Page 1
M A G N E S I U M
C O N S T R U C T I O N
D I G I T A L R A D A R•L A S E R•S A F E T Y D E T E C T O R
Page 2
The BELTRONICS STi MAGNUM is the most
advanced radar, laser and safety detector
ever designed, and is ready to use right out
of the box with our recommended factory
settings.
The STi MAGNUM includes full X, K,
SuperWide Ka, and Safety Warning System
radar capability, front and rear laser
detection, dual LNA (low noise amplifier)
microwave receivers, 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 BELTRONICS STi
MAGNUM contains the following
revolutionary features:
• Dual LNA (low noise amplifier)
receivers provide the longest
possible warning against all radar
threats.
• Advanced Signal Rejection Software
(TSR).
• TotalShield
™ RF Technology
provides the ultimate in
undetectability.
• Programmable Alert Lamp provides
additional visual indication of alerts.
• Rugged magnesium case provides
the ultimate protection for your
investment.
• Ultra-bright text-display provides
easy to read information from any
angle.
• High and low voltage warning is
given any time the vehicle’s voltage
drops below 10.5 volts, or goes
above 16.5 volts.
• Easy-to-use Programming lets you
customize up to 9 features.
• Exclusive AutoScan mode intelligently
reduces unwanted false alarms.
• Tech Display provides actual
numeric radar frequency for any
radar signal.
• Programmable Bands (on/off).
• Detects and decodes up to 64 Safety
Warning System messages.
• Includes new coiled SmartPlug,
which provides a convenient mute
button right on the plug.
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 BELTRONICS STi MAGNUM’s
outstanding performance and innovative
features.
Please drive safely.
Programming Details
BELTRONICS STi MAGNUM Quick Reference Card
An example
Here is how you would turn the STi
MAGNUM’s AutoMute feature off.
1 Enter the Program Mode by holding
both the VOLUME/MUTE and SENS buttons
down for 2 seconds. The STi MAGNUM will
beep twice and display
Program
.
2 Then hold the RVW button down. The
STi MAGNUM will scroll through the
categories, starting with display
(
Display
),
power-on indication
(
Pilot
), then alert
lamp
(
Alamp
), Voice, Power-on sequence,
signal strength meter, and then AutoMute.
3 Release the RVW button when the STi
MAGNUM shows the AutoMute item. Since
the factory setting is for AutoMute to be on,
the STi MAGNUM will display
aMute ON
.
If you accidentally don’t release the
Review button in time, and the STi
MAGNUM goes to the next category, hold
the RVW button down again, and scroll
through the categories again until
aMute
is displayed.
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 STi MAGNUM will display
Complete
, beep 4 times, and return to
normal operation.
There are 9 user-selectable options so you
can customize your STi MAGNUM for your
own preferences.
The buttons labeled VOLUME/MUTE
and SENS are also used to enter the Programming Mode, REVIEW your current program
settings, and to CHANGE any settings as
desired. The abbreviations PGM, RVW, and
CHG are located on the lower part of the
display lens and are highlighted in graphics.
How to use Programming
1 To enter Program Mode, press and
hold both VOLUME/MUTE and SENS
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 4
times, and return to normal operation.
Factory Default Settings
To reset the STi MAGNUM to its original
factory settings, press and hold the
“VOLUME/MUTE,” and “SENS,” buttons
while turning the power on. The STi
MAGNUM’s display will provide a
Reset
message, accompanied by an audible
alert, acknowledging the reset.
Quick Reference Card
FCC Note: Modifications not expressly
approved by the manufacturer could
void the user’s FCC granted authority
to operate the equipment.
Congratulations
Remove card along perforations
Remove card along perforations
Page 3
Radar Antenna and Laser Lens
The rear panel of your STi MAGNUM should
have a clear view of the road ahead. For
best performance, do not mount the
STi MAGNUM directly behind
windshield wipers or tinted
areas. Page 6
Alphanumeric Display
The STi MAGNUM’s display will show
Highway, AutoScan, City, or City NoX as its
power-on indication. If you prefer, you can
choose other power-on indications. Pages
12-15
During an alert, the display will indicate
the radar or laser 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 STi MAGNUM,
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 vehicle’s lighter socket.
2 Mount your STi MAGNUM on the
windshield using the supplied
windshield mount.
3 Press the PWR button, located on the
left side of the front panel, to turn the
STi MAGNUM on.
4 Press and hold the VOLUME/MUTE
button to adjust the volume level.
Please read the manual to fully understand
STi MAGNUM’s operation and features.
QuickMount Slot
Insert STi MAGNUM’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
Power Button (PWR)
Press the PWR button to turn the STi
MAGNUM on or off.
AutoMute
STi MAGNUM’s patented AutoMute
automatically reduces the volume level of
the audio alert after a brief period. If you
prefer, you can turn AutoMute off. Page 8
Programming
The STi MAGNUM is ready to go, just plug
it in and turn it on. But you can also easily
change 9 features for your preferences.
Pages
12-16
Rear Laser Port
Receives laser signals from behind the
vehicle.
Power Jack
Plug the power cord into this connector.
Page 6
Earphone Jack
Accepts standard 3.5mm mono earphone.
VOLUME•MUTE Button
Press and hold the VOLUME/MUTE button
(below the display) to adjust the alert
volume level.
Briefly press this button to silence the
audio for a specific alert. (The audio will
alert you to the next encounter.)
Page 8
Sensitivity Button (SENS)
Switches between Highway, AutoScan, City
and City NoX settings. In general, we
recommend the AutoScan mode. Page 9
Page 4
Power Connection
To apply power to the STi MAGNUM, plug
the small end of the power cord,
(telephone type connector) into the
modular jack on the STi MAGNUM’s right
side, and plug the lighter plug adapter into
your vehicle’s lighter socket or accessory
socket.
Your STi MAGNUM 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 and we’ll send you one.
This sleeve slides over the power cord’s
lighter plug adapter. Of course, your lighter
socket must be clean and properly
connected for proper operation.
Mounting Location
Where to mount STi MAGNUM
For optimum detection performance, we
recommend the following:
• Using the Windshield QuickMount,
mount your STi MAGNUM level, and
high enough on your front windshield to
provide a clear view of the road from the
front and rear.
• Mount the STi MAGNUM away from
windshield wipers, other solid objects, and
heavily tinted areas that might obstruct the
radar antenna or laser lens.
Installation
Windshield QuickMount
The STi MAGNUM’s QuickMount windshield bracket is designed for unobtrusive
and hassle-free mounting and removal.
1 Depress the adjustment button on
the top of the STi MAGNUM (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 the STi MAGNUM on your
windshield, use the QuickMount
adjustment button located on the top
of the STi MAGNUM, and slide the STi
MAGNUM forward or backward to obtain a
level position.
User’s Tip
You can leave the QuickMount bracket
in place on your windshield, and easily
remove STi MAGNUM by pressing the
adjustment button and sliding the STi
MAGNUM 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 for other
vehicles in your household.
N0TE: 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. We
suggest using a direct-wire SmartPlug
connected to a switched circuit at the
fuse box if the lighter socket is
continuously on.
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.
WARNING: BELTRONICS cannot
anticipate the many ways STi MAGNUM
can be mounted. It is important that you
mount STi MAGNUM where it will not
impair your view nor present a hazard
in case of an accident.
NOTE: When installed and adjusted
properly, the back top edge of the STi
MAGNUM should rest solidly against
your windshield.
Page 5
Controls and Features
Power Button (PWR)
To turn STi MAGNUM on or off, press the
PWR button located on the front left side.
When you turn STi MAGNUM on, it goes
through a sequence of alerts.
If you prefer, you may program your
STi MAGNUM for a shorter power-on
sequence. See the Programming section for
details.
Volume
Press and hold the VOLUME•MUTE
button, (or Mute button on the SmartPlug)
located in the center of the front panel,
to adjust the STi MAGNUM’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.
