Increasing Transmitter range on Car Alarm

Hello, folks,

Just thought I'd share an idea that worked for me. I had problems with lack of transmitter range on my AEW/Delta car alarm (about 4 years old) as installed on my 1997 s-10. Previously, the best range I could muster (with new batteries in the transmitter) was about 20 yards.

I decided to investigate; found the antenna wire coiled up under the dash. I uncoiled it and it helped a little bit (up to about 30 yards). Realizing that the antenna wire needs to be fully uncoiled to be most effective, I gently tie-wrapped the entire length of the antenna to a 16" length of very very thin (about 1/8 inch) piece of wooden doweling. I then attached the end of the doweling to the side of the alarm brain, to provide support for the antenna wire. 

I replaced the unit under the dash, being careful to place the now-fully-extended antenna back high up underneath the dash.

Wow, what a difference. I can finally turn the alarm on or off from inside my house, and my line-of-sight range is at least 50 or 60 yards, maybe even more (I'll check next time I park at the shopping mall).

It worked for me, so I thought I'd pass it along.

Very interesting.  Thanks for sharing.  I would not have thought to use a dowel, but just straightening the receiver is probably what gave you the greatest increase to your range.

Good thought!