Wiring Carnetix Valet Switches

**sdashiki** · 12-07-2009, 08:07 AM

Its hard to search for the right keywords, so forgive me if I couldnt locate a thread that answered this issue...

We all know putting a simple switch between the IGN and any Carnetix will keep the computer from booting when OFF.

Id seen this before, but the photos arent a diagram for the setup...and id like to get one together or locate one.

What about wiring a switch which has 3 positions:
always ON (even with car off, no key in ignition)
always OFF (valet switch)
normal (follows IGN position on/off)

I know this requires using the IGN wire and the power wire...but...um...which ones to where on what kind of switch?

**natedawgg** · 12-07-2009, 09:22 AM

you can get a 3-position switch at just about any store that sells automotive accessories (auto-zone for sure has them). it would be as simple as grounding the switch, running one power wire from the switch to the carnetix, and then run the IGN and BAT to the different nodes on the switch. should be as simple as that. Obviously, check the instructions on the particular switch before starting, as well as hold off actually hooking the power wire into the carnetix until you run some tests with a voltmeter or ground light to make sure your wiring is correct. Overall it should be very simple.

**sdashiki** · 12-07-2009, 10:32 AM

Something like:

ignition wire / +12v --> switch --> carnetix

With one setting being just the ignition wire to carnetix.
Another being the always on +12v to the carnetix (which would act like IGN only never turns off regardless of key position)
Last being none of the above and off.

So I guess Id be taking the red and yellow wires from the car, hooking them to the switch and outputting only ONE wire to the carnetix IGN/ACC?

Why would I need to ground the switch?

**natedawgg** · 12-07-2009, 12:27 PM

the ground may not be needed on all switches. Some have them while others don't. if the switch you buy has one then you will really want to use it. Just make sure you read the instructions for that particular switch.

**VmtSquad** · 12-07-2009, 01:08 PM

^^ The Ground may be used to light up the LED inside the switch. RTFM or instructions is always a MUST!

**sdashiki** · 12-07-2009, 01:15 PM

Ah yes, the LED versions would definitely.

I was even thinking of going with a key switch instead of hiding it. When I leave the car, turn the switch and take the keys with me as I was going to anyway.

But in any event, this is a DPDT situation, right?

**Curiosity** · 12-07-2009, 01:58 PM

That would be SPDT ON-OFF-ON, but DPDT would work as well. Not ON-(OFF)-ON or (ON)-OFF-(ON), just to clarify.

**sdashiki** · 12-07-2009, 02:11 PM

Basically 2 inputs, 1 output.

With a centered no output.

Not sure I understand when you say: "ON-(OFF)-ON or (ON)-OFF-(ON)"

**Curiosity** · 12-07-2009, 03:48 PM

(momentary)

**VmtSquad** · 12-07-2009, 04:14 PM

What I did is Place a KILL Switch (ON/OFF) that controls the 12v coming from the battery, if this switch at ON position I can turn it ON with the SECOND switch (ON/OFF) if its at OFF position the computer will never come ON. (can also be called a security switch when leaving the car at dealer or else). The second switch is connected to the KILL switch and then on the IGNITION wire or the CNX.

Basically I can turn on and off the computer even when my car is not started, thats pretty usefull when you need something fast at the corner store and don't want to turn off the computer...

Needs to be carefull if you go with that setup as if you forgot to turn it off, it will drain your battery!