Cobra Electronics XRS9700 RADAR DETECTOR User Manual 9300 1a
Cobra Electronics Corporation RADAR DETECTOR 9300 1a
Users Manual
XRS 9600
11 BAND™ULTRA
HIGH-PERFORMANCE
DIGITAL RADAR/LASER
DETECTOR WITH XTREME
RANGE SUPERHETERODYNE™
TECHNOLOGY
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®English
Operating Instructions
Printed in China
Part No. 480-106-P
Important Information And
Customer Assistance
Introduction
A1 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.
Customer Assistance •
Should you encounter any problems with this product, or not understand its many features,
please refer to this owner’s manual. If you require further assistance after reading this
manual, Cobra Electronics offers the following customer assistance services:
For Assistance In The U.S.A.
Automated Help Desk English only. 24 hours a day, 7 days a week 773-889-3087 (phone).
Customer Assistance Operators English and Spanish. 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. CT
Mon. through Fri. (except holidays) 773-889-3087 (phone).
Questions English and Spanish. Faxes can be received at 773-622-2269 (fax).
Technical Assistance English only. www.cobra.com (on-line: Frequently Asked
Questions). English and Spanish. productinfo@cobra.com (e-mail).
For Assistance Outside The U.S.A.
Contact Your Local Dealer ©2004 Cobra Electronics Corporation
6500 West Cortland Street
Chicago, Illinois 60707 USA
www.cobra.com
Customer Assistance
Order Form
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®37
Order Form •
Name
Address (No P.O. Boxes)
City State/Province Zip Country
Telephone
Credit Card Number Type: ❒Visa ❒MasterCard ❒Discover Exp. Date
Customer Signature
Item # Description U.S.Cost Each Qty Amount
420-030-N-001 Straight 12V Power Cord
420-026-N-001 Coiled 12V Power Cord
545-139-N-001 Windshield Mounting Bracket
CLP-2B Dual Port Power Adapter
U.S. Subtotal
(Tax if Applicable)
Shipping/Handling
Total
Ordering From U.S.A.
Call 773-889-3087 for pricing or visit www.cobra.com.
For Credit Card Orders
Complete and return this order form to fax number 773-622-2269. Or call 773-889-3087
[Press one (1) from the main menu] 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. CT, Monday through Friday.
Make Check or Money Order Payable To
Cobra Electronics, Attn: Accessories Dept.,
6500 West Cortland Street, Chicago, IL 60707 U.S.A.
To Order Online
Please visit our website: www.cobra.com
Amount Shipping/Handling*
$10.00 or less . . . . . $3.00
$10.01-$25.00 . . . . . $5.50
$25.01-$50.00 . . . . . $7.50
$50.01-$90.00 . . . . $10.50
$90.01-$130.00 . . . $13.50
$130.01-$200.00 . . $16.50
$200.01 plus . . . . . 10% of
purchase
Tax Table
Wisconsin add 5%
Indiana, Michigan,
Ohio add 6%
California add 7.25%
Illinois add 8.75%
*For AK, HI and PR add additional $26.95 for FedEx Next Day or
$10.95 for FedEx 2nd Day. Excludes weekends and holidays shipments.
Please allow two (2) to three (3) weeks for delivery in the U.S.A.
Prices subject to change without notice.
Product Features
Introduction
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®A3
Controls, Indicators,
Connections And Display
Introduction
A2 English
Xtreme Range
Superheterodyne Technology
With super-fast sweep circuitry,
XRS provides extra detection range
and the best possible advance warning
to even the fastest radar guns
Ultra Performance
Provides advanced warning with
extra detection range
Detection And Separate Alerts
For radar signals (X, K and Ka bands,
with signal strength indicated), laser
signals, Safety Alert signals, Strobe Alert
signals, VG-2 signals, Spectre 1 signals
8-Point Compass
Displays direction of travel
LaserEye
For 360°detection of laser and
strobe signals
Instant-On Ready
Detects radar guns with “instant-on”
(very fast) speed monitoring capabilities
Pop Detection
Detects the latest super-fast instant-on
signal pulse radar guns
Tone Alert
With adjustable volume
DigiView Data Display
With easy-to-read alpha/numeric
dot matrix text readout
IntelliShield False Signal Rejection
Reduces falsing in urban areas with
Highway mode and three (3) levels
of City mode settings
Safety Alert
Traffic warning system distinguishes
important safety alerts from other
K band signals
Strobe Alert
Emergency vehicle warning system
Manual Mute Or Auto Mute
A mute function of audio alerts
IntelliMute
A mute function which automatically
reduces false alerts by sensing engine
RPMs
Smart Power
A timed power saving function that
saves your car’s battery
EasySet Programming
User-friendly mode selection and
setting with visual guidance
Auxiliary Audio Jack
For external speaker connection
Mounting
Mounts easily on windshield
or dashboard
Product Features •
Congratulations! You’ve made a smart choice by purchasing the XRS 9600
ultra high performance digital radar/laser detector from Cobra. Just look at
some of the sophisticated features and capabilities your new unit includes:
Controls, Indicators, Connections And Display •
12V DC
Power Jack
On-Off/Volume Control
Allows user to adjust the
volume of the tone alerts.
