Cobra Electronics SPX955A RADAR DETECTOR User Manual SPX955IVT
Cobra Electronics Corporation RADAR DETECTOR SPX955IVT
User Manual SPX955IVT
Important Information
Introduction
English
Important Information •
Federal Laws Governing the Use of Radar Detectors
It is not against federal law to receive radar transmissions with your Cobra radar/
laser detector. The Communications Act of 1924 guarantees your right to receive
radio transmissions on any frequency. Local laws that contravene this Act, while
illegal, may be enforced by your local law enforcement officials until and unless
they are prohibited from doing so by federal court action.
Safety Alert
Use of this product is not intended to, and does not, ensure that motorists or passengers
will not be involved in traffic accidents. It is only intended to alert
the motorist that an emergency vehicle equipped with a Cobra Safety Alert
transmitter is within range as defined by that product. Please call local fire
and police departments to learn if coverage exists in your area.
Safe Driving
Motorists, as well as operators of emergency or service vehicles, are expected to exercise
all due caution while using this product, and to obey all applicable traffic laws.
Security of Your Vehicle
Before leaving your vehicle, always remember to conceal your radar detector
in order to reduce the possibility of break-in and theft.
©2018 Cobra Electronics Corporation
6500 West Cortland Street
Chicago, Illinois 60707 USA
www.cobra.com
SPX955IVT
ULTRA-HIGH PERFORMANCE
DIGITAL RADAR/LASER DETECTOR
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra® English
Operating Instructions
Printed in the Philippines
Part No. 480-1130-P
Version B
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra® English
For more information or to
order any of our products,
please visit our website:
www.cobra.com
The Cobra line of quality products includes:
A1
CB Radios
microTALK® 2-Way Radios
Radar Detectors
Marine VHF Radios
Power Inverters
Accessories
SPX955IVT_MANL.indd 1-1 1/5/18 3:46 PM
This booklet describes the simple steps for mounting and setting up your detector. It also provides helpful
information about how radar and laser guns are used and how you can interpret the alerts you receive.
Trademark Acknowledgement
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®25
Customer Assistance
Display and Product Features
Introduction
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®A3
Display •
X K Ka V S c
X K Ka V S c
X K Ka V S c
Controls, Indicators
and Connections
Introduction
A2 English
Controls, Indicators and Connections •
On-Off/Volume Control
Allows you to adjust the
volume of the tone alerts.
Dim Button
Allows you to adjust the UltraBright
Data Display brightness for easy
reading. (Also turns VG-2 and
Spectre I & IV+ alerts On and Off.*)
LaserEye
For 360° detection
of laser signals.
Windshield Bracket
Release Button
IntelliMute Button
Engine RPM sensing mute function
which reduces false alerts. Button
turns IntelliMute On and Off. (Also
enters IntelliMute setting mode.*)
Mute Button
For manual mute or auto
mute of audio alerts. (Also
turns Voice Alert On and Off.*)
* Press and hold for four seconds to
access these functions.
WARNING
Modifications or parts substitutions not approved
by Cobra Electronics Corporation may violate
FCC Rules and void your authority to operate
this equipment.
Speaker
NOTE: In This Manual
When steady,
the display will
be shown:
When blinking,
the display will
be shown:
X & K will light
simultaneously
when indicating
Ku detection:
City Button
For City or Highway
modes to reduce false
alerts. (Also turns Ku
alerts On and Off.*)
Xtreme Range
Superheterodyne® Technology
With super-fast sweep circuitry, provides extra
detection range and the best possible advance
warning to even the fastest
radar guns
Detection and Separate Alerts For:
Radar signals (X, K, and Ka bands, with signal
strength indicated), Laser signals, Safety Alert
signals, VG-2 signals, Spectre I & IV+ signals
LaserEye®
For 360° detection of laser signals
Instant-On Ready
Detects radar guns with “instant-on”
(very fast) speed monitoring capabilities
In-Vehicle Technology (IVT) Filter
Reduces false alerts from collision
avoidance systems and other proximity sensors
using radar
Tone Alert or Voice Alert®
With adjustable volume
UltraBright™ Data Display
Easy-to-read with adjustable brightness
City or Highway
Modes to reduce false alerts
Alert Programming
Easy setting of radar bands to be monitored
Safety Alert®
Traffic warning system distinguishes important
safety alerts from other
K band signals
Manual Mute or Auto Mute
A mute function of audio alerts
IntelliMute®
A mute function reduces false audio alerts by
sensing engine RPMs
IntelliMute® Pro
Prevents detection by radar detector detectors
(RDDs) when traveling at slower speeds
Mounting
Mounts easily on windshield or dashboard
Product Features
Congratulations! You’ve made a smart choice by purchasing a high performance
radar/laser detector from Cobra. Just look at some of the sophisticated features
and capabilities your new unit includes:
IntelliMute
Indicator
Radar, VG-2,
Spectre I & IV+ and
Safety Indicators
X K Ka V S L
Signal
Strength,
Pop, Laser,
City/Highway
and IntelliMute Pro
Mode Indicators
Signal Strength 1 (weakest) to 5 (strongest)
Windshield
Bracket
Mount
12V DC
Power Jack
Audio Jack
Trademark Acknowledgement •
Cobra®, DigiView®, EasySet®, Extra Sensory Detection®, IntelliMute®, IntelliMute® Pro, IntelliShield®,
LaserEye®, Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®, Safety Alert® Trafc Warning System, Strobe Alert®,
VG-2 Alert®, Xtreme Range Superheterodyne® and the snake design are registered trademarks of Cobra
Electronics Corporation, USA.
Cobra Electronics Corporation™, AURA™, Extreme Bright DataGrax™, IntelliLink™, IntelliScope™,
IntelliView™, Revolution™ Series, SmartPower™, Super-Xtreme Range Superheterodyne™, S-XRS™,
UltraBright™, and Voice Alert™ are trademarks of Cobra Electronics Corporation, USA.
Opticom™ is a trademark of 3M Corporation. Instaclear® for Ford is a registered trademark of Ford
Motor Company, Inc. Electriclear® for GM is a registered trademark of General Motors Corporation.
LTI Laser™ and LTI 20-20™ are trademarks of Laser Technology, Inc. Kustom Laser™, Kustom Laser
340™ and ProLaser II™ are trademarks of Kustom Signals, Inc. SpeedLaser™ is a trademark of Laser
Atlanta. Bee III™ and Pop™ are a trademarks of MPH Industries. Stalker™ LIDAR is a trademark of
Applied Concepts, Inc. Spectre I™ and Spectre IV™ are trademarks of Stealth Micro Systems Pty. Ltd.
SpeedLaser™ is a trademark of Laser Atlanta, LLC. Interceptor VG-2™ is a trademark of TechniSonic
Industries LTD. Tomar® is a registered trademark of TOMAR Electronics, Inc.
SPX955IVT_MANL.indd 2-25 1/5/18 3:46 PM
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®1
Contents
Introduction
Introduction
Important Information ...................................................................................... A1
Display ............................................................................................................. A3
Product Features ............................................................................................. A3
Your Detector
Installation ........................................................................................................ 2
Getting Started ................................................................................................. 5
Auxiliary Audio Jack ...................................................................................... 5
Settings ............................................................................................................ 6
Highway/City Mode ....................................................................................... 6
UltraBright Data Display Brightness .............................................................. 7
IVT Filter ..........................................................................................................7
Muting an Alert ................................................................................................. 8
Auto Mute Mode ............................................................................................... 8
IntelliMute ......................................................................................................... 9
IntelliMute Pro ................................................................................................. 12
Voice/Tone Setting .......................................................................................... 13
VG-2 and Spectre I & IV+ Alert Settings.......................................................... 13
Radar Alert and IVT Alert Settings .................................................................... 14
Detection ......................................................................................................... 15
Signals Detected .......................................................................................... 15
Audio Alerts .................................................................................................. 15
Visual Display ............................................................................................... 15
Instant-On Detection .................................................................................... 18
Responding to Alerts .................................................................................... 18
Understanding Radar and Laser ...................................................................... 19
Maintenance .................................................................................................... 20
Specifications .................................................................................................. 21
Warranty
Limited 1-Year Warranty ................................................................................. 22
Customer Assistance
Product Service ............................................................................................... 23
Optional Accessories ....................................................................................... 24
Accessories Order Info .................................................................................... 25
Trademark Acknowledgement ........................................................................ 25
SPX955IVT_MANL.indd 1 1/5/18 3:46 PM
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®
Your Detector
3
Installation
Your Detector
English
Installation •
Where to Mount Your Unit
You will get optimum performance from your detector if you Mount it at a
point approximately in the center of the vehicle, as low as possible on the front
windshield without obstructing the unit’s view of the road either to
the front or rear. Make sure the unit is level with the road. You can also
mount it directly on the dashboard.
The unit’s lens must not be blocked and the LaserEye should have a clear view
out the back window to allow 360° detection.
Radar and laser
signals pass
through glass but
not through other
materials and
objects. Objects
that can block or
weaken incoming signals include:
g Windshield wiper blades
g Mirrored sun screens
g Dark tinting at the top of the windshield
g Heated windshields currently available on some vehicles
(Instaclear for Ford, Electriclear for GM.) Consult your dealer
to see if you have this option.
1. Attach the rubber
cups to the bracket.
2. Make sure the rubber cups and your windshield are clean.
3. Push the bracket firmly onto
the windshield.
4. Attach the detector to
the bracket. Check the
angle of the unit.
5. To adjust the angle if
necessary, gently push or
pull on the bracket to bend
it. DO NOT use the detector
to bend the bracket.
6. Plug the power cord
into the detector.
7. Plug the cigarette lighter
adapter on the power
cord into your vehicle’s
cigarette lighter.
8. You can temporarily remove the detector whenever you
wish by pressing the bracket release button and sliding
it off the bracket.
Windshield Mounting
The LaserEye Should Have a Clear View
Windshield Mounting Dashboard Mounting
Installation
2
SPX955IVT_MANL.indd 2-3 1/5/18 3:46 PM
Getting Started •
Getting Started
Your Detector
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®
Installation
Your Detector
4English
1. Place the detector on the dashboard to find a location
where the unit has a clear, level view of the road.
The angle can NOT be adjusted after mounting.
2. Remove the paper backing
from one side of the hook-
and-loop fastener.
3. Attach the pad to the
dashboard at your chosen
location and remove the
other paper backing.
4. Attach the detector to the
hook-and-loop fastener.
You can remove and reattach
the unit as
often as you like.
5. Plug the power cord
into the detector.
6. Plug the cigarette lighter
adapter on the power
cord into your vehicle’s
cigarette lighter.
Dashboard Mounting
Power On
X K Ka V S h
To Turn On the Unit and Adjust the Audio Volume
Rotate the On-Off/
Volume control
clockwise (away
from you).
Tone Voice Visual Display
Three beeps Testing, then
three beeps
System Ready, then
Voice Alert
h appears in the
display indicating
that the power
is On
On-Off/
Volume Control
Rotate clockwise
(away from you)
NOTE
In some vehicles, power is supplied to the cigarette lighter even while the ignition
is Off. If this is the case with your vehicle, you should turn Off or unplug your
detector when parking for lengthy periods.
Auxiliary Audio Jack •
The Auxiliary Audio Jack can be used to connect external speakers in
environments with high ambient noise levels. (This uses a mini stereo audio
connector.)
Auxiliary
Audio Jack
5
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Dim Button
Press and release
Press and
release
Settings
Your Detector
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®7
UltraBright Data Display Brightness
You can choose from three settings for Brightness of the display.
You can cycle through the settings by repeatedly pushing the Dim button.
The factory setting is Bright.
Settings
Your Detector
6English
Highway/City Mode
Setting your detector to City mode delays all X band audio alerts until
the signal strength reaches Level 3. (A single beep will sound when the
signal is first detected.) This will reduce false alerts while you are driving
in, or near, urban areas where there are many sources for conflicting
X band signals such as microwave towers and automatic door openers.
To change settings, follow the procedure listed below, which indicates
what you will see and hear (either in Voice Alert or Tone Alert mode)
as you complete each step. The factory setting is Highway mode.
Press and
release Dim
button
City Mode
X K Ka V S
c
X K Ka V S h
To Change From Highway Mode to City Mode
Press and release
the City button.
Tone Voice Visual Display
One beep City
c
appears
in the display
To Change From City Mode Back to Highway Mode
Press and release
the City button again.
Tone Voice Visual Display
Two beeps Highway h appears
in the display
To Change the Brightness to Dim
Press and release
the Dim button once.
Tone Voice Visual Display
One beep Dim Display dims
To Change the Brightness to Dark
Press and release
the Dim button
again.
Tone Voice Visual Display
One beep Dark Display remains dim
(no visual alerts will
be seen)
To Change the Brightness to Bright
Press and release
the Dim button a
third time.
Tone Voice Visual Display
Two beeps Bright Display returns
to full brightness
Settings •
When changing the Settings on your detector, please keep in mind:
g Buttons can have multiple functions.
g Depending on your choice of Voice Alert or Tone Alert mode, you will
hear either voice messages or tones confirming changes in settings.
g All settings will be stored in memory when the power is
turned Off and recalled when the power is turned back On.
Bright
Dark
Dim
SPX955IVT_MANL.indd 6-7 1/5/18 3:46 PM
IntelliMute Button
Press and release
Mute Button
Press and release
Settings
Your Detector
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®9
Settings
Your Detector
8English
Muting an Alert
Your detector allows you to quickly turn Off an audio Alert by momentarily pressing
the Mute button. If you press the Mute button a second time during the Alert, the audio
Alert will be turned back On.
Auto Mute Mode
Auto Mute will automatically reduce the audio volume of all alerts after four seconds for
as long as the signal is detected. The factory setting for Auto Mute is On.
IntelliMute
IntelliMute is a unique feature that allows you to avoid alerts you don’t need to
hear because you are stopped or moving slowly. By sensing the “revs” (RPMs)
of your engine, IntelliMute knows when you are at low speed and automatically
mutes audio radar alerts.
Before IntelliMute will work, you must set an activation point for your engine’s
revs (see page 10 for initial setup). Whenever the revs are below that point,
IntelliMute will begin muting. The activation point will be stored in memory and
recalled each time the power is turned On. The factory setting is IntelliMute Off.
NOTE
IntelliMute may not work with some vehicles because it cannot sense the
engine’s revs. In such cases, you can reduce unwanted audio alerts by
using Auto Mute and City mode when appropriate.
To Turn Auto Mute Off
Press and release
the Mute button
while no alert
is occurring.
Tone Voice Visual Display
One beep Auto Mute Off None
To Turn Auto Mute On
Press and release
the Mute button
again while no
alert is occurring.
Tone Voice Visual Display
Two beeps Auto Mute On None
To Turn IntelliMute On
Press and release
the IntelliMute
button.
Tone Voice Visual Display
Two beeps IntelliMute On Dot appears next to
the large character
on the right
To Turn IntelliMute Off
Press and release
the IntelliMute
button again.
Tone Voice Visual Display
One beep IntelliMute Off Dot disappears
Anti-Falsing Circuitry
Your SPX955IVT is designed to provide you the truest alerts and minimize the
distraction of erroneous signals from radar-based xed-position and moving
sources.
IVT Filter: system automatically reduces false alerts from moving In-Vehicle
Technology sources such as collision avoidance systems and adaptive
cruise control.
SPX955IVT_MANL.indd 8-9 1/5/18 3:46 PM
Your Detector
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®
Settings
Your Detector
10 English
What to Remember While Using IntelliMute
IntelliMute works with both City and Auto Mute modes.
Whenever your engine revs are below the activation point, the dot next to
the large character on the right side of the display will remain lit. Above the
activation point, the dot will blink twice every two seconds.
If, for any reason, the unit stops sensing your engine’s revs, IntelliMute
will indicate an error and automatically turn Off.
The rev point you set will be stored in the unit’s memory when power is turned
Off and recalled each time the power is turned On.
NOTE
The rev point must be reset if you use your detector in a different vehicle.
NOTE
When initially choosing your IntelliMute activation point, a setting
of approximately 300 to 600 RPMs above idle is recommended.
You can reset the activation point at any time to fit your individual
preferences and driving style.
Setting the IntelliMute Activation Point
Your detector must be installed in your vehicle.
CAUTION
Do not attempt to set the rev point while driving.
Your vehicle should be parked and idling.
IntelliMute must be turned On before setting the activation point. Depending on
whether the unit is in Tone Alert or Voice Alert mode, you will hear a series of
beeps or voice messages as you follow the steps on the next page.
Below Activation Point
X K Ka V S
c
Above Activation Point
X K Ka V S
c
IntelliMute Button
Press and release
To Set the IntelliMute Activation Point
Press and hold
the IntelliMute
button for two
seconds.
Tone Voice Visual Display
Two beeps Set Engine Revs None
Rev your engine to
the level you wish
to set (recommend
slightly above idle)
and hold revs steady
for two seconds.
None None Three bars will
flash in succession
At the desired
rev level, press
and release the
IntelliMute
button.
Three beeps IntelliMute Set All three bars flash
three times
Tone Voice Visual Display
Four beeps IntelliMute Error,
followed by
IntelliMute Off
E appears
X K Ka V S E
NOTE
If the unit is unable to sense usable pulses within three
seconds or if you do not set a rev point within 20 seconds
of beginning these steps, IntelliMute will indicate an error
and automatically turn Off.
1 2 3
1 2 3
11
Settings
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Voice/Tone Setting
You can set your detector to sound alerts with either a Voice or a Tone. You can
change settings by using the Mute button. In Voice Alert mode, you will first hear
several tones, then a voice message announcing the type of signal detected,
followed by more tones. In Tone Alert mode, you will hear the tones only. The
factory setting is Voice Alert mode.
To Turn VG-2 and Spectre I & IV+ Alerts On and Off
While no signal
is being detected,
press and hold the
Dim button for
four seconds.
Tone Voice Visual Display
On = Two Beeps Spectre VG-2 On V will blink twice
in the display
Your Detector
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®13
Settings
Your Detector
12 English
To Change From Voice Alert to Tone Alert
While no signal
is being detected,
press and hold
the Mute button
for two seconds.
Tone Voice Visual Display
One beep Tone Alert None
To Change From Tone Alert Back to Voice Alert
While no signal
is being detected,
press and hold the
Mute button for
two seconds again.
Tone Voice Visual Display
None Voice Alert None
Spectre VG-2 Off V will blink once
in the display
Off = One Beep
VG-2 and Spectre I & IV+ Alert Settings
Police use radar detector detectors (RDDs) to spot users of radar detectors.
Your detector is able to identify signals from VG-2, Spectre I and Spectre IV+
RDDs and can provide alerts when any of these or similar devices are in use
near your vehicle.
Your detector can be spotted by Spectre IV+ RDDs, but is invisible to VG-2 and
Spectre I RDDs. You can choose whether you want to be alerted to VG-2 and
Spectre I & IV+ RDD signals. The factory setting for VG-2 and Spectre I & IV+
alerts is Off.
IntelliMute Pro
IntelliMute Pro prevents detection by radar detector detectors (RDDs) such as
VG-2, Spectre I and Spectre IV+ when traveling at slower speeds. It is intended
for use by experienced users only.
When IntelliMute Pro is turned On, and engine RPMs are below the IntelliMute
activation point, your detector’s radar detection circuits are turned Off to prevent
detection by RDDs.
Before IntelliMute Pro can be turned On, you must have turned On and Set the
IntelliMute activation point. (See pages 9 through 11.)
To Turn IntelliMute Pro On
While no signal
is being detected,
press and hold both
the IntelliMute
and City buttons
for four seconds.
Tone Voice Visual Display
Two beeps IntelliMute Pro On c or h will blink
To Turn IntelliMute Pro Off
Press and hold both
the IntelliMute and
City buttons for
four seconds.
Tone Voice Visual Display
One beep IntelliMute Pro Off c or h will show
steady
IntelliMute Pro On
X K Ka V S
c
CAUTION
When IntelliMute Pro is On, NO radar signals will be detected and
NO alerts will be given at RPMs below the IntelliMute activation point.
IntelliMute Button
City Button
Press and hold both
buttons simultaneously
Settings
SPX955IVT_MANL.indd 12-13 1/5/18 3:46 PM
Settings and Detection
Your Detector
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®15
Settings
Your Detector
14 English
Detection
The tables on the following pages show you the types of Signals your detector
will detect, as well as the voice and visual alerts it provides for each of them.
In Voice Alert mode you will first hear several tones, then a voice message
announcing the type of signal detected, followed by more tones. In Tone Alert
mode, you will hear the tones only.
In both Voice Alert and Tone Alert modes, a distinctly different alert tone is used
for each type of signal detected (including separate tones for each laser signal).
For X, K, and Ka band radar signals, the tones will repeat faster as
you approach the signal source. The repeat rate of the tones gives you useful
information about the signal detected. (See responding to alerts on page 18.)
An indication of the type of signal detected will appear in the UltraBright
data Display. During X, K, and Ka alerts, a number will also appear,
indicating the strength of the signal detected. (1 = weakest, 5 = strongest)
X Signal Detected
X K Ka V S 2X K Ka V S 3X K Ka V S 5
K Signal Detected Ka Signal Detected
Radar Alert Settings
The detector allows you to choose whether it will show alerts on the X or K
bands. The factory settings are: X Band and K Band On.
To Turn K Band On and Off
While no signal is
being detected,
press and hold both
the Mute and City
buttons for four
seconds.
Tone Voice Visual Display
K On = Two beeps
K On K will blink twice
in the display
K will blink once
in the display
K Off = One beep K Off
To Turn X Band On and Off
While no signal is
being detected, press
and hold both the Dim
and Mute buttons for
four seconds.
Tone Voice Visual Display
X On = Two beeps X On X will blink twice
in the display
X Off X will blink once
in the display
X Off = One beep
To Turn Safety Alert On and Off
While no signal
is being detected,
press and hold
the Dim and iMute
buttons for
four seconds.
Tone Voice Visual Display
On = Two beeps Safety Alert On S Flashes Two Times
Off = One beep Safety Alert Off S Flashes One Time
SPX955IVT_MANL.indd 14-15 1/5/18 3:46 PM
Detection
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®17
Detection
Safety Alert Signals, Voice and Visual Displays
Type of Signal Voice Visual Display
Emergency Vehicles Emergency Vehicle Approaching S is Steady
Road Hazards Road Hazard Ahead S is Steady
Trains Train Approaching S is Steady
Safety Alert Signal Detected
X K Ka V S
c
VG-2 and Spectre I or IV+ Alert Signals, Voice and Visual Displays
Type of Signal Voice Visual Display
Interceptor VG-2 VG-2 Alert V is Steady
Spectre I or IV+ Spectre Alert V Blinks
VG-2 Alert Signal Detected
X K Ka V S
c
Spectre I or IV+ Alert
Signal Detected
X K Ka V S
c
NOTE
There are different tones for each Safety Alert.
NOTE
There are different
tones for each alert.
Radar Signals, Voice and Visual Displays
Type of Signal Voice Visual Display
X Band Radar X Alert X and Signal Strength
K Band Radar K Alert K and Signal Strength
Ka Band Radar Ka Alert Ka and Signal Strength
Laser Signal Detected
X K Ka V S L NOTE
Beep rate changes with different laser alerts.
During laser alerts, the letter L will
appear, instead of the signal strength
indication.
During VG-2 or Spectre I or IV+
alerts, the letter V will appear.
It will be steady during VG-2
and blink during Spectre I or IV+.
During Safety Alert, the letter
S will appear. Safety Alert Signal Detected
X K Ka V S
c
X Signal Detected
X K Ka V S 2X K Ka V S 3X K Ka V S 5
K Signal Detected Ka Signal Detected
16 English
Laser Signal Detected
X K Ka V S L
VG-2 Alert Signal
Detected
X K Ka V S
c
Spectre I or IV+ Alert
Signal Detected
X K Ka V S
c
Your Detector Your Detector
Laser Signals, Voice and Visual Displays
Type of Signal Voice Visual Display
LTI 20-20* Laser L is Steady
LTI Laser* Laser L is Steady
Kustom Signals Laser 340* Laser L is Steady
Kustom Signals Laser* Laser L is Steady
Stalker LIDAR* Laser L is Steady
Laser Atlanta SpeedLaser/Kustom Signals-ProLaser II* Laser L is Steady
* Your detector provides 360° detection of these signals.
SPX955IVT_MANL.indd 16-17 1/5/18 3:46 PM
Understanding Radar and Laser
Your Detector
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®19
Detection
Your Detector
18 English
Understanding Radar and Laser •
Radar Speed Monitoring Systems
Three band frequencies have been approved by the Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) for use by speed monitoring radar equipment:
X band 10.525 GHz
K band 24.150 GHz
Ka band 33.400 – 36.00 GHz
Your detector detects signals in all three radar bands, plus Ku band (13.435 GHz),
which is an approved frequency used in parts of Europe and Asia.
VG-2 and Spectre I & IV+
VG-2 and Spectre I & IV+ are radar detector detectors (RDDs) that work by
detecting low-level signals emitted by most radar detectors. Your detector
does not emit signals that can be spotted by VG-2 and Spectre I RDDs.
However, your detector can be spotted by Spectre IV+ RDDs. Your unit detects
signals from these or similar devices and will alert you when such
a device is in use near your vehicle.
Safety Alert Traffic Warning System
FCC-approved Safety Alert transmitters emit microwave radar signals that
indicate the presence of a safety-related concern. Depending on the frequency
of the signal emitted, it can indicate a speeding emergency vehicle or train,
or a stationary road hazard.
Because these microwave signals are within the K band frequency, most
conventional radar detectors will detect Safety Alert signals as standard
K band radar. Your detector, however, is designed to differentiate between
standard K band and Safety Alert signals, and give separate alerts for each.
Safety Alert technology is relatively new. Safety Alert transmitters can
be found in limited numbers in all 50 states, but the number is growing.
Depending on your location, you may not receive these alerts regularly
and may often encounter emergency vehicles, trains and road hazards
without being alerted. As the number of transmitters increases,
these alerts will become more common.
When you receive such an alert, please watch for emergency vehicles ahead
of you, on cross streets and behind you. If you see an emergency vehicle
approaching, please pull over to the right side of the road and allow it to pass.
Description Interpretation Recommended
Response
Tone repeats slowly at first,
then speeds up rapidly.
Probably police radar. FULL ALERT
Tone sounds one
time only.
Probably a false alarm,
but possibly pulsed radar,
VG-2, or Spectre I or IV+
nearby.
Exercise caution
Tone instantly begins
repeating rapidly.
Radar, VG-2 or Spectre I
or IV+ nearby has been
activated suddenly.
FULL ALERT
Tone repeats slowly as you
approach a hill or bridge,
then speeds up sharply as
you reach it.
Probably police
radar beyond the
hill or bridge.
FULL ALERT
Tone repeats slowly
for a short period.
Probably a false alarm. Exercise caution
Any type of laser alert. Laser alerts are
never false alarms.
FULL ALERT
Any Safety Alert.
You are nearing an
emergency vehicle, railroad
crossing, or road hazard
(construction, accident, etc.).
Exercise caution
Instant-On Detection
Your detector is designed to detect Instant-On speed monitoring signals, which
can suddenly appear at full strength.
NOTE
You should take appropriate action immediately
whenever an instant-on alert is given.
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Specifications
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®21
Understanding Radar and Laser
and Maintenance
20 English
Your DetectorYour Detector
LIDAR (Laser)
The correct name for the technology that most people refer to as
laser is actually LIDAR, which stands for Light Detection and Ranging.
LIDAR operates much like radar. Its signal spreads out like a radar signal, though
not as widely. Unlike radar, LIDAR must have a clear line of sight to its target
vehicle throughout the entire measurement interval. Obstructions such as sign
posts, utility poles, tree branches, etc., will prevent valid speed measurement.
Some common questions about LIDAR include:
g
Does weather have any affect on LIDAR?
Yes. Rain, snow, smoke, fog or airborne dust particles will reduce the
effective range of LIDAR and can, if dense enough, prevent its operation.
g
Can LIDAR operate through glass?
Yes. Newer LIDAR guns can obtain readings through most types of glass.
However, the laser pulse also can be received through glass to trigger
an alarm by your detector.
g
Can LIDAR operate while in motion?
No. Because LIDAR operates by line of sight, the person using it cannot
drive the vehicle, aim and operate the gun all at the same time.
g
Is LIDAR legal to use?
Yes. It is legal in all 50 states.
Maintenance •
Maintenance of Your Radar Detector
Your detector is designed and built to give you years of trouble-free performance
without the need for service. No routine Maintenance is required.
If your unit does not appear to be operating properly, please follow these
troubleshooting steps:
g Make sure the power cord is properly connected.
g Make sure the socket of your vehicle’s cigarette lighter is clean and
free of corrosion.
g Make sure the power cord’s cigarette lighter adapter is firmly seated
in your cigarette lighter.
g Connect a USB device to the type A USB port on your power cord. If it does not
provide a charge/power to your phone/device then the internal fuse is likely
blown. Contact Cobra for support or spare parts.
Specifications
Band and Frequencies
Band Frequencies
X Band 10.525 ± 0.050 GHz
K Band 24.125 ± 0.125 GHz
Ka Band 34.700 ± 1.300 GHz
VG-2 11.500 ± 0.250 GHz
Laser 910 ± 50nm 100 PPS
910 ± 50nm 125 PPS
910 ± 50nm 130 PPS
910 ± 50nm 200 PPS
910 ± 50nm 238 PPS
910 ± 50nm 340 PPS
Spectre I 13.300 ± 0.200 GHz
Spectre IV/IV+ Not Disclosed
Safety Alert 24.070 ± 0.010 GHz
Traffic Warning 24.110 ± 0.010 GHz
System 24.190 ± 0.010 GHz
24.230 ± 0.010 GHz
U.S. Patent Numbers: 6,078,279; 6,621,447.
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Product Service & Support
Customer Assistance
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®23
Warranty
22 English
Warranty
Limited 1-Year Warranty •
Cobra Electronics Corporation warrants that this product and the component parts
thereof, will be free of defects in workmanship and materials for a period of one year
from the date of rst consumer purchase. This warranty may be enforced by the rst
consumer purchaser. If the product is under warranty, it will be repaired or exchanged
depending on the model as determined at Cobra’s sole discretion. Such remedy shall
be your sole and exclusive remedy for any breach of warranty.
The procedure for obtaining service and support, and the applicability of this warranty,
will vary depending on the country or jurisdiction in which you purchased and utilize
the product. For the details on obtaining product service, support and warranty please
visit www.cobra.com/support
Provided that the product is utilized within the U.S.A.- Cobra will, without charge,
repair or replace, at its option, defective products, products or component parts upon
delivery to the Cobra Factory Service department, accompanied by proof of the date of
rst consumer purchase, such as a duplicated copy of a sales receipt. You must pay
any initial shipping charges required to ship the product for warranty service, but the
return charges, to an address in the U.S.A., will be at Cobra’s expense, if the product is
repaired or replaced under warranty.
This warranty gives you specic legal rights, and you may also have other rights which
may vary from state to state and country to country.
Exclusions: This limited warranty does not apply: 1) To any product damaged by
accident; 2) In the event of misuse, ordinary wear, failure tofollow directions, or
improper maintenance of the product or as a result of unauthorized alterations or
repairs; 3) If the serial number has been altered, defaced, or removed; 4) If the product
was purchased or is utilized in a jurisdiction not covered by the limited warranty.
All implied warranties, including warranties of merchantability and tness for a
particular purpose are limited in duration to the length of this warranty. Cobra shall
not be liable for any incidental, consequential or other damages; including, without
limitation, damages resulting from loss of use or cost of installation.
Some states and countries do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty
lasts and/or do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential
damages, so the above limitations may not apply to you. This warranty gives you
specic legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state
and country to country.
Product Service and Support •
For any questions about operating or installing this new Cobra product, PLEASE CONTACT
COBRA FIRST…do not return this product to the retail store. The contact information for
Cobra will vary depending on the country in which you purchased and utilize the product.
For the latest contact information, please go to www.cobra.com/support
For products purchased in the U.S.A. you may also call 1-773-889-3087.
For Products Purchased in the U.S.A., if your product should require factory service, please
go to www.cobra.com/support and follow the instructions for returning your product to
the Cobra Factory Service Department for service.
SPX955IVT_MANL.indd 22-23 1/5/18 3:46 PM
Optional Accessories
24 English
Optional Accessories •
You can find quality Cobra products and accessories
at your local Cobra dealer, or in the U.S.A., you can
order directly from Cobra at www.cobra.com
Customer Assistance
Straight 12V DC
Power Cord
Includes plug and fuse
Item #420-030-N-001
Windshield
Mounting Bracket
Includes suction cups
Item #545-159-N-001
Coiled 12V DC
Power Cord
Includes plug and fuse
Item # 420-026-N-001
Dual Port Power Adapter
Includes adjustable plug
(up to 90˚) and fuse
Item # CLP-2B
Straight Combination Radar
USB Cord
Includes plug and USB
Output
Item # PWR USB-01
Hardwire Cord for Radar
Includes fuse
Item # RA-PSCB
Install Mount
Includes 3M Dual Lock
Item # 545-002
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