A radar detector may help a driver avoid seeing one of these in the mirror.
Radar detectors are useful devices. Whether a driver speeds all the time or just doesn't want to get snagged in a speed-trap, a good detector can provide a certain level of protection. Cobra makes several popular models of detectors that detect many different types of radar and laser. Essential to avoiding a ticket, however, is knowing what each alarm means.
Radar Signals
There are several different kinds of radar and a good detector should detect them all. Cobra detectors will alert you to the three major kinds of radar that police use. X band is an older model of radar gun not used much anymore -- although it tends to produce the most false alerts due to other devices that use the frequency. It is indicated when the "X" light illuminates. Similarly, the "K" and "Ka" lights will come on when those types of more prevalent radar are detected.
Laser
Laser guns are a more recent development. Cobra detectors will alert you to the three major kinds of radar signal -- LTI20-20, Ultra Lyte and ProLaser. When one of these devices is detected, the "L" light will illuminate. "Instant on" signals, which occur when the officer does not leave the device on but rather triggers it only when a car approaches, are also detected.
VG-2 Detection
The VG-2 is a device that police use to detect radar detectors. Since radar detectors are illegal in some states, being caught using one in those jurisdictions can result in tickets and fines. If a particular Cobra detector has a "V" light, it will detect these devices and signal by lighting up. Additionally, the Cobra device cannot be detected by the VG-2 device. The Cobra's detection protection also remains unaffected.
Safety Alert and Strobe Alert
Several Cobra models will alert the driver to two potential safety hazards. This feature is present if there is a "W" light available to light up. The Safety Alert Traffic Warning System is a system of transmitters that signal train crossings, road construction or a moving emergency vehicle, if so equipped. Strobe Alert will signal that an emergency vehicle with the capability to trigger traffic lights is approaching an intersection. Both of these systems are only now becoming widespread, so a driver should still expect to encounter these situations without a warning.
Signal Strength Indicators
On the right side of the display are a series of three symbols -- one line, two lines and three lines. As the strength of a radar signal increases, such as when the car gets closer to the source, the lights will illuminate in sequence. One line is the lowest strength and three lines means the source is very close. Because laser signals are so focused, the signal strength indicators do not light up for laser.
Audible Signals
Additionally, each type of detection will be identified by a distinct tone or beep. The frequency of the beeps will increase as the strength of the signal increases. Several of the more advanced Cobra models will give a verbal description of the type of signal that is being detected, including the Safety Alerts and Strobe Alerts.
Tags: kinds radar, will alert, alert three, alert three major, Cobra detectors
