Cobra Electronics XRS9950 RADAR DETECTOR User Manual Print Layout 1

Cobra Electronics Corporation RADAR DETECTOR Print Layout 1

USERS MANUAL

XRS 994012 BAND™MAXIMUM PERFORMANCE DIGITAL RADAR/LASERDETECTOR WITH SUPER-XTREME RANGE SUPERHETERODYNE™TECHNOLOGYNothing Comes Close to a Cobra®EnglishOperating Instructions Printed in China Part No. 480-422-PVersion A12 12 Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®EnglishFor more information or to order any of our products, please visit our website:www.cobra.comCB RadiosmicroTALK®RadiosRadar/Laser Detectors Safety Alert®Traffic Warning SystemsMobile GPS Navigation SystemsHighGear®Accessories CobraMarine®VHF Radios Marine ChartplottersPower InvertersAccessories The Cobra line of quality products includes:Important Information and Customer AssistanceIntroductionNothing Comes Close to a Cobra®A1Important 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 AlertUse of this product is not intended to, and does not, ensure that motorists orpassengers 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 toexercise 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 thismanual, 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. Central TimeMon. 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 AskedQuestions). English and Spanish. product info@cobra.com (e-mail).For Assistance Outside the U.S.A.Contact Your Local Dealer©2008 Cobra Electronics Corporation6500 West Cortland StreetChicago, Illinois 60707 USAwww.cobra.comCustomer AssistanceXRS9940_MANL_PH3.qxd 11/9/07 10:33 AM Page BC1
IntroductionA2 EnglishControls, Indicators,Connections and DisplayIntroductionControls, Indicators, Connections and Display •12V DCPower JackOn-Off/Volume ControlAllows user to adjust the volume of the tone and voice alerts.DimButton Adjusts the display brightness and scrolls through options while programming.Menu/Save ButtonPress once to enterProgram mode. Pressagain to save settings.LaserEye For 360° detection of laser and strobe signals.Windshield Bracket Release ButtonSpeakerAuxiliary Audio JackMuteButtonFor manual mute of audioalerts and to select/adjustoptions while programming.CityButtonChanges between Highway and City modes and scrolls through options while programming.WindshieldBracketMounting SlotExtremeBright DataGrafixTM DisplayFull color and sunlight-readable, the extremely bright display provides intuitive graphical interaction and alert screens.Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®37Product FeaturesIntroductionNothing Comes Close to a Cobra®A3IntroductionSuper-Xtreme Range Superheterodyne TechnologyWith super-fast sweep circuitry, S-XRSprovides maximum detection range and the best possible advance warning to even the fastest radar gunsMaximum PerformanceProvides advanced warning with maximum detection range for total protection Detection and Separate Alerts For radar signals (X, K, Ka and Ku bands, with signal strength indicated), lasersignals, Safety Alert signals, Strobe Alertsignals, VG-2 signals, Spectre 1 signals8-Point Compass Displays direction of travelLaserEye For 360° detection of laser and strobe signalsInstant-On Ready Detects radar guns with “instant-on” (very fast) speed monitoring capabilitiesPop DetectionDetects the latest super-fast radar guns ofthe instant-on or single-pulse typeVoice or Tone Alert With adjustable volumeExtremeBright DataGrafixTM Display With easy-to-read graphical user interfaceIntelliShield False Signal RejectionReduces falsing in urban areas withHighway mode and three levels of City mode settingsSafety Alert Traffic warning system distinguishesimportant safety alerts from other K band signalsStrobe AlertEmergency vehicle warning systemManual Mute or Auto Mute A mute function of audio alertsIntelliMute A mute function which automatically reducesfalse alerts by sensing engine RPMsSmartPower A timed power saving function that saves your car’s battery EasySet ProgrammingUser-friendly mode selection and setting with visual guidanceCar Battery Voltage DisplayCar battery voltage can be showncontinuously on the displayCar Battery Low Voltage WarningProvides an alert when the car batteryvoltage drops below 11.9 voltsCustomizable Display ColorsCustomize the display colors to matchyour dash illuminationAuxiliary Audio JackFor external speaker connectionMounting Mounts easily on windshield or dashboardProduct Features •Congratulations! You’ve made a smart choice by purchasing an ultra highperformance digital radar/laser detector from Cobra. Just look at some ofthe sophisticated features and capabilities your new unit includes:WARNINGModifications or parts substitutions not approved byCobra Electronics Corporation may violate FCC Rulesand void your authority to operate this equipment.Accessories Order InfoCustomer AssistanceOrdering From U.S.A.Call 773-889-3087 for pricing or visit www.cobra.com.For Credit Card OrdersCall 773-889-3087 [Press one from the main menu] 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Central Time,Monday through Friday.Make Check or Money Order Payable ToCobra Electronics, Attn: Accessories Dept., 6500 West Cortland Street, Chicago, IL 60707 U.S.A.To Order OnlinePlease visit our website: www.cobra.comItem # Description420-030-N-001 Straight 12V Power Cord420-026-N-001 Coiled 12V Power Cord545-159-N-001 Windshield Mounting BracketCLP-2B Dual Port Power AdapterXRS9940_MANL_PH3.qxd 11/9/07 10:33 AM Page A2
AppendixMode Tone VisualDisplay VoiceSet PopDetectmodePage 20TwobeepsPop OffOnebeepPop OnSet X BandDetectmodePage 20TwobeepsX OnOnebeepX OffSet K banddetectmodePage 20TwobeepsK OnOnebeepK OffSet KuBandDetectmodePage 20TwobeepsKu OnOnebeepKu OffSet VG-2DetectmodePage 20TwobeepsVG-2 OnOnebeepVG-2 OffNOTEFactory defaults are highlighted in light gray. See referenced pages for more information on the modes.*Not shown if VG-2 Detect is off.Mode Tone VisualDisplay VoiceSet VG-2Audiomode*Page 20TwobeepsVG-2Audio OnOnebeepVG-2Audio OffSetSpectre 1DetectmodePage 20TwobeepsSpectreOnOnebeepSpectreOffSetSpectre 1Audiomode**Page 21TwobeepsSpectreAudio OnOnebeepSpectreAudio OffSet SafetyAlert modePage 21TwobeepsSafetyAlert OnOnebeepSafetyAlert Off** Not shown if Spectre 1 Detect is off.Alert Programming Menu GuideAppendix36 EnglishContentsIntroductionNothing Comes Close to a Cobra®1IntroductionImportant Information . . . . . . . . . . A1Customer Assistance . . . . . . . . . . A1Controls, Indicators, Connections and Display . . . . . . A2Product Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . A3Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2Your DetectorInstallation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6Power On/Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6Standby Screen Icons . . . . . . . . . 7Display Brightness Control . . . . . . . 7Display Timeout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8IntelliShield Highway / City Modes 8Muting an Alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9Auxiliary Audio Jack . . . . . . . . . . 9EasySet Programming . . . . . . . . . . 10Program Flow Diagrams . . . . . . . . 12Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14User Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14City Mode Default . . . . . . . . . 14IntelliMute Mode . . . . . . . . . . 14Set IntelliMute . . . . . . . . . . . . 15Auto Mute Mode . . . . . . . . . . 16Voice or Tone Mode . . . . . . . . 16Compass Mode . . . . . . . . . . . 16Set Compass . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17SmartPower Mode . . . . . . . . . 18Customizable Display Colors . . 18Dim Mode Default . . . . . . . . . 18Car Battery Voltage Display Mode . . . . . . . . . . . 19Car Battery LowVoltage Warning . . . . . . . . . 19Restore Factory Settings . . . . 19Settings (Continued)Alert Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Pop Alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20X Band Alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20K Band Alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Ku Band Alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20VG-2 Alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20VG-2 Audio Mode . . . . . . . . . 20Spectre 1 Alert . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Spectre 1 Audio Mode . . . . . . 21Safety Alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21Detection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21Signals Detected . . . . . . . . . . . . 21Audio Alerts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21Visual Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21Instant-On Detection . . . . . . . . . 25Pop Detection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25Responding to Alerts . . . . . . . . . 25Understanding Radar and Laser . . 26Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29WarrantyLimited 1-Year Warranty . . . . . . . . 30Customer AssistanceProduct Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31Trademark Acknowledgement . . . . 32Optional Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . 33Accessories Order Info . . . . . . . . . 37Appendix – Menu GuidesUser Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . 34Alert Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . 36Spreads.qxd 11/9/07 12:19 PM Page 1
OverviewIntroduction2EnglishThis manual describes the simple steps for mounting, setting up and using yourdetector. It also provides helpful information about how radar and laser guns areused and how you can interpret the alerts you receive.Before you begin your installation, please read the Important Information sectionon page A1 and use the descriptions and feature lists on pages A2 and A3 tobecome familiar with your new detector.About Your Detector •DisplayThis detector’s innovative new display provides more, easier-to-use informationthan any technology to date. Using an OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode)screen, the display offers large graphical alerts to signals as they are detected. Do not be alarmed by the nearly blank display you see when you first turn theunit on. The detector will function and alerts will appear as signals are detected.You can also elect to turn on the built-in Compass, IntelliMute and Car Voltage,so that they appear during normal operation. The initial and startup screens areshown on page 6.ProgrammingEasySet Programming lets you conveniently customize the operation of yourdetector by changing the settings. You may want to start using the detectorwith the factory settings and then make changes after you are more familiarwith the unit.About This Manual •Please take a moment to learn about some special features of this manual.Modular DescriptionsOnce the detector is in use, this manual can be used as a ready reference toindividual topics as needed. Each topic is completely covered in its section andcross-references to related topics are included where appropriate.AppendixThe appendix pages 34–36 provide quick reference charts on the programmingfeatures of your detector. AppendixNothing Comes Close to a Cobra®35Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®35IntroductionMode Tone VisualDisplay VoiceSetcustomizabledisplaycolors***Page 18Set carbatteryvoltagedisplaymodePage 19TwobeepsMultiOnebeepRedBlueOrangeGreenTwobeepsDisplayCar Volt-age OffOnebeepDisplayCar Volt-age OnSet batterylow carvoltagewarningPage 19TwobeepsCarVoltageWarningOffOnebeepCarVoltageWarningOnRestorefactorysettingsPage 19TwobeepsRestoreFactorySettingsMode Tone VisualDisplay VoiceSet Smart-PowermodePage 18TwobeepsSmartPowerOnOnebeepSmartPowerOffSet DisplayTimeoutIntervalPage 18Set displayDim modedefaultPage 18Onebeep15 SECONDS15SecondsTwobeeps30 SECONDS30SecondsOnebeepONE MINUTEOneMinuteOnebeepTHREE MINUTESThreeMinutesOnebeepALWAYS ONAlwaysOnTwobeepsDimOnebeepDimmerOnebeepDark*** Press Dimrepeatedly for all optional colors.NOTEFactory defaults are highlighted in light gray. See referenced pages for more information on the modes.User Programming Menu Guide (continued)AppendixSpreads.qxd 11/9/07 12:19 PM Page 2