Program/Mute Button
For manual mute of
audio alerts (and to enter
programming mode).
LaserEye
For 360° detection of
laser and strobe signals.
Windshield Bracket
Release Button
Speaker
Auxiliary Audio
Jack
Select/Dim Button
Adjusts the display brightness
for easy reading (and to scroll
through user mode settings
while programming).
Set/City Button
For City or Highway modes
to reduce false alerts (and to
change user mode settings
while programming).
* See pages 5 – 26 for more information
about display features.
Windshield
Bracket Mount
Alpha/Numeric Dot Matrix Text Display*
Shows user mode settings, programming instructions,
signal strength indication, City/Highway mode indicators,
radar, VG-2, Spectre 1 and safety/strobe indicators.
WARNING
Modifications or parts substitutions not approved
by Cobra Electronics Corporation may violate
FCC Rules and void your authority to operate
this equipment.
System Ready
Customer Assistance
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.
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®
Installation
Your Detector
3
Installation
Your Detector
2English
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. 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:
■Windshield wiper blades
■Mirrored sun screens
■Dark tinting at the top of the windshield
■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 depressing the bracket release button and sliding
it off the bracket.
Windshield Mounting
The LaserEye Should Have A Clear View
Windshield Mounting Dashboard Mounting
To Turn On The Unit And Adjust The Audio Volume
Rotate the On-Off/
Volume control
clockwise (away
from you).
Tone Visual Display
Three (3) beeps Testing
System Ready
The display will then cycle
through the user mode settings
(city or highway, Intellimute
and SmartPower status).
Start-up is complete when the display continuously
shows the current compass direction (N, NE, E, SE, S,
SW, Wor NW) plus single letters indicating current user
mode settings (c= City mode, City X Beep Off mode and
City X+K mode, h= Highway mode, i= IntelliMute on).
Getting Started
Getting Started •
Your Detector
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®5
Installation
Your Detector
4
1. Place the detector on the dashboard to find a location
where the unit has a clear, level view of the road.
The angle CANNOT be adjusted after mounting.
2. Remove the paper backing
from one (1) 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.
6. Plug the power cord
into the detector.
7. Plug the cigarette lighter
adapter on the power
cord into your vehicle’s
cigarette lighter.
English
Dashboard Mounting
System Ready
Power On
Testing
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 and you have turned the SmartPower
off, you should turn off or unplug your detector when
parking for lengthy periods. Cobra recommends leaving
SmartPower at the factory setting, which is on.
Secondary Icons
Start-Up Complete
NW h
EasySet Programming
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®7
EasySet Programming
6English
EasySet Programming •
All user mode settings on your detector can be changed by using
Program mode. When changing the settings, please keep in mind:
■Buttons can have multiple functions.
■All settings will be stored in memory when the power is
turned off and recalled when the power is turned back on.
The procedure for using Program mode is shown on page 7.
NOTE
You cannot enter Program mode during an alert. The unit will not detect
signals while in Program mode. During programming, if no buttons are
pushed for ten (10) seconds, the unit will automatically exit Program
mode and save the last settings.
Programming User Modes
The tables on pages 8 through 9 show you how to program all user modes
and the settings you can choose from.
NOTE
On the following pages, you will find more detailed
explanations of each setting.
See page 14 for instructions on setting the IntelliMute activation point.
See page 16 for instructions on calibrating the compass.
See page 21 for instructions on using SmartPower.
Your Detector Your Detector
Program/Mute Button
Press and hold/Press and release
Select/Dim Button
Press and release
Set/City Button
Press and release
To Use Program Mode
Press and hold the
Program/Mute button
for two (2) seconds.
Tone Visual Display
Three (3) beeps Program will appear.
Then brief programming
instructions will scroll through
the display three (3) times.
While the programming
instructions are
scrolling, press and
release the Select/Dim
button to cycle through
the user modes.
One (1) beep with
each button press As each mode is displayed,
the current setting for that
mode will be shown.
With the user mode you
wish to change displayed,
press and release the
Set/City button to
change the setting.
To move to the next
selection, press the
Select/Dim button again.
One (1) or two (2)
beeps, depending on
your selection
The setting you select will
be shown.
When you have finished
programming any or
all of the user modes,
press and release the
Program/Mute button
to exit Program mode.
Or simply wait ten (10)
seconds without
pushing any buttons.
One (1) beep When you exit Program
mode, the new setting will
automatically be saved and
EXIT PROGRAM and Settings
Saved! will appear in the display.
EXIT
PROGRAM
PROGRAM
Settings
Saved!
EasySet Programming
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®9
EasySet Programming
8English
Your Detector Your Detector
EasySet Programming Menu
Mode Tone Visual Setting Result
Set City
mode
default*
Two (2) beeps City X A single beep sounds when the
signal is first detected.
One (1) beep City X
beep Off Audio for all X band alerts are blocked
until signal strength reaches Level 3.
One (1) beep City X+K Combines the City X mode with
prevention of K band audio alerts
until signal strength reaches Level 2.
IntelliMute
mode Two (2) beeps IntelliMute On All alerts (except for strobe signals
from emergency vehicles) are
automatically muted below the
engine rev point you set.
One (1) beep IntelliMute Off Normal operation.
Set IntelliMute
RPMs
(not shown
if IntelliMute
is off)
One (1) beep Set IntelliMute
(see page 14
to set activation
point)
Allows you to set the engine
rev point while using IntelliMute.
AutoMute
mode Two (2) beeps AutoMute On The audio volume of all alerts will be
automatically muted after four (4) seconds
for as long as the signal is detected.
One (1) beep AutoMute Off All alerts will sound at full volume
for as long as the signal is detected.
Set compass One (1) beep Set Compass
(see page 16
to calibrate
compass)
Allows you to calibrate the compass.
Pop Detect
mode Two (2) beeps Pop Detect On The unit will detect Pop signals.
One (1) beep Pop Detect Off The unit not will detect Pop signals.
EasySet Programming Menu
Mode Tone Visual Setting Result
VG-2 Detect
mode Two (2) beeps VG-2 Detect On The unit will detect VG-2 signals.
One (1) beep VG-2 Detect Off The unit will not detect VG-2 signals.
VG-2 Audio
mode (not
shown if VG-2
detect is off)
Two (2) beeps VG-2 Audio On With VG-2 Detect on, the unit will give
audible alerts for VG-2 signals.
One (1) beep VG-2 Audio Off With VG-2 Detect off, the unit will give
only visual alerts for VG-2 signals.
Spectre 1
Detect mode Two (2) beeps Spectre 1
Detect On The unit will detect Spectre 1 signals.
One (1) beep Spectre 1
Detect Off The unit will not detect Spectre 1 signals.
Spectre 1
Audio mode
(not shown if
Spectre 1
detect is off)
Two (2) beeps Spectre 1
Audio On With Spectre 1 Detect on, the unit will
give audible alerts for Spectre 1 signals.
One (1) beep Spectre 1
Audio Off With Spectre 1 Detect off, the unit will give
only visual alerts for Spectre 1 signals.
SmartPower
mode Two (2) beeps SmartPower
On SmartPower is on.
One (1) beep SmartPower
Off SmartPower is off.
X Band detect
mode Two (2) beeps X Band On The unit will detect X Band signals.
One (1) beep X Band Off The unit will not detect X Band signals.
Set display
Dim mode
default*
Two (2) beeps Display Dim Partially dimmed for dusk or night driving.
One (1) beep Display
Dimmer More dimmed for dusk or night
driving.
One (1) beep Display Dark Display is off.
Restore
factory
settings
One (1) beep Restore
Factory
Settings
Resets user modes and settings to
factory default.
Exit program One (1) beep EXIT
PROGRAM Allows you to exit Program mode.
* The settings for these user modes can also be changed with the one (1) button method.
See description of each user mode (pages 10 and 23) for details.
This EasySet programming menu lists all of the modes and settings
you can choose from after you have entered Program mode as
described on page 7.
Settings
Your Detector
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®11
Settings
Your Detector
10 English
Settings •
Highway/City Mode
Your detector has a Highway mode and three (3) different levels of City
modes: City X, City X Beep Off and City X+K. City X mode sounds a single
beep when the signal is first detected. City X Beep Off mode prevents all
X band audio alerts until the signal strength reaches Level 3. City X+K mode
combines the City X mode with prevention of K band audio alerts until the
signal strength reads Level 2. This will reduce false alerts while you are
driving in or near urban areas where there are many sources for conflicting
X or K band signals such as microwave towers and automatic door openers.
The factory setting is Highway. The factory City mode default setting is City X.
Setting City Default
You can set the default level for City mode (City X, City X Beep Off and
City X+K) either in Program mode or directly using the Set/City button.
Set/City Button
Press and release
Set/City Button
Press and hold
City Mode
Highway Mode
NW h
NW c
To Change From Highway Mode To City Mode
Press and release the
Set/City button. Tone Visual Display
One (1) beep cappears in the display
To Change From City Mode Back To Highway Mode
Press and release the
Set/City button again. Tone Visual Display
Two (2) beeps happears in the display
To Set The City Mode Default Directly Using The Set/City Button
Press and hold the
Set/City button. Tone Visual Display
One (1) beep each time
the display cycles Cycles — see chart above
Release the Set/City
button to select the
current display as
default.
None City X Beep Off,
City X+K or City X
To Set The City Mode Default Using Program Mode
(See Page 7 For Instructions On Using Program Mode)
In Program mode,
go to City. Tone Visual Display
One (1) beep City X Beep Off
One (1) beep City X+K
Two (2) beeps City X
Press and
hold the
Set/City
button
City
X+K
City X
City X
Beep Off
NOTE
When you change to City mode, the unit will enter
whichever city default mode is set at the time.
City X Beep Off
City X
Beep Off
City X+K
City X+K
City X
City X
Program/Mute Button
Press and release
To Turn Turn Off Or On An Audio Alert Using The Program/Mute Button
Press and release
the Program/Mute
button.
Tone Visual Display
None None
Settings
Your Detector
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®13
Settings
Your Detector
12 English
IntelliMute
IntelliMute is a unique new 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 alerts (except for strobe signals from
emergency vehicles).
Before IntelliMute will work, you must set an activation point for your engine’s
revs (see page 14). 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. An iwill appear in the display when
IntelliMute is 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.
Auxiliary
Audio Jack
To Turn IntelliMute On Or Off Using Program Mode
(See Page 7 For Instructions On Using Program Mode)
In Program mode,
go to IntelliMute. Tone Visual Display
Two (2) beeps IntelliMute On,
then i appears in the display
One (1) beep IntelliMute Off
To Turn Auto Mute Off Or On Using Program Mode
(See Page 7 For Instructions On Using Program Mode)
In Program mode,
go to Auto Mute. Tone Visual Display
One (1) beep Auto Mute Off
Two (2) beeps Auto Mute On
Auxiliary Audio Jack
The Auxiliary Audio Jack can be
used to connect an external speaker
in environments with high ambient
noise levels. The internal speaker
will be disconnected.
Muting An Alert
Your detector allows you to quickly turn off an Audio Alert by momentarily
pressing the Program/Mute button. If you press the Program/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 (4)
seconds for as long as the signal is detected. The factory setting for Auto Mute is on.
AutoMute
Auto Mute Off
AutoMute
Off On
Auto Mute On
NW ih
IntelliMute On
Intelli
Mute
On
IntelliMute Off
Intelli
Mute
Off
Program/Mute Button
Select/Dim Button
Set/City
Button
Settings
Your Detector
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®15
Settings
Your Detector
14 English
Tone Visual Display
One (1) beep IntelliMute not set
Please try again
One (1) beep IntelliMute Off
NOTE
If the unit is unable to sense usable pulses within three (3) 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.
Set Intel... Press SET...
Setting IntelliMute RPMs
Intelli
Mute
Set!
IntelliMu...
Please tr...
IntelliMute
Not Set
Intelli
Mute
Off
IntelliMute Off
To Set The IntelliMute Activation Point Using Program Mode
(See Page 7 For Instructions On Using Program Mode)
In Program mode, go to Set
IntelliMute. Tone Visual Display
None Set IntelliMute
Press and release the Set/City button
to begin setting IntelliMute RPMs. Two (2) beeps Press SET at
desired RPMs…
Rev your engine to the level you wish to
set. Rev the engine slightly above idle and
hold revs steady for two (2) seconds.
None None
At the desired rev level, press and
release the Set/City button. Three (3) beeps IntelliMute Set!
Press and release either the
Select/Dim button to proceed to the
next user mode or the Program/Mute
button to exit the Program mode.
None None
What To Remember While Using IntelliMute
IntelliMute works with all City and Auto Mute modes.
Whenever engine revs are below the activation point, an arrow
pointing down will appear in the display. Above the activation point,
an arrow pointing up will appear.
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.
Below Activation Point
NW ih
Above Activation Point
NW ih
Settings
Your Detector
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®17
Settings
Your Detector
16 English
Compass
Your detector includes an internal
8-point Compass that will continuously
display your current direction of travel:
N, NE, E, SE, S, SW, W, or NW.
Calibrating The Compass
NOTE
Before using it for the first time, you must calibrate the compass to
provide accurate indications of direction. See page 7 for instructions
on using the Program mode to select Set Compass.
Calibration allows the compass electronics to measure and store
information about the magnetic fields generated by your vehicle.
The compass will remain accurately calibrated as long as your detector is
mounted in the same place in your vehicle. If you change the location where
the unit is mounted or move it to another vehicle, you must recalibrate the
compass.
The compass temporarily may not provide accurate readings if you are inside
a building or enclosure, or are close to a large metal tractor/trailer, truck, or
train. Once you are away from such a location, the compass will work
correctly again.
NOTE
When the instructions direct you to drive in two (2) circles, a large
parking lot is the most convenient place to do so. It does not matter
what direction your vehicle is pointing when you start the circles, which
direction you go to make the circles, and it does not have to be exactly
two (2) circles. You do NOT have to make perfect circles. You can drive
in any pattern, as long as you make two (2) complete turns. Four (4)
three-point turns, two (2) small squares, or any two (2) complete loops
will work as well as two (2) circles. It does not matter what size the
circles are, if your speed is constant, or how fast you make the circles
[but less than two (2) minutes]. Please be careful when making the
circles and watch for other traffic.
8-Point
Compass
N
S
W
NW
SW
E
NE
SE
Tone Visual Display
One (1) beep Compass not set…
Please try again…
NOTE
If you do not press the Set/City button within two (2) minutes after beginning
the set compass process, compass calibration will automatically terminate.
Compass n...
Please tr...
Terminate
Set Compa...
Set Compass
Drive in...
Press SET...
Calibrate Compass
Compass
Set!
Compass Set
NW h
Direction Of Travel
To Calibrate The Compass Using Program Mode
(See Page 7 For Instructions On Using Program Mode)
In Program mode, go to
Set Compass. Tone Visual Display
None Set Compass
Press and hold the Set/City button
to begin setting the compass. One (1) beep Drive in 2 circles…
Press SET when
done…
Within two (2) minutes, drive your
vehicle in a circle twice, then press
the Set/City button again.
Three (3) beeps Compass Set!
For two (2) seconds
followed by direction
of travel (N, NE, E,
SE, S, SW, Wor NW)
Press and release either the Select/Dim
button to proceed to the next user
mode or the Program/Mute button
to exit Program mode.
None None
Program/Mute Button
Select/Dim Button
Set/City
Button
Settings
Your Detector
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®19
Settings
Your Detector
18 English
Pop Alert
Pop Alert will alert you of Pop radar signals. During the alert, the unit
continues to detect other signals. The factory setting is Pop Detect off.
To Turn Pop Detect Mode On Or Off Using Program Mode
(See Page 7 For Instructions On Using Program Mode)
In Program mode,
go to Pop Detect. Tone Visual Display
Two (2) beeps Pop On
One (1) beep Pop Off
Pop Detect On
Pop On
Pop Detect Off
Pop Off
To Turn VG-2 Detect Mode Off Or On Using Program Mode
(See Page 7 For Instructions On Using Program Mode)
In Program mode,
go to VG-2 Detect. Tone Visual Display
One (1) beep VG2 Off
Two (2) beeps VG2 On
To Turn VG-2 Audio Mode Off Or On Using Program Mode
(See Page 7 For Instructions On Using Program Mode)
In Program mode,
go to VG-2 Audio. Tone Visual Display
One (1) beep VG2 Audio Off
Two (2) beeps VG2 Audio On
VG-2 Detect Off
VG2 Off
VG-2 Detect On
VG2 On
VG-2 Audio Off
...Audio Off
VG-2 Audio On
...Audio On
VG-2 Alert
The detector is undetectable by VG-2 detection devices and will alert you
when such a device is in use near your vehicle. During the alert, the unit
continues to detect other signals. You can choose whether or not you want
your unit to show VG-2 Alerts. With VG-2 Detect mode on, you can also
choose whether or not you want your unit to sound audible VG-2 Alerts.
The factory settings are VG-2 Detect on and VG-2 Detect Audio on.
Settings
Your Detector
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®21
Settings
Your Detector
20 English
Spectre 1 Alert
The detector is undetectable by Spectre 1 detection devices and will alert
you when such a device is in use near your vehicle. During the alert, the unit
continues to detect other signals. You can choose whether or not you want
your unit to show Spectre 1 Alerts. With Spectre 1 Detect mode on, you can
also choose whether or not you want your unit to sound audible Spectre 1
Alerts. The factory settings are Spectre 1 Detect on, Spectre 1 Audio on.
Spectre 1 Detect Off
Spectre Off
Spectre 1 Detect On
Spectre On
Spectre 1 Audio Off
...Audio Off
Spectre 1 Audio On
...Audio On
SmartPower
Your detector includes the SmartPower feature that, when activated,
will put the unit into Standby mode (low power) for about 30 minutes
after the car’s engine has been turned off. After 30 minutes in Standby
mode, the unit will automatically turn off.
Before SmartPower enters Standby mode, you will hear one (1) beep and
Pwr Save will appear on the display. To return the unit to normal Power
mode or exit Standby mode, start the car, press any button or turn the unit
off and then on again. The factory setting is SmartPower on.
SmartPower Entering
Standby Mode
Pwr Save
SmartPower Off
...Power off
SmartPower On
...Power on
To Turn Spectre 1 Detect Mode Off Or On Using Program Mode
(See Page 7 For Instructions On Using Program Mode)
In Program mode,
go to Spectre 1 Detect. Tone Visual Display
One (1) beep Spectre Off
Two (2) beeps Spectre On
To Turn SmartPower Mode Off Or On Using Program Mode
(See Page 7 For Instructions On Using Program Mode)
In Program mode,
go to SmartPower. Tone Visual Display
One (1) beep SmartPower Off
Two (2) beeps SmartPower On
To Turn Spectre 1 Mode Off Or On Using Program Mode
(See Page 7 For Instructions On Using Program Mode)
In Program mode,
go to Spectre 1 Audio. Tone Visual Display
One (1) beep Spectre Audio Off
Two (2) beeps Spectre Audio On
Settings
Your Detector
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®23
Settings
Your Detector
22 English
DigiView Data Display Brightness
Your detector has a Bright display mode (for daytime driving) and three (3)
levels of Dim display modes (Dim for dusk driving, Dimmer for night driving
and Dark where no visual alerts will be displayed) to control the display’s
brightness levels. The factory setting is Bright. The factory Dim mode
default setting is Dimmer.
Select/Dim Button
Press and release
Select/Dim Button
Press and hold
Dark Indicator
.
To Change The Brightness To Dim
Press and release the
Select/Dim button once. Tone Visual Display
Two (2) beeps Dim, Dimmer or Dark
To Change The Brightness To Bright
Press and release the
Select/Dim button again. Tone Visual Display
One (1) beep Bright
Dim
Dark
Dimmer
Press
and hold
Select/Dim
button
Setting Dim Default
You can set the default level for Dim mode (Dim, Dimmer or Dark)
either in Program mode or directly using the Select/Dim button.
To Set The Display Dim Mode Default Directly Using The Set/Dim Button
Press and hold the
Select/Dim button Tone Visual Display
One (1) beep each time
the display cycles Cycles — see chart above
Release the Select/Dim
button to select the
current display as
default.
None Dim, Dimmer or Dark
To Set The Display Dim Mode Default Using Program Mode
(See Page 7 For Instructions On Using Program Mode)
In Program mode,
go to Display Dim,
Dimmer or Dark.
Tone Visual Display
Two (2) beeps Dim
One (1) beep Dimmer
One (1) beep Dark
NOTE
When you change to Dim mode, the unit will enter whichever
dim default mode is set at the time.
Dim Display
Dim
Bright Display
Bright
Dimmer Display
Dimmer
Dark Display
Dark
Detection
Your Detector
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®25
Detection
Your Detector
24 English
Detection •
Signals Detected
The tables on the following pages show you the types of Signals your
detector will detect, as well as the visual alerts it provides for each of them.
Audio Alerts
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 27.
Visual Display
An indication of the type of signal detected will appear in the DigiView Data
Display. During X, K and Ka alerts, you will also see from one (1) to five (5)
vertical bars, indicating the strength of the signal detected.
Signal Strength Chart
Signal Strength = 1
(Weakest Signal)
-
Signal Strength = 2
-
--
Signal Strength = 3
-
-
- -
---
Signal Strength = 4
-
- -
--
---
----
Signal Strength = 5
(Strongest Signal)
-
-_
--
---
- - -
----
----_
123
45
NOTE
Beep rate changes with different laser alerts.
X Signal Detected K Signal Detected Ka Signal Detected
X 2
-
-- K - 3
-
--
--- -
-_
--
Ka ---5
---
----
----_
Pop Signal Detected
LTI 20-20
Laser
2 0 /20
Pop
LTI Ultra-Lyte
Laser
UltraLyte
Kustom Signals
ProLaser
Laser
Pro Laser
Kustom Signals
ProLaser III
Laser
Pro Laser 3
Radar Signals And Visual Displays
Type of Signal Visual Display
X Band Radar Xand Signal Strength
K Band Radar Kand Signal Strength
Ka Band Radar Ka and Signal Strength
Pop Radar Mode Pop
Laser Signals And Visual Displays
Type of Signal Visual Display
LTI 20-20* Laser 20/20
LTI Ultra-Lyte* Laser UltraLyte
Kustom Signals ProLaser* Laser Pro Laser
Kustom Signals ProLaser III* Laser Pro Laser 3
* Your detector provides 360˚ detection of these signals.
Detection
Your Detector
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®27
Detection
Your Detector
26 English
NOTE
There are different tones for each Safety Alert.
NOTE
There are different tones for each alert.
Emergency Alert
Signal Detected
VG-2 Alert
Signal Detected
VG2
Spectre 1 Alert
Signal Detected
Spectre1
Road Hazard Alert
Signal Detected
Road
Hazard
Train Alert Signal
Detected
Train
Emergency...
Safety Alert Signals And Visual Displays
Type of Signal Visual Display
Emergency Vehicles Emergency Vehicle
Road Hazards Road Hazard
Trains Train
VG-2 And Spectre 1 Alert Signals And Visual Displays
Type of Signal Visual Display
VG-2 Alert VG2
Spectre 1 Spectre1
Strobe Alert Display (Flashing)
Emergency...
Strobe Alert Signals And Visual Displays
Type of Signal Visual Display
3M Opticom or Tomar* Emergency Vehicle (Flashing)
* Your detector provides 360˚ detection of these signals.
Description Interpretation Recommended
Response
Tone repeats slowly at first,
then speeds up rapidly. Probably police radar. FULL ALERT
Tone sounds one (1)
time only.Probably a false alarm,
but possibly pulsed radar,
Spectre 1 or VG-2 nearby.
Exercise caution
Tone instantly begins
repeating rapidly.Radar, Spectre 1 or VG-2 nearby
has been activated suddenly.FULL ALERT
Pop mode tone. Pop mode gun very close. 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
or Strobe 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.
Pop Detection
Your detector is designed to detect single pulse mode radars. These radars
are designed to have a low probability of detection. You should note that these
radar guns have a much shorter range while in this mode.
Responding To Alerts
Understanding Radar And Laser
Your Detector
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®29
Understanding Radar And Laser
Your Detector
28 English
Understanding Radar And Laser •
Radar Speed Monitoring Systems
Three (3) 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 (3) radar bands.
VG-2 And Spectre 1
VG-2 and Spectre 1 are “detector detectors” that work by detecting low-level
signals emitted by most radar detectors. Your detector does not emit signals
that can be detected by VG-2 or Spectre 1, but does detect VG-2 and Spectre 1
signals and will alert you when a device is in use near your vehicle, if you
so choose.
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.
Strobe Alert
Special strobes mounted on the light bars of authorized emergency
vehicles (fire trucks, police cars, ambulances) automatically change traffic
signals as the vehicle approaches an intersection. These strobes and the
special strobe detectors located on the traffic signals, introduced fairly
recently by 3M and Tomar, are already in use in more than 1000 cities
nationwide. Cobra’s exclusive Strobe Alert detector will detect these
special strobes and give an emergency vehicle alert.
When you receive such an alert, please watch for an approaching
emergency vehicle and pull over to allow it to pass. To inquire about
coverage in your area, contact your local fire and police departments.
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:
■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.
■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.
■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.
■Is LIDAR legal to use?
Yes. It is legal in all 50 states.
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®31
Understanding Radar And Laser
30 English
Your Detector
Pop Radar Guns
The Pop mode Radar Gun is a single pulse Doppler radar that is a feature
of a K and Ka (Bee III Ka radar gun) band Instant-On radar gun. It uses a
single short time pulse to measure the target vehicle’s speed. Despite the fact
that the short, single pulse makes the unit very sensitive to officer hand and
vehicle movement and reduces the range of the gun in Pop mode to 50% of
its range in Continuous Wave mode, this feature is added in an attempt to
make the radar gun invisible to Radar Detectors.
Although your detector can sense Pop signals beyond the effective range
of Pop radar guns, there will be a signal to sense only if a gun is triggered.
In addition, the Pop mode receiver section is more prone to false alerts
because of its extra sensitivity. This is especially so in urban areas. As a
result, you should consider using the Pop Detect mode only in highway
and rural situations. Cobra Electronics has included a user selectable on
or off Pop Detect mode.
Maintenance
Your Detector
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:
■Make sure the power cord is properly connected.
■Make sure the socket of your vehicle’s cigarette lighter
is clean and free of corrosion.
■Make sure the power cord’s cigarette lighter adapter
is firmly seated in your cigarette lighter.
■Check the power cord fuse. (Unscrew the ribbed end cap of
the cigarette lighter adapter and examine the fuse. If required,
replace it with a 2-amp fuse only.)
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®33
Warranty
32 English
Warranty
Limited 1-Year Warranty •
For Products Purchased In The U.S.A.
Cobra Electronics Corporation warrants that its Cobra 11 Band Radar/Laser
Detectors, and the component parts thereof, will be free of defects in
workmanship and materials for period of one (1) year from the date of first
consumer purchase. This warranty may be enforced by the first consumer
purchaser, provided that the product is utilized within the U.S.A.
Cobra will, without charge, repair or replace, at its option, defective 11 Band
Radar/Laser Detectors, products or component parts upon delivery to the
Cobra Factory Service Department, accompanied by proof of the date of first
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 will be at Cobra’s expense, if the
product is repaired or replaced under warranty.
This warranty gives you specific rights, and you may also have other rights
which vary from state to state.
Exclusions: This limited warranty does not apply:
1. To any product damaged by accident.
2. In the event of misuse or abuse 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 owner of the product resides outside the U.S.A.
All implied warranties, including warranties of merchantability and fitness 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 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.
Specifications
Your Detector
Specifications •
Band And Frequencies
Band Frequencies
X Band 10.525 ± 0.050 GHz
K Band 24.125 ± 0.125 GHz
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
Ka Band 34.700 ± 1.300 GHz
Laser 910 ± 50 nm
Strobe 700 ± 300 nm
Unit Dimensions And Weight
Dimensions* (H x W x D) Weight*
11⁄2" x 31⁄16" x 47⁄8" 6.45 oz.
(38 mm x 78 mm x 124 mm) (183 g)
* Dimensions and weight measurements are approximate.
This radar detector is covered by one or more of the following U.S. patents: 5,497,148; 5,594,432;
5,612,685; 6,078,279; 6,094,148; 6,621,447. Additional patents may be listed inside the product
or pending.
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®35
Trademark Acknowledgement
Customer Assistance
34 English
Trademark Acknowledgement •
Cobra, 6 Band, DigiView, Extra Sensory Detection, HighGear, microTALK,
LaserEye, Safety Alert Traffic Warning System, Strobe Alert, VG-2 Alert
and Nothing comes close to a Cobra are registered trademarks of
Cobra Electronics Corporation.
Cobra Electronics Corporation, 11 Band, EasySet, IntelliMute, IntelliShield,
Road Ready, SmartPower, Spectre 1 Alert, UltraBright, Voice Alert and Xtreme
Range Superheterodyne are trademarks of Cobra Electronics Corporation.
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. 20-20 and
Ultra-Lyte are trademarks of Laser Technology, Inc. ProLaser and
ProLaser III are trademarks of Kustom Signals, Inc. Bee III and Pop
are a trademarks of MPH Industries. Spectre is a trademark of Stalcar.
Interceptor VG-2 is a trademark of TechniSonic Industries LTD.
Tomar is a registered trademark of TOMAR Electronics, Inc.
Product Service
Customer Assistance
Product Service •
If you have any questions about operation or installing your new
Cobra product, or if you are missing parts…
Please call Cobra first! DO NOT RETURN THIS PRODUCT
TO THE STORE! See customer assistance on page A1.
If you suspect that your unit requires service, please call 773-889-3087
BEFORE shipping it to Cobra. This will ensure that you receive service
as quickly as possible.
If you are asked to send your unit to the Cobra factory, please follow
these steps:
1. Send the complete unit, including power cord. (It is not necessary
to include the mounting bracket.)
2. For warranty repair, enclose some form of proof-of-purchase,
such as a photocopy or carbon copy of a sales receipt. If you
send the original receipt, it cannot be returned.
3. Enclose a typed or clearly written description of the problem
you are having with your unit, plus the name and address where
you want the unit returned.
4. Pack the unit securely to prevent damage during transit. If possible,
use the original packing materials.
5. Ship prepaid and insured using a traceable carrier such as United Parcel
Service (UPS), Federal Express, or Priority mail with delivery confirmation.
Ship to: Cobra Factory Service, Cobra Electronics Corporation, 6500 West
Cortland Street, Chicago, IL 60707 U.S.A.
6. Please allow three (3) to four (4) weeks before contacting us about
the status of your service. Call 773-889-3087 for assistance. If your
unit is under warranty, it will either be repaired or replaced upon receipt,
depending on the model. If your unit is out of warranty, you will receive
a letter informing you of the repair or replacement charge.
Order Form
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®37
Order Form •
Name
Address (No P.O. Boxes)
City State/Province Zip Country
Telephone
Credit Card Number Type: ❒Visa ❒MasterCard ❒Discover Exp. Date
Customer Signature
Item # Description U.S.Cost Each Qty Amount
420-030-N-001 Straight 12V Power Cord
420-026-N-001 Coiled 12V Power Cord
545-139-N-001 Windshield Mounting Bracket
CLP-2B Dual Port Power Adapter
U.S. Subtotal
(Tax if Applicable)
Shipping/Handling
Total
Ordering From U.S.A.
Call 773-889-3087 for pricing or visit www.cobra.com.
For Credit Card Orders
Complete and return this order form to fax number 773-622-2269. Or call 773-889-3087
[Press one (1) from the main menu] 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. CT, Monday through Friday.
Make Check or Money Order Payable To
Cobra Electronics, Attn: Accessories Dept.,
6500 West Cortland Street, Chicago, IL 60707 U.S.A.
To Order Online
Please visit our website: www.cobra.com
Amount Shipping/Handling*
$10.00 or less . . . . . $3.00
$10.01-$25.00 . . . . . $5.50
$25.01-$50.00 . . . . . $7.50
$50.01-$90.00 . . . . $10.50
$90.01-$130.00 . . . $13.50
$130.01-$200.00 . . $16.50
$200.01 plus . . . . . 10% of
purchase
Tax Table
Wisconsin add 5%
Indiana, Michigan,
Ohio add 6%
California add 7.25%
Illinois add 8.75%
*For AK, HI and PR add additional $26.95 for FedEx Next Day or
$10.95 for FedEx 2nd Day. Excludes weekends and holidays shipments.
Please allow two (2) to three (3) weeks for delivery in the U.S.A.
Prices subject to change without notice.
Customer Assistance
36 English
Optional Accessories
Customer Assistance
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.
Windshield Mounting Bracket
Includes suction cups
Item # 545-139-N-001
Straight 12V DC Power Cord
Includes plug and fuse
Item # 420-030-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
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®English
For more information or to
order any of our products,
please visit our website:
www.cobra.com
CB Radios
microTALK®Radios
Radar/Laser Detectors
Safety Alert®Traffic Warning Systems
Accessories
GPS (Global Positioning System)
HighGear®Accessories
CobraMarine™VHF Radios
Power Inverters
The Cobra line of quality products includes: