Found this online:

The system consists of a transmitter and a receiver. The ignition key acts as the transmitter and is equipped with a pellet in the head of the key. When the ignition is turned on, the pellet sends a radio frequency to the receiver. If the correct frequency is not received, the vehicle becomes disabled.

There are over a trillion transponder keys, making each pellet unique. Some systems use rolling code changes, which changes the code every time the vehicle is turned off. This makes obtaining a duplicate key with the code impossible.

Well. That answers that, I guess.

But now I have a new problem, and I'm pretty sure it has something to do with this Transponder Security System.

Background: When proton was purchased in California I was provided with an OEM key/security FOB. Plain and simple. No issues starting.

Today: Finished up the wiring of the foglight install, where I had disconnected the neg. battery terminal to do the wiring work. Upon reconnecting the battery, and attempting to start her up - she'd 'dead' - as if disabled. Lights come on, I have electricity, etc., but she won't turn over (not even a 'click').

Is it possible that by disconnecting/reconnecting the battery that I've 'reset' this system, where the car is now disabled and won't start unless I have the above mentioned 'pellet' key?

The dealership in California that I purchased her from can't help. They won't give me the info of the seller, and all they were given upon trade in was the OEM key.

Crap.

-biju.