Beltronics Laser, 995, Safety Detector User Manual

Beltronics

5445 West Chester Road

West Chester OH

45069 USA

USA 800-341-2288

Canada 800-268-3994

www.beltronics.com

©2004 Beltronics

Designed and Manufactured In Canada

Features, specifications and prices subject to change without notice.

Model: V995

DIGITAL RADAR•LASER•SAFETY DETECTOR

Owner’s Manual

The Bel V995 is the most advanced radar,
laser and safety detector ever designed by
Beltronics.

The Bel V995 includes full X, K,
SuperWide Ka, and Safety Warning System
radar capability, front and rear laser
detection, varactor-tuned (VTO) microwave
receiver, digital signal processing (DSP) 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 Beltronics.

In addition, the Bel V995 introduces
the follow revolutionary features:

• Varactor-tuned receiver provides
long-range protection against all
radar threats

• New easy-to-use Programming lets
you customize up to 7 features

• New AutoScan mode intelligently
reduces unwanted false alarms, plus
Highway and City settings

• Ultra-bright text-display provides
easy to read information from any
angle

• New Tech Display provides actual
numeric radar frequency for any
radar signal

• New Programmable Bands (on/off),
including Ku-band for European
travel.

• Detects and decodes Safety Warning
System messages

If you’ve used a radar detector before, a
review of the Quick Reference Guide on
pages 4 and 5, and the Programming
information on pages 12 and 13 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 V995’s outstanding performance and
innovative features.

Please drive safely.

Congratulations Quick Reference Card

1

Programming Details 

Factory Default Settings

To reset V995 to its original factory
settings, press and hold the “CITY” and
“BRT” buttons while turning the power
on. V995’s display will provide a “Reset”
message, accompanied by an audible
alert, acknowledging the reset.

BEL V995 Quick Reference Card

 Remove card along perforations 

 Remove card along perforations 

There are 7 user-selectable options so you
can customize your V995 for your own
preferences.

The buttons labeled CITY and BRT are
also used to enter the Program Mode,
REVIEW your current program settings, and
to CHANGE any settings as desired. The
words PROGRAM, RVW and CHG are
located on the top of the detector, and are
highlighted in graphics.

How to use Programming

1 To enter Program Mode, press and
hold both CITY and BRT buttons down
for 2 seconds. (The unit will beep twice,

and will display the word “Program”).

2 Then press the RVW 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).

3 Press the CHG 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).

4 To leave Program Mode, simply wait
8 seconds without pressing any button.

(The unit will display Complete, beep, and
return to normal operation).

An example

Here is how you would turn V995’s
AutoMute feature off.

1 Enter the Program Mode by holding
both the CITY and BRT buttons down for 2
seconds. V995 will beep twice and display

Program.

2 Then hold the RVW button down. V995
will scroll through the categories, starting
with Display (Pilot), then Voice( Voice),
then Power-On sequence (PwrOn), then
Signal Strength Meter (Meter), and then
AutoMute (aMute).

3 Release the RVW button when V995
shows the AutoMute item. Since the

factory setting is for AutoMute to be on,
V995 will display aMute ON.

(If you accidentally don’t release the
Review button in time, and V995 goes to
the next category, hold the RVW button
down again, and after V995 scrolls
through all categories, it will begin again
at the top of the list.)

4 Press the CHG button to change from

aMute ON to aMute OFF.

5 To complete the Programming, simply
wait 8 seconds without pressing any button.

The V995 will display Complete, beep 4
times, and return to normal operation.

Table of Contents

Quick Reference Guide 4-5

Installation 6-7

• Power Connection 6

• Mounting Location 6

• Windshield Mount 7

Controls and Features 8-11

• Power and Volume Control 8

• Power-on indication 8

• Voice 8

• AutoMute 8

• Mute 8

• Highway / AutoScan / City Button 9

• Brightness and Dark Mode 9

• Audible Alerts 10

• Power Connector 10

• Signal Strength Meter 11

• Tech Display 11

Programming 12-16

• How to use Programming 12

• Example of Programming 12

• Overview of Programming 13

• Details of Programming 14-16

Technical Details 16-23

• Changing the Faceplate 16

• Specifications 17

• Interpreting Alerts 18-19

• How Radar Works 20

• How “POP” Works 20

• How Laser Works 21

• How Safety Radar Works 22-23

Service 24-28

• Troubleshooting 24-25

• Service 26

• Registration 28

• Warranty and Accessories 29

32

Quick Reference Card

BEL V995 Quick Reference Card

* Factory Default Settings

 Remove card along perforations 

 Remove card along perforations 

Press the RVW button

to go from one category

to the next

PILOT

(Power-on indication)

VOICE

POWER-ON SEQUENCE

SIGNAL STRENGTH METER

AUTOMUTE

CITY MODE SENSITIVITY

BANDS

Pilot HWY
Pilot H
Pilot V

Voice ON
Voice OFF

PwrOn STD
PwrOn FST

Meter STD
Meter TEC

aMute ON
aMute OFF

City STD
City LoX
City NoX

Bands ALL
Bands MOD

X ON or OFF (default is on)
K ON or OFF (default is on)
Ka ON or OFF (default is on)
POP ON or OFF (default is off)
Ku ON or OFF (default is off)
LSR ON or OFF (default is on)
SWS ON or OFF (default is off)

Press the CHG button
to change your setting
within a category

* Full word: Highway or AutoScan or City

Letter: H or A or C
Vehicle voltage

* Voice alerts on

Voice alerts off

* Standard power-on sequence

Fast power-on sequence

* Standard signal strength meter

Tech Display

* AutoMute on

AutoMute off

* Standard City mode sensitivity

Low X band sensitivity in City Mode
No X band sensitivity in City Mode

* All bands enabled

One or more bands are disabled

Turn bands “ON” or “OFF” by
pressing the VOLUME/MUTE button

Radar Antenna and Laser Lens

The rear panel of your V995 should have a
clear view of the road ahead. For best
performance, do not mount V995

directly behind windshield wipers

or tinted areas. Page 6

Alphanumeric Matrix Display

V995’s display will show Highway,
AutoScan, or City as its power-on indication.
If you prefer, you can choose other power­on indications. Page 12-14

During an alert, the display will indicate
radar band, and a precise bar graph of signal
strength. Page 10

Note: In the Dark Mode the display will
not light during an alert. Page 9

Quick Reference Guide

To begin using your V995,
just follow these simple steps

1 Plug the small end of the power cord

into the side jack of the detector, and
plug the large end of the power cord
into your car’s lighter socket.

2 Mount your V995 on the windshield

using the supplied windshield mount.

3 Press the PWR button, located top left,

to turn the V995 on.

4 Press and hold the Volume/Mute

button to adjust the volume.

Please read the manual to fully understand
V995’s operation and features.

QuickMount Slot

Insert V995’s adjustable Windshield mount
into this slot. Page 7

QuickMount Button

Press the button, and slide the Windshield
mount into one of its four locking positions.

Page 7

City Button

Switches between AutoScan, City and
Highway, settings. In general, we
recommend AutoScan. Page 8

Power

Press the PWR button to turn the V995 on
or off.

Volume

Press and hold the Volume/Mute button to
adjust the alert volume level. Page 8

AutoMute

V995’s patented AutoMute automatically
reduces the volume level of the audio alert
after a brief period. Page 8. If you prefer,
you can turn AutoMute off. Page 8

Programming

V995 is ready to go, just plug it in and turn it
on. But you can also easily change 7 features
for your preferences. Page 12-16

4

Rear Laser Port

Receives laser signals from behind the
vehicle.

Earphone Jack

Accepts standard 3.5mm earphone.

Brightness Button

Press to adjust display brightness. There are
three brightness settings, plus Dark Mode.

In the Dark Mode, the power-on
indication will be changed to a “AD,” “HD,”
or “CD” (indicating AutoScan, Dark,
Highway Dark, or City Dark). In the Dark
Mode, V995’s meter will not display during
an alert, only the audio will alert you.

Page 9

Power Jack

Plug the power cord into this connector.

Pages 6

Mute Button

Briefly press this button (above the display)
to silence the audio for a specific alert. (The
audio will alert you to the next encounter.)

Page 8

5

Power Connection

To power V995, plug the small end of the
power cord, (telephone-type connector)
into the modular jack on V995’s right side,
and plug the lighter plug adapter into your
vehicle’s lighter socket or accessory socket.

V995 operates on 12 volts DC negative
ground only. The lighter plug provided is a
standard size and will work in most
vehicles. However, some vehicles may
require the optional European sleeve to
ensure a snug fit. If so, simply call our
service department to order one. This
sleeve slides over the lighter plug. Of
course, your lighter socket must be clean
and properly connected for proper
operation.

Note: Depending on your vehicle, the
lighter socket power may either be
continuously on, or it may be switched on
and off with your ignition switch.

Optional power cords

See the Accessories section for details on
our optional coiled SmartPlug or Direct-wire
power cords. Page 29

Mounting Location

WARNING: BELTRONICS cannot anticipate
the many ways the V995 can be mounted.
It is important that you mount V995 where
it will not impair your view nor present a
hazard in case of an accident.

Where to mount V995

For optimum detection performance, we
recommend the following:

• Using the QuickMount bracket, mount
your V995 level, and high enough on your
front windshield to provide a clear view of
the road from the front and rear.

• Mount V995 away from windshield
wipers, other solid objects, and heavily
tinted areas that might obstruct the radar
antenna or laser lens.

6

Installation

Windshield QuickMount

V995’s QuickMount bracket is designed for
unobtrusive and hassle-free mounting.

1 Depress the QuickMount button on the
top of V995 (by the word BELTRONICS)
and slide the QuickMount bracket into the
slot until it is locked into the position which
best fits the angle of your windshield (there
are four settings available). For extremely
horizontal or extremely sloped
windshields, the QuickMount
bracket can be bent.

To ensure that the suction cups
adhere to the windshield firmly, be sure to
keep both your windshield and the suction
cups clean.

2 To adjust V995 on your windshield, use
the QuickMount adjustment button
located on the top of the V995, and slide
V995 forward or backward to obtain a level
horizontal position.

When installed and adjusted properly, the
back top edge of the V995 should rest
solidly against your windshield.

Caution!

A few vehicles (including some Porsches)
have windshields with a soft anti-lacerative
coating on the inside surface. Use of suction
cups will permanently mar this coating.
Consult your dealership or the vehicle
owner’s manual to determine if your
windshield has this coating.

User’s Tip

You can leave the QuickMount bracket in
place on your windshield, and easily remove
the V995 by pressing the adjustment button
and sliding V995 off the mount. Again, be
sure to position the bracket where it won’t
present a hazard in the event of an accident.
Additional mounts are available.

7

Controls and Features

Power

To turn V995 on or off, press the PWR
button located on the top. When you turn
V995 on, it goes through a sequence of
alerts.

If you prefer, you may program your
V995 for a shorter power-on sequence. See
the Programming section for details.

Volume

Press and hold the Volume/Mute button
located on the top case to adjust the V995’s
alert volume level. The audio will ramp up
and down, accompanied by a bar-graph on
the display. Once you’ve reached your
preferred audio level, simply release the
button.

Power-on indication

After V995’s start-up sequence is complete,
the alphanumeric display will show
Highway, AutoScan, or City to indicate
which sensitivity mode is selected.

If you prefer, you can select alternate
power-on displays. See the Programming
section for details.

Voice Alerts

The V995 provides digital voice announce­ments of radar and laser bands detected. If
Safety Radar (SWS) is turned on, a safety
radar message will also be announced. See
the Programming section for details.

If you prefer, you can select turn Voice
Alerts off. See the Programming section for
details.

AutoMute

Your V995 has our patented AutoMute
feature. After V995 alerts you to a radar
encounter at the volume you have selected,
the AutoMute feature will automatically
reduce 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 Programming
section for details.

Mute

The Mute button, located on V995’s top
case, allows you to silence the audio alert
during a radar encounter.

To mute the audio for a single specific
signal, briefly press the Mute button. After
that radar encounter has passed, the mute
will automatically reset and the audio will
alert you to the next encounter.

8

Highway / AutoScan / City Button

The City button selects V995’s sensitivity
mode. We recommend the AutoScan mode
for most driving.

V995’s AutoScan mode provides long­range warning, with minimum false alarms.
In this mode, V995’s internal computer
continuously analyzes all incoming signals
and intelligently filters out 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 also customize V995’s
City mode sensitivity, including “No X”
mode. See the Programming section for
details.

9

Brightness

V995’s BRT button selects the brightness of
V995’s display. There are four settings:
Maximum, Medium, Minimum, and Dark.
Press the BRT button to select your
preferred brightness.

If you prefer, you can have V995
always turn on at a specific brightness. See
the Programming section for details.

Dark Mode

When you select the Dark mode with the
BRT switch, V995 changes to a very
inconspicuous power-on indication: a very
Dim AD, HD, or CD. (In this display, the A,
H, or C indicates Auto, Highway, or City,
and the D indicates Dark.)

When V995 is in the Dark mode, the
display will not show visual alerts when
V995 detects signals. Only the audible alert
will tell you of detected signals.

If you prefer, you can have V995’s
display totally dark (see the Programming
section).

Controls and Features

10

Power Connector

V995's power jack uses a telephone-type
connector. This 4-conductor connector
only works with the included power cord,
optional direct-wire, or SmartPlug cord.

For more information or to order, call

us toll-free at 1-800-341-2288.

Signal Strength Meter

V995’s alphanumeric display consists of 280
individual LEDs, to provide an intuitive
ultra-bright display of signal strength and
text messages.

V995’s standard bar-graph signal
strength meter only displays information on
a single radar signal. If there are multiple
signals present, V995’s internal computer
determines which is the most important
threat to show on the bar-graph meter.

When V995 detects radar, it displays
the band (X, K, or Ka), and a precise bar­graph of the signal strength. When V995
detects a laser signal, the display will show
“LASER.”

NOTE: If you are operating V995 in the
Dark mode, the display will not light when
a signal is detected, only the audio will be
heard.

11

Tech Display

Bel V995’s new Tech Display option is for
the experienced detector user. In this
mode, V995 will display the actual numeric
frequency of the radar signal being
received.

K 24.150

Tech Display shows one K-band signal

at 24.150 gigahertz.

Note: Even long-time detector users
will require a significant amount of time to
get familiar with this new level of
information about detected signals.

Audible Alerts

For Radar signals:

V995 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. 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 = chirping

K-band = buzzing

Ka-band = double-chirp

POP = full double-chirp

Ku-band = high pitched buzzing

For Laser and POP signals:

Since laser and POP signals (if turned
on) are a possible threat no matter how
weak, the V995 alerts you to these bands at
full strength.

For Safety signals:

V995 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 23.

Programming

12

There are 7 user-selectable options so you
can customize your V995 for your own
preferences. The buttons labeled CITY and
BRT are also used to enter the Program
Mode, REVIEW your current program
settings, and to CHANGE any settings as
desired. The words PGM, RVW, and CHG
are located on the top of the detector, and
are highlighted in colored graphics. Pages
14-16 explain each option in more detail.

How to use Programming

1 To enter Program Mode, press and
hold both the CITY and BRT buttons
down for 2 seconds. (The unit will beep

twice, and will display the word Program

).

2 Then press the RVW 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).

3 Press the CHG 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).

4 To leave the Program Mode, simply
wait 8 seconds without pressing any
button, or press the PWR button. (The

unit will display Complet

e, beep 4 times,

and return to normal operation).

An example

Here is how you would turn V995’s
AutoMute feature off.

1 Enter the Program Mode by holding
both the CITY and BRT buttons down for
2 seconds. V995 will beep twice and

display Program

.

2 Then hold the RVW button down.

V995 will scroll through the categories,
starting with Pilot (Pilo

t), Voice

(Voic

e), Power-on sequence (PwrOn ),

Signal strength meter (Mete

r), and then

AutoMute (aMut

e).

3 Release the RVW button when V995
shows the AutoMute item. Since the factory

setting is for AutoMute to be on, V995 will
display aMute O

N.

(If you accidentally don’t release the
RVW button in time, and V995 goes to the
next category, hold the RVW button down
again, and after V995 scrolls through all
categories, it will begin again at the top of
the list.)

4 Press the CHG button to change from

aMute ON

to aMute OFF.

5 To complete the Programming, simply
wait 8 seconds without pressing any button,
or press the PWR button. The V995 will

display Complet

e, beep 4 times, and return

to normal operation.

Overview of Programming

13

Pilot HWY
Pilot H
Pilot V

Voice ON
Voice OFF

PwrOn STD
PwrOn FST

Meter STD
Meter TEC

aMute ON
aMute OFF

City STD
City LoX
City NoX

Bands ALL
Bands MOD

X ON or OFF (default is on)
K ON or OFF (default is on)
Ka ON or OFF (default is on)
POP ON or OFF (default is off)
Ku ON or OFF (default is off)
LSR ON or OFF (default is on)
SWS ON or OFF (default is off)

Press the CHANGE button
to change your setting
within a category

* Full word: Highway or AutoScan or City

Letter: H or A or C
Vehicle voltage

* Voice alerts on

Voice alerts off

* Standard power-on sequence

Fast power-on sequence

* Standard signal strength meter

Tech Display

* AutoMute on

AutoMute off

* Standard City mode sensitivity

Low X band sensitivity in City Mode
No X band sensitivity in City Mode

* All bands enabled

One or more bands are disabled

Turn bands “ON” or “OFF” by
pressing the VOLUME/MUTE button

Press the REVIEW button

to go from one category

to the next

PILOT

(Power-on indication)

VOICE

POWER-ON SEQUENCE

SIGNAL STRENGTH METER

AUTOMUTE

CITY MODE SENSITIVITY

BANDS

* Factory Default Settings

To reset V995 to its original factory
settings, press and hold the “CITY”
and “BRT” buttons while turning
the power on. V995’s display will
provide a “Reset” message,
accompanied by an audible alert,
acknowledging the reset.

Details of Programming

14

Pilot (Power-on indication)

Note: When you are using the Dark mode,
the display will only show HD, AD, or CD,
(Highway-Dark, AutoScan-Dark, or City­Dark).

Pilot HWY

(Full description)
In this setting, V995 will display “Highway,”
“City,” or “AutoScan” as its power-on
indication. (factory default)

Pilot H

(Letter)
In this setting, V995 will display “H” for
Highway, “C” for City, and “A” for
AutoScan.

Pilot V

(Vehicle voltage)
In this setting, V995 will continually display
“H” for Highway, “C” for City, and “A” for
AutoScan, 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 16.0
volts. The high-voltage warning is also
followed by an audible alert.

Voice

Voice On (Voice announcements on)
In this setting, all radar, laser, and SWS
messages (if programmed) will be
announced using a digital voice.

Voice Off

(Voice announcements off)
In this setting, only the distinct audio tone
will be heard when a radar, Laser, or SWS
message is detected.

Power-on Sequence

PwrOnSTD (Standard)
In this setting, each time you turn on V995,
it will display “BEL V995,” “Laser,” “Ka­band,” “K-band,” “X-band,” followed by a
brief X-band alert. (factory default)

If any bands have been changed from
the factory default settings, a double X-band
tone and corresponding message
(i.e. “X OFF”), will alert you that one or
more bands have been changed.

PwrOnFST

(Fast power-on)
In this setting, V995 will provide a single
X-band tone. If any bands have been
changed from the factory default settings, a
double X-band tone and corresponding
message (i.e. “X OFF”), will alert you that
one or more bands have been changed.

15

Signal Strength Meter

MeterSTD (Standard meter)
In this setting, the meter displays the band
of the received signal, and a bar graph
shows the relative signal strength. (factory
default)

MeterTEC

(Tech Display meter)
In this setting, the meter displays the actual
numeric frequency of the radar signal
received.

Note: The Tech Display feature is

explained in more detail on page 11.

AutoMute

aMute ON (AutoMute on)
In this setting, V995’s audio alerts will
initially be at the volume you set, but after a
few seconds, V995 will automatically
reduce the volume level, to keep you
informed, but not annoyed. (factory default)

aMuteOFF

(AutoMute off)
With AutoMute off, V995’s audio alerts will
remain at the volume you set for the
duration of the radar encounter.

City Mode Sensitivity

City STD (Standard)
In this setting, when you put V995 in the
City mode, X-band sensitivity is significantly
reduced, to reduce annoyance from X-band
intrusion alarms and motion sensors.
(factory default)

City LoX

(Low X band sensitivity)
In this setting, when you put V995 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 V995 in the
City mode, V995 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
V995 is operated in City mode. X-band
sensitivity is not affected when used in
“AutoScan” or “Highway” modes.

Bands

BandsALL

In this setting all radar, laser, and SWS
frequencies are monitored. This is the
factory setting, and it is highly
recommended that you use your V995 in
this mode.

BandsMOD

In this setting, V995 will warn you with an
audible alert, and associated text message
stating which band has changed from the
original factory setting (i.e. “SWS ON”).
This warning is displayed during the start
up sequence (standard or fast).

WARNING: Do not turn off a band
unless you are absolutely certain that
there are no traffic radar units using
that specific band in your area.

16

Details of Programming

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

• Ku-band 13.400 GHZ ± 25MHz

• Laser 904nm, 33 MHz bandwidth

Radar Receiver / Detector Type

• Superheterodyne, VTO

• Scanning Frequency Discriminator

• Digital Signal Processing (DSP)

Laser Detection

• Quantum Limited Video Receiver

• Multiple Laser Sensor Diodes

Display Type

• 280 LED Alphanumeric

• Bar Graph or Tech Display

• 3 Levels of Brightness, plus Dark Mode

Power Requirement

• 12VDC, Negative Ground

• Power cord (included)

Programmable Features

• Power-On Indication

• Voice Alerts

• Power-On Sequence

• Signal Strength Meter

• AutoMute

• City Mode Sensitivity

• Radar / Laser Bands

Sensitivity Control

• Highway, AutoScan and City

Auto Calibration Circuitry

VG2 Immunity

Dimensions (Inches)

• 1.25 H x 2.75 W x 4.75 L

Patented Technology

V995 is covered by one or more of the
following US patents.
6,614,385 6,587,068 6,400,305 6,249,218
6,069,580 5,668,554 5,600,132 5,587,916
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
V995 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. Additional patents
may be listed inside the product.

17

Technical Details

Faceplate

Removing the top faceplate
1 Using a sharp knife, or similar item, lift
one of the corners of the faceplate and pull
it off.
2 Remove any visible adhesive.

Installing the optional faceplate
1 Remove the backing from the button
area (lower half) first.
2 Align the optional faceplate over the
buttons first, and press down when it is
aligned correctly.
3 Once the button area of the faceplate is
pressed down, remove the remaining half of
the backing and press it
into place.
4 Press firmly around
the entire faceplate to
make certain the
adhesive has made
good contact.

Technical Details

18

Interpreting Alerts

Although the V995 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 V995 and how to interpret what
it tells you. The specific type of radar being

used, the type of transmission (continuous
or instant-on) and the location of the radar
source affect the radar alerts you receive.

The following examples will give you
an introduction to understanding the V995’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 melt into a solid point even when
the patrol car is directly behind you.

Alert

The V995 begins to sound slowly, then the
rate of alert increases. The Signal Meter ramps
accordingly.

V995 emits short alerts for a few seconds and
then falls silent only to briefly alert and fall
silent again.

V995 suddenly sounds a continuous tone for
the appropriate band received. All segments in
the Signal Strength Meter are lit.

A brief laser alert.

V995 receives weak signals. These signals may
be a little stronger as you pass large, roadside
objects. The signals increase in frequency.

19

Explanation

You are approaching a radar unit concealed by
a hill or an obstructed curve.

A patrol car is traveling 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

V995 alerts slowly for a while and then
abruptly jumps to a strong alert.

V995 alerts intermittently. Rate and strength of
alerts may be consistent or vary wildly.

V995 alerts intermittently. Rate and strength of
signal increases with each alert.

V995 gives an X-band, or K-band alert
intermittently.

Technical Details

20

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.

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 V995 will
occasionally receive non-police radar
signals. Since these X-Band transmitters are
usually contained inside of a building, 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 V995’s
radar detection abilities are fully
operational.

How “POP” Works

“POP” mode is a relatively new feature for
radar gun manufacturers. It works by
transmitting an extremely short burst,
within the allocated band, to identify
speeding vehicles in traffic. Once the target
is identified, or “POPPED,” the gun is then
turned to its normal operating mode to
provide a vehicle tracking history, (required
by law).

21

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.

Technical Details

22

How Safety Radar Works

Safety Warning System, or SWS, uses a
modified K-band radar signal. The SWS safety
radar system has 64 possible messages (60
currently allocated). The SWS messages
your V995 can display are listed on the
facing page.

From the factory, your V995 is
programmed with SWS decoding OFF. If
SWS is used in your area, your V995 will
display the safety messages associated with
the signal. If you wish to detect this system,
use the Programming feature to turn V995’s
SWS decoding ON.

NOTE: Some of the safety messages
have been condensed, so that each message
can be displayed on one or two screens on
V995’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. Do not be surprised if you
encounter emergency vehicles, road
hazards and railroad crossings that are
unequipped with these transmitters. As
Safety transmitters become more prevalent
(the number of operating transmitters is
growing every day), these Safety radar
signals will become more common.

23

SWS Text Messages

Highway Construction or Maintenance

1 Work Zone Ahead
2 Road Closed Ahead/Follow Detour
3 Bridge Closed Ahead/Follow Detour
4 Highway Work Crews Ahead
5 Utility Work Crews Ahead
6 All Traffic Follow Detour Ahead
7 All Trucks Follow Detour Ahead
8 All Traffic Exit Ahead
9 Right Lane Closed Ahead
10 Center Lane Closed Ahead
11 Left Lane Closed Ahead
12 For future use

Highway Hazard Zone Advisory

13 Stationary Police Vehicle Ahead
14 Train Approaching/At Crossing
15 Low Overpass Ahead
16 Drawbridge Up
17 Observe Drawbridge Weight Limit
18 Rock Slide Area Ahead
19 School Zone Ahead
20 Road Narrows Ahead
21 Sharp Curve Ahead
22 Pedestrian Crossing Ahead
23 Deer/Moose Crossing
24 Blind/Deaf Child Area
25 Steep Grade Ahead/Truck Use Low Gear
26 Accident Ahead
27 Poor Road Surface Ahead
28 School Bus Loading/Unloading
29 No Passing Zone
30 Dangerous Intersection Ahead
31 Stationary Emergency Vehicle Ahead
32 For future use

Weather Related Hazards

33 High Wind Ahead
34 Severe Weather Ahead
35 Heavy Fog Ahead
36 High Water/Flooding Ahead
37 Ice On Bridge Ahead
38 Ice On Road Ahead
39 Blowing Dust Ahead
40 Blowing Sand Ahead
41 Blinding Snow Whiteout Ahead
42 For future use

Travel Information/Convenience

43 Rest Area Ahead
44 Rest Area With Service Ahead
45 24 Hour Fuel Service Ahead
46 Inspection Station Open
47 Inspection Station Closed
48 Reduced Speed Area Ahead
49 Speed Limit Enforced
50 Hazardous Materials Exit Ahead
51 Congestion Ahead/Expect Delay
52 Expect 10 Minute Delay
53 Expect 20 Minute Delay
54 Expect 30 Minute Delay
55 Expect 1 Hour Delay
56 Traffic Alert/Tune AM Radio
57 Pay Toll Ahead
58 Trucks Exit Right
59 Trucks Exit Left
60 For future use

Fast/Slow Moving Vehicles

61 Emergency Vehicle In Transit
62 Police In Pursuit
63 Oversize Vehicle In Transit
64 Slow Moving Vehicle

Troubleshooting

24

Problem

V995 beeps briefly at the same
location every day, but no radar
source is in sight.

V995 does not seem sensitive to
radar or laser.

V995 did not alert when a police car
was in view.

V995 did not provide a Safety signal
while within range of an emergency
vehicle.

V995’s display is not working.

V995’s audible alerts are less loud
after the first few alerts.

V995 bounces or sags on wind­shield.

V995’s power-on sequence
reoccurs while you are driving.

Your 14-year old son has changed all
7 of the Programming options.

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.

• Make sure that windshield wipers do not block V995’s radar
antenna and that the laser lens is not behind tinted areas.

• Determine if your vehicle has an Instaclear

®

, ElectriClear®or
solar reflective windshield which may deflect radar or laser
signals.

• V995 may be in City Mode.

• 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.

• Press the BRT button to deactivate Dark Mode.

• V995 is in AutoMute Mode. See page 8 for details.

• V995 is not making contact with the windshield to provide
stability. While holding down V995’s QuickMount button,
slide V995 toward the windshield so that the back top edge
makes firm contact.

• A loose power connection or dirty lighter socket can cause
V995 to be briefly disconnected.

• You can return all of the programming options to the factory
defaults by holding down the CITY and BRT buttons while
you turn V995 on.

25

Problem

V995 will not turn on.

V995 feels very warm.

Solution

• Check that the power is ON.

• Check that vehicle ignition is ON.

• Check that vehicle lighter socket is functional.

• Try

V995 in another vehicle.

• It is normal for V995 to feel warm.

Explanation of Displays

AD Sensitivity control is in Auto mode, display is in Dark mode (page 9)

HD Sensitivity control is in Highway mode, display is in Dark mode (page 9)

CD Sensitivity control is in City mode, display is in Dark mode (page 9)

No display V995 is in the Dark mode (page 9)

PilotHWY One of the many programming messages (pages12-16)

WorkZone One of the many Safety Radar messages (pages 22-23)

Caution V995 has detected a Safety Radar Signal, but the signal isn’t yet strong

enough to decode the specific safety message (page 22-23)

Self Cal V995 is running a self-calibration test

Service V995 has failed the calibration test. Contact Beltronics for repair
Required

Service

26

Service Procedure

If your V995 ever needs service, please
follow these simple steps:

1 Check the troubleshooting section of
this manual. It may have a solution to your
problem.

2 Call us at 1-800-341-2288. We may be
able to solve your problem over the phone.
If the problem requires that you send your
V995 to the factory for repair, we will
provide you with a Service Order Number,
which must be included on the outside of
your shipping box.

Enclose the following information with your
V995:

• Your Service Order Number

• Your name and return address

• Your daytime telephone number

• A description of the problem you are
experiencing

Out Of Warranty Repairs

For out of warranty repairs, include
prepayment in the amount you were
quoted by the Beltronics Customer Service
Representative. If the detector has been
damaged, abused or modified, the repair
cost will be calculated on a parts and labor
basis. If it exceeds the basic repair charge,
you will be contacted with a quotation. If
the additional payment is not received
within 30 days (or if you notify us that you
choose not to have your V995 repaired at
the price quoted), your V995 will be
returned, without repair. Payment can be
made by check, money order, or credit
card.

Ship V995 and power cord to:

BELTRONICS
Customer Service Department
Service Order Number ______________
5442 West Chester Road
West Chester OH 45069

For your own protection, we recommend
that you ship your V995 postpaid and
insured. Insist on a proof of delivery, and
keep the receipt until the return of your
V995.

27

Register

online:

@

www.

beltronics

.com

BELTRONICS PRODUCT REGISTRATION CARD

 If you purchased your detector directly from BELTRONICS, you do not need to fill this out.

 If you did not purchase your detector directly from BELTRONICS, please fill out this section and return to us,

or register online at our web address: www.beltronics.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 BELTRONICS product____________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________

 Remove card along perforations  

Warranty and Accessories

29

BELTRONICS One Year Limited Warranty

BELTRONICS warrants your V995 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 BELTRONICS
under this Warranty is limited to either
repair or, at the option of BELTRONICS,
replacement of the V995 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.

BELTRONICS is not liable for any
incidental or consequential damages arising
from the use, misuse, or mounting of the
V995. 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 V995 has been removed, or if your V995
has been subjected to physical abuse,
improper installation, or modification.

Accessories

The following accessories and replacement
parts are available for BEL V995.

Standard Coiled Power Cord

$14.00

Direct-wire Power Cord

$10.00

Coiled SmartPlug

$29.95

Direct-wire SmartPlug

$29.95

Accessory Kit

$19.95

Extra Windshield Mount

$4.00

28

 Remove card along perforations 

ATTN CUSTOMER SERVICE

BELTRONICS INC

5442 WEST CHESTER RD

WEST CHESTER OH 45069-9789