View CartIn case you thought specifying replacement remotes is easy, a recent inquiry by a customer reminded me of one of the more confusing alarm remote control specification situations.
The customer has an AMX 78 system installed in his vehicle. This system carried the Prime sub-brand, but is sometimes identified as an Avital or DEI system because of the association of all of these brand names. The challenge starts there. Some DEI systems, such as the AMX 78 model, had variations that operate at different frequencies (most commonly, 302-303 mHz, 315 mHz or 433 mHz). Generally, a red LED light on the original remote signifies a lower frequency system and a green LED light signifies an alarm operating at 433 mHz; however, this may not be true 100% of the time.
There are no replacement keyfobs available for the 433mHz systems. These were discontinued years ago and Remotes Unlimited has not been able to find anyone who still has inventory of them. However, a replacement remote (RUI part 223-1223) is available for the lower frequency alarm systems. The trick is that its transmission frequency must be set at either 302-303 MHz or at 315 MHz to match the signal the alarm control module is expecting to receive.
So, you see, specifying and programming a replacement remote can be a challenge, whether it is for an aftermarket alarm system or a factory keyless entry system. When you are buying a remote for your car or truck, be sure you are doing so from a reputable source who not only has the part you need, but who knows the system’s technical requirements.
