, including a siren wherein volume of audible siren alert is generated by a voltage at siren input; c) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means in said controller for reducing said volume of siren chirps by effectively reducing the voltage and current at said siren input by pulsing said siren input power at a low duty cycle rate.

Claim 23

An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having multiple levels of alert signal commensurate with the level of security threat to the vehicle, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the vehicle, including such as switches, shock sensors or field disturbance sensors, each for sensing a threatening event and providing a sensor activated input of a level corresponding to the level of security threat to the vehicle; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible, commensurate with the level of threat received to the area, including: (i) a low level alert consisting of a voice warnaway, series of audible chirps or blinking lights; (ii) a medium level alert consisting of a combination of said voice warnaway, series of said audible chirps and said blinking lights; and, (iii) a high level alert consisting of an immediate full siren alert and said blinking lights, wherein said audible siren alert is generated by a voltage at a siren; c) means for permanently storing system operational parameters within an electrically programmable and erasable read-only memory; and, d) a controller for using said operational parameters for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said input devices and causes said means for communicating to issue said multiple levels of alert signals of a level commensurate with and in response to said sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting a sensor input signal corresponding to each said level of threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said level of alert corresponding to said sensor input signal; and, (iii) means for generating an additional output signal to said means for communicating said level of alert upon receipt of additional input signals from said sensors either at the same or higher threat level or within a set period of time following receipt of first said sensor input signal.

Claim 24

An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having multiple levels of alert signal commensurate with the level of security threat to the vehicle, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the vehicle, including such as switches, shock sensors or field disturbance sensors, each for sensing a threatening event and providing a sensor activated input of a level corresponding to the level of security threat to the vehicle; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible, commensurate with the level of threat received to the area, including: (i) a low level alert consisting of a voice warnaway, series of audible chirps or blinking lights; (ii) a medium level alert consisting of a combination of said voice warnaway, series of said audible chirps and said blinking lights; and, (iii) a high level alert consisting of an immediate full siren alert and said blinking lights, wherein said audible siren alert is generated by a voltage at a siren; c) means for permanently storing system operational parameters within an electrically programmable and erasable read-only memory; and, d) a controller for using said operational parameters for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said input devices and causes said means for communicating to issue said multiple levels of alert signals of a level commensurate with and in response to said sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting a sensor input signal corresponding to each said level of threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said level of alert corresponding to said sensor input signal; and, (iii) means for generating an additional output signal to said means for communicating said level of alert upon receipt of additional input signals from said sensors either at the same or higher threat level or within a set period of time following receipt of first said sensor input signal.

Claim 25

An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having a capability of selectively deleting audible alert signals following arm/disarm mode change, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and, d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means for selectively changing audible and visual alert signal to an audio free, visual only alert signal upon receipt of a first control signal transmitted from one channel of said transmitter to said receiver and thereafter receipt of a second control signal transmitted from another channel of said transmitter within a set time period so that said two transmission channels are thereafter available for other programmed functions.

Claim 26

An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having a capability of selectively deleting audible alert signals following arm/disarm mode change, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and, d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means for selectively changing audible and visual alert signal to an audio free, visual only alert signal upon receipt of a first control signal transmitted from one channel of said transmitter to said receiver and thereafter receipt of a second control signal transmitted from another channel of said transmitter within a set time period so that said two transmission channels are thereafter available for other programmed functions.

Claim 27

An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having a manual and remote capability of changing the mode of said security system between a security mode and a valet mode, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and, d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means for said controller to engage/disengage valet mode upon a user-activated input, decoding and acting upon a transmission of control signals from said transmitter.

Claim 28

An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having a manual and remote capability of changing the mode of said security system between a security mode and a valet mode, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and, d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means for said controller to engage/disengage valet mode upon a user-activated input, decoding and acting upon a transmission of control signals from said transmitter.

Claim 29

An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having a capability of switching from stored programming to other operational function programming, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; (iv) means for switching from operational function programming, stored in said electrically programmable and erasable read-only memory and initially preset therein, to other operational function programming, using a user activated input, decoding and acting upon receipt of control signals from said transmitter.

Claim 30

An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having a capability of switching from stored programming to other operational function programming, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; (iv) means for switching from operational function programming, stored in said electrically programmable and erasable read-only memory and initially preset therein, to other operational function programming, using a user activated input, decoding and acting upon receipt of control signals from said transmitter.

Claim 31

An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having a capability of testing the installation of said security system, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and, d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said variable alert signal corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means for identifying the last two inputs tested using a visual indicator.

Claim 32

An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having a capability of testing the installation of said security system, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and, d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said variable alert signal corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means for identifying the last two inputs tested using a visual indicator.

Claim 33

An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having a capability of testing the installation of said security system, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and, d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means for testing the range of transmissions from said remote transmitter away from and around the protected area in the form of a periodic chirp issued from said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals in response to said transmissions received by said radio frequency and decoded by said controller.

Claim 34

An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having a capability of testing the installation of said security system, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and, d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means for testing the range of transmissions from said remote transmitter away from and around the protected area in the form of a periodic chirp issued from said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals in response to said transmissions received by said radio frequency and decoded by said controller.

Claim 35

An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having capability in a controller for monitoring and analyzing each input for stability, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; d) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and, e) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means for bypassing said sensor input found to be unstable for a period of time, and means for continuing to analyze all said inputs, including bypassed inputs, and returning said bypassed input to said security system when later determined to have regained stability.

Claim 36

An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having capability in a controller for monitoring and analyzing each input for stability, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; d) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and, e) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means for bypassing said sensor input found to be unstable for a period of time, and means for continuing to analyze all said inputs, including bypassed inputs, and returning said bypassed input to said security system when later determined to have regained stability.

Claim 37

An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and analyzing each input for stability, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible; c) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; (iv) means for bypassing said sensor input found to be unstable for a period of time, and means for continuing to analyze all said inputs, including bypassed inputs, and returning said inputs, including bypassed inputs, and returning said bypassed input to said security system when later determined to regained stability; and, (v) means for counting the number of activations from each input that cause the security system to activate an alarm, over a period of time, in making a determination whether an input has become unstable.

Claim 38

An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and analyzing each input for stability, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible; c) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; (iv) means for bypassing said sensor input found to be unstable for a period of time, and means for continuing to analyze all said inputs, including bypassed inputs, and returning said inputs, including bypassed inputs, and returning said bypassed input to said security system when later determined to regained stability; and, (v) means for counting the number of activations from each input that cause the security system to activate an alarm, over a period of time, in making a determination whether an input has become unstable.

Claim 39

An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having capability in a controller for monitoring and analyzing each input for stability, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals both visual and audible; c) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; (iv) means for bypassing said sensor input found to be unstable for a period of time, and means for continuing to analyze all said inputs, including bypassed inputs, and returning said bypassed input to said security system when later determined to have regained stability; and, (v) means in said controller to readmit said unstable input into said security system only after being determined to have regained stability notwithstanding said security system undergoing cycling through said arm/disarm/arm modes.

Claim 40

An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having capability in a controller for monitoring and analyzing each input for stability, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals both visual and audible; c) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; (iv) means for bypassing said sensor input found to be unstable for a period of time, and means for continuing to analyze all said inputs, including bypassed inputs, and returning said bypassed input to said security system when later determined to have regained stability; and, (v) means in said controller to readmit said unstable input into said security system only after being determined to have regained stability notwithstanding said security system undergoing cycling through said arm/disarm/arm modes.

Claim 41

An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having a capability in restoring said security system upon restoration of power following a power failure, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible; c) an electrically programmable and erasable read-only memory; and, d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; (iv) means for bypassing for a period of time and an input found to be unstable, and means for continuing to analyze all said inputs, including bypassed inputs, and returning said bypassed input to said security system when later determined to have regained stability; and, (v) means for permanently storing system operational parameters in an electrically programmable and erasable read-only memory and for restoring said security, and upon restoration of power, to the same state as it had when power was curtailed.

Claim 42

An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having a capability in restoring said security system upon restoration of power following a power failure, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible; c) an electrically programmable and erasable read-only memory; and, d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; (iv) means for bypassing for a period of time and an input found to be unstable, and means for continuing to analyze all said inputs, including bypassed inputs, and returning said bypassed input to said security system when later determined to have regained stability; and, (v) means for permanently storing system operational parameters in an electrically programmable and erasable read-only memory and for restoring said security, and upon restoration of power, to the same state as it had when power was curtailed.

Claim 43

An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having capability in a controller for reducing volume of alert siren chirps, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible, including a siren wherein volume of audible siren alert is generated by a voltage at said siren; c) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means in said controller for reducing said volume of siren chirps by effectively reducing the voltage and current at said siren input, includes other means in said controller for reducing said volume of said siren chirps including means for temporarily changing said immediate audible/visual notification signal to an immediate reduced volume audible/visual notification signal upon receipt of a first control signal transmitted from one channel of said transmitter to said receiver and thereafter receipt of a second control signal transmitted from another channel of said transmitter within a set time period so that said two transmission channels are thereafter available for other programmed functions.

Claim 44

An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having capability in a controller for reducing volume of alert siren chirps, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible, including a siren wherein volume of audible siren alert is generated by a voltage at said siren; c) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means in said controller for reducing said volume of siren chirps by effectively reducing the voltage and current at said siren input, includes other means in said controller for reducing said volume of said siren chirps including means for temporarily changing said immediate audible/visual notification signal to an immediate reduced volume audible/visual notification signal upon receipt of a first control signal transmitted from one channel of said transmitter to said receiver and thereafter receipt of a second control signal transmitted from another channel of said transmitter within a set time period so that said two transmission channels are thereafter available for other programmed functions.

Claim 45

An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having capability in a controller for reducing volume of alert siren chirps, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible, including a siren wherein volume of audible siren alert is generated by a voltage at siren input; c) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means in said controller for reducing said volume of siren chirps by effectively reducing the voltage and current at siren input by pulsing siren input power at a low duty cycle rate.

Claim 46

An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having capability in a controller for reducing volume of alert siren chirps, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible, including a siren wherein volume of audible siren alert is generated by a voltage at siren input; c) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means in said controller for reducing said volume of siren chirps by effectively reducing the voltage and current at siren input by pulsing siren input power at a low duty cycle rate.

Claim 47

An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having a capability of providing a remote engine start signal, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and, d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means in said controller, for receipt of a transmission from said remote transmitter, activates a vehicle starting routine that checks the arm/disarm status of the vehicle security system, bypasses the lowest threat level inputs if the system is in the armed mode, locks the vehicle access doors if the system is in the disarm mode, and then outputs a signal to remote start the engine.

Claim 48

An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having a capability of providing a remote engine start signal, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and, d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means in said controller, for receipt of a transmission from said remote transmitter, activates a vehicle starting routine that checks the arm/disarm status of the vehicle security system, bypasses the lowest threat level inputs if the system is in the armed mode, locks the vehicle access doors if the system is in the disarm mode, and then outputs a signal to remote start the engine.

Claim 49

An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having multiple levels of alert signal commensurate with the level of security threat to the area, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different input levels of security threat corresponding to the level of threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible, progressively including: (i) a low level alert consisting of a voice warn-away, series of audible chirps or blinking lights; (ii) a medium level alert consisting of a combination of said voice warnaway, series of said audible chirps and said blinking lights; and, (iii) a high level alert consisting of an immediate full siren alert and said blinking lights, wherein said audible siren alert is generated by a voltage at a siren; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; d) means for permanently storing system operational parameters within an electrically programmable and erasable read-only memory; and, e) a controller for using said operational parameters for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said input devices and causes said means for communicating to issue said multiple levels of alert signals of a level commensurate with and in response to said sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting a sensor input signal corresponding to each said level of threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said level of alert corresponding to said sensor input signal; and, (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means for generating an additional output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals upon receipt of additional input signals from said sensors either at the same or higher threat level or within a set period of time following receipt of said first sensor input signal.

Claim 50

An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having multiple levels of alert signal commensurate with the level of security threat to the area, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different input levels of security threat corresponding to the level of threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible, progressively including: (i) a low level alert consisting of a voice warn-away, series of audible chirps or blinking lights; (ii) a medium level alert consisting of a combination of said voice warnaway, series of said audible chirps and said blinking lights; and, (iii) a high level alert consisting of an immediate full siren alert and said blinking lights, wherein said audible siren alert is generated by a voltage at a siren; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; d) means for permanently storing system operational parameters within an electrically programmable and erasable read-only memory; and, e) a controller for using said operational parameters for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said input devices and causes said means for communicating to issue said multiple levels of alert signals of a level commensurate with and in response to said sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting a sensor input signal corresponding to each said level of threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said level of alert corresponding to said sensor input signal; and, (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means for generating an additional output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals upon receipt of additional input signals from said sensors either at the same or higher threat level or within a set period of time following receipt of said first sensor input signal.

Claim 51

An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having multiple levels of alert signal commensurate with the level of security threat to the vehicle, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the vehicle, including switches, shock sensors or field disturbance sensors, each for sensing a threatening event and providing a sensor activated input of a level corresponding to the level of threat to the vehicle; b) means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible, commensurate with the level of threat received to the area including: (i) a low level alert consisting of a voice warn-away, series of audible chirps or blinking lights; (ii) a medium level alert consisting of a combination of said voice warnaway, series of said audible chirps and said blinking lights; and, (iii) a high level alert consisting of an immediate full siren alert and said blinking lights, wherein said audible siren alert is generated by a voltage at a siren; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; d) means for permanently storing system operational parameters within an electrically programmable and erasable read-only memory; and, e) a controller for using said operational parameters for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said input devices and causes said means for communicating to issue said multiple levels of alert signals of a level commensurate with and in response to said sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting a sensor input signal corresponding to each said level of threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said level of alert corresponding to said sensor input signal; and, (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means for generating an additional output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals upon receipt of additional input signals from said sensors either at the same or higher threat level or within a set period of time following receipt of said first sensor input signal.

Claim 52

An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having multiple levels of alert signal commensurate with the level of security threat to the vehicle, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the vehicle, including switches, shock sensors or field disturbance sensors, each for sensing a threatening event and providing a sensor activated input of a level corresponding to the level of threat to the vehicle; b) means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible, commensurate with the level of threat received to the area including: (i) a low level alert consisting of a voice warn-away, series of audible chirps or blinking lights; (ii) a medium level alert consisting of a combination of said voice warnaway, series of said audible chirps and said blinking lights; and, (iii) a high level alert consisting of an immediate full siren alert and said blinking lights, wherein said audible siren alert is generated by a voltage at a siren; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; d) means for permanently storing system operational parameters within an electrically programmable and erasable read-only memory; and, e) a controller for using said operational parameters for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said input devices and causes said means for communicating to issue said multiple levels of alert signals of a level commensurate with and in response to said sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting a sensor input signal corresponding to each said level of threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said level of alert corresponding to said sensor input signal; and, (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means for generating an additional output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals upon receipt of additional input signals from said sensors either at the same or higher threat level or within a set period of time following receipt of said first sensor input signal.

Claim 53

An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having a capability of testing the installation of said security system, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals both visual and audible; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and, d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; (iv) means for using a siren to generate a chirp, audible in and around the protected area, to indicate the change of state of a sensor installation from active to inactive and inactive to active; and, (v) means for identifying the last two inputs tested using a visual indicator.

Claim 54

An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having a capability of testing the installation of said security system, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals both visual and audible; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and, d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; (iv) means for using a siren to generate a chirp, audible in and around the protected area, to indicate the change of state of a sensor installation from active to inactive and inactive to active; and, (v) means for identifying the last two inputs tested using a visual indicator.

Claim 55

An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having a capability of testing the installation of said security system, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals both visual and audible; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and, d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; (iv) means for using a siren to generate a chirp, audible in and around the protected area, to indicate the change of state of a sensor installation from active to inactive and inactive to active; and, (v) means for identifying the last two inputs tested using a visual indicator.

Claim 56

An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having a capability of testing the installation of said security system, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals both visual and audible; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; and, d) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; (iv) means for using a siren to generate a chirp, audible in and around the protected area, to indicate the change of state of a sensor installation from active to inactive and inactive to active; and, (v) means for identifying the last two inputs tested using a visual indicator.

Claim 57

An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having a manual and remote capability of changing the mode of said security system between a security mode and a valet mode, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; d) said valet mode selectively disengaging, a user defined subgroup of said input sensors; and, e) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means for said controller to engage/disengage said valet mode upon a user-activated input, decoding and acting upon a transmission of control signals from said transmitter.

Claim 58

An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having a manual and remote capability of changing the mode of said security system between a security mode and a valet mode, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; d) said valet mode selectively disengaging, a user defined subgroup of said input sensors; and, e) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means for said controller to engage/disengage said valet mode upon a user-activated input, decoding and acting upon a transmission of control signals from said transmitter.

Claim 59

An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having a manual and remote capability of changing the mode of said security system between a security mode and a valet mode, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; d) said valet mode selectively disengaging, a user defined subgroup of said input sensors; and, e) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means for said controller to engage/disengage valet mode upon a user-activated input, decoding and acting upon a transmission of control signals from said transmitter.

Claim 60

An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having a manual and remote capability of changing the mode of said security system between a security mode and a valet mode, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible; c) a radio frequency receiver and antenna for receiving a digitally encoded transmission, a radio frequency remote control transmitter having means for generating multiple digitally encoded control transmission signals to said receiver; d) said valet mode selectively disengaging, a user defined subgroup of said input sensors; and, e) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system operates in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating said alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting said sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means for said controller to engage/disengage valet mode upon a user-activated input, decoding and acting upon a transmission of control signals from said transmitter.

Claim 61

An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having a capability in said controller for reducing the volume of the alert siren chirps, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible, including a siren wherein the volume of audible siren alert is generated by a voltage at the siren; c) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system may be operated in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting a sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means in said controller for reducing the volume of siren chirps by effectively reducing the voltage and current at the siren output by using a separate predriver transistor, which is driven by a separate chirp signal independent of the extended siren output, for generating the chirp base drive to the siren output drive transistor.

Claim 62

An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having a capability in said controller for reducing the volume of the alert siren chirps, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible, including a siren wherein the volume of audible siren alert is generated by a voltage at the siren; c) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system may be operated in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting a sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means in said controller for reducing the volume of siren chirps by effectively reducing the voltage and current at the siren output by using a separate predriver transistor, which is driven by a separate chirp signal independent of the extended siren output, for generating the chirp base drive to the siren output drive transistor.

Claim 63

An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having a capability in said controller for reducing the volume of the alert siren chirps, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible, including a siren wherein the volume of audible siren alert is generated by a voltage at the siren; c) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system may be operated in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting a sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means in said controller for reducing the volume of siren chirps by effectively reducing the voltage and current at the siren output by using a separate predriver transistor, which is driven by a separate chirp signal independent of the extended siren output, for generating the chirp base drive to the siren output drive transistor.

Claim 64

An electrically powered security and convenience system for monitoring and controlling access to a vehicle and having a capability in said controller for reducing the volume of the alert siren chirps, comprising: a) a plurality of sensor input devices located about the protected area, for providing different inputs of security threat corresponding to a threat to the area; b) means for communicating multiple levels of alert signals, both visual and audible, including a siren wherein the volume of audible siren alert is generated by a voltage at the siren; c) a controller for controlling the operation of said security system so that said system may be operated in an armed mode wherein said controller monitors said sensor devices and causes said communicating means to issue said multiple levels of alert signals in response to a sensor activated signal, or in a disarmed mode wherein said system is disabled from communicating alert signals, said controller comprising: (i) means for detecting a sensor input signal corresponding to each said threat to the secured area; (ii) means for generating an output signal to said means for communicating said multiple levels of alert signals corresponding to said sensor input signal; (iii) means in said controller for decoding said transmissions and processing said sensor input signals; and, (iv) means in said controller for reducing the volume of siren chirps by effectively reducing the voltage and current at the siren output by using a separate predriver transistor, which is driven by a separate chirp signal independent of the extended siren output, for generating the chirp base drive to the siren output drive transistor.