ULTRA PERFORMANCE
DIGITAL RADAR/LASER
DETECTOR WITH XTREME
RANGE SUPERHETERODYNE
®
TECHNOLOGY
XRS 970
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra
®
Operating Instructions
Printed in China
Part No. 480-635-P
Version A
English
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/Strobe 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,
3M or strobe 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
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 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. productinfo@cobra.com (e-mail).
radar, VG-2, Spectre I and safety/strobe indicators.
* See pages 5 – 28 for more information
about display features.
English
A2
Adjusts the display brightness for easy reading
(and to scroll through user mode settings while
Alpha/Numeric Dot Matrix Text Display*
Windshield
Bracket
Mount
Select/Dim Button
programming).
WARNING
Modifications or parts substitutions not approved
by Cobra Electronics Corporation may violate
FCC Rules and void your authority to operate
this equipment.
LaserEye
For 360° detection of
laser and strobe signals.
System Ready
Auxiliary Audio
Jack
Speaker
Set/City Button
For City or Highway
modes to reduce false
alerts (and to change
user mode settings
while programming).
•
Product Features
•
Congratulations! You’ve made a smart choice by purchasing an ultra high
performance digital 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
Ultra Performance
Provides advanced warning with
extra detection range
Detection and Separate Alerts
For radar signals (X, K, Ka and Ku bands,
with signal strength indicated), Laser signals,
Safety Alert signals, Strobe Alert signals, VG-2
signals, Spectre I signals
8-Point Compass
Displays direction of travel
LaserEye
For 360° detection of laser and
strobe 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
Voice or Tone Alert
With adjustable volume
DigiView Data Display
With easy-to-read alpha/numeric
dot matrix text readout
IntelliShield Highway/City Modes
Reduces falsing in urban areas with Highway
mode and three levels
of City mode settings
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 audio alerts by sensing
engine RPMs
IntelliMute Pro
Prevents detection by radar detector detectors
(RDDs) when traveling at slower speeds
Smart Power
A timed power saving function that
saves your car’s battery
EasySet Programming
User-friendly mode selection and
setting with visual guidance
Auxiliary Audio Jack
For external speaker connection
Mounting
Mounts easily on windshield
or dashboard
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.
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra
®
A3
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
420-030-N-001Straight 12V P owe r Cord
420-026-N-001Coiled 12V Pow er Cord
545-159-N-001Windshield Mounting Bra cke t
CLP-2BDual Por t Power Adapter
Trademark Acknowledgement
Cobra®, DigiView®, EasySet®, Extra Sensory Detection®, IntelliMute®, IntelliMute Pro®,
IntelliShield
Strobe Alert
are registered trademarks of Cobra Electronics Corporation, USA.
Cobra Electronics Corporation™, 14 Band™, 15 Band™, Extreme Bright DataGrafix™,
IntelliLink™, Revolution™ Series, SmartPower™, Spectre Alert™, Super-Xtreme Range
Superheterodyne™, S-XRS™, UltraBright™, and Voice Alert™ are trademarks of Cobra
Electronics Corporation, USA.
Opticom™ is a trademark of 3M Corporation. Instaclear
trademark of Ford Motor Company, Inc. Electriclear
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. Stalker™ LIDAR is a trademark of Applied Concepts,
Inc. Spectre I™ and Spectre IV+™ are trademarks of Stealth Micro Systems Pty. Ltd. SpeedLaser™
is a trademark of Laser Atlanta, LLC. Interceptor VG-2™ is a trademark of TechniSonic Industries
LTD. Tomar
®
, LaserEye®, Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®, Safety Alert®Traffic Warning System,
®
, VG-2 Alert®, Xtreme Range Superheterodyne®and the snake design
®
for Ford is a registered
®
for GM is a registered trademark of General
®
is a registered trademark of TOMAR Electronics, Inc.
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 MountingDashboard 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.
2
English
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra
®
3
Your Detector
Installation
Your Detector
Getting Started
Dashboard Mounting
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 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.
5. Plug the power cord
into the detector.
Getting Started
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).
Power On
Testing
Tone
Visual Display
Three beepsTesting
System Ready
The display will then
cycle through the user
mode settings (city or
highway, Intellimute
and SmartPower
status).
