Cobra XRS 9550G Operating Instructions Manual

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Operating Instructions

14 BAND™ HIGH-PERFORMANCE DIGITAL RADAR/LASER DETECTOR WITH XTREME RANGE SUPERHETERODYNE

TECHNOLOGY AND

RED LIGHT / SPEED CAMERA GPS LOCATOR

XRS 9550G

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra

Important Information

Customer 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 ofcials 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 trafc accidents. It is only intended to alert the motorist that an emergency vehicle equipped with a Cobra Safety Alert transmitter is within range as dened by that product. Please call local re 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 trafc laws. Do not attempt to change settings of the unit while in motion.

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.

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 5:30 p.m. Central Time

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. product info@cobra.com (e-mail).

For Assistance Outside the U.S.A.

Contact Your Local Dealer

Customer Assistance

Important Information and Customer Assistance

Introduction

Printed in China

Part No. 480-595-P

Version F

XRS9550G_MANL_vF.indd 1-1 8/31/10 8:37 AM

12V DC Power Jack

Accessories Order Info and Trademark Acknowledgement

Controls, Indicators and Connections

Ordering From U.S.A.

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

For Credit Card Orders

Call 773-889-3087 [Press one from the main menu] 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Central Time, 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

Item # Description

RDA GPSL66 Plug-in GPS Locator Unit

420-030-N-001 Straight 12V Power Cord

420-030-N-001 Coiled 12V Power Cord

545-159-N-001 Windshield Mounting Bracket

CLP-2B Dual Port Power Adapter

Trademark Acknowledgement

•

Cobra®, DigiView®, EasySet®, Extra Sensory Detection®, IntelliMute®, IntelliMute® Pro, IntelliShield®, LaserEye®, Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®, Safety Alert® Trafc Warning System, Strobe Alert®, VG-2 Alert®, Xtreme Range Superheterodyne® and the snake design are registered trademarks of Cobra Electronics Corporation, USA.

Cobra Electronics Corporation™, 14 Band™, 15 Band™, AURA™, Extreme Bright DataGrax™, IntelliLink™, IntelliScope™, IntelliView™, Revolution™ Series, SmartPower™, Spectre Alert™, SuperXtreme Range Superheterodyne™, S-XRS™, UltraBright™, and Voice Alert™ are trademarks of Cobra Electronics Corporation, USA.

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. LTI Laser™ and LTI 20-20™ are trademarks of Laser Technology, Inc. Kustom Laser™, Kustom Laser 340™ and ProLaser II™ are trademarks of Kustom Signals, Inc. SpeedLaser™ is a trademark of Laser Atlanta. Bee III™ and Pop™ are a trademarks of MPH Industries. Stalker™ LIDAR is a trademark of Applied Concepts, Inc. Spectre I™ and Spectre IV™ are trademarks of Stealth Micro Systems Pty. Ltd. Interceptor VG-2™ is a trademark of TechniSonic Industries LTD. Tomar® is a registered trademark of TOMAR Electronics, Inc.

Congratulations! You’ve made a smart choice by purchasing a 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, Ka and Ku bands, with signal strength indicated), Laser signals, Safety Alert signals, Spectre I & IV signals, VG-2 signals

LaserEye

For 360° detection of laser signals

Instant-On Ready

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

Pop Detection

Detects the latest super-fast instant-on single pulse radar guns

Tone Alert or Voice Alert

With adjustable volume

City or Highway

Modes to reduce false alerts

DigiView Data Display

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

Alert Programming

Easy setting of radar bands to be monitored

Safety Alert

Trafc warning system distinguishes important safety alerts from other K band signals

Manual Mute or Auto Mute

A mute function of audio alerts

IntelliMute

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

IntelliMute Pro

Prevents detection by radar detector detectors (RDDs) when traveling at slower speeds

Mounting

Mounts easily on windshield or dashboard

GPS Ready

The GPS Locator unit adds: Photo Enforced, Caution, Speed Trap and User Location Alerts; and a GPS Compass

IntelliScope

Uses GPS Locator to show direction of LocationBased Alerts relative to your moving vehicle

Lifetime Updates

The GPS Locator includes free lifetime updates of its Cobra-exclusive AURA database of location-based alerts

Controls, Indicators and Connections

•

Display

•

Product Features

•

Windshield Bracket

Mounting Slot

Windshield Bracket Release Button

GPS Locator

Attaches to USB Port.

Speaker

On-Off/ Volume Control

Allows you to adjust the volume of the alerts.

IntelliMute Button

Engine RPM sensing mute function

which reduces false alerts. Button

turns IntelliMute On and Off. (Also enters

IntelliMute setting mode and turns VG-2

and Spectre alerts On and Off. *)

Introduction

LaserEye

For 360° detection of laser and

Alpha/Numeric Dot Matrix Text Display

See pages 6 – 17 for more information about display features.

Mark/Dim Button

Allows you to adjust

the DigiView Data Display

brightness for easy reading (Also sets

and deletes User Points.*)

Mute Button

For manual mute or auto mute of audio alerts. (Also turns Voice Alert On and Off.*)

City/Hwy Button

For City or Highway modes to reduce false alerts. (Also turns Ku alerts On and Off.*)

* See page 6 for

accessing multiple button functions.

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra

English

A2 A3

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra

FCC NOTICE This device complies with part 15 of FCC rules: Operation is

subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) This device must accept any interference received including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Assistance

Warranty

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Introduction

Contents

Introduction

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

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

Controls, Indicators and Display .... A2

Display and Product Features ...... A3

Your Detector

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

Windshield Mounting ........... 3

Dashboard Mounting ........... 4

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

Standby Screens .............. 5

Settings ....................... 6

City/Highway Modes. ........... 6

DigiView Data Display Brightness .... 8

Global Position System Locator (GPS Locator)

Overview ..................... 24

Connecting to your Detector ..... 24

Initial Satellite Lock .............. 25

User Locations ................. 26

GPS Settings ................... 26

Photo Enforcement Areas ....... 26

Caution Areas ................ 26

Known Speed Traps ........... 27

Speed Units ................. 27

GPS Alerts .................. 27

Visual Display ................ 28

IntelliScope .................. 28

Muting an Alert ................ 9

Auto Mute Mode ............... 9

IntelliMute .................. 10

IntelliMute Pro ............... 13

Voice/Tone Setting ............ 14

VG-2 and Spectre I & IV

Alert Settings ............... 15

Radar Alert Settings ........... 16

Pop Alert .................... 17

Detection ..................... 16

Signals Detected ............. 16

Audio Alerts ................. 16

Visual Display ................ 16

Instant-On Detection ........... 21

Customer Information and Warranty

Maintenance ................... 30

Specications .................. 30

Limited 1-Year Warranty .......... 31

Product Service ................ 32

Optional Accessories ............. 32

Accessories Order Info ........... 33

Trademark Acknowledgement ...... 33

Responding to Alerts ............. 21

Understanding Radar and Laser .... 22

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra

English

Installation

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra

Installation

Your 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.

The unit’s lens must not be blocked and the LaserEye should have a clear view out the back window to allow 360° detection. If the GPS Locator unit is installed, it must have a clear view of the sky to receive GPS signals.

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

n Windshield wiper blades

n Mirrored sun screens

n Dark tinting at the top of the windshield

n 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 Dashboard Mounting

The LaserEye Should Have a Clear View

1. Attach the rubber cups

to the bracket.

Make sure the rubber cups and your windshield are clean.

3. Push the bracket rmly onto the windshield.

4. Attach the detector to the bracket. Check that

the unit is parallel to the road’s surface.

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 depressing the bracket release button and sliding it off the bracket.

Windshield Mounting

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English

Installation

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra

Getting Started

Your Detector

1. Place the detector on the dashboard to nd a location

where the unit has a clear, level view of the road and is parallel to the road’s surface. The angle CANNOT be

adjusted after mounting

2. Remove the paper backing from one side of the hookand-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

Plug the power cord into the

detector.

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

Dashboard Mounting

Standby Screens

•

Testing

System Ready

On-Off/ Volume Control Rotate clockwise (away from you)

To Turn On the Unit and Adjust the Audio Volume

Rotate the On-Off/ Volume control

clockwise (away from you).

Tone Voice Visual Display

Three beeps Testing, then

three beeps

System Ready

The display will sequentially show the settings for any user modes you have changed from the factory defaults. If the GPS Locator is connected, the sequence will continue with the database version, whether the GPS is locked on a signal and the speed units in effect.

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)

Start-Up Complete

Power 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.

Assistance

Warranty

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English

Settings

Your Detector

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra

Your Detector

City/Highway Mode (continued)Settings

•

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

n Buttons can have multiple functions.

– Press means press and release (less than two seconds). – Hold 2 means press and hold for two or three seconds before releasing. – Hold 4 means press and hold for four seconds or more before releasing.

n Depending on your choice of Voice Alert or Tone Alert mode, you will hear

either voice messages or tones conrming changes in settings.

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

recalled when the power is turned back On.

City/Highway 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 rst detected.) This will reduce false alerts while you are driving in, or near, urban areas where there are many sources for conicting X band signals such as microwave towers and automatic door openers.

To change settings, follow the procedure listed on the next page, which indicates what you will see and hear (either in Voice Alert or Tone Alert mode) as you complete each step. The factory setting is Highway mode.

Highway Mode

City Mode

City/Hwy Button

Press and release

To Change From Highway Mode to City Mode

Press and release the City/Hwy button.

Tone Voice Visual Display

One beep City City X blinks, then c

appears in the display*

NOTE

If the GPS Locator is connected, “c” or “h” will show for two seconds, then be replaced by the GPS symbol. See page 24 for GPS features.

To Change From City Mode Back to Highway Mode

Press and release the City/Hwy button again.

Tone Voice Visual Display

Two beeps Highway Highway blinks, then h

appears in the display*

Assistance

Warranty

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English

Settings

Your Detector

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra

Your Detector

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 Mark/Dim button. The factory setting is Bright.

Press and release

Mark/Dim Button

Bright

Dim

Dimmer

Dark Indicator

To Change the Brightness to Dim (50% of full brightness)

Press and release the Mark/Dim button once.

Tone Voice Visual Display

One beep Dim Dim blinks, then

display dims

To Change the Brightness to Dark (Off)

Press and release the Mark/Dim button a third time.

Tone Voice Visual Display

One beep Dark

Dark blinks, then display

goes dark (no visual alerts will be seen)

To Change the Brightness to Bright (Full Brightness)

Press and release the Mark/Dim button a fourth time.

Tone Voice Visual Display

Two beeps Bright

Bright blinks, then display turns to full brightness

Muting an Alert

Your detector allows you to quickly turn Off an audio Alert by pressing the Mute button. If you press the Mute button a second time during the 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 seconds for as long as the signal is detected. The factory setting is Auto Mute On.

Mute Button

Press and release

To Turn Auto Mute On

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

Tone Voice Visual Display

Two beeps Auto Mute On Auto Mute On blinks

in the display

To Turn Auto Mute Off

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

Tone Voice Visual Display

One beep Auto Mute Off Auto Mute Off blinks

in the display

Mark/Dim Button

Press and

release

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Settings

Your Detector

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra

Your Detector

IntelliMute

IntelliMute is a unique 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.

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 On. The factory setting is IntelliMute Off.

IntelliMute Button

Press and release

To Turn IntelliMute Off

Press and release the IntelliMute button again.

Tone Voice Visual Display

One beep IntelliMute Off IntelliMute Off blinks

in the display

To Turn IntelliMute On

Press and release the IntelliMute button.

Tone Voice Visual Display

Two beeps IntelliMute On IntelliMute On blinks,

then i appears in the display

i h

IntelliMute On

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 Auto Mute and City mode when appropriate.

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.

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 t your individual preferences and driving style.

Setting the IntelliMute Activation Point

Your detector must be installed in your vehicle.

IntelliMute must be turned On before setting the activation point. Depending on whether the unit is in Tone Alert or Voice Alert mode, you will hear a series of beeps or voice messages as you follow the steps on the next page.

Assistance

Warranty

Assistance

Warranty

i h

Below Activation Point

CAUTION

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

Assistance

Warranty

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English

Settings

Your Detector

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra

Your Detector

IntelliMu...

Intelli...

Off

button ag...

desired RPMs

Intelli

Mute

Hold 2 IntelliMute Button

IntelliMute Not Set

Rev Level Set

To Set the IntelliMute Activation Point

Press and hold the IntelliMute button for two seconds.

Tone Voice Visual Display

Two beeps Set Engine Revs Press IntelliMute

button again at desired RPMs

Rev your engine to the level you wish to set (recommend slightly above idle) and hold revs steady for two seconds.

None None None

At the desired rev level, press and release the IntelliMute button.

Three beeps IntelliMute Set IntelliMute Set!

Tone Voice Visual Display

Four beeps IntelliMute Not

Set, Please Try Again followed by

IntelliMute not set

Please try again

One Beep

IntelliMute Off IntelliMute Off

NOTE If the unit is unable to sense usable pulses

within three 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.

Assistance

Warranty

IntelliMute Pro

IntelliMute Pro prevents detection by radar detector detectors (RDDs) such as VG-2, Spectre I and Spectre IV when traveling at slower speeds. It is intended for use by experienced users only.

When IntelliMute Pro is turned On, and engine RPMs are below the IntelliMute activation point, your detector’s radar detection circuits are turned Off to prevent detection by RDDs.

Before IntelliMute Pro can be turned On, you must have turned On and Set the IntelliMute activation point. (See pages 11 through 12.)

CAUTION When IntelliMute Pro is On, NO radar signals will be detected and

NO alerts will be given at RPMs below the IntelliMute activation point.

To Turn IntelliMute Pro On

While no signal is being detected, press and hold both the IntelliMute and City/Hwy buttons for four seconds.

Tone Voice Visual Display

Two beeps IntelliMute Pro Oni blinks continuously

in the display after

IntelliMute Pro On

blinks

To Turn IntelliMute Pro Off

Press and hold both the IntelliMute and City/Hwy buttons for four seconds.

Tone Voice Visual Display

One beep IntelliMute Pro

Off

IntelliMute Pro Off

blinks in the display

IntelliMute Pro On

i h

NOTE

The arrow up or down will continue to show that engine RPMs are above or below the user-set value.

Assistance

Warranty

IntelliMute Button City/Hwy Button

Press and Hold 4 both buttons simultaneously

IntelliMute Button

Press and release

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Settings

Your Detector

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra

Your Detector

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.

In Voice Alert mode, you will rst 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. The factory setting is Voice Alert mode.

Mute Button

Press and Hold 2

To Change From Tone Alert Back to Voice Alert

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

Tone Voice Visual Display

None Voice Alert Voice Alert blinks in

the display

To Change From Voice Alert to Tone Alert

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

Tone Voice Visual Display

One beep Tone Alert Tone Alert blinks in

the display

VG-2 and Spectre I & IV Alert Settings

Police use radar detector detectors (RDDs) to spot users of radar detectors. Your detector is able to identify signals from VG-2, Spectre I and Spectre IV RDDs and can provide alerts when any of these or similar devices are in use near your vehicle.

Your detector can be spotted by Spectre IV RDDs, but is invisible to VG-2 and Spectre I RDDs. You can choose whether you want to be alerted to VG-2 and Spectre I & IV RDD signals. The factory setting for VG-2 and Spectre I & IV alerts is Off.

IntelliMute & Dim Button

Simultaneously press and hold IntelliMute and Dim buttons for four seconds

To Turn VG-2 and Spectre I & IV Alerts On and Off

While no signal is being detected, press and hold the IntelliMute button for four seconds.

Tone Voice Visual Display

On = Two beeps Spectre VG-2 On Spectre I/VI & VG2 On

blinks in the display

Off = One beep Spectre VG-2 Off Spectre I/VI & VG2 Off

blinks in the display

Spectre

On Off

& VG2 & VG2

Spectre I & IV and VG-2 On

Spectre I & IV and VG-2 Off

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Settings

Your Detector

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra

Your Detector

Radar Alert Settings

XKKaKu

To Turn X Band On and Off

While no signal is being detected, press and hold both the Mark/Dim and Mute buttons for four seconds.

Tone Voice Visual Display

X On = Two beeps X Band On X On blinks in the

display

X Off = One beep X Band Off X Off blinks in the

display

To Turn K Band On and Off

While no signal is being detected, press and hold both the Mute and City buttons for four seconds.

Tone Voice Visual Display

K On = Two beeps K Band On K On blinks in the

display

K Off = One beep K Band Off K Off blinks in the

display

To Turn Ku Band On and Off

While no signal is being detected, press and hold the City/Hwy button for four seconds.

Tone Voice Visual Display

Ku On = Two beeps Ku Band On Ku On blinks in the

display

Ku Off = One beep Ku Band Off Ku Off blinks in the

display

To Turn Ka Band On and Off

With unit power Off, press and hold the Mute button. Then turn the power On and continue to hold the Mute button for two seconds.

Tone Voice Visual Display

Ka On = Two beeps Ka Band On Ka On blinks in the

display

Ka Off = One beep Ka Band Off Ka Off blinks in the

display

Pop Alert

The Pop Mode Radar Gun is a single-pulse Doppler radar that is a feature of a K and Ka (Bee III Ka radar gun) band Instant-On radar gun. It uses a single, short-time pulse to measure the target vehicle’s speed.

The Pop mode receiver senses Pop signals beyond the effective range of Pop radar guns. As the Pop mode receiver is so sensitive, you should limit the use of Pop Detect mode to highway and rural driving.

Pop Alert will alert you to Pop radar signals. During the alert, the unit continues to detect other signals. The factory setting is Pop Detect Off.

To Turn Pop Alert On and Off

While no signal is being detected, press and hold both the Mark/Dim and City/Hwy buttons for four seconds.

Tone Voice Visual Display

Pop On = Two beeps

Pop Alert On Pop Alert On blinks in

the display

Pop Off = One beep

Pop Alert Off Pop Alert Off blinks in

the display

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English

Detection

Your Detector

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra

Detection

Your 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 rst 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.

In both Voice Alert and Tone Alert modes, a distinctly different alert tone is used for each type of signal detected (including separate tones for each laser signal). For X, K, Ka and Ku 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 21.)

Visual Display

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

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 Ku Band Radar Ku Alert Ku and Signal Strength Pop Radar Pop Alert POP

Single Strength Chart

Signal Strength = 1 (Weakest Signal)

Signal Strength = 4

Signal Strength = 2

Signal Strength = 5 (Strongest Signal)

Signal Strength = 3

Laser Signals, Voice and Visual Displays

Type of Signal Voice Visual Display

LTI 20-20* Laser Laser 20/20 LTI Laser* Laser LTI Laser Kustom Signals Laser 340* Laser Kustom Laser 340 Kustom Signals Laser* Laser Kustom Laser Stalker LIDAR* Laser Stalker LIDAR Laser Atlanta SpeedLaser/Kustom Signals-ProLaser II* Laser SpeedLaser/ProLaser II

* Your detector provides 360° detection of these signals.

Pop Signal Detected

K Signal Detected

Ka Signal Detected

Ku Signal Detected

K 3 Ka 5 Ku 4

X Signal Detected

x 1

POP

Visual Display (continued)

LTI 20-20

Laser

20 /2 0

LTI Laser

LTI

Laser

Kustom Signals Laser 340

Kustom

Laser 340

Kustom Signals Laser

Kustom

Laser

NOTE

Beep rate changes with different laser alerts.

Stalker LIDAR

Stalker

Lidar

Laser Atlanta – Speedlaser Kustom Signals-ProLaser II

Speedlaser

ProLaser II

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English

Your Detector

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra

Detection and Responding to Alerts

Your Detector

Visual Display (continued)

Safety Alert Signals, Voice and Visual Displays

Type of Signal Voice Visual Display

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

* Your detector provides 360° detection of these signals.

Spectre I & IV+ Alert Signal, Voice and Visual Display

Type of Signal Voice Visual Display

Spectre I Spectre Alert Spectre1 Spectre IV Spectre Alert Spectre4

VG-2 Alert Signal, Voice and Visual Display

Type of Signal Voice Visual Display

Interceptor VG-2 VG-2 Alert VG-2

Road Hazard Alert Signal Detected

Spectre IV Alert Signal Detected

Train Alert Signal Detected

Road

Spectre4

Train

Hazard

Emergency...

Spectre1

VG-2

Emergency Alert Signal Detected

Spectre I Alert Signal Detected

VG-2 Alert Signal Detected

NOTE

There are different tones for each Safety Alert.

NOTE

There are different tones for each for each radar detector detector alert.

Assistance

Warranty

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.

Assistance

Warranty

Responding to Alerts

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Description

Interpretation

Recommended Response

Tone repeats slowly at rst, then speeds up rapidly.

Probably police radar. FULL ALERT

Tone sounds one time only. Probably a false alarm, but

possibly pulsed radar, Spectre I or IV or VG-2 nearby.

Exercise caution

Tone instantly begins repeating rapidly.

Radar, Spectre I or IV, or VG-2 nearby has been activated suddenly.

FULL ALERT

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

Probably police radar beyond the hill or bridge.

FULL ALERT

Tone repeats slowly for a short period.

Probably a false alarm. Exercise caution

Any type of laser alert. Laser alerts are never

false alarms.

FULL ALERT

Any Safety Alert. You are nearing an

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

Exercise caution

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English

Understanding Radar and Laser

Your Detector

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra

Understanding Radar and Laser

Your Detector

Understanding Radar and Laser

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Radar Speed Monitoring Systems

Three 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 radar bands, plus Ku band (13.435 GHz), which is an approved frequency used in parts of Europe and Asia.

VG-2 and Spectre I & IV

VG-2 and Spectre I & IV are radar detector detectors (RDDs) that work by detecting low-level signals emitted by most radar detectors. Your detector does not emit signals that can be spotted by VG-2 and Spectre I RDDs. However, your detector can be spotted by Spectre IV RDDs. Your unit detects signals from these or similar devices and will alert you when such a device is in use near your vehicle.

Safety Alert Trafc 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.

LIDAR (Laser)

The correct name for the technology that most people refer to as laser is actually LIDAR, which stands for Light Detection and Ranging.

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:

n 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.

n 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.

n 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.

n Is it legal for police to use LIDAR?

Yes, LIDAR is allowed to be used in all 50 States by police. Your detector detects LIDAR (laser).

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English

Global Position System Locator

GPS Locator

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra

Initial Satellite Lock

GPS Locator

Global Position System Locator (GPS Locator)

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Overview

The GPS Locator unit monitors vehicle location using the GPS satellite system to add features to your detector. Whenever it is installed and GPS signals are available, it:

n Provides alerts as you approach photo-enforced intersections and locations with

xed red light or speed cameras, as well as known speed traps and areas where increased caution should be exercised (such as a high-accident intersection). The built-in location database can be updated at Cobra’s website to stay current with photo-enforced locations, known speed traps and caution areas. See www.cobra. com/AURA for details.

n Allows you to identify and store up to 1,000 User Alert Locations in addition

to those in the database.

n Provides speed and direction of travel information (compass).

Initial Satellite Lock .

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When the GPS Locator is rst used (or after a prolonged period of nonuse), the GPS Locator needs more time to detect the Global Position System satellites.

1. After installation of the GPS Locator, turn the detector unit On with the vehicle in an area clear of obstructions to the sky.

2. Keep the detector turned On for at least 15 minutes to allow fast satellite acquisition in subsequent power-ups. The vehicle can be moving as long as it is in an area where the GPS Locator can “see the sky.”

GPS Locator Status

The status of the GPS Locator is shown at start-up with Locked or No Lock ashing on the screen during that sequence (see page 5). When the GPS Locator is connected, the standby screen shows your vehicle’s compass heading (eight point), speed and the City or Highway symbol.

NW 55 h

GPS Lock

GPS No Lock

Connecting to your Detector

Simply plug the GPS Locator into the USB socket on right side of the detector. No external power connection is needed for the GPS Locator; it is powered from the detector unit.

Registration

The database built into your GPS Locator is populated with the latest data available during production. However, due to the time elapsed between production and your purchase, the database may not be 100% up-to-date. Therefore it is highly recommended that you register and update your product before you rst use it. Then, periodically perform AURA database updates to ensure that your GPS Locator works as effectively as possible.

Registering your GPS Locator will immediately activate your lifetime database update subscription to the AURA™ Camera and Driving Hazard Database. (Lifetime includes

life of product – cannot be transferred to other products.)

Minimum system requirements:

Windows

XP or Vista Operating System; Internet access; 64 MB System RAM; USB

(1.1 or above); 20 MB of available on hard drive.

Registration and initial update:

1. Go online to the ofcial AURA website – http://aura.cobra.com.

2. Select your detector model.

3. Complete the registration form

and click “Register.”

4. Click on “Update My Data” and follow the online instructions.

5. Once installed, launch the updater and follow on screen instructions.

6. When update is complete, remove the GPS Locator from the PC.

It is ready to plug into your detector.

Subsequent updates:

1. Access the internet on your PC.

2. Plug your GPS Locator into your PC’s USB port

for automatic update of new data.

IMPORTANT Do not plug the GPS Locator into your PC’s USB port until the GPS data updater is installed and you are prompted to plug in the GPS Locator.

IMPORTANT

Headed northwest at 55 miles per hour with GPS signal locked.

If GPS Lock is lost, the Compass heading and speed will change to dashes.

GPS Locator

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English

User Locations and GPS Settings

GPS Locator

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra

GPS Settings

GPS Locator

GPS Alerts

When a Location-Based Alert other than a Known Speed Trap is activated, the screen will show the distance between your vehicle and the Location as Zones 1, 2, and 3 with Zone 1 being the furthest from the location.

Location Distance Chart

Zone 1 Zone 2

User Locations

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The GPS Locator database is populated with all the Photo Enforcement, Caution Area and Known Speed Trap locations known at the time of its last update.

You can add User Locations of your own to alert you to places other than those in the Photo Enforcement, Caution Area, and Known Speed Trap categories. Whenever your vehicle approaches a user set location, the alarm chime will sound and the screen will show User Location.

n To set a User Location:

With the GPS Locator unit connected to the detector, press and hold the

Mark/Dim button for two seconds when your vehicle is at a Location you want to set.

n To delete a specic User Location:

While a User Location Alert is sounding at a Location you have set,

press and hold the Mark/Dim button for two seconds.

Known Speed Traps

These are areas where it is known that mobile enforcement units are frequently deployed. If you do not want to receive Speed Trap alerts while the GPS Locator is connected, you can turn them Off. The factory default is Speed Traps On.

Speed Units

Speed units can be selected as miles per hour (mph) or kilometers per hour (km/h). The factory default is mph.

GPS Settings

•

All of the settings associated with the GPS Locator except Known Speed Trap Locations and IntelliScope are always On and cannot be selectively turned Off. If you do not want to hear or see alerts for Photo Enforcement, Caution Area and User Locations, simply remove the GPS Locator from the unit. This will also remove the Compass and Speed information.

All radar and laser alerts will continue to function even when the GPS Locator is removed.

Photo Enforcement Areas

These are xed red light and speed cameras.

Caution Areas

These are high-accident intersections and other dangerous locations.

To Turn Off and On Speed Trap Alerts

With the GPS Locator connected and unit power Off, press and hold the Mark/Dim button. Then turn the power On and continue to hold the Mark/Dim button for two seconds.

Tone Voice Visual Display

Speed Trap Alerts Off = One beep

Speed Trap Alerts Off

blinks in the display

Speed Trap Alerts On = Two beeps

Speed Trap Alerts OnSpeed Trap Alerts On

blinks in the display

To Toggle Between mph and km/h

With the GPS Locator connected and unit power Off, press and hold the City/Hwy button. Then turn the power On and continue to hold the City/Hwy button for two seconds.

Tone Voice Visual Display

None Miles per hour mph

None Kilometers per

hour

km/h

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English

GPS Settings

GPS Locator

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra

GPS Locator

Visual Display

In addition to distance from the Location, the screen will show the type of alert.

Photo Enforced Areas

Caution Areas

SPEED TR

User Location

IntelliScope

IntelliScope adds direction information to the distance and type of Location-Based Alert (other than Known Speed Trap Locations) by showing an arrow at the right of the screen.

In zones 1 and 2 the arrow will point in the approximate direction of the Location. In zone 3, the location is in front of you. The factory setting is IntelliScope On.

Display while approaching a Photo Enforcement Location on your route and directly ahead.

NOTE The arrow disappears in Zone 3 when you are close to the Location.

Assistance

Warranty

Zone 1 Zone 2

Zone 3

IntelliScope Alert Signal For a Location Directly Ahead

PE PE PE PE PE

Display while approaching and passing a Caution Area that is some distance away to the right of your route.

NOTE The signal never enters zone 3 since you never get close

to the Location.

Assistance

Warranty

NOTE IntelliScope does not indicate the direction of Known Speed Traps. Whenever

you approach Known Speed Trap Locations, the warning will scroll across the display.

Assistance

Warranty

Zone 1

IntelliScope Alert Signal Sequence When Location Is Off Your Route

CA CA CA CA CA

Display while approaching a Photo Enforcement Location involving a turn onto a cross street where it is located.

NOTE The arrow changes to straight ahead after turning onto the cross

street where the Location is.

Assistance

Warranty

Zone 1

IntelliScope Alert Signal Sequence When You Turn Toward the Location

PE PE PE

Zone 3

PE PE

Vehicle

Turns Right

IntelliScope (continued)

When IntelliScope is turned Off, Location-Based Alerts will be sounded only when the Location is ahead of you and in the direction of your vehicle’s travel. No arrow will be shown on the screen.

For example, if a particular red light camera operates only for vehicles going north and your vehicle is going south, you will not receive an alert with IntelliScope turned Off. With IntelliScope turned On, you will receive an alert at that Location even though the camera does not operate in your direction.

To Turn IntelliScope Off and On

With the GPS Locator connected and unit power Off, press and hold the IntelliMute button. Then turn the power On and continue to hold the IntelliMute button for two seconds.

Tone Voice Visual Display

IntelliScope Off = One beep

IntelliScope Off Intelliscope Off blinks

in the display

IntelliScope On = Two beeps

IntelliScope On Intelliscope On blinks

in the display

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English

Maintenance and Specications

Customer Information

Specications and Warranty

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra

Customer Information

Maintenance

•

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

If you have added the GPS Locator unit to your detector, you can update the database of Photo Enforced locations. Go to Cobra’s website (www.cobra.com) and follow the online instructions.

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

n Make sure the power cord is properly connected. n Make sure the socket of your vehicle’s cigarette lighter is clean and free

of corrosion.

n Make sure the power cord’s cigarette lighter adapter is rmly seated in

your cigarette lighter.

n Check the power cord fuse. (Unscrew the ribbed end cap of the cigarette lighter adapter

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

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; 6,621,447. Additional patents may be listed inside the product or pending.

Specications (continued)

Limited 1-Year Warranty

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For Products Purchased in the U.S.A.

Cobra Electronics Corporation warrants that its Cobra Radar/Laser Detectors, and the component parts thereof, will be free of defects in workmanship and materials for a period of one year from the date of rst consumer purchase. This warranty may be enforced by the rst consumer purchaser, provided that the product is utilized within the U.S.A. Cobra will, without charge, repair or replace, at its option, defective Radar/Laser Detectors, products or component parts upon delivery to the Cobra Factory Service Department, accompanied by proof of the date of rst 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 specic rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.

Exclusions: This limited warranty does not apply:

1. 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 tness 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.

WARNING Modications or parts substitutions not approved by Cobra Electronics Corporation may violate FCC Rules and void your authority to operate this equipment.

Specifications

Band and Frequencies

Band Frequencies

X Band 10.525 ± 0.050 GHz K Band 24.125 ± 0.125 GHz Ka Band 34.700 ± 1.300 GHz Ku Band 13.435 ± 0.035 GHz VG-2 11.500 ± 0.250 GHz Laser 910 ± 50nm 100 PPS

910 ± 50nm 125 PPS 910 ± 50nm 130 PPS 910 ± 50nm 200 PPS 910 ± 50nm 238 PPS 910 ± 50nm 340 PPS

Spectre I 13.300 ± 0.200 GHz Spectre IV/IV+ Not Disclosed

Safety Alert 24.070 ± 0.010 GHz Traffic Warning 24.110 ± 0.010 GHz System 24.190 ± 0.010 GHz

24.230 ± 0.010 GHz

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Product Service and

Customer Information

Optional Accessories

Product Service

•

For any questions about operating or installing this new Cobra product, or if parts are missing…PLEASE CALL COBRA FIRST…do not return this product to the store. See customer assistance on page A1.

If this product should require factory service, please call Cobra before sending the product. This will ensure the fastest turn-around time on any repair. If Cobra asks that the product be sent to its factory, the following must be furnished to have the product serviced and returned:

1. For Warranty Repair include some form of proof-of-purchase, such as a mechanical reproduction or carbon of a sales receipt. Make sure the date of purchase and product model number are clearly readable. If the originals are sent, they cannot be returned;

2. Send the entire product;

3. Enclose a description of what is happening with the product. Include a typed or clearly printed

name and address of where the product is to be returned, with phone number (required for shipment);

4. Pack product securely to prevent damage in transit. If possible, use the original packing material;

5. Ship prepaid and insured by way of a traceable carrier such as United Parcel Service (UPS) or Priority Mail to avoid loss in transit to: Cobra Factory Service, Cobra Electronics Corporation, 6500 West Cortland Street, Chicago, Illinois 60707 U.S.A.;

6. If the product is in warranty, upon receipt of the product it will either be repaired or exchanged depending on the model. Please allow approximately 3 – 4 weeks before contacting Cobra for status. If the product is out of warranty, a letter will automatically be sent with information as to the repair charge or replacement charge.

For any questions, please call 773-889-3087 for assistance.

Optional Accessories

You can nd quality Cobra products and accessories at your local Cobra dealer, or in the U.S.A., you can order directly from Cobra. See order info on page 33.

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Plug-in GPS Locator Unit

Item #RDA GPSL66

English

Straight 12V DC Power Cord

Includes plug and fuse

Item #420-030-N-001

Windshield Mounting Bracket

Includes suction cups

Item #545-159-N-001

Coiled 12V DC Power Cord

Includes plug and fuse

Item #420-026-N-001

Dual Port Power Adapter

Includes adjustable plug (up to 90˚) & fuse

Item #CLP-2B

Cobra XRS 9550G Operating Instructions Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual