I could have sworn that someone on this forum had stated that they had this alarm system.

Compustar informed me that the wiring matches to the RX-8 will be engineered perhaps in January or February timeframe.

Until then, none of their authorized installers can do it.

HUMPH!

On the other hand, the new Clifford Matrix Responder RSX 3.5 system (which is exactly the same as the Viper 791 XV) uses a pay website called Directwire to match up. The RX-8 is on that one. Soooo... I guess it's off to Best Buy I go, unless someone can give me news on Compustar!

 

I am installing an Audiovox APS-996. I looked into several alarms, including the Compustar, before settling on this one. I have done a lot of research locating the proper connections to install all the features of this alarm, including door locks, horn, hood/trunk, and even remote start. The Audiovox is not designed for manual transmissions. However, RX-8’s have a neutral switch that I was able to tie into. Remote start will not be enabled if my 8 is in any gear.

As soon as I am done with the install, I will post details on were to find connections. If you have any questions, I will be happy to answer them.

 

Also, Audiovox already has the 8 on it's faxback system. The number is (800) 654-4994. When prompted, enter 3, then extention 8405. You can request document #201453 for the basic RX-8 connections.

NOTE: This does not include the neutral switch, which is found in the PCM under the hood.

 

Thanks for the info. I'll look forward to reading about your experience.

I looked into the Prestige 996. It's a good system. Are you using a universal transponder bypass for the key?

I liked the security of Compustar's Spread Spectrum and the new 2nd key fob (which was my big concern at the time).

So far, it looks like Clifford and Audiovox are the only ones that actually support the RX-8's wiring, officially. Viper doesn't even, yet.

I'm just really stuck on the range and spread-spectrum security of the Compustar. ...sigh...

 

I will be using a transponder once the remote start is complete. Audiovox has an interesting tech tip on the faxback service (document #700013) on creating you own transponder using a relay, 30 AWG insulated wire and the spare key. Not sure if it will work, but for ~$10 in supplies, it's worth a look.

As soon as I am finished, I'll post details as to what solution I used to get around the immobilizer system.

One reason I decided on the 996 is because is has 7 aux channels to allow for remote control, along with many other features.. For the price ($140 shipped on eBay), I could not pass it up.

I attached the comparison I did from several 2-way alarms I found.

 

7 Aux channels? What else are you controlling? ;-)

I decided the 2 windows would be my aux channels. Sunroof is a major wire-fishing expedition.

Is the Audiovox programmable for say locking the door on start and unlocking on engine-off?

What is the range?

Thanks again for the info!

 

The 996 has a total of 7 channels that the remote can send. 1 and 2 are defaulted to lock/unlock. Outputs 3-7 are available. Output 3 is used for the trunk release, while 4-7 can be used for any purpose. I also plan to control the windows (up/down) and eventually the sunroof as well.

The locks can be controlled by the ignition. This feature is programmable. You can set it to lock and/or unlock with ignition. You can also set it to unlock driver only or all doors if you wire the driver priority locking (have not yet figured that out yet).

Still working on that. Documentation says 1000 feet. However, I had to extend the supplied wire to install the antennae on the rear deck (ran wire through center console, behind rear seats, the into back part of rear deck). The initial extension was too long which I think is causing problems with the range. I plan to shorten the wire and route it a little better to see if that improves reception.

For now, I can control my alarm from my desk at work (second floor, 400-500 feet away).

 

Compustar Also has an expander Module now. It bring the total to 7 or 8 Aux outputs (sorry don't have my kit in front of me at the moment).

 

Wait! Yah I got the compustar in My 8. If you need wiring help, I can get you some of the info, I had mine installed by Auto Sound and Security in Chino, CA 909-364-0494. They did my system (minus the expand module) for $540 with remote start.

 

Wow! $540?? Both local places here in Virginia are running about $1K for a full install. AND they can't even do it yet!!

Thanks for the info on Auto Sound. I'll hit them up to see where they got their wiring info. Thanks much!

Btw, check with Compustar, as last week, they just released the companion 4 button remote for the SS system (if that's the one you have).

Take care and thanks again!

 

Are there any other high end security/Remote Start systems out which accomodate manual transmissions besides Compustar?

 

I had the Compustar in my M3 and it's going into my RX-8. My local installer has assured me that they can put it in. No problems that I know of.