Isn't this sort of like "Low Jack"? Up side to L-J-you don't need to have a
cell phone, you don't need to convince the police, no worry about it being
in your cell phone coverage area, you get a break on auto theft insurance.
Laura G. and Nigel
----- Original Message -----
From: Reed Mideke <rmideke@interbase.com>
To: Spitfire List <spitfires@autox.team.net>
Sent: Friday, August 13, 1999 12:01 PM
Subject: Re: Theft Proofing [long semi OT]
>
> My personal favorite:
> A cell phone, computer (maybe one of those new palm pilots with
> cell connetivity built in) and a GPS in a sealed box. The box
> has it's own battery, which is charged when the car is running.
> (so even if the theives cut some wires, it has plenty of battery life)
> It is hidden behind in the body of the car.
> When your car is stolen, you call it up, and it tells you
> where it is. Alternatly, you can activate it when you park the
> car, and it calls you (or your hells angel friends ;-) if it moves
> without being deaciveated.
>
> It works regarless of whether they tow it or hotwire it (although
> if they hotwire, they might crash it before you catch them.)
>
> Should be buildable for less than $500 of off the shelf electronics.
> Much cheaper if you manufactured them in volume.
>
> The only down side is that you have to pay for cell service
> that you only use if your car is stolen. But I bet you can find
> a cell plan with low monthy fees and high per minute cost.
> It would not work if your car is out of cell range, but I bet
> 99% of car thefts in the US are in cell covarage.
> You also have to convince the cops that, yes your car was stolen,
> but you know where it is.
>
> The upside is you're chances of actually catching the bastards
> and getting your car back is VERY good.
>
> I would actually like to build one of these some day, although at
> this point it would probably be worth as much as the car (and
> any theives right now would have to finish the car to steal it).
> If anyone else builds one (or wants to), let me know.
>
> PS: I did actually start the new DOHC motor the other day.
> After 6mo of work, what a feeling! It sounded good, but with no
> exhaust and no radiator, I didn't run it for long. Just enough
> make sure I hadn't totally messed up the computer wiring.
> It should be driving Real Soon Now.
>
>
> --
> Reed Mideke rmideke@interbase.com
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