Appendix34 EnglishNOTEFactory defaults are highlighted in light gray. See referenced pages for more information on the modes.*Not shown if IntelliMute is off. Completeinstructions for IntelliMute setup are shownon the referenced page.Mode Tone VisualDisplay VoiceSet City modedefaultPage 14TwobeepsCity XOnebeepCity X, KOnebeepCity XBeep OffSetIntelliMutemodePage 15TwobeepsIntelliMute OffOnebeepIntelliMute OnSetIntelliMutesetup*Page 15TwobeepsSetEngineRevsMode Tone VisualDisplay VoiceSetAutoMutemodePage 16TwobeepsAutoMute OnOnebeepAutoMute OffSet Voiceor TonemodePage 16None VoiceAlertNone ToneAlertSetCompassmodePage 17TwobeepsCompassOffOnebeepCompassOnSetCompass**Page 17TwobeepsSetCompass ** Not shown if Compass is off. Completeinstructions for calibrating the Compass are shown on the referenced page and on the separate insert.User Programming Menu GuideAppendix InstallationYour DetectorNothing Comes Close to a Cobra®3Installation •Where to Mount Your UnitYou will get optimum performance from your detector if you mount it at apoint approximately in the center of the vehicle, as low as possible on thefront 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 viewout the back window to allow 360° detection.Radar and laser signals pass through glass but not through other materialsand 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.The LaserEye Should Have a Clear ViewWindshield Mounting Dashboard MountingSpreads.qxd 11/9/07 12:19 PM Page 3
InstallationYour Detector4English1. Attach the rubber cups to the bracket.2. Make sure the rubber cups and your windshield are clean.3. Push the bracket firmlyonto the windshield.4. Attach the detector to the bracket. Check that the unit is parallel to the road's surface.5. To adjust the angle ifnecessary, gently push orpull on the bracket to bendit. DO NOT use the detectorto bend the bracket.6. Plug the power cord into the detector.7. Plug the cigarette lighteradapter on the power cord into your vehicle’scigarette lighter.8. You can temporarily remove the detector whenever you wish by depressing the bracket release button and sliding it off the bracket.Windshield MountingAccessoriesCustomer AssistanceNothing Comes Close to a Cobra®33Optional Accessories •You can find quality Cobra products and accessories at your local Cobradealer, or in the U.S.A., you can order directly from Cobra. See order infoon page 37.Windshield Mounting BracketIncludes suction cupsItem # 545-159-N-001Straight 12V DC Power CordIncludes plug and fuseItem # 420-030-N-001Coiled 12V DC Power CordIncludes plug and fuseItem # 420-026-N-001Dual Port Power AdapterIncludes adjustable plug (up to 90˚) and fuse Item # CLP-2BSpreads.qxd 11/9/07 12:19 PM Page 4
Trademark AcknowledgementCustomer Assistance32 EnglishTrademark Acknowledgement •Cobra®, DigiView®, EasySet®, Extra Sensory Detection®, IntelliMute®,IntelliShield®, LaserEye®, Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®, Safety Alert®Traffic Warning System, Strobe Alert®, VG-2 Alert®, Super-Xtreme RangeSuperheterodyne®and the snake design are registered trademarks of Cobra Electronics Corporation, USA.Cobra Electronics Corporation™, 12 Band™, ExtremeBright DataGrafix™,IntelliLink™, Revolution™ Series, SmartPower™, Spectre Alert™, 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 aregistered 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 trademarksof MPH Industries. Spectre™ is a trademark of Stalcar. Interceptor VG-2™ isa trademark of TechniSonic Industries LTD. Tomar®is a registered trademark of TOMAR Electronics, Inc.InstallationYour DetectorNothing Comes Close to a Cobra®51. Place the detector on the dashboard to find a location where the unit has a clear view of the road and is parallel to the road's surface. The angle CANNOT be adjusted after mounting.2. Remove the paper backingfrom one side of the hook-and-loop fastener.3. Attach the pad to thedashboard at your chosenlocation and remove the other paper backing.4. Attach the detector to thehook-and-loop fastener. You can remove andreattach the unit as often as you like.5. Plug the power cord into the detector.6. Plug the cigarette lighteradapter on the power cord into your vehicle’scigarette lighter.Dashboard MountingSpreads.qxd 11/9/07 12:19 PM Page 5
To Turn on the Unit and Adjust the Audio VolumeRotate the On-Off/Volumecontrol clockwise (awayfrom you).Unit will cycle throughPower On / Self Test anddisplay the Standby screenwhen complete. Standbyscreen will show City orHighway icon. Car BatteryVoltage, Compass, andIntelliMute will also show ifturned on (see note).Display changes to DisplayTimeout after 30 seconds(factory default).Tone Visual Display VoiceTesting, then three beepsTesting, then three beepsSystem ReadyNone13.2VVoice AlertNone NoneGetting StartedYour Detector6EnglishPower On/Off •NOTEIn some vehicles, power is supplied to the cigarette lighter even while the ignition is off. Ifthis is the case with your vehicle and you have turned the SmartPower off, you shouldturn off or unplug your detector when parking for lengthy periods. Cobra recommendsleaving SmartPower at the factory setting, which is on. See page 18.NOTEWhen the system is first turned on from new, only the City or Highway icon will show onthe screen because the Show Compass, IntelliMute and Show Car Battery Voltage functionsare set to off at the factory. See pages 14, 16 and 19 to turn these functions on.On-Off/Volume Control Rotate clockwise (away from you)Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®31Product ServiceCustomer AssistanceProduct Service •For any questions about operating or installing this new Cobra product, or ifparts are missing…PLEASE CALL COBRA FIRST…do not return thisproduct to the store. See customer assistance on page A1.If this product should require factory service, please call Cobra before sending the product. This will ensure the fastest turn-around time on any repair. If Cobra asks that the product be sent to its factory, the following must be furnished to have the product serviced and returned:1. For Warranty Repair include some form of proof-of-purchase, such as a mechanical reproduction or carbon of a sales receipt. Make sure the date of purchase and product model number are clearly readable. If the originals are sent, they cannot be returned;2. Send the entire product;3. Enclose a description of what is happening with the product. Include a typed or clearly printed name and address of where the product is to be returned, with phone number (required for shipment).4. Pack product securely to prevent damage in transit. If possible, use the original packing material;5. Ship prepaid and insured by way of a traceable carrier such as United Parcel Service (UPS) or Priority Mail to avoid loss in transit to:Cobra Factory ServiceCobra Electronics Corporation6500 West Cortland StreetChicago, Illinois 60707 U.S.A.;6. If the product is in warranty, upon receipt of the product it willeither be repaired or exchanged depending on the model. Please allow approximately 3 – 4 weeks before contacting Cobra for status. If the product is out of warranty, a letter will automatically be sent with information as to the repair charge or replacement charge.For any questions, please call 773-889-3087 for assistance.Spreads.qxd 11/9/07 12:19 PM Page 6
30 EnglishWarrantyWarrantyLimited 1-Year Warranty •For Products Purchased in the U.S.A.Cobra Electronics Corporation warrants that its Cobra 12 Band Radar/Laser Detectors, and the component parts thereof, will be free of defects inworkmanship and materials for period of one year from the date of firstconsumer purchase. This warranty may be enforced by the first consumerpurchaser, provided that the product is utilized within the U.S.A.Cobra will, without charge, repair or replace, at its option, defective 12 BandRadar/Laser Detectors, products or component parts upon delivery to theCobra Factory Service Department, accompanied by proof of the date of firstconsumer purchase, such as a duplicated copy of a sales receipt.You must pay any initial shipping charges required to ship the product forwarranty service, but the return charges will be at Cobra’s expense, if theproduct 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 lastsand/or do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequentialdamages, so the above limitations may not apply to you.Getting StartedYour DetectorNothing Comes Close to a Cobra®7Standby Screen Icons •City Mode Highway Mode Compass Battery VoltageYour detector uses the following icons to indicate modes and functions when set:NOTEFor example, the sample screen indicates that IntelliMute is active, the Compass is calibrated, your system is set to Highway mode and your vehicle’s battery voltage is charged to 13.8 volts.Display Brightness Control •Your detector has a Bright display mode (for daytime driving)and three levels of the Dim display mode:■Dim for dusk driving.■Dimmer for night driving.■Dark to prevent all visual alerts from displaying.The factory setting is Dim. This level can be changed in programming mode (see page 10.)You can toggle between Bright and Dim modes by pressing the Dimbutton.NOTEWhen you change to Dim mode, the unit will enter whichever dim default mode is set at the time.NOTEAt the dark setting thedisplay will show a small dot moving back and forthtoward the bottom of thescreen to indicate the unit is turned on.DimButton Press and releaseIntelliMute Above Activation PointIntelliMute Below Activation Point User and Alert Settings Sample Screen13.2V13.2VSpreads.qxd 11/9/07 12:19 PM Page 7
Getting StartedYour Detector8EnglishIntelliShield Highway/City Modes •Your detector is equipped with IntelliShield false signal rejection technologywhich consists of a Highway mode and three different levels of City modes:City X, City X Beep Off and City X+K.Highway mode provides full response to all signals detected. The City modesreduce 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 microwavetowers and automatic door openers. The factory setting is Highway. Thefactory City mode default setting is City X; it can be changed in programmingmode (see page 11).You can toggle between Highway and City modes by pressing the Citybutton.NOTEWhen you change to City mode, the unit will enter whichever city default mode is set at the time.CityButtonPress and releaseDisplay Timeout Mode •Your detector has a Display Timeout mode to prolongthe life of your screen. Touch any button to exit DisplayTimeout and recall the Standby screen.The factory default is for Display Timeout to engage from the Standby screen after 30 seconds. You canchange the time interval or deactivate Display Timeout in programming mode (see page 10).NOTEIn Display Timeout mode, the display will show a small dotmoving slowly back and forth to indicate the unit is turned on.SpecificationsYour DetectorNothing Comes Close to a Cobra®29Specifications •Band and FrequenciesBand FrequenciesX Band 10.525 ± 0.050 GHzK Band 24.125 ± 0.125 GHzSafety Alert 24.070 ± 0.010 GHzTraffic Warning 24.110 ± 0.010 GHzSystem24.190 ± 0.010 GHz24.230 ± 0.010 GHzKa Band 34.700 ± 1.300 GHzKu Band 13.435 ± 0.050 GHzVG-2 11.500 ± 0.250 GHzSpectre 1 13.300 ± 0.200 GHzLaser 910 ± 50 nmStrobe 700 ± 300 nmThis 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. Spreads.qxd 11/9/07 12:19 PM Page 8
