Car alarm Cenmax: instructions for use

03/03/2022 1,897 Alarms

Author: Victor

Cenmax alarm system includes a number of models, for example, V-5A, ST-7A and ST-8A, which have the same technical characteristics, but differ in functions and equipment. Additionally, the set may include an engine blocking relay, as well as a toggle switch to activate the anti-theft mode.

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Car alarm Cenmax: how to install and instructions for use

Let's imagine that we have the keys to a new car in our pocket.
Well, okay, let it not be a new car, let it be a used one. But, one way or another, our task is to make the vehicle as safe as possible. Security systems help us with this. The market offers a wide selection of anti-theft systems, which are sometimes quite difficult for a beginner to understand. That is why today our article is devoted to a review of one well-known alarm system - Cenmax.

What do you need to know to choose the best device? That's right, first you need to understand the models and configurations offered. And only then, when you already have brand new equipment on hand, will there be little work left to do. You will need to take the time to study the instructions for setting up and operating the alarm.

And, in order not to be unfounded, at the end we will summarize. Let's look at the strengths and weaknesses of the Cenmax car alarm.

Cenmax Super 2 Way

The instructions for Cenmax Super 2 Way help you become more familiar with the many capabilities of this alarm. For example, to start the car engine, open the trunk, and unlock the driver's door, you can use special options on the main panel.

There are times when a key fob is lost or stolen, and many of its owners wonder: what to do in such situations? To avoid this, you should read the entire Cenmax Super 2 Way instructions in advance.

Before using the alarm, you must set a personal code that will help block not only the car, but also the key fob itself in case of its loss. For maximum protection, you can disable the security system in only two steps. After the owner has activated the security mode, the light inside the car will remain on for a few more minutes. This alarm, like many others, has a turbo mode, which provides the driver with a special timer, after the end of which the car’s security will be activated.

Models and configurations

The Cenmax company produces a whole range of devices. Let's try to study in detail some of the most popular options.

The first two models in line are A700, A900.

Description:

Four security zones;
Disabling sensors and warning zone in security mode;
Ability to control the service button;
Passive security;
Engine blocking;
Required voltage for operation is 9-15 V;
Five remote controls can be connected.

Equipment:

Control block;
Two remote controls with one-way communication;
Shock sensor with two levels;
Service key;
Limits for trunk and hood;
Set of wires.

The next model is HIT 710.

Description:

Activation/deactivation of the sensor in security mode;
Passive immobilizer;
Opening the luggage compartment remotely;
Automatic activation of security mode;
Anti Hi-jack.

Equipment:

A couple of three-button control panels;
Anti-scanner;
Main unit;
Shock sensor with two levels;
Limits for luggage compartment and hood;
Light-emitting diode;
Emergency shutdown key.

The third car alarm option is Vigilant V-5A.

Description:

Engine blocking;
Automatic start of security mode when the engine is running or turned off;
Valet service mode;
Silent security mode;
Inspector of non-working areas;
Panic mode;
Anti Hi-jack;
Vibrations;
GPS.

Equipment:

Main ECU;
Communication module;
Shock sensor with two zones;
Emergency key;
Light-emitting diode;
Two remote controls with two-way communication.

Here, a dynamic code is used to encrypt the communication channel.

The next complex for discussion is Vigilant ST-7 A.

Description:

Engine blocking;
Immobilizer;
Anti-robbery;
Turning on the security mode with the engine running;
Encryption of a communication channel through a dialog code.

Equipment:

Main ECU;
Two key fobs, one of them with moisture protection;
Shock sensor with two levels.

The next model is the Vigilant V-8A.

Description:

Transferring information about the state of the vehicle to the key fob display;
Feedback;
Sensitive shock sensor;
Dynamic code for encryption;
Immobilizer;
Engine blocking;
Measuring the temperature inside the car;
Turbo timer.

Equipment:

Main ECU;
Shock sensor with two levels;
Light-emitting diode;
Temperature sensor;
Communication module;
Emergency deactivation key.

Well, the last option for today is Vigilant ST-12D.

Description:

Feedback;
Remote activation;
Conversational code for encryption;
Remote opening of the luggage compartment door;
Electric windows;
Monitoring of internal combustion engine temperature and mains voltage;
Remote start;
Autostart.

Equipment:

Main ECU;
Two keychains;
Antenna module;
Shock sensor;
Limits for trunk and hood;
Set of wires.

