Cobra PRO9580 Service Manual

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Operating Instructions

11 BAND

™

HIGH-PERFORMANCE RADAR/LASER DETECTOR WITH XTREME RANGE SUPERHETERODYNE

™

TECHNOLOGY

PRO 9580

Nothing comes close to a Cobra

Printed in China

Part No. 480-134-P

English

Intr

oduction

Important Information And Customer Assistance

Important Information

Federal Laws Governing The Use Of Radar Detectors

It is not against federal law to receive radar transmissions with your Cobra radar/ laser detector. The Communications Act of 1924 guarantees your right to receive radio transmissions on any frequency. Local laws that contravene this Act, while illegal, may be enforced by your local law enforcement officials until and unless they are prohibited from doing so by federal court action.

Safety Alert

Use of this product is not intended to, and does not, ensure that motorists or passengers will not be involved in traffic accidents. It is only intended to alert the motorist that an emergency vehicle equipped with a Cobra Safety Alert transmitter is within range as defined by that product. Please call local fire and police departments to learn if coverage exists in your area.

Safe Driving

Motorists, as well as operators of emergency or service vehicles, are expected to exercise all due caution while using this product, and to obey all applicable traffic laws.

Security Of Your Vehicle

Before leaving your vehicle, always remember to conceal your radar detector in order to reduce the possibility of break-in and theft.

Customer Assistance

Should you encounter any problems with this product, or not understand its many features, please refer to this owner’s manual. If you require further assistance after reading this manual, Cobra Electronics offers the following customer assistance services:

For Assistance In The U.S.A.

Automated Help Desk English only. 24 hours a day, 7 days a week 773-889-3087 (phone). Customer Assistance Operators English and Spanish. 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. CT

Mon. through Fri. (except holidays) 773-889-3087 (phone).

Questions English and Spanish. Faxes can be received at 773-622-2269 (fax). Technical Assistance English only. www.cobra.com (on-line: Frequently Asked

Questions). English and Spanish. productinfo@cobra.com (e-mail).

For Assistance Outside The U.S.A.

Contact Your Local Dealer

English

a Electronics Cor

2004 Cobr

6500

Chicago, Illinois 60707 USA

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Intr

oduction

Controls, Indicators And Connections

Intr

oduction

Display And Product Features

Intr

oduction

Table Of Contents

Controls, Indicators And Connections

Windshield Bracket

Release Button

12V DC Power Jack

On-Off/ Volume Control

Allows you

to adjust the

volume of the

tone alerts.

* Press and hold for two (2) seconds

to access these functions.

English

IntelliMute

Button

Engine RPM

sensing mute

function which

reduces false

alerts. Button

turns IntelliMute

On and Off.

(Also enters

IntelliMute

setting mode.*)

auto mute of audio alerts.

(Also turns Voice Alert

Windshield

Bracket Mount

Mute Button

For manual mute or

On and Off.*)

Modifications or parts substitutions not approved by Cobra Electronics Corporation may violate FCC Rules and v this equipment.

ARNING

LaserEye

For 360° detection of laser and strobe signals.

Speaker

City Button

For City or Highway modes to reduce false alerts.

Dim Button

Allows you to adjust the DigiView Data Display brightness for easy reading.

(Also turns Spectre 1 and VG-2 alerts

On and Off.*)

ate

ity to oper

our author

oid y

•

Display

•

Introduction

Important Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A1

Customer Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A1

Controls, Indicators And Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A2

Alpha/Numeric Dot Matrix Text Display

See pages 6 – 16 for more information about display features.

Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A3

Product Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A3

Your Detector

Product Features

Congratulations! You’ve made a smart choice by purchasing the PRO 9580 high performance radar/laser detector from Cobra. Just look at some of the sophisticated features and capabilities your new unit includes:

Xtreme Range Superheterodyne Technology

With super-fast sweep circuitry, XRS provides extra detection range and the best possible advance warning to even the fastest radar guns

Detection And Separate Alerts For:

Radar signals (X, K and Ka bands, with signal strength indicated), laser signals, Safety Alert signals, Strobe Alert signals, Spectre 1 signals, VG-2 signals

LaserEye

For 360° detection of laser and strobe signals

Instant-On Ready

Detects radar guns with “instant-on” (very fast) speed monitoring capabilities

Tone Alert or Voice Alert

With adjustable volume

This booklet describes the simple steps for mounting and setting up your detector. It also provides helpful information about how radar and laser guns are used and how you can interpret the alerts you receive.

