I just picked up the RS-711XR off of ebay, along with the transponder bypass module Omega IB-H34 for installation on a 2004 Civic with automatic trans.This is my first time installing a remote starter but i have pretty good knowledge of car electricity and electronics along with using a multimeter, soldering, etc.The remote starter unit seems very well made, and lots of optional outputs and features. And also KarTuneMan gave me some essential tips.I received an end-user manual and a poster like sheet displaying programming dipswitch configurations. But there are no instructions on how to access the programming mode neither detailed behaviour of programmable utility outputs.Thanks to the download section on this site, i downloaded other Astrostart manuals and they actually tell how to program the module.But i still have couple of questions:
There are 4 programmable output wires (negative 200mA). The programming chart also mentions 2 utility outputs and a rear defogger output. Does this mean I can program any of the 4 output wires to be utility outputs and/or defogger output?
There are also several different options like pulse after start/stop, activated shile running, ignition, start, etc. This means I can program any of the 4 outputs to behave in any of these options?
Is the rear window defogger output temperature controlled in any way? I suspect it is, since they have a seperate output named after it. So if I program one of the outputs as a defogger, does that mean it will only trigger when it's below a certain temperature?
After a start, I want the remote starter to switch the air controls to recirculation mode and turn on the rear defroster. But instead of just grounding the defogger relay, I want to keep the original operation by duplicating the 'pressing the button' effect, so all the lights on the dash buttons and defogger timer will function as intended from factory. But the tough part is that these two push buttons (recirculate and defogger) are inside what's called a 'heater control module' on the dash and they are momentary push buttons. So I'll tap into the module on the dash and run small wires from those buttons. My question is: Those buttons actually feed ground to the module or just close the contact between two points? If they feed ground, then I'll probably use the negative programmable outputs (time them for 0.7 seconds) on the starter, but if they just close a contact between two points, I'll probably need a small 12V relay to duplicate the button-pushing effect. (The electrical wiring diagrams don't show the internal workings of the 'heater control module')
Also if the defogger output is not temperature dependent, then I'll probably need to install a on/off switch to disable it during summer months? Is that how you guys do it?
Last but not least: I was wondering when does the utility outputs activate exactly? I mean, right after start or is there a delay? A delay is preferable, since it's not a good idea to load up the charging system with the defogger right after the start, a 5-10 second delay would be nice... And I'm guessing they'll all turn off after taking over with the key?
Thanks for reading the long post!!