Escort orporated SRX Radar Detector User Manual SRX Manual
Escort Incorporated Radar Detector SRX Manual
Contents
- 1. Users Manual
- 2. Manual Inserts
Users Manual
PASSPORT SRX is designed and made in the USA by
Escort Incorporated
5440 West Chester Road
West Chester, Ohio 45069
Sales/Service 800-964-3143
Fax 513-870-8509
www.escortradar.com
©2001 Escort Inc. Escort®, Passport®, AutoSensitivity™, SpecDisplay™, ExpertMeter™, and Laser Shifter™
are trademarks of Escort Inc. SWS™is a trademark of SWS LC.
Features, specifications and prices subject to change without notice.
SUPERCHARGED RADAR/LASER DEFENSE SYSTEM
SUPERCHARGED RADAR/LASER DEFENSE SYSTEM
Owner’s Manual
ULTIMATE PERFORMANCE
ULTIMATE PERFORMANCE
Quick Reference Card
1
IEZ-Programming Details ̈
Factory Default Settings
To reset Passport to its original factory
settings, press and hold the “CITY” and
“MUTE” buttons while turning the power
on. Passport’s display will provide a
“Reset” message, accompanied by an
audible alert, acknowledging the reset.
Passport SRX Quick Reference Card
̄Remove card along perforations ̄
̄Remove card along perforations ̄
Congratulations and Important Warning
Congratulations
Your new Passport SRX is the most
advanced remote radar/laser detector
available.
The Passport SRX includes full X, K,
and SuperWide Ka radar coverage, new
front and rear Laser Shifters, improved
Digital Signal Processing for superior range
and reduced false alarms, our patented Mute
and AutoMute, audible and visual band
alerts, and all the performance you'd expect
from Escort.
In addition, your new Passport SRX
introduces a new level of Radar/Laser
defense including:
• Supercharged radar performance, for
superior K and Ka-band sensitivity
• New programmable Laser Shifters, for
maximum protection against laser targeting
• Advanced EZ-Programming lets you
instantly set up to 9 customized features
• Exclusive AutoSensitivity™mode drasti-
cally reduces false alarms, plus Highway and
City settings
• Ultra-bright alphanumeric display uses 280
LEDs for crystal clear information
• Exclusive ExpertMeter™tracks and
displays up to 8 radar signals
• New SpecDisplay provides numeric
frequency for any radar signal
• Detects and decodes up to 64 Safety
Warning Systems signals
• High-Speed A/D converter dramatically
improves radar detection range
• Exclusive vertical display option provides
unlimited installation options
• Standard remote mute button provides
one-touch mute and volume adjustment
• Optional external speaker enables Voice
alerts
If you’ve used a radar detector before, a
review of the Quick Reference Guide on
page 4 and the EZ-Programming information
on pages 9 and 10 will briefly explain the
new features.
If this is your first detector, please read
the manual in detail to get the most out of
your new Passport’s performance and
features.
Please drive safely.
IMPORTANT INSTALLATION WARNING
Your new Passport must be installed by
a professional. Car Audio specialists and
many car dealers can install Passport for you.
Attempting to install the Passport SRX
without expertise in automotive electronic
installations can cause personal injury
during the installation, or can damage your
Passport or your vehicle. If your vehicle is
damaged during installation, its safety
systems may be compromised, which could
cause personal injury or property damage.
You can locate an authorized dealer in
your area by logging on to our web site at
www.escortradar.com
There are 9 user-selectable options so you
can customize your Passport SRX for your
own preferences.
The buttons labeled CITY and MUTE are
also used to enter the Program Mode,
REVIEW your current program settings, and
to CHANGE any settings as desired. The
words PROGRAM, REVIEW, and CHANGE
are located on the front of the display, and
are highlighted in gold graphics.
How to use EZ-Programming
1To enter Program Mode, press and
hold both buttons down for 2 seconds.
(The unit will beep twice, and will display
the word “Program”).
2Then press the REVIEW button to
review the current settings. (You can
either tap the button to change from item
to item, or hold the button to scroll through
the items).
3Press the CHANGE button to change
any setting. (You can either tap the button
to change from setting to setting, or hold
the button to scroll through all the options).
4To leave Program Mode, simply wait
8 seconds without pressing any button.
(The unit will display Complete, beep 4
times, and return to normal operation).
An example
For example, here is how you would turn
Passport’s AutoMute feature off.
1Enter the Program Mode by holding
both the CITY and MUTE buttons down for
2 seconds. Passport will beep twice and
display Program.
2Press and hold the REVIEW button.
Passport will scroll through the categories,
starting with Pilot Light (Pilot), then
Power-on sequence (PwrOn), then Signal
strength meter (Meter), and then
AutoMute (aMute).
3Release the REVIEW button when
Passport shows the AutoMute item. Since
the factory setting is for AutoMute to be
on, Passport will display aMute ON.
(If you accidentally don't release the
Review button in time, and Passport goes
to the next category, hold the Review
button down again, and after Passport
scrolls through all categories, it will begin
again at the top of the list.)
4Press the CHANGE button to change
from aMute ON to aMute OFF.
5To complete the Programming, simply
wait 8 seconds without pressing any button.
Passport will display Complete, beep 4
times, and return to normal operation.
Table of Contents
Introduction I
• Congratulations I
• Important Warning I
• Quick Reference Guide 1-2
Controls and Features 5-8
• Power and volume control 5
• Power-on indication 5
• AutoMute 5
• Mute 5
• Remote Mute / Volume 5
• Highway / Auto / City Switch 6
• Display Brightness 6
• Audible Alerts 6
• Signal Strength Meter 7
• ExpertMeter 7
• SpecDisplay 8
• Laser Shifters 8
EZ-Programming 9-13
• How to use EZ-Programming 9
• Example of Programming 9
• Overview of Programming 10
• Details of Programming 11-13
Technical Details 14-19
• Interpreting Alerts 14-15
• How Radar Works 16
• How Laser Works 17
• How Safety Radar Works 18-19
Service 20-25
• Troubleshooting 20-21
• Service 22
• Warranty 22
• Registation Card 23
• Specifications 25
32
Quick Reference Card
Passport SRX Quick Reference Card
*Factory Default Settings
̄Remove card along perforations ̄
̄Remove card along perforations ̄
Disp STD
Disp VERT
Pilot HWY
Pilot H
Pilot H.>
Pilot +
Pilot +.>
Pilot +>
Pilot V
PwrOn STD
PwrOn FST
Meter STD
Meter EXP
Meter SPC
aMute ON
aMute OFF
Tone STD
Tone LOUD
City STD
City LoX
City NoX
Brt AUTO
Brt MIN
Brt MED
Brt MAX
Brt DARK
Bands ALL
Bands MOD
X ON or OFF
K ON or OFF
Ka ON or OFF
LSR ON or OFF or SHFT
SWS ON or OFF
Press the REVIEW button
to go from one category
to the next
DISPLAY
PILOT LIGHT
(Power-on indication)
POWER-ON SEQUENCE
SIGNAL STRENGTH METER
AUTOMUTE
AUDIOTONES
CITY MODE SENSITIVITY
BRIGHTNESS
BANDS
Press the CHANGE button
to change your setting
within a category
*Standard display
Vertical display
*Full word: Highway or Auto or City
Letter: H or A or C
Letter with scanning dot
Symbol: + or •or --
Symbol with scanning dot
Scanning symbol
Vehicle voltage
*Standard power-on sequence
Fast power-on sequence
*Standard signal strength meter
ExpertMeter
SpecDisplay
*AutoMute on
AutoMute off
*Standard tones
Loud tones
*Standard City mode sensitivity
Low X band sensitivity in City Mode
No X band sensitivity in City Mode
*Brightness adjusts automatically
Minimum brightness when turned on
Medium brightness when turned on
Maximum brightness when turned on
Dark Mode when Passport turned on
*All bands enabled
One or more bands has been modified
Turn bands “ON” or “OFF” by
pressing the mute button
Power/Volume Control
Rotate the thumbwheel to turn Passport on
and set the volume. (We recommend wiring
the SRX to a switched circuit so that it will
turn on/off with your ignition).
Matrix Display
Passport’s display will show “Highway,”
“Auto,” or “City” as its standard power-on
indication. Page 5. If you prefer, you can
choose other power-on indications. Pages
10 -11.
During an alert, the display will indicate
the radar band, and a precise bar graph for
the signal strength. Page 7.
You can program Passport for
ExpertMeter, which displays up to 8 radar
signals at once, or choose SpecDisplay
mode, which provides the actual numeric
radar frequency. Pages 7-8.
The display can also show Safety Radar
text messages. Pages 18-19.
AutoMute
Passport’s patented AutoMute automatically
reduces the volume level of the audio alert.
Page 5. If you prefer, you can turn
AutoMute off. Page 9.
City Button
Switches sensitivity modes between
Highway, AutoSensitivity, and City settings.
In general, we recommend the Auto mode.
Page 6.
EZ-Programming
Passport is ready to go – just turn it on. But
you can also easily change 9 features for
your preferences. Press both buttons to
enter the Program Mode, then easily Review
or Change your settings. Pages 9-13.
Mute Button
Briefly press this button on the display
controller, or the standard remote mute
button, to silence the audio for a specific
alert. (The audio will alert you to the next
encounter.) Page 5.
Quick Reference Guide
4 5
Power and volume control
To turn Passport on and adjust the alert
tone volume level, rotate the thumbwheel
on Passport’s Display/Controller. Turn the
control to the left to increase the audio
volume. When you turn Passport on, it goes
through a sequence of alerts.
If you prefer, you may program your
Passport for a shorter power-on sequence.
See the EZ Programming section for details.
Power-on indication
After Passport’s start-up sequence is
complete, the matrix display will show
“Highway,” “Auto,” or “City,” to show
which sensitivity mode is selected.
If you prefer, you can select alternate
power-on displays. See the EZ-Programming
section for details.
AutoMute
Your Passport has our patented AutoMute
feature. After Passport alerts you to a radar
encounter at your selected volume level, it
automatically mutes the volume to a lower
level. This keeps you informed without the
annoyance of a continuous full-volume alert.
If you prefer, you can turn the AutoMute
feature off. See the EZ-Programming section
for details.
Mute
The Mute Button, located on Passport’s
front panel, or the installed Remote Mute
Button, allows you to totally silence the
audio alert during a radar encounter.
To mute the audio for a single specific
signal, briefly press the Mute Button or the
installed Remote Mute Button. After that
radar encounter has passed, the mute will
automatically reset and the audio will alert
you to the next encounter.
Remote Mute/Volume Adjust
The installed Remote Mute Button can also
be used to change the volume level without
accessing the Display Controller. To change
the volume level
with the Remote
Mute Button,
simply press and
hold. An audible
tone will be
generated, and the
display will provide a bar graph for the
volume level. Once the desired volume
level has been reached, simply release
the Remote Mute Button. Your volume
setting will be stored in memory.
When the Laser Shifters are engaged,
(see EZ-Programming section) the Remote
Mute button can be used to manually stop
shifting once you have corrected your
speed. Simply press the Remote Mute
Button twice during the “Laser Shifting”
message, and the Shifters will cease to
transmit. The Shifters will automatically
reset within one minute, and a “Shift ON”
reset message will be displayed.
Controls and Features
Highway / Auto / City Switch
The “City” button selects Passport’s sensitivity
mode. We recommend the “Auto”
(AutoSensitivity) mode for most driving.
Passport’s exclusive AutoSensitivity
mode provides long-range warning with
minimum false alarms. In this mode,
Passport’s internal computer continuously
analyzes all incoming signals and intelligently
adjusts the sensitivity – eliminating the
majority of false alarms.
You can also select conventional
“Highway” and “City” modes. When driving
in urban areas where annoying X-band
intrusion alarms and door openers are
common, City Mode can be engaged to
lower X-band sensitivity and reduce X-band
alerts. Full sensitivity is maintained on all
other bands. You can customize Passport’s
City Mode sensitivity. See the EZ-
Programming section for details.
Display Brightness
Passport’s display brightness is automatically
adjusted to suit ambient lighting conditions
in your car. (The light sensor is located
between the City and Mute buttons on the
display controller and may dim the display
momentarily when you are accessing one or
both of these buttons).
If you prefer, you can program your
Passport for a fixed brightness level
(Maximum, Medium, Minimum, or Dark).
See the EZ-Programming section for details.
Dark Mode
If you set Passport to its Dark Mode with its
EZ-Programming, Passport changes to a very
inconspicuous power-on indication: a very
dim “HD,” AD,” or “CD.” (In this display,
the H, A, or C indicates Highway, Auto, or
City, and the D indicates Dark.)
When Passport is in the Dark Mode,
the display will not show visual alerts when
Passport detects signals. Only the audible
alert will tell you of detected signals.
See the EZ-Programming section for
more details.
Audible Alerts
For Radar signals:
Passport uses a Geiger-counter-like
sound to indicate the signal strength and
type of radar signal being encountered.
When you encounter radar, a distinct
Audible Alert will sound and occur faster as
the signal gets stronger. When the signal is
very strong, the Audible Alerts will blend
into a solid tone. This allows you to judge
the distance from the signal source without
taking your eyes from the road. Each band
has a distinct tone for easy identification.
X-band = beep tone
K-band = raspy brap tone
Ka-band = double-brap tone
For Laser signals:
Since Laser signals are a possible threat
no matter how weak, Passport alerts you to
all laser signals with a full laser alert.
6 7
Controls and Features Controls and Features
For Safety signals:
When SWS detection in Passport’s
programming is turned on (factory default),
Passport will alert you to these signals with
a double-beep tone, and a corresponding
text message. A complete listing of the text
messages is on page 19.
If you have turned off SWS detection in
programming, Passport will still report
these as a K-band signal.
Signal Strength Meter
Passport’s matrix display consists of 280
individual LEDs, to provide an intuitive
ultra-bright display of signal strength and
text messages.
When Passport detects radar, it displays
the band of the radar (X, K, or Ka), and a
precise bar graph of signal strength.
ExpertMeter
Passport’s exclusive ExpertMeter option is
an advanced display for experienced
detector users. Please use Passport for a few
weeks to get fully familiar with its other
features before using ExpertMeter.
To use the ExpertMeter instead of the
standard bar graph signal strength meter,
you must select ExperMeter in Passport’s
EZ-Programming (see pages 9-12).
Passport’s ExpertMeter simultaneously
tracks up to 8 radar signals. It shows you
detailed information on up to 2 Ka-band, 2
K-band, and 4 X-band signals.
ExpertMeter can help you spot a
change in your normal driving environment;
for example, a traffic radar unit being
operated in an area where there are
normally other signals present.
The ExpertMeter is actually a miniature
spectrum analyzer. It shows what band
each signal is, its relative frequency within
the band, and its signal strength.
KA|| K|| X||||
Above is the ExpertMeter Display if
Passport was detecting 2 strong Ka-band,
2 strong K-band, and 4 strong X-band
signals.
As you can see, there are vertical lines
after each band designator. Each line shows
a signal being detected. The height of each
line shows the relative signal strength of
that signal. The position of the line shows
the relative frequency of the signal within
the band.
NOTE: If you use ExpertMeter, the
brief signal shown in the power-on
sequence when you turn on your Passport
will also be in ExpertMeter: an “X” with a
single vertical line.
A few more examples will help you
better see how the ExpertMeter works.
K|X|||
Here ExpertMeter shows 1 strong K-band
signal, and three X-band signals, two
strong and one weak.
Controls and Features
KA|X|||
Here ExpertMeter shows 1 weak Ka-band
signal, and three weak X-band signals.
X
On very weak signals, there will not be a
vertical line at all. This shows a very weak
X-band signal.
ExpertMeter Details
The band designators (X, K, Ka) will
stay on the display for a few seconds after
the signal has passed. This allows you to see
what the unit detected, even on very brief
signals.