DigiView Data Display

With easy-to-read alpha/numeric dot matrix text readout

City Or Highway

Modes to reduce false alerts

Safety Alert

Traffic warning system distinguishes important safety alerts from other K band signals

Strobe Alert

Emergency vehicle warning system

Manual Mute Or Auto Mute

A mute function of audio alerts

IntelliMute

A mute function which automatically reduces false alerts by sensing engine RPMs

Mounting

Mounts easily on windshield or dashboard

Nothing comes close to a Cobra

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Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Highway/City Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

DigiView Data Display Brightness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Muting An Alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Auto Mute Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

IntelliMute . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Voice/Tone Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Spectre 1 And VG-2 Alert Audio Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Detection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Signals Detected . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Audio Alerts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Visual Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Instant-On Detection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Responding To Alerts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Understanding Radar And Laser . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Warranty

Limited 1-Year Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Customer Assistance

Product Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Trademark Acknowledgement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Optional Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Order Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Nothing comes close to a Cobra

our Detector

Installation

our Detector

Installation

Where To Mount Your Unit

You will get optimum performance from your detector if you Mount it at a point approximately in the center of the vehicle, as low as possible on the front windshield without obstructing the unit’s view of the road either to the front or rear. You can also mount it directly on the dashboard.

Windshield Mounting Dashboard Mounting

The unit’s lens must not be blocked and the LaserEye should have a clear view out the back window to allow 360° detection.

The LaserEye Should Have A Clear View

Radar and laser signals pass through glass but not through other materials and objects. Objects that can block or weaken incoming signals include:

■

Windshield wiper blades

■

Mirrored sun screens

■

Dark tinting at the top of the windshield

■

Heated windshields currently available on some vehicles (Instaclear for Ford, Electriclear for GM.) Consult your dealer to see if you have this option.

•

Windshield Mounting

1. Attach the rubber

cups to the bracket.

2. Make sure the rubber cups and your windshield are clean.

3. Push the bracket firmly

onto the windshield.

4. Attach the detector to

the bracket. Check the angle of the unit.

5. To adjust the angle if

necessary, gently push or pull on the bracket to bend it. DO NOT use the detector to bend the bracket.

6. Plug the power cord

into the detector.

7. Plug the cigarette lighter

adapter on the power cord into your vehicle’s cigarette lighter.

8. You can temporarily remove the detector whenever you

wish by pressing the bracket release button and sliding it off the bracket.

English

Nothing comes close to a Cobra

our Detector

Installation

our Detector

Getting Started And Settings

Dashboard Mounting

English

1. Place the detector on the dashboard to find a location

where the unit has a clear, level view of the road. The angle can NOT be adjusted after mounting.

2. Remove the paper backing

from one (1) side of the hook-and-loop fastener.

3. Attach the pad to the

dashboard at your chosen location and remove the other paper backing.

4. Attach the detector to the

hook-and-loop fastener. You can remove and reattach the unit as often as you like.

6. Plug the power cord

into the detector.

7. Plug the cigarette lighter

adapter on the power cord into your vehicle’s cigarette lighter.

Getting Started

Power On

Testing

System Ready

On-Off/

Volume Control

Rotate clockwise

(away from you)

Voice Alert

To Turn On The Unit And Adjust The Audio Volume

Rotate the On-Off/ Volume control

clockwise (away from you).

Start-Up Complete

Tone Voice

Three (3) beeps Testing, then

three (3) beeps

System Ready, then Voice Alert

Start-up is complete when the display continuously shows the letters indicating the current user settings

(c = City mode, h = Highway mode, i = IntelliMute On)

NOTE

In some vehicles, power is supplied to the cigarette lighter even while the ignition is Off. If this is the case with your vehicle, you should turn Off or unplug your detector when parking for lengthy periods.

Visual Display

The display will cycle through the user mode settings (Voice Alert, Spectre 1 and VG-2, IntelliMute, City X or Highway status).

Settings

When changing the Settings on your detector, please keep in mind:

■

Buttons can have multiple functions.

■

Depending on your choice of Voice Alert or Tone Alert mode, you will hear either voice messages or tones confirming changes in settings.

■

All settings will be stored in memory when the power is turned

Off and recalled when the power is turned back On.

Nothing comes close to a Cobra

•

our Detector

Settings

our Detector

Settings

Highway/City Mode

Setting your detector to City mode delays all X band audio alerts until the signal strength reaches Level 3. (A single beep will sound when the signal is first detected.) This will reduce false alerts while you are driving in, or near, urban areas where there are many sources for conflicting X band signals such as microwave towers and automatic door openers.

To change settings, follow the procedure listed below, which indicates what you will see and hear (either in as you complete each step. The factory setting is

Highway Mode

City Mode

City Button

To Change From Highway Mode To City Mode

Press and release the City button.

To Change From City Mode Back To Highway Mode

Press and release the City button again.

Press and

release

Tone Voice

One (1) beep City

Tone Voice

Two (2) beeps Highway

Voice Alert or Tone Alert mode)

Highway mode.

Visual Display

c appears

in the display

Visual Display

h appears

in the display

DigiView Data Display Brightness

You can choose from four (4) settings for Brightness of the display. You can cycle through the settings by repeatedly pushing the The factory setting is

Bright

Press and

Dark Dim

release

Dim button

Dimmer

Dark Indicator

To Change The Brightness To Dim

Press and release the Dim button once.

To Change The Brightness To Dimmer

Press and release the Dim button again.

To Change The Brightness To Dark

Press and release the Dim button a third time.

To Change The Brightness To Bright

Press and release the Dim button a fourth time.

Bright.

Dim Button

Press and

release

Tone Voice

One (1) beep Dim Display dims

Tone Voice

None Dimmer Display dims further

Tone Voice

One (1) beep Dark Display remains

Tone Voice

Two (2) beeps Bright Display returns

Visual Display

dim (no visual alerts will be seen)

Visual Display

to full brightness

Dim button.

English

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our Detector

Settings

our Detector

Settings

Muting An Alert

Your detector allows you to quickly turn Off an audio Alert by momentarily pressing the during the

Mute button. If you press the Mute button a second time

Alert, the audio Alert will be turned back On.

Auto Mute Mode

Auto Mute will automatically reduce the audio volume of all alerts after four (4) seconds for as long as the signal is detected. The factory setting for

To Turn Auto Mute Off

Press and release the Mute button while no alert is occurring.

To Turn Auto Mute On

Press and release the Mute button again while no alert is occurring.

Auto Mute is On.

Mute Button

Press and release

Tone Voice

One (1) beep Auto Mute Off None

Tone Voice

Two (2) beeps Auto Mute On None

Visual Display

IntelliMute

IntelliMute is a unique new feature that allows you to avoid alerts you don’t need to hear because you are stopped or moving slowly. By sensing the “revs” (RPMs) of your engine, IntelliMute knows when you are at low speed and automatically mutes alerts (except for strobe signals from emergency vehicles).

Before IntelliMute will work, you must set an activation point for your engine’s revs (see page 11). Whenever the revs are below that point, IntelliMute will begin muting. The activation point will be stored in memory and recalled each time the power is turned

NOTE

IntelliMute may not work with some vehicles because it cannot sense the engine’s revs. In such cases, you can reduce unwanted audio alerts by using

IntelliMute On

Auto Mute and City mode when appropriate.

To Turn IntelliMute On

Press and release the IntelliMute button.

To Turn IntelliMute Off

Press and release the IntelliMute button again.

Tone Voice

Two (2) beeps IntelliMute On

Tone Voice

One (1) beep IntelliMute Off None

On. The factory setting is IntelliMute Off.

IntelliMute

Button

Press and

release

Visual Display

i appears in

the display

Visual Display

English

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our Detector

Settings

our Detector

Settings

What To Remember While Using IntelliMute IntelliMute

works with both City and Auto Mute modes.

Whenever engine revs are below the activation point, an arrow pointing down will appear in the display. Above the activation point, an arrow pointing up will appear.

Below Activation PointihAbove Activation Point

If, for any reason, the unit stops sensing your engine’s revs, IntelliMute will indicate an error and automatically turn

Off.

The rev point you set will be stored in the unit’s memory when power is turned

Off and recalled each time the power is turned On.

NOTE

The rev point must be reset if you use your detector in a different vehicle.

NOTE

When initially choosing your IntelliMute activation point, a setting of approximately 300 to 600 RPMs above idle is recommended. You can reset the activation point at any time to fit your individual preferences and driving style.

Setting The IntelliMute Activation Point

Your detector must be installed in your vehicle.

CAUTION

Do not attempt to set the rev point while driving. Your vehicle should be parked and idling.

IntelliMute must be turned on whether the unit is in

On before setting the activation point. Depending

Tone Alert or Voice Alert mode, you will hear a

series of beeps or voice messages as you follow the steps on page 11.

English

Hold IntelliMute Button

Press Int...

button ag...

desired RPMs

Rev Level Set

Intelli

Mute

Set!

To Set The IntelliMute Activation Point

Press and hold the IntelliMute button for two

Tone

Two (2) beeps Set Engine Revs Press IntelliMute

(2) seconds.

Rev your engine to

None None None the level you wish to set (recommend slightly above idle) and hold revs steady for two (2) seconds.

At the desired

Three (3) beeps IntelliMute Set IntelliMute Set! rev level, press and release the IntelliMute button.

IntelliMute Not Set

IntelliMu...

Please tr...

IntelliMute Off

Intelli

Mute

Off

NOTE

If the unit is unable to sense usable pulses within three (3) seconds or if you do not set a rev point within 20 seconds of beginning these steps, IntelliMute will indicate an error and automatically turn Off.

Tone

Four (4) beeps IntelliMute Not

One (1) beep IntelliMute Off IntelliMute Off

IntelliMute Button

Press and hold for

two (2) seconds

Voice

Set, Please Try Again followed by

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Visual Display

button again at desired RPMs

Visual Display

IntelliMute not set Please try again

our Detector

Settings

our Detector

Settings

Voice/Tone Setting

You can set your detector to sound alerts with either a Voice or a Tone. You can change settings by using the Mute button.

Voice Alert mode, you will first hear several tones, then a

voice message announcing the type of signal detected, followed by more tones. In The factory setting is

To Change From Voice Alert To Tone Alert

While no signal is being detected, press and hold the Mute button for two (2) seconds.

To Change From Tone Alert Back To Voice Alert

While no signal is being detected, press and hold the Mute button for two (2) seconds again.

Tone Alert mode, you will hear the tones only.

Voice Alert mode.

Mute Button

Press and hold for

two (2) seconds

Tone Voice

One (1) beep Tone Alert None

Tone Voice

None Voice Alert None

Visual Display

Spectre 1 And VG-2 Alert Audio Settings

The detector is undetectable by police Spectre 1 and VG-2 radar detector detectors and will alert you when such a device is in use near your vehicle. During the alert, the unit continues to detect other signals. You can choose whether or not you want your unit to show The factory setting is

Spectre 1 And VG-2 Off

Spectre1

& VG2

Off

To Turn Spectre 1 And VG-2Alerts Off

While no signal is being detected, press and hold the Dim button for two (2) seconds.

To Turn Spectre 1 And VG-2 Alerts On

While no signal is being detected, press and hold the Dim button for two (2) seconds.

Spectre 1 and VG-2 alert On.

Spectre 1 And VG-2 On

Spectre1

& VG2

Dim Button

Press and hold for

two (2) seconds

Tone Voice

One (1) beep Spectre

Tone Voice

Two (2) beeps Spectre

Spectre 1 and VG-2 alerts.

Visual Display

Spectre1

VG-2 Off

VG-2 On

& VG 2 Off

Visual Display

Spectre1 & VG 2 On

English

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our Detector

Detection

our Detector

Detection

Signals Detected

The tables on the following pages show you the types of Signals your detector will detect, as well as the voice and visual alerts it provides for each of them.

Audio Alerts

In Voice Alert mode you will first hear several tones, then a voice message announcing the type of signal detected, followed by more tones. In

Tone Alert

mode, you will hear the tones only.

Voice Alert and Tone Alert modes, a distinctly different alert tone is

In both used for each type of signal detected (including separate tones for each laser signal). For X, K and Ka band radar signals, the tones will repeat faster as you approach the signal source. The repeat rate of the tones gives you useful information about the signal detected. (See responding to alerts on page 17.)

Visual Display

An indication of the type of signal detected will appear in the DigiView Data Display. During X, K and Ka alerts, you will also see from 1 to 5 vertical bars, indicating the strength of the signal detected.

Signal Strength Chart

Signal Strength = 1 (Weakest Signal)

Signal Strength = 4

---

----

Signal Strength = 2

- -

Signal Strength = 5 (Strongest Signal)

---

- - -

- - - -

----

Signal Strength = 3

---

•

Radar Signals, Voice And Visual Displays

Type of Signal Voice Visual Display

X Band Radar X Alert X and Signal Strength K Band Radar K Alert K and Signal Strength Ka Band Radar Ka Alert Ka and Signal Strength

X Signal Detected K Signal Detected Ka Signal Detected

Laser Signals, Voice And Visual Displays

Type of Signal Voice Visual Display

LTI 20-20* Laser Alert Laser 20/20 LTI Ultra-Lyte* Laser Alert Laser UltraLyte Kustom Signals ProLaser* Laser Alert Laser Pro Laser Kustom Signals ProLaser III* Laser Alert Laser Pro Laser 3

* Your detector provides 360˚ detection of these signals.

LTI 20-20

Laser

20/20

NOTE

Beep rate changes with different laser alerts.

Strobe Alert Signals, Voice And Visual Displays

Type of Signal Voice Visual Display

3M Opticom or Tomar* Emergency Vehicle Approaching Emergency Vehicle

* Your detector provides 360˚ detection of this signal.

Strobe Alert Display (Flashing)

K-3

---

LTI Ultra-Lyte

Laser

UltraLyte

Ka ---5

Kustom Signals ProLaser

Laser

Pro Laser

---

----

Kustom Signals ProLaser III

Laser

Pro Laser 3

English

Emergency...

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our Detector

Detection

our Detector

Detection

Safety Alert Signals, Voice And Visual Displays

Type of Signal Voice Visual Display

Emergency Vehicles Emergency Vehicle Approaching Emergency Vehicle Road Hazards Road Hazard Ahead Road Hazard Trains Train Approaching Train

Emergency Alert Signal Detected

Emergency...

Road Hazard Alert Signal Detected

Road

Train Alert Signal Detected

Train

Hazard

NOTE

There are different tones for each Safety Alert.

Spectre 1 Alert Signal, Voice And Visual Display

Type of Signal Voice Visual Display

Spectre Spectre Alert Spectre1

Spectre 1 Alert Signal Detected

Spectre1

VG-2 Alert Signal, Voice And Visual Display

Type of Signal Voice Visual Display

Interceptor VG-2 VG-2 Alert VG2

VG-2 Alert Signal Detected

VG2

NOTE

There are different tones for each alert.

NOTE

There are different tones for each alert.

Instant-On Detection

Your detector is designed to detect Instant-On speed monitoring signals, which can suddenly appear at full strength.

NOTE

You should take appropriate action immediately whenever an instant-on alert is given.

Responding To Alerts

Description Interpretation

Tone repeats slowly at first, then speeds up rapidly.

Tone sounds one (1) time only.

Tone instantly begins repeating rapidly.

Tone repeats slowly as you approach a hill or bridge, then speeds up sharply as you reach it.

Tone repeats slowly for a short period.

Any type of laser alert. Laser alerts are

Any Safety Alert or Strobe Alert.

Probably police radar FULL ALERT

Probably a false alarm, but possibly pulsed radar, Spectre 1 or VG-2 nearby

Radar, Spectre 1 or VG-2 nearby has been activated suddenly

Probably police radar beyond the hill or bridge

Probably a false alarm Exercise caution

never false alarms You are nearing an

emergency vehicle, railroad crossing, or road hazard (construction, accident, etc.)

Recommended Response

Exercise caution

FULL ALERT

Exercise caution

English

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our Detector

Understanding Radar And Laser

our Detector

Understanding Radar And Laser

Radar Speed Monitoring Systems

Three (3) band frequencies have been approved by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for use by speed monitoring radar equipment:

X band 10.525 GHz K band 24.150 GHz Ka band 33.400 – 36.00 GHz

Your detector detects signals in all three (3) radar bands.

Spectre 1 And VG-2

Spectre 1 and VG-2 are “detector detectors” that work by detecting low-level signals emitted by most radar detectors. Your detector does not emit signals that can be detected by Spectre 1 or VG-2, but does detect Spectre 1 and VG-2 signals and will alert you when a device is in use near your vehicle, if you so choose.

Safety Alert Traffic Warning System

FCC-approved Safety Alert transmitters emit microwave radar signals that indicate the presence of a safety-related concern. Depending on the frequency of the signal emitted, it can indicate a speeding emergency vehicle or train, or a stationary road hazard.

Because these microwave signals are within the K band frequency, most conventional radar detectors will detect Safety Alert signals as standard K band radar. Your detector, however, is designed to differentiate between standard K band and Safety Alert signals, and give separate alerts for each.

Safety Alert technology is relatively new. Safety Alert transmitters can be found in limited numbers in all 50 states, but the number is growing. Depending on your location, you may not receive these alerts regularly and may often encounter emergency vehicles, trains and road hazards without being alerted. As the number of transmitters increases, these alerts will become more common.

When you receive such an alert, please watch for emergency vehicles ahead of you, on cross streets and behind you. If you see an emergency vehicle approaching, please pull over to the right side of the road and allow it to pass.

•

Strobe Alert

Special strobes mounted on the light bars of authorized emergency vehicles (fire trucks, police cars, ambulances) automatically change traffic signals as the vehicle approaches an intersection. These strobes and the special strobe detectors located on the traffic signals, introduced fairly recently by 3M and Tomar, are already in use in more than 1000 cities nationwide. Cobra’s exclusive

Strobe Alert detector will detect these

special strobes and give an emergency vehicle alert. When you receive such an alert, please watch for an approaching

emergency vehicle and pull over to allow it to pass. To inquire about coverage in your area, contact your local fire and police departments.

LIDAR (Laser)

The correct name for the technology that most people refer to as laser is actually

LIDAR operates much like radar. Its signal spreads out like a radar signal, though not as widely. Unlike radar, LIDAR must have a clear line of sight to its target vehicle throughout the entire measurement interval. Obstructions such as sign posts, utility poles, tree branches, etc., will prevent valid speed measurement.

Some common questions about LIDAR include:

■ Does weather have any affect on LIDAR?

Yes. Rain, snow, smoke, fog, or airborne dust particles will reduce the effective range of LIDAR and can, if dense enough, prevent its operation.

■ Can LIDAR operate through glass?

Yes. Newer LIDAR guns can obtain readings through most types of glass. However, the laser pulse also can be received through glass to trigger an alarm by your detector.

■ Can LIDAR operate while in motion?

No. Because LIDAR operates by line of sight, the person using it cannot drive the vehicle, aim and operate the gun all at the same time.

■ Is LIDAR legal to use?

Yes. It is legal in all 50 states.

LIDAR, which stands for Light Detection and Ranging.

English

Nothing comes close to a Cobra

our Detector

Maintenance

our Detector

Specifications

Maintenance

Maintenance Of Your Radar Detector

Your detector is designed and built to give you years of trouble-free performance without the need for service. No routine

If your unit does not appear to be operating properly, please follow these troubleshooting steps:

■ Make sure the power cord is properly connected.

■ Make sure the socket of your vehicle’s cigarette lighter

■ Make sure the power cord’s cigarette lighter adapter

■ Check the power cord fuse. (Unscrew the ribbed end cap of

Maintenance is required.

is clean and free of corrosion.

is firmly seated in your cigarette lighter.

the cigarette lighter adapter and examine the fuse. If required, replace it with a 2-amp fuse only.)

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Specifications

Band And Frequencies

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Band Frequencies

X Band 10.525 ± 0.050 GHz K Band 24.125 ± 0.125 GHz Safety Alert 24.070 ± 0.010 GHz

Traffic Warning System

24.110 ± 0.010 GHz

24.190 ± 0.010 GHz

24.230 ± 0.010 GHz Ka Band 34.700 ± 1.300 GHz Laser 910 ± 50 nm Strobe 700 ± 300 nm

Unit Dimensions And Weight

Dimensions* (H x W x D) Weight*

11⁄3" x 23⁄4" x 41⁄3" 5.11 oz. (34 mm x 70 mm x 110 mm) (145 g)

* Dimensions and weight measurements are approximate.

This radar detector is covered by one or more of the following U.S. patents: 5,497,148; 5,594,432; 5,612,685; 6,078,279; 6,094,148. Additional patents may be listed inside the product or pending.

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Nothing comes close to a Cobra

arranty

Warranty

Customer Assistance

Product Service And Trademark Acknowledgement

Limited 1-Year Warranty

For Products Purchased In The U.S.A.

Cobra Electronics Corporation warrants that its Cobra 11 Band Radar/Laser Detectors, and the component parts thereof, will be free of defects in workmanship and materials for period of one (1) year from the date of first consumer purchase. This warranty may be enforced by the first consumer purchaser, provided that the product is utilized within the U.S.A.

Cobra will, without charge, repair or replace, at its option, defective 11 Band Radar/Laser Detectors, products or component parts upon delivery to the Cobra Factory Service Department, accompanied by proof of the date of first consumer purchase, such as a duplicated copy of a sales receipt.

You must pay any initial shipping charges required to ship the product for warranty service, but the return charges will be at Cobra’s expense, if the product is repaired or replaced under warranty.

This warranty gives you specific rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.

Exclusions: This limited warranty does not apply:

To any product damaged by accident.

2. In the event of misuse or abuse of the product or as a result

of unauthorized alterations or repairs.

3. If the serial number has been altered, defaced or removed.

4. If the owner of the product resides outside the U.S.A.

All implied warranties, including warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose are limited in duration to the length of this warranty.

Cobra shall not be liable for any incidental, consequential or other damages; including, without limitation, damages resulting from loss of use or cost of installation.

Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts and/or do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations may not apply to you.

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Product Service

If you have any questions about operation or installing your new

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Cobra product, or if you are missing parts…

Please call Cobra first! DO NOT RETURN THIS PRODUCT TO THE STORE! See customer assistance on page A1.

If you suspect that your unit requires service, please call 773-889-3087 BEFORE shipping it to Cobra. This will ensure that you receive service as quickly as possible.

If you are asked to send your unit to the Cobra factory, please follow these steps: not necessary to include the mounting bracket.)

1) Send the complete unit, including power cord. (It is

2) For warranty repair,

enclose some form of proof-of-purchase, such as a photocopy or carbon copy of a sales receipt. If you send the original receipt, it cannot be returned.

3) Enclose a typed or clearly written description of the problem you are having with your unit, plus the name and address where you want the unit returned.

4) Pack the unit securely to prevent damage during transit. If possible, use the original packing materials.

5) Ship prepaid and insured using a traceable

carrier such as United Parcel Service (UPS), Federal Express, or Priority mail with delivery confirmation. Ship to: Cobra Factory Service, Cobra Electronics Corporation, 6500 West Cortland Street, Chicago, IL 60707 U.S.A.

6) Please

allow three (3) to four (4) weeks before contacting us about the status of your service. Call 773-889-3087 for assistance. If your unit is under warranty, it will either be repaired or replaced upon receipt, depending on the model. If your unit is out of warranty, you will receive a letter informing you of the repair or replacement charge.

Trademark Acknowledgement

Cobra, 6 Band, DigiView, Extra Sensory Detection, HighGear, microTALK, LaserEye, Safety Alert Traffic Warning System, Strobe Alert, VG-2 Alert and Nothing comes close to a Cobra are registered trademarks of Cobra Electronics Corporation.

Cobra Electronics Corporation, 11 Band, EasySet, IntelliMute, IntelliShield, Road Ready, SmartPower, Spectre Alert, UltraBright, Voice Alert and Xtreme Range Superheterodyne are trademarks of Cobra Electronics Corporation.

Opticom is a trademark of 3M Corporation. Instaclear for Ford is a registered trademark of Ford Motor Company, Inc. Electriclear for GM is a registered trademark of General Motors Corporation. 20-20 and Ultra-Lyte are trademarks of Laser Technology, Inc. ProLaser and ProLaser III are trademarks of Kustom Signals, Inc. Bee III and Pop are a trademarks of MPH Industries. Spectre is a trademark of Stalcar. Interceptor VG-2 is a trademark of TechniSonic Industries LTD. Tomar is a registered trademark of TOMAR Electronics, Inc.

Nothing comes close to a Cobra

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Customer Assistance

Optional Accessories

Customer Assistance

Order Form

Optional Accessories

You can find quality Cobra products and accessories at your local Cobra dealer, or in the U.S.A., you can order directly from Cobra.

Straight 12V DC Power Cord

Includes plug and fuse Item # 420-030-N-001

Windshield Mounting Bracket

Includes suction cups Item # 545-139-N-001

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Order Form

Name

Address (No P.O. Boxes)

City State/Province Zip Country

Telephone

Credit Card Number Type: ❒ Visa ❒ MasterCard ❒ Discover Exp.Date

Customer Signature

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Item # Description U.S. Cost Each Qty Amount

420-030-N-001 Straight 12V Power Cord 420-026-N-001 Coiled 12V Power Cord 545-139-N-001 Windshield Mounting Bracket CLP-2B Dual Port Power Adapter

Amount Shipping/Handling*

$10.00 or less

$10.01-$25.00 . . . . . $5.50

$25.01-$50.00

$50.01-$90.00 . . . . $10.50

$90.01-$130.00 . . . $13.50 $130.01-$200.00 . . $16.50

$200.01 plus . . . . . 10% of

$3.00

. . . . .

. . . . . $7.50

purchase

Tax Table

Wisconsin add 5% Indiana, Michigan,

Ohio add 6% California add 7.25% Illinois add 8.75%

*For AK, HI and PR add additional $26.95 for FedEx Next Day or

$10.95 for FedEx 2nd Day Please allow two (2) to three (3) weeks for delivery in the U.S.A. Prices subject to change without notice.

. Excludes weekends and holidays shipments.

U.S. Subtotal

(Tax if Applicable)

Shipping/Handling

Total

Coiled 12V DC Power Cord

Includes plug and fuse Item # 420-026-N-001

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Dual Port Power Adapter

Includes adjustable plug (up to 90˚) and fuse

Item # CLP-2B

Ordering From U.S.A.

Call 773-889-3087 for pricing or visit www.cobra.com.

For Credit Card Orders

Complete and return this order form to fax number 773-622-2269. Or call 773-889-3087 [Press one (1) from the main menu] 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. CT, Monday through Friday.

Make Check or Money Order Payable To

Cobra Electronics, Attn: Accessories Dept., 6500 West Cortland Street, Chicago, IL 60707 U.S.A.

To Order Online

Please visit our website: www.cobra.com

Nothing comes close to a Cobra

The Cobra line of quality products includes:

CB Radios microTALK Radar/Laser Detectors Safety Alert Accessories GPS (Global Positioning System) HighGear CobraMarine Power Inverters

Radios

Traffic Warning Systems

Accessories

™

VHF Radios

For more information or to

order any of our products,

please visit our website:

www.cobra.com

Nothing comes close to a Cobra

English

Cobra PRO9580 Service Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual