Radar detectors have come a long way since their introduction in the early 1970s. Originally designed to detect single X band signals from police radar guns, the original "Fuzz Buster" emitted a high-pitched tone and lit up when it detected the signal. Today, detection systems detect up to 15 signal bands — seven radar signals, six laser signals and two safety systems. They also offer voice alerts and use GPS technology to alert drivers to speed cameras, red light cameras, known speed traps and dangerous intersections.
Law Enforcement Devices
The most common radar signals law enforcement uses today are X band, K band and Ka band. Popular law enforcement laser guns include the ProLaser&trade line, Ultralyte&trade and POP, a super-fast device that doesn't emit detectable radar signals until it's turned on and detects speeds in nanoseconds. Law enforcement also uses Spectre and VG-2 signals to identify drivers who are using radar detectors.
Reducing False Signals
Radar detectors sometimes pick up signals that aren't police surveillance. For example, X band is used in automatic door openers at strip malls, and K band is used in security systems. When a radar detector picks up these non-police signals, it's called falsing. Falsing can distract the driver or make the driver ignore all alerts.
Modern detection systems have features that help reduce falsing by changing the detector's sensitivity to signals. For example, City mode is less sensitive than Highway mode. Muting features turn off the radar detector when the vehicle is moving at a slow speed, such as in a parking lot.
Other Alerts
Detection systems provide drivers with other alerts. Strobe and safety alert systems alert drivers when emergency vehicles are approaching. Location-based alerts using GPS technology alert drivers to dangerous intersections, speed traps, speed cameras and red light cameras. Other features include voice alerts, car voltage warnings, digital speedometers and compasses.
Thanks to Cobra for the information in this article.
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