However, the vertical lines representing
individual signals continuously change
(several times a second) to give you a
continuous view of the signal strength of all
radar signals present.
SpecDisplay
Passport’s new SpecDisplay option is also
designed for the advanced detector user. In
this mode, Passport will display the actual
numeric radar frequency being received.
K 24.150
Display shows a K-band signal at 24.150
GHz
Ka34.700
Display shows a Ka-band signal at 34.700
GHz
X 10.525
Display shows a X-band signal at 10.525
GHz
Note: Even long-time detector users will
require a significant amount of time to
get familiar with this new level of
information.
Laser Shifters™
Your Passport SRX is equipped with a total
of three (2 front, 1 rear) Laser Shifters*.
These Laser Shifters can be programmed to
receive only, or “Shift” an incoming laser
signal. Once Passport has been programmed
to “Shift,” a pulsed laser signal is transmitted
back in order to “Shift” or confuse the
targeting laser gun.
When Passport has been programmed
to “Shift” the incoming laser signal, the
display will show F LASER – SHIFTING
when a signal is received from the front, or
R LASER – SHIFTING when a signal is
received from the rear. (see programming
page 10) This message will be accompanied
by the normal Laser alert tone.
When Passport is in receive only mode,
(factory default) and detects laser from the
front, the display will show F LASER. When
Passport detects laser from the rear, the
display will show R LASER.
*This feature may be limited or prohibited in some jurisdictions.
Check applicable laws before using.
8 9
How to customize Passport with EZ-Programming
There are 9 user-selectable options so you
can customize your Passport for your own
preferences. The buttons that are normally
used for CITY and MUTE are used to enter
the Program Mode, to REVIEW your current
program settings, and to CHANGE any
settings as desired. Pages 11-13 explain each
option in more detail.
How to use EZ-Programming
To enter Program Mode, press both
buttons and hold for 2 seconds.
(Passport will beep twice and display
“Program.” (Brightness is at maximum
during programming.)
Then press the REVIEW button to review
the current settings. (You can either tap
the button to change from item to item, or
hold the button to scroll through the items.)
Press the CHANGE button to change
any setting. (You can either tap the button
to change from setting to setting, or hold
the button to scroll through all the options).
To leave the Program Mode, simply wait
8 seconds without pressing any button.
(The unit will display “Complete,” beep 4
times, and return to normal operation.)
(To quickly return to all of the factory
defaults, press and hold the CITY and MUTE
buttons while turning on the unit. A reset
message will be displayed.)
1
2
3
4
An example
For example, here is how you would turn
Passport’s AutoMute feature off.
1Enter the Program Mode by holding
both the CITY and MUTE buttons down for
2 seconds. Passport will beep twice and
display Program.
2Press and hold the REVIEW button.
Passport will scroll through the categories,
starting with Display (Disp), then Pilot
Light (Pilot), then Power-on sequence
(PwrOn), then Signal strength meter
(Meter), then AutoMute (aMute).
3Release the REVIEW button when
Passport shows the AutoMute item. Since
the factory setting is for AutoMute to be
on, Passport will display aMute ON .
(If you accidentally don't release the
Review button in time, and Passport goes
to the next category, hold the Review
button down again, and after Passport
scrolls through all categories, it will begin
again at the top of the list.)
4Press the CHANGE button to change
from aMute ON to aMute OFF.
5To complete the Programming, simply
wait 8 seconds without pressing any button.
Passport will display Complete, beep 4
times, and return to normal operation.
10 11
Overview of EZ-Programming Options
Press the REVIEW button
to go from one category
to the next
DISPLAY
PILOT LIGHT
(Power-on indication)
POWER-ON SEQUENCE
SIGNAL STRENGTH METER
AUTOMUTE
AUDIOTONES
CITY MODE SENSITIVITY
BRIGHTNESS
BANDS
*Passport’s Factory Default Settings
To reset Passport to its original
factory settings, press and hold
the “CITY” and “MUTE” buttons
while turning the power on.
Passport’s display will provide a
“Reset” message, accompanied
by an audible alert, acknowl-
edging the reset.
Disp STD
Disp VERT
Pilot HWY
Pilot H
Pilot H.>
Pilot +
Pilot +.>
Pilot +>
Pilot V
PwrOn STD
PwrOn FST
Meter STD
Meter EXP
Meter SPC
aMute ON
aMute OFF
Tone STD
Tone LOUD
City STD
City LoX
City NoX
Brt AUTO
Brt MIN
Brt MED
Brt MAX
Brt DARK
Bands ALL
Bands MOD
X ON or OFF
K ON or OFF
Ka ON or OFF
LSR ON or OFF or SHFT
SWS ON or OFF
Press the CHANGE button
to change your setting
within a category
*Standard display
Vertical display
*Full word: Highway or Auto or City
Letter: H or A or C
Letter, with scanning dot
Symbol: + or •or --
Letter, with scanning dot
Scanning symbol
Vehicle voltage
*Standard power-on sequence
Fast power-on sequence
*Standard signal strength meter
Expert Meter
SpecDisplay
*AutoMute on
AutoMute off
*Standard tones
Loud tones
*Standard City mode sensitivity
Low X-band sensitivity in City Mode
No X-band sensitivity in City Mode
*Brightness adjusts automatically
Minimum brightness when turned on
Medium brightness when turned on
Maximum brightness when turned on
Dark Mode when Passport turned on
*All bands enabled (Laser receive only)
One or more bands has been modified
Turn bands “ON” or “OFF” by holding
down the Mute button
Details of EZ-Programming Options
Display
Disp STD (Display standard)
This is the standard setting for use when
Passport’s Display is mounted horizontally.
(factory default)
DispVERT (Display vertical)
This setting is used when
Passport’s Display is mounted
vertically; for example, mounted
on the side of a center console.
Pilot Light (Power-on indication)
Note: When you are using the Dark mode,
the display will only show HD, AD, or CD,
(Highway-Dark, Auto-Dark, or City-Dark).
PilotHWY (Full description)
In this setting, Passport will display
“Highway,” “Auto,” or “City” as its power-
on indication. (factory default)
Pilot H (Letter)
In this setting, Passport will display “H” for
Highway, “A” for Auto, or “C” for City.
Pilot H.> (Letter with scanning dot)
In this setting, Passport will display “H” for
Highway, “A” for Auto, and “C” for City.
Also, a single dot will continuously scroll
across the display.
Pilot+ (Symbol)
In this setting, Passport will display “+” for
Highway, “.” for Auto, and “–” for City.
Pilot+.> (Symbol with scanning dot)
In this setting, Passport will display “+” for
Highway, “.” for Auto, and “–” for City. Also,
a single dot will continuously scroll across
the display.
Pilot+> (Scanning symbol)
In this setting, Passport will display “+” for
Highway, “.” for Auto, and “–” for City. Each
will continuously scroll across the display.
Pilot V (Vehicle voltage)
In this setting, Passport will display “H” for
Highway, “A” for Auto, or “C” for City, and
the vehicle’s voltage. If the vehicle’s voltage
drops below 10.5 volts, a low voltage
warning is displayed, followed by an audible
alert. A high voltage warning is also given if
the voltage goes above 16.5 volts. The high-
voltage warning is also followed by an
audible alert.
Details of EZ-Programming Options
12 13
Power-on Sequence
PwrOnSTD (Standard)
In this setting, each time you turn on
Passport, it will display “Passport,” “SRX,”
“LASER,” “Ka-band,” “K-band,” “X-band,”
followed by a brief X-band alert. It then
confirms communications to the front radar
receiver, and front and rear Laser Shifters. If a
communications error occurs, the
appropriate error message will be displayed.
(see page 21 for error messages)
PwrOnFST (Fast power-on)
This setting shortens Passport’s start up
sequence to single beep. Passport’s self-
diagnostic test is still performed in this mode.
Signal Strength Meter
MeterSTD (Standard meter)
The meter displays the band, and bar graph
showing signal strength. (factory default)
MeterEXP (ExpertMeter)
The meter simultaneously tracks up to 2
Ka-band, 2 K-band, and 4 X-band signals.
MeterSPC (SpecDisplay)
The meter displays the actual numeric
frequency of the radar signal being received.
Note: See more details on pages 6-7.
AutoMute
aMute ON (AutoMute on)
In this setting, Passport’s audio alerts will
initially be at the volume you set, but after a
few seconds, Passport will automatically
reduce the volume level, to keep you
informed, but not annoyed. (factory default)
aMuteOFF (AutoMute off)
With AutoMute off, Passport’s audio alerts
will remain at the volume you set for
the duration of the radar encounter.
Audio Tones
Tone STD (Standard tones)
This setting uses more pleasing tones.
(factory default)
ToneLOUD (Loud tones)
This setting uses tones that are more piercing,
and easier to hear in a louder vehicle.
Optional Voice Alerts
Voice alerts are only available using an
external speaker, which can be purchased
through your local installer.
Voice ON
In this setting, all radar and laser alerts,
including SWS messages will be
accompanied by a voice announcement.
Voice OFF
With Voice off, the standard tones will be
used.
NOTE: The program option to turn
Voice ON/OFF is only displayed when
an external speaker is plugged in.
City Mode Sensitivity
City STD (Standard)
In this setting, when you put Passport in the
City mode, X-band sensitivity is significantly
reduced, to minimize annoyances from
X-band intrusion alarms and motion sensors.
(factory default)
City LoX (Low X band sensitivity)
In this setting, when you put Passport in the
City mode, X-band sensitivity is reduced
more than the standard setting. This will
reduce X band alarms from other sources
even further, but also significantly reduces
range to X band traffic radar.
City NoX (No X band sensitivity)
In this setting, when you put Passport in the
City mode, Passport will not respond to any
X band signals. WARNING: Only choose
this setting if you are absolutely
certain that there are no X band traffic
radar units where you drive.
Note: These settings only apply when
Passport is operated in City mode. X-band
sensitivity is not affected when used in
“Auto” or “Highway” modes.
Brightness
Brt AUTO (Auto)
Display brightness automatically adjusted to
suit the ambient lighting in your car.
(factory default)
Brt MIN (Minimum)
Sets display to minimum brightness.
Brt MED (Medium)
Sets display to medium brightness.
Brt MAX (Maximum)
Sets display to maximum brightness.
Brt DARK (Dark)
In this setting, Passport will only display a
very dim HD, AD, or CD for the power-on
indication, and will not show any visual
alerts when signals are detected.
Bands
BandsALL
In this setting, all radar, laser (receive only),
and SWS frequencies are monitored. This is
the factory default setting, and it is highly
recommended that you use your Passport in
this mode.
BandsMOD
In this setting, Passport will warn you with
an audible alert, and associated text
message, that one or more bands have been
turned off in programming (i.e.”SWS OFF”).
This warning is displayed during the start-up
sequence (standard or fast).
WARNING: Only modify bands if you
are absolutely certain that there are no
traffic radar units using that specific
band in your area.
Details of EZ-Programming Options
Interpreting Alerts Interpreting Alerts
14 15
Although Passport has a comprehensive
warning system and this handbook is as
complete as we can make it, only experience
will teach you what to expect from your
Passport and how to interpret what it “tells”
you. The radar alerts you receive are
affected by the specific type of radar being
used, the type of transmission (continuous
or instant-on) and the location of the radar
source.
The following examples will give you
an introduction to understanding Passport’s
warning system for radar, laser and safety
alerts.
Explanation
You are approaching a continuous radar
source aimed in your direction.
An instant-on radar source is being used
ahead of you and out of your view.
An instant-on radar source or laser source is
being used nearby. This kind of alert
requires immediate attention!
Laser is being used in the area. Because laser
is inherently difficult to detect, any laser
alert may indicate a source very close by.
A moving patrol car with continuous radar
is overtaking you from behind. Because
these signals are reflected (reflections are
increased by large objects), they may or may
not eventually blend into a solid tone even
when the patrol car is directly behind you.
Explanation
You are approaching a radar unit concealed
by a hill or an obstructed curve.
A patrol car is travelling in front of you with
a radar source aimed forward. Because
signals are sometimes reflected off of large
objects and sometimes not, the alerts may
seem inconsistent.
A patrol car is approaching from the other
direction, sampling traffic with instant-on
radar. Such alerts should be taken seriously.
You are driving through an area populated
with radar motion sensors (door openers,
burglar alarms, etc.). Since these transmitters
are usually contained inside buildings or
aimed toward OR away from you, they are
typically not as strong or lasting as a real
radar encounter.
CAUTION: Since the characteristics of
these alerts may be similar to some of
the preceding examples, overconfidence
in an unfamiliar area can be dangerous.
Likewise, if an alert in a commonly
traveled area is suddenly stronger or
on a different band than usual, speed
radar may be set up nearby.
Alert
Passport begins to sound slowly, then the
rate of alert increases until the alert
becomes a solid tone. The Signal Meter
ramps accordingly.
Passport emits short alerts for a few seconds
and then falls silent only to briefly alert and
fall silent again.
Passport suddenly sounds a continuous tone
for the appropriate band received. All
segments in the Signal Strength Meter are lit.
A brief laser alert.
Passport receives weak signals. These
signals may be a little stronger as you pass
large, roadside objects. The signals increase
in frequency.
Alert
Passport alerts slowly for awhile and then
abruptly jumps to a strong alert.
Passport alerts intermittently. Rate and
strength of alerts may be consistent or vary
wildly.
Passport alerts intermittently. Rate and
strength of signal increases with each alert.
Passport gives an X-band alert intermittently.
How Radar Works How Laser Works
16 17
How Radar Works
Traffic radar, which consists of microwaves,
travels in straight lines and is easily reflected
by objects such as cars, trucks, even
guardrails and overpasses. Radar works by
directing its microwave beam down the
road. As your vehicle travels into range, the
microwave beam bounces off your car, and
the radar antenna looks for the reflections.
Using the Doppler Principle, the radar
equipment then calculates your speed by
comparing the frequency of the reflection
of your car to the original frequency of the
beam sent out.
Traffic radar has limitations, the most
significant of these being that it typically
can monitor only one target at a time. If
there is more than one vehicle within range,
it is up to the radar operator to decide
which target is producing the strongest
reflection. Since the strength of the reflection
is affected by both the size of the vehicle
and its proximity to the antenna, it is difficult
for the radar operator to determine if the
signal is from a sports car nearby or a semi-
truck several hundred feet away.
How Laser (Lidar) Works
Laser speed detection is actually LIDAR
(Light Detection And Ranging). LIDAR guns
project a beam of invisible infrared light.
The signal is a series of very short infrared
light energy pulses which move in a straight
line, reflecting off your car and returning to
the gun. LIDAR uses these light pulses to
measure the distance to a vehicle. Speed is
then calculated by measuring how quickly
these pulses are reflected given the known
speed of light.
LIDAR (or laser) is a newer technology
and is not as widespread as conventional
radar; therefore, you may not encounter
laser on a daily basis. And unlike radar
detection, laser detection is not prone to
“false” alarms. Because LIDAR transmits a
much narrower beam than does radar, it is
much more accurate in its ability to
distinguish between targets and is also more
difficult to detect. As a result, even the
briefest laser alert should be taken
seriously.
There are limitations to LIDAR
equipment. LIDAR is much more sensitive
to weather conditions than RADAR, and a
LIDAR gun’s range will be decreased by
anything affecting visibility such as rain, fog,
or smoke. A LIDAR gun cannot operate
through glass and it must be stationary in
order to get an accurate reading. Because
LIDAR must have a clear line of sight and is
subject to cosine error (an inaccuracy
which increases as the angle between the
gun and the vehicle increases) police
typically use LIDAR equipment parallel to
the road or from an overpass. LIDAR can be
used day or night.
Radar range also depends on the power
of the radar equipment itself. The strength
of the radar unit's beam diminishes with
distance. The farther the radar has to travel,
the less energy it has for speed detection.
Because intrusion alarms and motion
sensors often operate on the same frequency
as X-Band radar, your Passport will
occasionally receive non-police radar
signals. Since these X-Band transmitters are
usually contained inside of buildings or
aimed toward the ground, they will
generally produce much weaker readings
than will a true radar encounter. As you
become familiar with the sources of these
pseudo alarms in your daily driving, they
will serve as confirmation that your
Passport’s radar detection abilities are fully
operational.
How Safety Radar Works SWS Safety Radar Text Messages
18 19
How Safety Warning Systems Works
Safety Warning Systems, or SWS, is a
modified K-band radar signal used to transmit
important driving related information.
From the factory, your Passport is
programmed with SWS turned ON. If SWS is
not used in your area, you can simply turn
SWS reception OFF by using Passport’s
EZ-Programming feature.
The SWS system has 64 possible
messages (60 allocated). The SWS messages
your Passport can decode and display are
listed on the facing page.
SWS Text Messages
1WorkZone
2Road Closed
3Bridge Closed
4WorkCrew Highway
5WorkCrew Utility
6Detour
7Truck Detour
8MustExit
9Rtlane Closed
10 CntrLane Closed
11 LeftLane Closed
12 Future Use
13 Police
14 Train
15 Low Overpass
16 BridgeUp
17 Bridge Wt Limit
18 RockSlid Area
19 School Zone
20 Road Narrows
21 Sharp Curve
22 Croswalk
23 Deer Crossing
24 Blind or Deaf Kid
25 SteepUse LowGear
26 Accident
27 PoorRoad Surface
28 Loading ScholBus
29 DontPass
30 Dangrous Intrsect
31 Emergncy Vehicle
32 Future Use
33 HighWind
34 Severe Weather
35 HeavyFog
36 Flooding
37 BridgIce
38 RoadIce
39 Dust Blowing
40 Sand Blowing
41 Blinding Snow
42 Future Use
43 RestArea
44 RestArea w/servic
45 24hrFuel
46 Insp Stn Open
47 Insp Stn Closed
48 Reduced Speed
49 Speed Enforced
50 HazMatls Exit
51 Expect Delay
52 10 Min Delay
53 20 Min Delay
54 30 Min Delay
55 1 Hour Delay
56 Traffic TunRadio
57 Pay Toll
58 Trucks ExitRght
59 Trucks ExitLeft
60 Future Use
61 Emerg Veh Mvng
62 Police Pursuit
63 Oversize Vehicle
64 SloMovng Vehicle
Note: Some of the safety messages have
been condensed, so each message can be
displayed on one or two screens on
Passport’s eight character display.
Since Safety radar technology is
relatively new and the number of transmitters
in operation is not yet widespread, you will
not receive Safety signals on a daily basis
and should not be surprised to encounter
emergency vehicles, road hazards and
railroad crossings that are unequipped with
these transmitters and, therefore, fail to
provide a signal. As Safety transmitters
become more prevalent (the number of
operating transmitters is growing every
day), these Safety radar signals will become
more common.
For more information and details about
SWS safety radar, visit their web site at
www.swslc.com.
Troubleshooting Troubleshooting
20 21
Problem
Passport beeps briefly at the same
location every day, but no radar
source is in sight.
Passport does not seem sensitive to
radar or laser.
Passport did not alert when a police
car was in view.
Passport did not provide a Safety
signal while within range of an
emergency vehicle.
Passport’s audible alerts are less
loud after the first few alerts.
Passport’s power-on sequence
reoccurs while you are driving.
Your 14-year old son has changed all
9 of the EZ-Programming options.
Passport will not turn on.
Passport’s Display feels warm.
Solution
• An X-band motion sensor or intrusion alarm is located within
range of your route. With time, you will learn predictable
patterns of these signals.
• Passport may be in City Mode.
• Radar band(s) are turned off in programming.
• VASCAR, (Visual Average Speed Computer And Recorder) a
stopwatch method of speed detection, may be in use. Officer
may not have radar or laser unit turned on.
• Safety transmitters may not be commonly used in your area.
• Passport is in AutoMute Mode. See page 4 for details.
• A loose power connection can cause Passport to be briefly
disconnected, and will retrigger the power-on sequence.
• You can return all of the programming options to the factory
defaults by holding down the City and Mute buttons while you
turn Passport on.
• Check that volume control is ON.
• Check that vehicle ignition is ON.
• Check all connections.
• It is normal for Passport to feel warm.
Explanation of Displays
LsrF ERR
LsrR N/A
Check
Receiver
Wiring
HD
AD
CD
PilotHWY
WorkZone
X|,or K|,
or KA|,etc.
Self Cal
Rcvr ERR
ShiftOFF
Comm ERR
There is a problem with one or both front Laser Shifter(s). There could be an
unplugged connection, damaged wiring, or a problem within the front Laser
Shifter(s). After Passport alerts you to this, it will then resume operation with the front
radar receiver and rear laser only.
There is a problem with the rear Laser Shifter. It could be an unplugged connection,
damaged wiring, or a problem within the rear Laser Shifter itself. After Passport alerts
you to this, it will then resume operation with the front radar and Laser Shifters only.
There is a problem with the front receiver. It could be an unplugged connection,
damaged wiring, or a problem within the front receiver itself. Passport will continue
to display this message, and will not operate until the problem has been repaired.
Sensitivity control is in Highway mode, display is in Dark Mode (page 13)
Sensitivity control is in Auto mode, display is in Dark Mode (page 13)
Sensitivity control is in City mode, display is in Dark Mode (page 13)
One of the many programming messages (pages 9-13)
One of the many Safety Radar messages (page 19)
Passport has been programmed in the ExpertMeter Mode (pages 7-8)
Passport is running a self-calibration test.
Passport’s radar receiver has failed to calibrate. Contact your Dealer for repair.
Laser Shifters were manually shut off during a laser alert.
Serial communications between the interface and the display have been interrupted.
Contact your dealer for repair.
23
Service
22
Service Procedure
If your Passport ever needs service,
please follow these steps:
1Check the troubleshooting section of
this manual. It may have a solution to your
problem.
2Contact your installing dealer. They
will evaluate your unit and arrange
repairs if necessary.
Parts
Replacement parts are available from your
installing dealer.
Accessories
The following accessories are available
through your local dealer:
• 12-volt Amplified External Speaker*.
• Hidden Display Package. Package includes
a single bi-color LED for alert and a 12-volt
Amplified External Speaker*.
*Use of external speaker enables Voice alerts.
ESCORT One Year Limited Warranty
ESCORT warrants your Passport against all
defects in materials and workmanship for a
period of one (1) year from the date of the
original purchase, subject to the following
terms and conditions:
The sole responsibility of ESCORT
under this Warranty is limited to either repair
or, at the option of ESCORT, replacement of
the Passport detector. There are no
expressed or implied warranties, including
those of fitness for a particular purpose or
merchantability, which extend beyond the
face hereof. Some states do not allow
limitations on how long an implied warranty
lasts, so the above limitations may not apply
to you.
This warranty does not cover installation,
removal or reinstallation charges. ESCORT is
not liable for any incidental or consequential
damages arising from the use, misuse,
installation, or mounting of the Passport.
Some states do not allow the exclusion or
limitation of incidental or consequential
damages, so the above limitation or exclusion
may not apply to you.
This Warranty gives you specific rights.
You may have other legal rights which vary
from state to state. This Warranty does not
apply if the serial number on the housing of
the Passport has been removed, or if your
Passport has been subjected to physical
abuse, improper installation, or modification.
Register
online:
@www.
escortradar.com
ESCORT PRODUCT REGISTRATION CARD
̈If you purchased your detector directly from Escort, you do not need to fill this out.
̈If you did not purchase your detector directly from Escort, please fill out this section and return to us, or
register online at our web address: www.escortradar.com.
1. First Name:___________________ Middle Initial____ Last Name__________________________
Address______________________________________________________________________
City_______________________________________ State_____________ ZIP______________
Phone Number (In case we have a question)_____________________________________________
2. Product Purchased________________________ Model___________ Serial Number___________
3. Place of Purchase__________________________________ Date_________ Price____________
4. Primary reason for purchasing this ESCORT product_______________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
̄Remove card along perforations ̄ ̄
2524
̄Remove card along perforations ̄
Features and Specifications
Operating Bands
• X-band 10.525 GHz ± 25 MHz
• K-band 24.150 GHz ± 100 MHz
• Ka-band 34.700 GHz ± 1300 MHz
• Laser 900nm, 33 MHz bandwidth
Radar Receiver / Detector Type
• Superheterodyne, GaAs FET VCO
• Scanning Frequency Discriminator
• Digital Signal Processing (DSP)
• 4-bit High-Resolution A-to-D Converter
Laser Detection
• Quantum Limited Video Receiver
• Multiple Laser Sensor Diodes (6F, 3R)
Laser Shifter
• Multiple Laser-Shifting Diodes (16F, 8R)
Display Type
• 280 AlGaAs LED Matrix/Text
• Bar Graph, ExpertMeter or SpecDisplay
• Automatic Brightness Control
Power Requirement
• 12VDC, Negative Ground
Programmable Features
• Display (Horizontal or Vertical)
• Power-On Indication
• Power-On Sequence
• Signal Strength Meter
• AutoMute
• Audio Tones
• City Mode Sensitivity
• Display Brightness
• Radar and Laser Bands
Sensitivity Control
• AutoSensitivity, Highway, and City
Auto Calibration Circuitry
Complete VG2 Immunity
Dimensions (Inches)
• Display/Controller: 4.2 x 1.4 x .55
• Receiver Unit: 3.75 x 3.15 x 1.75
• Front Laser Units: 4.65 x 1.8 x 0.8
• Rear Laser Unit: 6.0 x 1.0 x .65
Patented Technology
Passport is covered by one or more of the
following US patents.
6,249,218 6,069,580 5,600,132 5,587,916
5,668,554 5,559,508 5,365,055 5,347,120
5,446,923 5,402,087 5,305,007 5,206,500
5,164,729 5,134,406 5,111,207 5,079,553
5,049,885 5,049,884 4,961,074 4,954,828
4,952,937 4,952,936 4,939,521 4,896,855
4,887,753 4,862,175 4,750,215 4,686,499
4,631,542 4,630,054 4,625,210 4,613,989
4,604,529 4,583,057 4,581,769 4,571,593
4,313,216 D314,178 D313,365 D310,167
D308,837 D296,771 D288,418 D253,752
Passport is also covered by one or more of
the following Canadian patents:
1,295,715 1,295,714 1,187,602 1,187,586
Other patents pending.
Specifications