MaintenanceYour Detector28 EnglishPop Radar GunsThe 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 asingle short time pulse to measure the target vehicle’s speed. Despite the factthat the short, single pulse makes the unit very sensitive to officer hand andvehicle movement and reduces the range of the gun in Pop mode to 50% ofits range in Continuous Wave mode, this feature is added in an attempt tomake 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 alertsbecause of its extra sensitivity. This is especially so in urban areas. As aresult, 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 •Maintenance of Your Radar DetectorYour detector is designed and built to give you years of trouble-freeperformance without the need for service. No routine Maintenanceis 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.)Muting an Alert •Your detector allows you to quickly turn off an Audio Alert by momentarilypressing the Mutebutton. If you press the Mutebutton a second timeduring the alert, the Audio Alert will be turned back on. After the current alertis gone, the next alert will be heard.Two other features are incorporated in your detector to automatically mute or reduce the volume of alerts. See pages 14 and 16 for Intellimute and AutoMute modes.Auxiliary Audio Jack •The Auxiliary Audio Jack can be used to connect external speakers inenvironments with high ambient noise levels. The internal speaker will be disconnected. (This uses a mini stereo audio connector.)Getting StartedYour DetectorNothing Comes Close to a Cobra®9AuxiliaryAudio JackMuteButtonPress and releaseSpreads.qxd 11/9/07 12:19 PM Page 9
EasySet ProgrammingYour Detector10 EnglishEasySet Programming gives you quick and easy access to all the settings on yourdetector. It is used to program both:■User Settings (see pages 14 and 15)User Programming Menu Guide (see pages 34 and 35). ■Alert Settings (see page 20)Alert Programming Menu Guide (see page 36).Refer also to the Program Flow Diagrams for User Settings and Alert Settingsprogramming to easily navigate to the setting you want to change (see pages 12and 13). All settings are stored in memory when the power is turned off and will berecalled when the power is turned back on.NOTEYou cannot enter Program mode during an alert. The unit will not detect signals while in Program mode. During programming, if no buttons are pressed for 15 seconds, the unit will automatically exit Program mode and save the most recent settings.EasySet Programming Buttons:EasySet Programming •CityButtonPress to move todesired setting.Menu/Save ButtonPress to reach the opening program screen.DimButton Press to move to desired setting.MuteButtonPress to choose an option within the setting.Understanding Radar and LaserYour DetectorNothing Comes Close to a Cobra®27Strobe AlertSpecial strobes mounted on the light bars of authorized emergency vehicles (fire trucks, police cars, ambulances) automatically change trafficsignals as the vehicle approaches an intersection. These strobes and thespecial strobe detectors located on the traffic signals, introduced fairlyrecently by 3M and Tomar, are already in use in more than 1000 citiesnationwide. 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 cannotdrive 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.Spreads.qxd 11/9/07 12:19 PM Page 10
Understanding Radar and LaserYour Detector26 EnglishUnderstanding Radar and Laser •Radar Speed Monitoring SystemsThree band frequencies have been approved by the Federal CommunicationsCommission (FCC) for use by speed monitoring radar equipment: X band 10.525 GHzK band 24.150 GHzKa band 33.400 – 36.00 GHzYour 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 1 VG-2 and Spectre 1 are “detector detectors” that work by detecting low-levelsignals emitted by most radar detectors. Your detector does not emit signalsthat can be detected by VG-2 or Spectre 1, but does detect VG-2 and Spectre 1signals and will alert you when a device is in use near your vehicle, if you so choose.Safety Alert Traffic Warning SystemFCC-approved Safety Alert transmitters emit microwave radar signals thatindicate the presence of a safety-related concern. Depending on the frequencyof 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, mostconventional radar detectors will detect Safety Alert signals as standard K band radar. Your detector, however, is designed to differentiate betweenstandard 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 vehicleapproaching, please pull over to the right side of the road and allow it to pass.EasySet ProgrammingYour DetectorNothing Comes Close to a Cobra®11To use EasySet program mode:1. Press the Menu/Save button to reach the opening program screen.2. Choose whether you want to change:a. User Settings — press the Dimbutton to enter the User Setting loop(see page 12)b. Alert Settings — press the Citybutton to enter the Alert Setting loop(see page 13)3. Press the Cityor Dimbuttons to step forward or backward through the chosen settings loop until the desired option is reached.NOTEPress and release the button to move one option. 4. Press the Mutebutton to toggle the option on or off or to step through its multiple choices.5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 to move to and set the next desired option(s).6. Press the Menu/Save button when finished to save the settings and exit EasySet program mode. Or, simply wait 15 seconds withoutpressing any buttons.NOTEIf power is turned off while in Program mode, option settings are saved to those in effect before Program mode was entered.Spreads.qxd 11/9/07 12:19 PM Page 11
Program Flow DiagramsYour Detector12 EnglishUser Settings Programming •User Programming allows you to adjust the unit’s display and sounds to your preferences. The User Settings can be selected using the DimandCitybuttons by scrolling through the settings as shown in the program flow diagram below. The User Programming Menu Guide on page 34 is ahandy reference showing the tone, visual display and voice prompts thataccompany each setting. After selecting a setting, use the Mutebutton to choose an option within the setting.NOTEWhen you choose User Settings (page 11, step 2a), the system displays whicheversetting was last changed.Setting Selection Buttons:MuteButtonPress to choose an option within the setting.DimButton Press to move todesired setting..CityButtonPress to move todesired setting.Car VoltageColor ThemeSmartPowerShow CompassSet CompassSetIntelliMuteAuto MuteAlert Type(Voice/Tone)Not shown if Intellimute is OFF.Not shown if Show Compass is OFF.Restore FactorySettingsCity Mode(Default) IntelliMuteDisplay(Brightness)Warn Low Car Voltage Display TimeoutDetectionYour DetectorNothing Comes Close to a Cobra®25Description Interpretation RecommendedResponseTone repeats slowly at first,then speeds up rapidly.Probably police radar. FULL ALERTTone sounds one time only.Probably a false alarm, but possibly pulsed radar,Spectre 1 or VG-2 nearby.Exercise cautionTone instantly begins repeating rapidly.Radar, Spectre 1 or VG-2 nearbyhas been activated suddenly.FULL ALERTPop mode tone. Pop mode gun very close. FULL ALERTTone repeats slowly as youapproach a hill or bridge, thenspeeds up sharply as youreach it.Probably police radar beyond the hill or bridge.FULL ALERTTone repeats slowly for a short period.Probably a false alarm. Exercise cautionAny type of laser alert. Laser alerts are never false alarms.FULL ALERTAny Safety Alert or Strobe Alert.You are nearing an emergencyvehicle, railroad crossing, orroad hazard (construction,accident, etc.).Exercise cautionInstant-On DetectionYour detector is designed to detect Instant-On speed monitoring signals,which can suddenly appear at full strength.NOTEYou should take appropriate action immediately whenever an instant-on alert is given.Pop DetectionYour detector is designed to detect single pulse mode radars. These radarsare 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 AlertsSpreads.qxd 11/9/07 12:19 PM Page 12
DetectionYour Detector24 EnglishType of Signal Visual Display VoiceEmergency Vehicles Emergency VehicleApproachingRoad Hazards Road Hazard AheadTrains Train ApproachingType of Signal Visual Display VoiceVG-2 Alert VG-2 AlertSpectre 1 Spectre AlertNOTEThere are different tones for each Safety Alert.NOTEThere are different tones for each alert.Safety Alert Signals and Visual Displays VG-2 and Spectre 1 Alert Signals and Visual Displays Program Flow DiagramsYour DetectorNothing Comes Close to a Cobra®13Alert Settings Programming •Alert Programming allows you to selectively turn on or off detection of somesignals. The Alert Settings can be selected using the Dimand Citybuttonsby scrolling through the settings as shown in the program flow diagram below.The Alert Programming Menu Guide on page 36 is a handy reference showingthe tone, visual display and voice prompts that accompany each setting. Afterselecting a setting, use the Mutebutton to choose an option within the setting.NOTEWhen you choose Alert Settings (page 11, Step 2b), the system displays whicheversetting was last changed.Not shownsetting if VG 2is OFF.Not shown if Spectre 1 is OFF.Pop DetectionX Band Detection Ku BandDetectionVG-2DetectionSpectre 1DetectionSafety AlertSpectre 1 AudioVG-2 AudioThis detector allows you to customize its operation by changing settings inthe User Programming and the Alert Programming modes. (See page 11 forentering the EasySet Programming mode.) Also, refer to the Appendix (pages34–36) while programming. These show the lists of User and Alert settings.Features of the programmable settings are described on the following pages.K BandDetectionSpreads.qxd 11/9/07 12:19 PM Page 13
SettingsYour Detector14 EnglishUser Settings •IntelliShield City Mode DefaultCity Mode Default makes three levels of Audio Alert suppression availablewhen you toggle from Highway to City mode (see page 8). The factory settingis City X.City X sounds a single beep when an x band signal is first detected. The alert then sounds when signal strength reaches level 3.City X+K combines the City X mode with prevention of K band audio alerts until the signal strength reaches level 2.City X Beep Off blocks all X band audio alerts until the signal strengthreaches level 3.IntelliMute ModeIntelliMute is a unique feature that allows you to avoid alerts you don’t need tohear because you are stopped or moving slowly. By sensing the “revs” (RPMs)of your engine, IntelliMute knows when you are at low speed and automaticallymutes alerts (except for strobe signals from emergency vehicles). It works withall City and Auto Mute modes.Before IntelliMute will work, you must set an activation point for your engine’srevs (see page 15). Whenever the revs are below that point, IntelliMute willbegin muting. The activation point will be stored in memory and recalled eachtime the power is turned on. The factory setting is IntelliMute off.An IntelliMute icon will appear in the display when IntelliMute is on and activationis set. Whenever engine revs are below the activation point, the arrow pointsdown. When revs are above the activation point the arrow points up.If, for any reason, the unit stops sensing your engine’s revs, IntelliMute willindicate an error and automatically turn off.Above Activation PointBelow Activation PointDetectionYour DetectorNothing Comes Close to a Cobra®23NOTEBeep rate changes with different laser alerts.* Your detector provides 360˚ detection of these signals.* Your detector provides 360˚ detection of these signals.Type of Signal Visual Display VoiceLTI 20-20* Laser AlertLTI Ultra-Lyte* Laser AlertKustom SignalsProLaser*Laser AlertKustom SignalsProLaser III*Laser AlertType of Signal Visual Display Voice3M Opticom orTomar*Emergency VehicleApproachingLaser Signals and Visual Displays Strobe Alert Signals and Visual Displays Spreads.qxd 11/9/07 12:19 PM Page 14
DetectionYour Detector22 EnglishType of Signal Visual Display VoiceX Band Radar X AlertK Band Radar K AlertKa Band Radar Ka AlertKu Band Radar Ku AlertPop Radar Mode Pop AlertSignal Strength ChartSignal Strength = 1 (Weakest Signal) (Strongest Signal)Signal Strength = 2Signal Strength = 3Signal Strength = 4Signal Strength = 5 Radar Signals and Visual Displays SettingsYour DetectorNothing Comes Close to a Cobra®15NOTESIntelliMute may not work with some vehicles because it cannot sense theengine’s revs. In such cases, you can reduce unwanted audio alerts by usingAuto Mute and City mode when appropriate.NOTESThe rev point must be reset if you use your detector in a different vehicle.NOTESWhen initially choosing your IntelliMute activation point, a setting of approximately300 to 600 RPMs above idle is recommended. You can reset the activation pointat any time to fit your individual preferences and driving style.CAUTIONDo not attempt to set the rev point while driving. Your vehicle should be parkedand idling to avoid a collision during the process. Set IntelliMuteAfter the detector is installed in your vehicle and the unit is turned on,advance through the User Settings Programming to the Set IntelliMutesetup screen where the activation point can be set.Setting the activation point progresses from the setup screen shown on the User Programming Menu Guide (see page 34). From that screen:1. Press the Mutebutton to begin the setting process.2. Press and hold the vehicle accelerator at the desired engine RPMs.3. Press the Mutebutton to complete the setting process.The system will store the engine RPM setting and provide a completionmessage on the display as well as a tone or voice message.NOTEIf the unit is unable to sense usable pulses within three seconds or if you do notset a rev point within 30 seconds of beginning the setup, IntelliMute will indicatean error. If you do not try again within five seconds, it will automatically turn off.The unit will provide corresponding messages for these conditions.Once an activation point has been set, you can easily change it by goingdirectly to Set IntelliMute in User Settings Programming and repeating thethree-step setup process.Spreads.qxd 11/9/07 12:19 PM Page 15
SettingsYour Detector16 EnglishAuto Mute ModeWhen Auto Mute is on, it automatically reduces the audio volume of all alertsafter they have sounded for four seconds. The signals will remain muted foras long as the signal is detected. When Auto Mute is off, the alerts will soundat full volume for as long as the signal is detected. The factory setting forAuto Mute is on.Voice or Tone ModeYou can set your detector to sound alerts and confirm program settings witheither a Voice or a Tone Alert. Voice Alert provides voice messages in additionto tones. Tone Alert provides tones only. The factory setting is Voice Alert.Compass ModeYour detector includes an internal 8-point Compass that can continuously display your current direction of travel:N, NE, E, SE, S, SW, W, or NW.Before the Compass will work, it must becalibrated(see page 17). Calibration allowsthe Compass electronics to measure andstore information about the magnetic fieldsgenerated by your vehicle so directionindications will be accurate. The factorysetting is Compass off.A Compass icon and directional heading will appear in the display when the Compass is on and calibrated.The Compass will remain accurately calibrated as long as your detector ismounted 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 theCompass. You should also recalibrate the Compass if you suspect it isproviding inaccurate directions.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 willwork correctly again.8-PointCompassNSWNWSWENESEDetectionYour DetectorNothing Comes Close to a Cobra®21Detection •Signals DetectedThe tables on the following pages show the types of Signals your detector will detect, as well as the visual alerts it provides for each of them.Audio AlertsA distinctly different Alert tone is used for each type of signal detected(including separate tones for each laser signal). For X, K, Ka and Ku 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 25.Visual DisplayAn indication of the type of signal detected will appear in the OLED DataDisplay. During X, K, Ka and Ku alerts, you will also see the numbers fromone to five, indicating the strength of the signal detected.Spectre 1 Audio ModeWhen Spectre 1 Audio mode is on, alerts will be sounded as well as beingdisplayed on the screen. This setting is only available if Spectre 1 Alert is on.The factory setting is Spectre 1 Audio off.Safety AlertWhen Safety Alert mode is on, Safety Alert radar signals will be detected andan alert will be given. During the alert, the unit will continue to detect othersignals. The factory setting is Safety Alert on.Spreads.qxd 11/9/07 12:19 PM Page 16
SettingsYour Detector20 EnglishAlert Settings •Pop AlertWhen Pop Detect mode is on, Pop radar signals will be detected and an alertwill be given. During the alert, the unit will continue to detect other signals.The factory setting is Pop Detect off.X Band AlertWhen X Band Detect mode is on, X Band radar signals will be detected andan alert will be given. During the alert, the unit will continue to detect othersignals. The factory setting is X Band Detect on.K Band AlertWhen K Band Detect mode is on, K Band radar signals will be detected andan alert will be given. During the alert, the unit will continue to detect othersignals. The factory setting is K Band Detect on.Ku Band AlertWhen Ku Band Detect mode is on, Ku Band radar signals will be detected andan alert will be given. During the alert, the unit will continue to detect othersignals. The factory setting is Ku Band Detect off.VG-2 AlertThe detector is undetectable by VG-2 detection devices and can alert you whensuch a device is in use near your vehicle. When VG-2 Detect mode is on, VG-2signals will be detected and an alert will be given. During the alert, the unit willcontinue to detect other signals. The factory setting is VG-2 Detect off.VG-2 Audio ModeWhen VG-2 Audio mode is on, alerts will be sounded as well as beingdisplayed on the screen. This setting is only available if VG-2 Alert is on. The factory setting is VG-2 Audio off.Spectre 1 AlertThe detector is undetectable by Spectre 1 detection devices and can alert youwhen such a device is in use near your vehicle. When Spectre 1 Detect modeis on, Spectre 1 signals will be detected and an alert will be given. During thealert, the unit will continue to detect other signals. The factory setting isSpectre 1 Detect off.SettingsYour DetectorNothing Comes Close to a Cobra®17Set CompassAfter the detector is installed in your vehicle and Compass is turned on (see page 34), the system will automatically advance to the Set Compasscalibration screen from which the calibration can be performed.WARNINGBefore calibrating the Compass, go to a large parking lot or other safe, low-traffic area.NOTEWhen the instructions direct you to drive in two circles, make two completeloops (in either direction) from any starting orientation at any convenient speed.The loops need not be perfect and can be circles, small squares, four three-point turns, or any pattern that makes at least two complete turns within twominutes of starting the maneuver.Calibrating the Compass progresses from the Calibrate Compass screen shownon the User Programming Menu Guide (see page 34). From that screen:1. Press the Mutebutton to advance to the Compass screen.2. Drive your vehicle in two circles.3. Press the Mutebutton to complete the setting process.The system will store the calibration data and provide a completion messageon the display as well as a tone or voice message.NOTEIf you do not press the Mutebutton within two minutes after beginning theSet Compass process, Compass calibration will automatically terminate. Theunit will provide a corresponding message.Once the initial calibration is complete, you can go to Set Compass in User Settings Programming and recalibrate the Compass as needed byrepeating the three-step calibration process.Spreads.qxd 11/9/07 12:19 PM Page 17
SmartPower ModeYour detector includes the SmartPower feature that, when turned on, will put the unit into Standby mode (low power) 15 minutes after the car’s engine has been turned off.Before SmartPower enters Standby mode, you will hear three beeps andSmartPower will flash on the display. To return the unit to normal Powermode and exit Standby mode, start the car, press any button or turn the unit off and then on again. The factory setting is SmartPower on.Display Timeout Display timeout determines how long the Standby screen is illuminatedbefore switching the unit to Dark. The factory default is 30 seconds.You can set the time interval to 15 seconds, 30 seconds, one minute, threeminutes, or Always On (see User Settings Programming described on page 12).Dim Mode Default (Display Brightness)You can set the default level for the Dim mode (Dim, Dimmer or Dark) as discussed in the Display Brightness Control section on page 7. The factory setting is Dim.Customizable Display ColorsYour detector includes the Color Theme feature that allows you to customizethe display screen color scheme to match your car’s dash illumination: Multi-Color, Red, Blue, Orange, or Green. The factory setting is Multi-Color.SettingsYour Detector18 EnglishSmartPowerEntering StandbyMode (Flashing)SettingsYour DetectorNothing Comes Close to a Cobra®19Car Battery Voltage Display ModeYour detector can sense your vehicle’s electrical system voltage (Car Battery Voltage) and show it on the display during normal operation of the unit. The factory setting is Car Battery Voltage on.Car Battery Low Voltage WarningIn addition to displaying system voltage, your detector can provide a warning that battery voltage is low so that timely steps can be taken to correct the problem. The Car Battery Low alert is triggered when the voltage drops below 11.9 volts. Following the alert, the unit enters SmartPower mode to avoid further draining your car battery (see page 18).The factory setting is Car Battery Low on.Restore Factory SettingsFrom the Restore Factory Settings screen, you can quickly andconveniently restore your detector to its original settings. Confirmation messages are provided during the process.Spreads.qxd 11/9/07 12:19 PM Page 18

Navigation menu