Radar Detectors
There are three different types of radar detector: Traditional Voorded Unit, Cordless Detector (battery operated), and Remote Mounted Unit. Each has advantages, and disadvantages.
Traditional Coorded Unit: Most popular unit to purchase. Easily plugged into a cigarette lighter for power, mounted on the windshield using a suction cup, least expensive, easy to install, have the best range to warn the driver to slow down, and no batteries to replace.
Cordless detector: Cordless radar turn and off in milliseconds. This affects the range. and sensitivity to operate efficiently. The phasing of the power turned on, and off detrimentally prevents the system from newer POP radar mode, which will likely preclude the driver from getting a speeding ticket. The cordless detector does not dangle with any cord. Overall performance is not desirable to purchase or reliable.
Remote Mounted Unit: Unit is hidden in the vehicle, from the view of thief’s, and Police. Some states like Virginia, Washington D.C., military bases, and many overseas countries outlaw radar detectors. The antennas are installed under the hood or in the grill. The display is viewed only on Dash Board or under Dash Board. Other types of remote units have capability of jamming radar guns. These units include, SR7 and Bel RX75. However, many states outlaw these types of jammers, and often failing to work as advertised.
Some law enforcement use Spectre that detects the use of virtually any radar detector in a vehicle. The system sweeps multiple bands of radar detectors. The newer models of Spectre have been upgraded for further enhancements to help law enforcement. Has been tested against all major detectors
When choosing a radar detector, many features should be considered. Some are listed here. Good sensitivity and range, which should extend a quarter of a mile. When driving often around curves, the distance should be extended to four miles. Good Filtration is necessary to prevent the unit from false alarms, especially when driving by grocery store, garage door, microwave tower, bank, and other vehicles that have radar detectors. Systems that have the best filtration include: Escort 8500 X50 and Bel RX65. Good visual alert on the detector is necessary, to understand exactly the warning ahead. The better type of detectors will have visual display of letters: ‘X,’ ‘K,’ or ‘Ka’ to signify, the strength of the incoming signal. The system should have the capability to AccuSweep, which means to scan known frequencies. Auto Mute system designed to turn off the sound, and driver is just aware, of any signal displayed.
Digital Voice alerts the driver that the radar detector has picked up a signal
Beware of the false advertisements of some radar detector companies. Many will guarantee to pay any speeding ticket, if the system fails to operate optimally. However, the fine print on the guarantee has many stipulations. The guarantee will not be valid if the driver exceeds ten miles per hour, drives over the speed limit in a school zone or residential zone, and only applies to the purchaser of the unit.
Radar Detectors cost could between: $150 to $300. The more expensive units have more features to offer. Units that cost under $100 are likely to offer virtually no protection or less desirable, to purchase. The Escort Passport Radar Detector 8500 X50 can detect ‘X,’ ‘K,’ and ‘Ka’ band radar guns, from a distance at least two miles away. System has three city modes, which helps reduce false alarms in populated areas. Cost approximately $300. Bel Pro System sounds alarm at least one mile before being ticketed. Cost approximately $230.
Police radar guns become ineffective or less reliable detecting vehicles that have windshields with metallic film embedded, and commercially available tint films that are applied to windows.
