Experienced installer, expanding into remote sta

Hello and first I just want to thank you all for all the valuable info I've gotten here before joining. First let me just say I own and know how to use my soldering torch, DMM, etc. I have a small company, I do mobile installs and repair. I specialize in automotive camera systems and do some pretty unique work that I'll post about another time.


With winter coming I have many customers practically begging me to start offering remote start and I'm having a very difficult time getting started. I have a half dozen installs under my belt using cheap Ready Remote units bought retail. I've done two of my vehicles and four others for friends and family, none of which required a bypass module.


My main difficulty is finding a supply and having access to tech support, and the ability to flash modules. I'm a bit confused about the different types of immobilizers out there and the corresponding modules available. 


Looking mainly at Compustar, Directed, and Code Alarm, based on recommendations, but also on the fact that the biggest shop in town uses Code Alarm, Best Buy sells Compustar and Directed has brands familiar to most consumers. These factors are important being a little guy, somewhat unknown company. It gives me the ability to show that my product offerings are of the same caliber as others that are more familiar to my customer base.


Anyway, I know there's a distributor system with some companies, that should give me access to tech support and firmware and I wouldn't have to make huge minimum orders, but for the life of me I haven't been able to make contact with anyone. I'm also unsure as to the compatibility between the modules and RS systems among the various companies and respective brands. 


So in summary, where I'm at is that I have a legitimate install business with a good reputation, I have a small amount of experience with extremely basic remote start installations, I am proficient in the skills needed to do this, but am stuck nonetheless. There seems to be a good amount of info available for experienced guys, specific installs etc., and a good amount of info for your DIY guy, but how does a professional jump into remote start?


Any info, advice, pointers in the right direction etc. would be very much appreciated. Thank you.

Have you looked into CrimeStopper by chance? They should be able to work with you on products as well as they offer both Idatalink products and Fortin products for integration modules. They also offer full 2-way Data to Data control between the modules and remote starts. Lots of great products are offered by different companies. I would look at something that offers similar products to the ones your competitors offer so that you can differentiate yourself from them.
What area of the country are you in? That will help to determine what dist. might be in the area. Also if you go to the website of the manu, you should be able to see if they have a dealer in your area, if they don't I would see about going direct so that you can be added to the dealer locator.