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The type of key that utilizes a pelletized resistor for vehicle anti-theft systems is the VATS key. Vehicle Anti-Theft System (VATS) keys are designed to deter vehicle theft by employing a resistor pellet that is embedded in the key. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the resistor pellet completes an electrical circuit and sends a specific resistance value to the vehicle's ignition system. If the resistance value matches the expected value for that specific vehicle, the engine will start; if not, the vehicle remains immobilized.

This system enhances security by ensuring that only keys with the correct resistor value can start the vehicle, thereby inhibiting unauthorized access. Although other types of keys, like transponder keys and smart keys, also offer anti-theft features, they function based on different mechanisms, such as radio frequency identification (RFID) or electronic encryption, rather than the physical resistor system utilized in VATS keys.