To change the direction of the audio
ramping (down instead of up or vice versa)
simply release the VOLUME•MUTE button
quickly press and hold it again to change its
direction.
Power-on indication
After STi MAGNUM’s start-up sequence
is complete, the alphanumeric display
will show Highway, AutoScan, City or City
NoX 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 STi MAGNUM provides digital voice
announcements (factory default) for alerts.
If you prefer, you can turn off the voice
announcement feature and have the STi
MAGNUM provide audible tones without
the voice announcement. See programming
section for details.
AutoMute
Your STi MAGNUM has our patented
AutoMute feature. After STi MAGNUM 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 VOLUME/MUTE button, located in the
center of the STi MAGNUM’s front panel,
allows you to silence the audio alert during
a radar encounter.
To mute the audio for a single specific
signal, briefly press the VOLUME/MUTE
button. After that radar encounter has
passed, the mute will automatically reset
and the audio will alert you to the next
encounter.
Sensitivity Button (SENS)
The “SENS” button selects the STi MAGNUM’s
sensitivity mode. We recommend AutoScan
mode for most driving.
Highway Mode (Highway)
In this setting, the STi MAGNUM will detect
all signals at maximum range.
AutoScan Mode (AutoScan)
In this setting the STi MAGNUM’s internal
computer continuously analyzes all
incoming signals and intelligently filters
out unwanted X and K-band false alarms
from automatic door openers and motion
sensors. Full sensitivity is maintained on all
other bands.
City (City STD)
In this setting, X and K-band sensitivity is
further reduced to eliminate unwanted
false alarms in congested urban areas.
City NoX (City NoX)
In this setting, K-band sensitivity is the
same as City STD, however, X-band is
completely turned off.
Brightness
The STi MAGNUM’s brightness is controlled
by a sensor located behind the front display
lens. This sensor will automatically adjust
the display and backlit buttons based on
the ambient light in your vehicle. If you
prefer, you can select a fixed brightness
level, including Full Dark Mode. See the
programming section for details.
SmartPlug
SmartPlug is a special power
cord that has a power-on
indicator, a bright alert light
that warns of radar or laser, and
a convenient mute button right on the plug.
It’s the perfect addition for any vehicle
where reaching the detector mute button
on the windshield is a stretch. And for
discreet night driving, put STi MAGNUM in
the Dark Mode, and use the SmartPlug for
your visual alerts. Other cars won’t know
you have a detector.
WARNING: Do not use the STi MAGNUM
City NoX mode unless you are
absolutely certain that there are no
traffic radar guns using X-band in your
area.
Sensor location
Page 6
Controls and Features
Power Connector
The STi MAGNUM’s power jack uses a
telephone-type connector. This 4-conductor
connector only works with the included
coiled SmartPlug or direct-wire cord.
Signal Strength Meter
The STi MAGNUM’s alphanumeric display
consists of 280 individual LEDs, to provide
an intuitive ultra-bright display of signal
strength and text messages.
The STi MAGNUM’s standard bar-graph
signal strength meter only displays
information on a single radar signal. If there
are multiple signals present, STi MAGNUM’s
internal computer determines which is the
most important threat to show on the bargraph meter.
When STi detects radar, it displays the
band (X, K, Ka), and a precise bar-graph of
the signal strength. When the STi MAGNUM
detects a laser signal, the display will show
“LASER.” When it detects a POP signal, the
display will show “POP.”
Threat Display
Your STi MAGNUM’s Threat Display option
is an advanced display for experienced
detector users. Please use the STi MAGNUM
for a few weeks to get familiar with its
other features before using Threat Display.
To use the Threat Display instead
of the bar graph signal strength meter,
you must select Threat Display in the STi
MAGNUM’s Programming (see pages 12-15).
The STi MAGNUM’s Threat Display
simultaneously tracks multiple radar signals
and their relative signal strength.
Threat Display 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 Threat Display is actually a
miniature spectrum analyzer. It shows what
band each signal is and its signal strength.
Ka 9K2X 1
Above is the Threat Display if the
STi MAGNUM was detecting a strong
Ka-band, a weak K-band, and a weak Xband signal.
A few more examples will help you
better see how the Threat Display works.
K9 X 1
Here Threat Display shows a strong
K-band signal, and a weak X-band signal.
Ka 1 X9
Here Threat Display shows a weak
Ka-band signal, and a strong X-band
signal.
Threat Display 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.
Tech Display
The STi MAGNUM’s Tech Display option
is for the experienced detector user. In
this mode, the STi MAGNUM 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.
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:
The STi MAGNUM 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.
X-band = chirping
K-band = buzzing
Ka-band = double-chirp
POP = full double-chirp
SWS = double buzz
For Laser signals:
Since laser signals are a possible threat
no matter how weak, the STi MAGNUM
alerts you to these bands at full signal
strength.
For POP signals:
Since POP signals are extremely fast
K or Ka bursts, and a possible threat no
matter how weak, the STi MAGNUM alerts
you to these bands at full signal strength.
For Safety signals:
The STi MAGNUM 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.
NOTE: If you are operating the STi
MAGNUM in the Dark mode, the display
will not display anything when a signal
is detected. Only the audio, and the
flashing alert lamp on the SmartPlug
will be seen.
Page 7
Programming
There are 9 user-selectable options so you
can customize your STi MAGNUM for your
own preferences. The buttons labeled
VOLUME/MUTE and SENS are also used to
enter the Programming Mode, REVIEW
your current program settings, and to
CHANGE any settings as desired. The words
PGM, RVW, and CHG are located on the
front of the display lens, 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 VOLUME/MUTE and
SENS 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 STi MAGNUM’s
AutoMute feature off.
1 Enter the Program Mode by holding
both the VOLUME/MUTE and SENS buttons
down for 2 seconds. The STi MAGNUM will
beep twice and display Program.
2 Then hold the RVW button down. The
STi MAGNUM will scroll through the cate
-
gories,
starting with Display (Disp), Pilot
(Pilot), Alert Lamp (Alamp), Voice (Voice),
Power-on sequence
(PwrOn), Signal
strength meter (Meter), AutoMute (aMute ),
Brightness (Brt), and Bands (Bands).
3 Release the RVW button when the STi
MAGNUM shows the AutoMute item. Since
the factory setting is for AutoMute to be
on, STi MAGNUM will display aMute ON.
If you accidentally don't release the
RVW button in time, and STi MAGNUM
goes to the next category, simply hold the
RVW button down again, the STi MAGNUM
will scroll through all of the categories.
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 STi
MAGNUM will display Complete, beep 4
times, and return to normal operation.
Overview of Programming
Disp STD
Disp INV
Pilot HWY
Pilot H
Pilot V
Alamp ON
Alamp OFF
Voice ON
Voice OFF
PwrOn STD
PwrOn FST
Meter STD
Meter THT
Meter TEC
aMute ON
aMute OFF
Brt Auto
Brt Min
Brt Med
Brt Max
Brt Dark
Bands DFT
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)
LSR ON or OFF (default is on)
SWS ON or OFF (default is off)
TSR ON or OFF (default is on)
Press the CHANGE button
to change your setting
within a category
* Standard display
Inverted display
* Full word: Highway, AutoScan, etc.
Letter: H, A, C, or Cnx
Vehicle voltage
* Alert lamp on
Alert lamp off
* Voice alerts on
Voice alerts off
* Standard power-on sequence
Fast power-on sequence
* Standard signal strength meter
Threat Display
Tech Display
* AutoMute on
AutoMute off
* Automatic brightness
Minimum brightness
Medium brightness
Maximum brightness
All dark
* Factory default settings
Factory default settings modified
Turn bands “ON” or “OFF” by
pressing and holding the “SENS” button
Press the REVIEW button
to go from one category
to the next
DISPLAY
PILOT
(Power-on indication)
ALERT LAMP
VOICE
POWER-ON SEQUENCE
SIGNAL STRENGTH METER
AUTOMUTE
BRIGHTNESS
BANDS
* Factory Default Settings
To reset STi MAGNUM to its original
factory settings, press and hold the
“VOLUME/MUTE” and “SENS” buttons
while turning the power on. The STi
MAGNUM’s display will provide a
Reset
message, accompanied by an
audible alert, acknowledging the reset.
Page 8
Details of Programming
Alamp
Alamp On (alert lamp on)
In this setting, the backlit VOLUME/MUTE
will flash on and off during an alert.
AlampOFF (alert lamp off)
In this setting, the VOLUME/MUTE backlit
button will not flash on and off during an
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 the
STi MAGNUM, it will display “Bel STi,” “LASER,”
“Ka-band,” “K-band,” “X-band,” followed by a
brief SWS alert. (factory default)
If any of the factory default bands have
been disabled, a double X-band tone and
corresponding message (i.e. “X OFF”), will
alert you that one or more bands have been
turned off.
PwrOnFST (Fast power-on)
In this setting, the STi MAGNUM will
provide a single X-band tone if the factory
default settings have not been changed. If
any of the factory default band settings
have been disabled, a double X-band tone
and corresponding message (i.e. “X OFF”),
will alert you that one or more bands have
been turned off.
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)
MeterTHT (Threat Display)
In this setting, the meter will
simultaneously track multiple radar signals,
including relative signal strength for each.
MeterTEC (Tech Display meter)
In this setting, the meter displays the actual
numeric frequency of the radar signal
received.
AutoMute
aMute ON (AutoMute on)
In this setting, the STi MAGNUM’s audio
alerts will initially be at the volume you set,
but after a few seconds, the STi MAGNUM
will automatically reduce the volume level,
to keep you informed, but not annoyed.
(factory default)
aMuteOFF (AutoMute off)
With AutoMute off, the STi MAGNUM’s
audio alerts will remain at the volume you
set for the duration of the radar encounter.
NOTE: When you are using the Dark
mode, the display will not display
anything. Only the power-on indication
on the SmartPlug will illuminate.
NOTE: A high or low voltage warning
is given any time the vehicle’s voltage
drops below 10.5 volts, or goes above
16.5 volts. This feature is always on,
regardless of the Pilot setting.
NOTE: The Tech Display feature is
explained in more detail on page 11.
Display
Disp STD
In this setting, the display will provide all
information in its normal orientation.
Disp INV
In this setting, the detector can be mounted
upside down and all information will be
inverted so it’s readable.
Pilot (Power-on indication)
Pilot HWY (Full description)
In this setting, the STi MAGNUM will display
“Highway
,” “AutoScan,” “City,” or “CityNox” as
its power-on indication. (factory default)
Pilot H (Letter)
In this setting, the STi MAGNUM will display
“H” for Highway, “A” for AutoScan,“C” for
City, and “Cnx” for City NoX.
Pilot V (Vehicle voltage)
In this setting, the STi MAGNUM will
continually display “H” for Highway, A” for
AutoScan,“C” for City, and “Cnx” for City
NoX, and the vehicle’s voltage.
Standard
Orientation
Inverted
Orientation
Page 9
Brightness
BrtAuto
In this setting, the brightness for the display
and backlit buttons are controlled
automatically by a sensor that measures the
ambient light in the vehicle. Sunlight will
increase the brightness level, while dim or
no light (night driving) will decrease the
brightness.
BrtMin
In this setting, the display and backlit
buttons are set to a minimum light level.
This setting is retained in memory even if
the power is turned off.
BrtMed
In this setting, the display and backlit
buttons are set to a medium light level. This
setting is retained in memory even if the
power is turned off.
BrtMax
In this setting, the display and backlit
buttons are set to a maximum light level.
This setting is retained in memory even if
the power is turned off.
BrtDark
In this setting, the display and backlit
buttons will be totally dark. The supplied
SmartPlug will provide the only visual
indication that the STi MAGNUM is
operational.
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
• Laser 904nm, ±33nm
Radar Receiver
• Dual-Horn Antenna Casting
• Superheterodyne, dual LNA’s
• Scanning Frequency Discriminator
• Digital Signal Processing (DSP)
Laser Detection
• Quantum Limited Video Receiver
• (5) Optical Laser Sensors
Display Type
• 280 LED Alphanumeric
• Bar Graph, Threat Display™ or Tech Display™
• Automatic, plus 4 levels of fixed brightness
including full Dark
Power Requirement
• 12VDC, Negative Ground
• Coiled SmartPlug
™
with Mute Button (included)
Programmable Features
• Display
• Power-On Indication
• Alert Lamp
• Voice Alerts
• Power-On Sequence
• Signal Strength Meter
• AutoMute
• Display Brightness
• Bands
Sensitivity Control
• AutoScan
• Highway
• City
• CityNoX
Additional Patented Technology
• Auto Calibration Circuitry
• Mut
e / AutoMute™ / SmartMute™
• TotalShield
™ Technology
Dimensions (Inches)
• 1.25 H x 2.75 W x 4.75 L
Technical Details
Bands
BandsDFT
In this setting, the factory default settings
for radar and laser are monitored.
This is the factory setting, and it is
highly recommended that you use your STi
MAGNUM in this mode.
BandsMOD
In this setting, STi MAGNUM 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 guns using that specific
band in your area.
Page 10
Technical Details
Interpreting Alerts
Although the STi MAGNUM 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 STi MAGNUM 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 STi
MAGNUM’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 STi MAGNUM begins to sound slowly,
then the rate of alert increases. The Signal
Meter ramps accordingly.
STi MAGNUM emits short alerts for a few
seconds and then falls silent only to briefly
alert and fall silent again.
STi MAGNUM suddenly sounds a continuous
tone for the appropriate band received. All
segments in the Signal Strength Meter are lit.
A brief laser alert.
STi MAGNUM receives weak signals. These
signals may be a little stronger as you pass
large, roadside objects. The signals increase in
frequency.
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.
Alert
STi MAGNUM alerts slowly for a while and
then abruptly jumps to a strong alert.
STi MAGNUM alerts intermittently. Rate and
strength of alerts may be consistent or vary
wildly.
STi MAGNUM alerts intermittently. Rate and
strength of signal increases with each alert.
STi MAGNUM gives an X-band or K-band alert
intermittently.
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.
Page 11
Technical Details
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 or K-band radar, your
STi MAGNUM will occasionally receive
non-police radar signals. Since these
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
STi MAGNUM’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).
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.
Traffic Signal Rejection Software
Your radar detector includes a new
optional boost in anti-falsing software to
eliminate excessive alerts from erroneous X
and K-band sources. One example of this is
traffic flow monitoring systems. These
systems, which are becoming more widely
used in several states, generate K-band
signals to measure the flow of traffic on
interstate highways. Unfortunately most
detectors alert to these sources as
a real threat. Our new proprietary
software (TSR), intelligently sorts,
ranks and rejects this type of false alarm
automatically. The result is ultimate
protection without excessive false alarms.
The TSR software is turned on by
default in the Programming section of your
detector. If you believe this type of system
isn’t used in your area, you can simply turn
it off. Otherwise, your detector is ready to
start protecting you right out of the box.
If you have any questions about this
new feature, please give us a call or visit our
website for more details.
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
Page 12
Technical Details
How TotalShield™ Technology Works
Beltronic’s TotalShield Technology keeps
RF signals from radiating from the detector.
Unlike other radar and laser detectors,
which merely move their RF signals (local
oscillators) to another frequency (which
will be detectable by future detectordetectors), this revolutionary design keeps
you unseen by current radar detectordetectors, including VG-2 and Spectre. This
unique design will also keep you unseen
from any future radar detector detectors as
well.
Although the BELTRONICS STi MAGNUM
is a completely undetectable radar, laser
and safety detector, driving techniques and
reactions to alerts can still draw unwanted
attention. Here are a few examples:
1. Hitting the brakes immediately when
the STi MAGNUM provides an alert can
broadcast use of a detector.
2. Visible power cords, brackets and
suction cup marks on the glass can also
advertise to others that you have a detector.
3. Traveling at night with a glow from a
radar detector’s display visible from outside
your vehicle can also draw unwanted
attention. The STi MAGNUM offers
adjustable brightness, including a full dark
mode which will provide audio alerts, but
no visual indication except for the alert
LED on the SmartPlug.
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 STi MAGNUM can display
are listed on the facing page.
From the factory, your STi MAGNUM
is programmed with SWS decoding OFF.
If you wish to detect this system, use
the Programming feature to turn STi
MAGNUM’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
STi MAGNUM’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
not equipped with these transmitters. If
Safety transmitters become more prevalent,
these Safety radar signals will become more
common.
SWS Text Messages
Highway Construction or Maintenance
1 WorkZone
2 Road Closed
3 Bridge Closed
4 WorkCrew Highway
5 WorkCrew Utility
6 Detour
7 Truck Detour
8 MustExit
9 Rtlane Closed
10 CntrLane Closed
11 LeftLane Closed
12 Future use
Highway Hazard Zone Advisory
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 SchoolBus
29 DontPass
30 Dangrous Intrsect
31 Emergncy Vehicle
32 Future use
Weather Related Hazards
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
Travel Information/Convenience
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
Fast/Slow Moving Vehicles
61 Emerg Veh Moving
62 Police Pursuit
63 Oversize Vehicle
64 SloMovng Vehicle
Page 13
Troubleshooting
Problem
STi MAGNUM beeps briefly at the
same location every day, but no
radar source is in sight.
STi MAGNUM does not seem
sensitive to radar or laser.
STi MAGNUM did not alert when a
police car was in view.
STi MAGNUM did not provide a
Safety signal while within range of
an emergency vehicle.
STi MAGNUM’s display is not
working.
STi MAGNUM’s audible alerts are
less loud after the first few alerts.
STi MAGNUM bounces or sags on
windshield.
STi MAGNUM’s power-on sequence
reoccurs while you are driving.
Possible Cause
• An X-band or K-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 STi
MAGNUM’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.
• STi MAGNUM 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.
• Check programming to be sure the STi MAGNUM is not in
Dark Mode.
• STi MAGNUM is in AutoMute Mode. See page 8 for details.
• STi MAGNUM is not making contact with the windshield
to provide stability. While holding down STi MAGNUM’s
QuickMount button, slide STi MAGNUM toward the wind
-
shield so that the back top edge makes firm contact.
• A loose power connection or dirty lighter socket can cause
STi MAGNUM to be briefly disconnected.
Problem
STi MAGNUM will not turn on.
STi MAGNUM feels very warm.
Your 14-year old son has changed
all 9 of the Programming options.
Possible Cause
• Check the PWR is on.
• Check that vehicle ignition is ON.
• Check that vehicle lighter socket is functional.
• Try
STi MAGNUM
in another vehicle.
• It is normal for STi
MAGNUM
to feel warm.
• You can return all of the programming options to the
factory defaults by holding down the VOLUME/MUTE and
SENS buttons while you turn the STi MAGNUM on.
Explanation of Displays
No display STi MAGNUM is in the Dark mode (pages 9, 16)
PilotHWY
One of the many programming messages (pages 12-16)
WorkZone
One of the many Safety Radar messages (pages 22-23)
Caution
STi MAGNUM has detected a Safety Radar Signal, but the signal isn’t yet
strong enough to decode the specific safety message (pages 22-23)
Service
STi MAGNUM has failed the calibration test. Contact Beltronics for repair
Required
BELTONICS RADAR DETECTORS
RADAR DETECTORS
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