Radar Detectors (archive)

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As far as radar detectors, there are a lot of angles on the subject. Over the years, the industries (detectors vs. radar equipment) have both evolved with each other. The enforcement equipment evolves and then the detector equipment has to up the ante another notch tech wise. It is a cat and mouse game that has been going on for over 20 years. The best thing to do before buying one is, like any other purchase, do some homework and be well informed.

In California, radar detectors are currently legal. Right now I am in Maryland and in the area they are illegal in Maryland and Virginia. In fact, at the state line they even go so far as to post a sign saying so and that they will confiscate them on the spot. Hence the technology of the hidden detector. Also, bear in mind that even in California if you are to get pulled over the officer may see it attached to your windshield and have a dim view of your intentions and not be so leinient.

I have used them before. The only problems I ran into was the false warnings. But at the time the technology was not what it is now. Also, having it attached to your windshield can giv you a false sense of security and make you feel invincible. Kind of like the trapeze artist with his net.

As far as how they work, the simplicity of the concept is that the detector have better sensitivityand range than the radar enforcement unit. In other words if the gun has a range of 1000ft and the detector has a range of 11500ft, you have a 500ft "cushion" and reaction distance to slow down. Figure out your speed vs. the distance of the "cushion" and that will be the amount of time you have to slow down. The hot system is to jam the radar. In other words, send a scrambled signal that confuses the law enforcement equipment. As you can see this is a high-tech "cops and robbers" game that has been going on for quite a while!!!

Valentine 1 is reportedly on of the best out there. It is also reasonably priced. I looked into the K40 system as it is hidden and needs to be professionally installed. In fact, I happen to have the info with me here as it was left in my briefcase. If you have access to a fax machine, I can fax it to you. E-mail ne separately and we can go from there. My frozen ass will be back in California tomorrow night at LAX arount 11pm and will immediately be placed upon a Parchment Leather Seat Heater upon arrival home!!

Greg,
I asked the same thing above, do they work or do they just tell you after the enforcer has locked you in to his radar? Also do they get you busted for illegal equipment? and do they always work? I know it was on the board in the past but was wondering what your take is on it.
If they really work I will get one Tues.
Thanks Kurt

K40 also makes front and rear detectors that are concealed as well as radar jamming systems. Perhaps you should look into this if you are planning anymore midnight missions on I-5. :)

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