CONSUMER ANALYSIS

MODEL FEATURES: the CENMAX VIGILANT alarm system is equipped with one four-button key fob pager with a liquid crystal display and one regular three-button key fob.

The system PIN code consists of two digits, each of which can take values from 1 to 4.

ANTI-THEFT CAPABILITIES of the Cenmax Vigilant alarm system, one output for NC/NO interlock, one NC/NO relay included in the delivery set.

FEATURES OF SERVICE CAPABILITIES of the Cenmax Vigilant alarm system: it is possible to use the function of polite interior lighting when disarming and locking windows when arming, as well as using the standard “comfort” function of the car.

ADDITIONAL CHANNELS: The Cenmax Vigilant alarm system is equipped with three additional channels.

The first additional channel of the Cenmax Vigilant alarm is designed for remote unlocking of the trunk.

Using the second additional alarm channel Cenmax Vigilant, it is possible to control the hood lock, implement the function of polite interior lighting when disarming or automatically locking the windows when arming. The channel can be programmed as activated when disarming/arming or by command from the key fob; you can also programmatically set the channel type: timer with a duration of 1/20/30 seconds or latched.

The third additional channel of the Cenmax Vigilant alarm is designed to control various electrical equipment of the vehicle and can be programmed as a timer with a pulse duration of 0.8/10 or 30 seconds or as a latched one.

OPERATION OF THE KEY FOB WITH TWO-WAY COMMUNICATION: when the Cenmax Vigilant key fob receives alarm signals, a sound signal or vibration alert is heard and the icon corresponding to the cause of the alarm flashes on the LCD screen. When working with a keychain pager, you can use a clock, an alarm clock, a timer for 10/20/30/60/90/120 minutes.

The following symbolic icons are displayed on the screen of the Cenmax Vigilant key fob: the system is disarmed; security mode is on; security mode is turned on with the engine running; sound signals when the shock sensor warning zone is triggered are disabled; auto-arming mode is programmed; anti-robbery mode enabled; the Cenmax Vigilant alarm is in service mode; Shock sensor disabled; the shock sensor was triggered; the door sensor has tripped; the trunk sensor has tripped; the hood sensor has tripped; vibration mode is turned on; when transmitting a command from the key fob pager, there is no radio communication with the system; battery charge level. The numbers on the screen display the time, alarm setting time, and timer.

After receiving alarms, the Cenmax Vigilant alarm key fob goes into reminder mode, which can be disabled with the appropriate command.

If a door, hood or trunk is open when arming, the triggered zone will be indicated on the display of the key fob pager.

COMMUNICATION RANGE: When tested in both rural and urban environments, the Cenmax Vigilant alarm system shared first place in reception range with another tested model, and took second place in transmission range. The reception range of the key fob pager in rural areas was 1400 m, the transmission range was 600 m; and in urban conditions 800 and 490 m, respectively.

Expert reviews about the Cenmax Vigilant alarm system

ADVANTAGES: long range of reception and transmission of the keychain pager, which is also equipped with an LCD, clock, alarm clock and timer.

DISADVANTAGES: one of the disadvantages is the lack of a separate input for the volume sensor.

OVERALL ASSESSMENT: according to the test results, the Cenmax Vigilant alarm system shared first place in terms of reception range of the key fob pager with another tested model and took second place in terms of transmission range. Key fob pager for the model with a liquid crystal display. In addition, three additional service channels of the system can be noted.

User manual

How to use a car alarm correctly? We'll talk about this right here and now.

Using specific key combinations on the key fob, you can carry out the following commands:

Set or remove security mode;
Manage the shock sensor;
Activate the security mode with the engine running;
Use an immobilizer;
Enable protection against intruders;
Control the ignition.

The system provides for the use of a feedback channel. Thanks to which the owner can configure the autostart of the engine:

By notification from the key fob;
According to pre-configured parameters;
Periodically.

No one is immune from the difficulties associated with key fobs. This is when the programmed code comes in handy. It usually represents two digits. The standard code is usually 11.

How to enter a new code:

Deactivate the ignition and security mode;
Press the button with program settings four times;
Start the ignition;
Wait for a sound notification, and then re-enter the settings window to enter the first digit;
The second digit can be set by briefly pressing button No. 1;
To complete the settings, remove the key from the keyhole.

If the key fob is broken, you must do the following:

Press service mode three times. In this case, the ignition must be started and the doors unlocked;
Remove the key from the lock;
Hide the key in a secret place;
After 20 seconds, the security mode will be activated, but the doors will remain unlocked;
If you unlock the doors or start the ignition, the alarm mode delay is activated. Its duration is also 20 seconds;
You can deactivate the car alarm using a PIN code;
If you fail to disable the anti-theft system, you will hear a siren.

Features of device key fobs

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The Cenmax super 2 way car alarm is equipped with two key fobs, which makes it easy to control. The device's double-sided key fob is characterized by the presence of a dynamic code, which ensures security and limits the possibility of hacking. The key fob is equipped with four buttons, which makes it easy to use. Thanks to the presence of a liquid crystal display, reading information is as convenient as possible.

The device can be armed and disarmed using different buttons, which ensures fairly comfortable control of the device. Key fobs are equipped with vibration calling systems, which provides convenience when using them in noisy places. Thanks to this function, the user will always hear an alarm signal, regardless of the environment. The car owner can control the status of the key fob battery thanks to the presence of a special indication. Using the key fob you can program all functions of the system. The instructions will tell you more about this. If necessary, you can block the key fob keypad. Long-term operation of the key fob without a battery charge is ensured by the presence of an energy saving mode. The current time is constantly displayed on the key fob, which allows the car owner to conveniently track it. In case of alarming events, not only visual but also audio messages are sent to the key fob. It is possible to set an alarm on the key fob.

Super 2 Way, the instructions for which will be discussed in this article, provides its owners with two-way communication for comfortable use. Also, for convenient control over a long distance, Cenmax has equipped a key fob, which has all the necessary options. The article will talk about alarms in general and the key fob in particular.

Installation instructions

The following installation recommendations are suitable for different car alarm models:

Install an alarm on a vehicle with a disconnected battery;
The car alarm ECU should be placed inside the passenger compartment, protecting it from overheating;
Only after connecting all the elements will it be possible to connect the wires;
It is recommended to think about the location of the service button. It should be as hidden as possible;
It is recommended to place the ECU away from a potential source of moisture;
The antenna module must be mounted not far from the mirror on the windshield;
It is better to install the siren on the engine panel. Its location should be as far as possible from the drains and exhaust manifold;
Open access to deactivate the system;
Mount the hood and luggage compartment end caps only in dry places;
Windshield or metal body – places where the impact sensor is mounted;
The wiring must be insulated with protective material.

You may ask, is it really possible to install an alarm system yourself? Of course, if you directly follow the above recommendations. But to do everything correctly, this is not enough. It is necessary to have knowledge about the arrangement of transport and electronics. You can handle it yourself, but it’s better to turn to professionals.

Setting up a car alarm

The device has been purchased, installed and tested. Now all that remains is to configure the necessary data. It is recommended to do all this sequentially.

Algorithm of actions:

Disable the anti-theft system;
Start the ignition;
Press the Jack button 6 times;
Turn off the ignition. The car alarm should notify the owner with a series of six signals
Using the service mode, select the desired function. All data on the parameters that must be entered are indicated in the technical documentation. The option number indicates the number of times you press a specific key;
After entering the function menu, you should designate the parameter. The remote control will help with this. Impacts on the keys can be single, multiple, long-term or short-term. All this is also indicated in the instructions. Having designated the parameters, you must wait for the sound notification. The signal will confirm the registration of data in the device memory;
As soon as the last function is registered, you can turn off the ignition and exit the program menu.

If your alarm has built-in auto start, then it is recommended to “train” the engine to idle:

Deactivate all additional electrical equipment from the engine;
Start the ignition;
Press the service mode key 9 times;
Turn off the ignition;
Wait for the light and sound warning;
Start the internal combustion engine;
Warm up the engine;
Set idle speed;
Hold down the service mode key until the sound alert sounds.

Not registered: reasons

Firmware for the key fob of the Senmax V-7A, ST 8 A, St 5 a, V 5 A anti-theft system may not work due to:

transmitter failure. Carry out the repairs yourself or contact an auto electrician;
“Valet” mode is enabled. Turn off the service mode and register the remote control again;
“ignition on” is not recognized by the system. Take the car to a service center;
the control unit has failed. Call the experts.

Possible malfunctions and their solutions

Like any equipment, alarms can also easily fail. Here are some common problems:

It is not possible to activate or deactivate the alarm via the key fob. The reason may lie in a low battery or a signal transmission problem. In the first case, the power supply should be replaced. If this does not solve the problem, then it is worth checking the receiver or transmitter. This is where an additional remote control comes to the rescue. If after this everything remains unchanged, then the problem is most likely related to the antenna module or the signaling ECU;
The trunk does not open remotely. This option is implemented through a separate channel. Its failure is a common occurrence on almost all Senmax models;
False signals from the system. This happens due to an overly sensitive shock sensor. Adjust its sensitivity and that's it;
Difficulty opening or closing doors. This occurs due to a breakdown of the computer or a violation of the integrity of the wires. And here we either completely change the anti-theft system or replace the wiring.

Some problems may be caused by incorrect settings. Then they should be reset to factory settings:

Start the ignition;
Press the Jack key 10 times;
Turn off the ignition and wait for the signal;
Press the same key once and enter the reset menu;
Press button 1 on the remote control. After this, the settings will be reset;
Leave the program menu and check the operation of the alarm. If everything suits you, then you can safely enter the necessary parameters. If not, then all that remains is to turn to specialists.

Specifications

Main technical parameters of the equipment:

equipment operating temperature - -40…+85°С;
permissible current in the engine blocking block circuit is up to 30 A;
current in the central locking control line - up to 15 A;
current in control circuits of external lighting devices - up to 10 A;
signal reception and transmission distance – up to 300 m;
communication channel encoding type - FM frequency modulation.

Equipment

The manufacturer supplied the Super 2-Way alarm system as a ready-made kit, which included the following components:

head unit prepared for installation on a car (with a set of fasteners);
communication module with built-in antenna;
piezoelectric shock sensor with separately adjustable warning and alarm zones;
communicator (with monochrome screen) - 1-channel auxiliary signal transmitter;
control diode;
parameter programming key;
separate anti-robbery mode switch;
connecting cables;
instructions for use.

How to turn off the alarm?

Some models may differ in how they turn off. For clarity, let's look at three signals.

How to disable ST-5A:

Unlock the door with the key - the alarm will work normally;
Start the ignition;
Press the Valet button 4 times;
Deactivate the ignition and wait until the complex turns off.

How to disable ST-8A:

Unlock the door with the key - the alarm will work normally;
Start the ignition;
Enter the first digit of the PIN code using the service button;
Deactivate/activate the ignition;
Enter the second digit in the same way;
Deactivate the ignition. If the code is entered correctly, the system will turn off.

How to disable V-8A:

Unlock the door with the key - the alarm will work normally;
Start the ignition;
Press the Jack key 3 times;
Deactivate the ignition;
Wait for a series of two signals, after which the complex will turn off.

Reasons and procedure for no response to the key fob

What to do if the alarm does not respond to the key fob? There may be several reasons:

My battery is almost done . The most common reason is a dead battery, which can be eliminated by replacing it.
Radio interference. It happens that radio interference interferes with the normal operation of the alarm system; to check whether this is so, you should carry the key fob close to the communication module and perform any action.
Insufficient voltage. It is possible that there is not enough voltage on the dead battery. It is necessary to charge the battery or, if it is unusable, replace it.
Synchronization is broken. It happens that the alarm has lost contact with the key fob and needs to be reprogrammed. To reprogram, you must first turn it off, as described above on how to turn it off.

Synchronization failures most often occur on third-generation security systems, but this does not mean that they always occur. It is best to entrust reprogramming of alarm settings to an auto electrician from a specialized service station. Indeed, besides the fact that it is not so simple, the correct setting will directly affect the operation of the security system in the future.

Advantages and disadvantages

Well, finally, our small results in the form of the advantages and disadvantages of the security system.

Pros:

Convenience and ease of use;
Wide range of functions;
The ECU operates at any temperature;
Autostart;
Availability of two-way communication.

Minuses:

The siren is not included in the kit - you have to buy it yourself;
Difficult installation and configuration process;
The ECU is too prone to malfunction.

This concludes our review. And now we invite you to watch an equally fascinating video about the functions of the ST-8A car alarm.

Functions

The Super 2-Way head module supports the following functions:

car security with sound and light signals;
additional panic mode;
turning on the anti-robbery mode with a hidden switch;
remote start with adjustable warm-up time;
remote control shock sensor;
management of additional locks;
support for central door locking mode.

Advantages and disadvantages

Owners of cars equipped with a Cenmax Super 2-Way alarm system note the advantages of the device:

low cost;
simplicity of design and installation diagram;
Remote engine start is possible.

At the same time, the following are the disadvantages of the security complex:

low resistance of the communication channel to interception;
the influence of radio frequency interference on the operation of remote controls;
outdated design of the central unit;
lack of spare components due to discontinuation of the product.