Start-up is complete when the display shows – –h.
Important: Once the compass is calibrated, the dashes will change
to one of the cardinal compass directions (N, NE, E,
SE, S, SW, W, NW). See page 18 to calibrate the compass.
Start-Up Complete
__
h
•
Voice
Testing, then three
beeps
System Ready
Voice Alert
4
English
6. Plug the cigarette lighter
adapter on the power
cord into your vehicle’s
cigarette lighter.
System Ready
Voice Alert
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 and you have turned the SmartPower Off, you
should turn Off or unplug your detector when parking for
lengthy periods. Cobra recommends leaving SmartPower
at the factory setting, which is On.
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra
®
5
Your Detector
EasySet Programming
EasySet Programming
All user mode settings on your detector can be changed by using
Program mode. When changing the settings, please keep in mind:
■
Buttons can have multiple functions.
■
All settings will be stored in memory when the power is
turned Off and recalled when the power is turned back On.
The procedure for using Program mode is shown on page 7.
NOTE
You cannot enter Program mode during an alert. The unit will not detect
signals while in Program mode. During programming, if no buttons are
pushed for ten seconds, the unit will automatically exit Program mode and
save the last settings.
Your Detector
•
To Use Program Mode
Press and hold the
Program/Mute button
for two seconds.
EasySet Programming
Tone
Three beepsProgram will appear.
Visual DisplayVoice
PROGRAM
Then brief programming
instructions will scroll through
the display three times.
Set/City Button
Press and release
Select/Dim Button
Press and release
Program/Mute Button
Press and hold/Press and release
Start Program
Programming User Modes
The tables on pages 8 through 9 show you how to program all user modes and the
settings you can choose from.
NOTE
On the following pages, you will find more detailed explanations
of each setting.
See page 15 for instructions on setting the IntelliMute activation point. See
page 18 for instructions on calibrating the compass.
See page 23 for instructions on using SmartPower.
English
6
While the programming
instructions are scrolling,
press and release the
Select/Dim button to
cycle through
the user modes.
With the user mode you
wish to change displayed,
press and release the
Set/City button to change
the setting.
To move to the next
selection, press the
Select/Dim button again.
When you have finished
programming any or
all of the user modes,
press and release the
Program/Mute button
to exit Program mode.
Or simply wait ten
seconds without
pushing any buttons.
One beep
with each
button press
One
or two beeps,
depending
on your
selection
One beepWhen you exit Program mode,
As each mode is displayed,
the current setting for that
mode will be shown.
The setting you
select will be shown.
the new setting
will automatically be saved
and EXIT PROGRAM and
Settings Saved! will appear.
EXIT
PROGRAM
Settings
Saved!
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra
None
Current setting
Exit Program
®
7
Your Detector
EasySet Programming
This EasySet programming menu lists all of the modes and settings you can
choose from after you have entered Program mode as described on page 7.
ModeToneDisplay/VoiceResult
Set
IntelliShield
City mode
default*
IntelliMute
mode
Set
IntelliMute
RPMs
IntelliMute
Pro mode
Auto Mute
mode
Set
Compass
Pop Detect
mode
English
8
Two beepsCity XA single beep sounds when the
signal is first detected.
One beepCity X
beep Off
Audio for all X band alerts are blocked
until signal strength reaches Level 3.
One beepCity X+KCombines the City X mode with prevention
of K band audio alerts
until signal strength reaches Level 2.
Two beepsIntelliMute OnAll alerts (except for strobe signals from
emergency vehicles) are automatically
muted below the engine rev point you set.
One beepIntelliMute OffNormal operation.
One beepSet IntelliMute
(see page 15
to set activation
Allows you to set the engine
rev point while using IntelliMute.
Note: Only shown if IntelliMute is Off.
point)
Two beepsIntelliMute ProOnAll radar, VG-2 and Spectre detection is
turned Off below the engine rev set point.
One beepIntelliMute Pro
Normal operation.
Off
Two beepsAutoMute OnThe audio volume of all alerts will be
automatically muted after four seconds for as
long as the signal is detected.
One beepAutoMute OffAll alerts will sound at full volume
for as long as the signal is detected.
One beepSet Compass Allows you to calibrate the compass.
(see page 18 to calibrate compass)
Two beepsPop Detect OnUnit will detect Pop signals.
One beepPop Detect OffUnit will not detect Pop signals.
Your Detector
ModeToneDisplay/Voice
VG-2 Detect
mode
VG-2 Audio
mode (not
shown if VG-2
detect is Off)
Spectre
Detect mode
Spectre Audio
mode (not
shown
if Spectre
detect is Off)
SmartPower
mode
X Band
Detect mode
K or Ku Band
Detect mode
Set display
Dim mode
default*
EasySet Programming
Result
Two beepsVG-2 Detect OnUnit will detect VG-2 signals.
One beepVG-2 Detect OffUnit will not detect VG-2 signals.
Two beepsVG-2 Audio OnWith VG-2 Detect On, the unit will give
One beepVG-2 Audio OffWith VG-2 Detect Off, the unit will give
Two beepsSpectre
Detect On
One beepSpectre
Detect Off
Two beepsSpectre AudioOnWith Spectre Audio On, unit will give
One beepSpectre Audio
Off
Two beepsSmartPower OnSmartPower is On.
One beepSmartPower OffSmartPower is Off.
Two beepsX Band OnUnit will detect X Band signals.
One beepX Band OffUnit will not detect X Band signals.
Two beepsK or Ku Band On Unit will detect K or Ku Band signals.
One beepK or Ku Band Off Unit will not detect K or Ku Band signals.
Two beepsDisplay DimPartially dimmed for dusk or night driving.
One beepDisplay Dimmer More dimmed for dusk or night driving.
audible alerts for VG-2 signals.
only visual alerts for VG-2 signals.
Unit will detect Spectre I & IV+ signals.
Unit will not detect Spectre I & IV+
signals.
audible alerts for Spectre signals.
With Spectre I Audio Off, unit will give only
visual alerts for Spectre I & IV+ signals.
One beepDisplay DarkDisplay is Off.
Restore factory
settings
One beepRestore Factory
Settings
Resets user modes and settings to factory
default.
Exit programOne beepEXIT PROGRAMAllows you to exit Program mode.
* The settings for these user modes can also be changed with
the one button method.See description of each user mode
(pages 10 and 25) for details.
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra
®
9
Your Detector
Settings
Your Detector
Settings
Settings
IntelliShield Highway/City Modes
Your detector is equipped with IntelliShield false signal rejection technology which
consists of a Highway mode and three different levels of City modes: City X, City X
Beep Off and City X+K. City X mode sounds a single beep when the signal is first
detected. City X Beep Off mode prevents all X band audio alerts until the signal
strength reaches Level 3. City X+K mode combines the City X mode with
prevention of K band audio alerts until the signal strength reads Level 2. This will
reduce false alerts while you are driving in or near urban areas where there are
many sources for conflicting X or K band signals such as microwave towers and
automatic door openers. The factory setting is Highway. The factory City mode
default setting is City X.
Set/City Button
Press and release
To Change From Highway Mode to City Mode
Press and release
the Set/City
button.
City Mode
NWc
To Change From City Mode Back to Highway Mode
Press and release
the Set/City
button again.
Highway Mode
Tone
Visual DisplayVoice
One beepc appears in
the display
NOTE
When you change to City mode, the unit will enter
whichever city default mode is set at the time.
Tone
Two beepsh appears in
Visual DisplayVoice
the display
City X or City X Beep
Off or City X, K
Highway
•
Setting City Default
You can set the default level for City mode (City X, City X Beep Off and
City X+K) either in Program mode or directly using the Set/City button.
Set/City Button
Press and hold
CityX
Press and
hold the
City
Set/City
X+K
button
CityX
Beep Off
To Set the City Mode Default Directly Using the Set/City Button
Press and hold the
Set/City button.
Release the Set/City
button to select the
current display as default.
To Set the City Mode Default Using Program Mode
(See Page 7 For Instructions on Using Program Mode)
In Program mode,
go to City.
Tone or Voice
One beep each time the
Visual Display
Cycles – see chart above
display cycles
NoneCity X Beep Off,
City X+K or City X
ToneVisual DisplayVoice
One beepCity X Beep OffCity X Beep Off
One beepCity X+KCity X, K
Two beepsCity XCity X
City X Beep Off
City X+K
City X
NWh
English
10
City X
Beep Off
City X+K
City X
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra
®
11
Your Detector
Settings
Your Detector
Settings
Muting an Alert
Your detector allows you to quickly turn Off an Audio Alert by momentarily
pressing the Program/Mute button. If you press the Program/Mute button
a second time during the Alert, the Audio Alert will be turned back On.
¸
Program/Mute Button
Press and release
To Turn On or Off an Audio Alert Using the Program/Mute Button
Press and release
the Program/Mute
button.
Tone
NoneNone
Visual Display
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
for Auto Mute is On.
To Turn Auto Mute On or Off Using Program Mode
(See Page 7 For Instructions on Using Program Mode)
In Program mode,
go to Auto Mute.
ToneVisual DisplayVoice
Two beepsAuto Mute OnAuto Mute On
One beepAuto Mute OffAuto Mute Off
Auto Mute Off
AutoMute On
Auto Mute On
AutoMute Off
Voice Alert and Tone Alert Modes
You can set your detector to sound alerts and confirm user settings with either a
Voice or a Tone. The factory setting for Alert mode is Voice.
To Select Voice or Tone Mode Using Program Mode
(See Page 7 For Instructions on Using Program Mode)
In Program mode,
go to Voice/Tone.
ToneVisual DisplayVoice
One beepToneTone Alert
Voice AlertVoiceVoice Alert
Auxiliary Audio Jack
The Auxiliary Audio Jack can be used to connect an external speaker
in environments with high ambient noise levels. The internal speaker
will be disconnected.
Auxiliary
Audio Jack
12
English
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra
®
13
Your Detector
Settings
Your Detector
Settings
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 audio 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 15). 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. An i will appear in the display when IntelliMute is
On. The factory setting is IntelliMute Off.
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.
To Turn IntelliMute On or Off Using Program Mode
(See Page 7 For Instructions on Using Program Mode)
In Program mode,
go to IntelliMute.
ToneVisual DisplayVoice
Two beepsIntelliMute On,
One beepIntelliMute OffIntelliMute Off
IntelliMute On
Intelli
Mute
then i appears
in the display
IntelliMute Off
Intelli
Mute
IntelliMute On
What to Remember While Using IntelliMute
IntelliMute works with all 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 Point
N W ih
Above Activation Point
N W ih
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 before setting the activation point.
14
English
On
N W i h
Off
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra
®
15
Your Detector
Settings
Your Detector
Settings
Select/Dim Button
Program/Mute Button
To Set the IntelliMute Activation Point Using Program Mode
(See Page 7 For Instructions on Using Program Mode)
In Program mode, go to Set IntelliMute.
Tone
Visual Display Voice
NoneSet IntelliMute None
Press and release the Set/City button to
begin setting IntelliMute RPMs.
Two beepsPress SET
at desired
RPMs…
Rev your engine to the level you wish to
NoneNoneNone
set. Rev the engine slightly above idle and
hold revs steady for two seconds.
At the desired rev level, press and
release the Set/City button.
Press and release either the Select/Dim
Three beepsIntelliMute
Set!
NoneNoneNone
button to proceed to the next user mode
or the Program/Mute button to exit the
Program mode.
Setting IntelliMute RRMs
Se t In te l. ..Pr essS ET. ..Inte ll i
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.
ToneVisual DisplayVoice
One beepIntelliMute not set
Please try again
One beepIntelliMute OffIntelliMute Off
IntelliMute not set
Please try again
IntelliMute
Not Set
In te lli Mu ...
Pl ea se tr. ..
Set/City
Button
Set Engine
Revs
IntelliMute
Set
Mu te
Se t!
IntelliMute Off
In te lli
Mu te
Of f
IntelliMute Pro
IntelliMute Pro prevents detection by radar detector detectors (RDDs) such as VG2, 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 14 through 16.)
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 or Off Using Program Mode
(See Page 7 For Instructions on Using Program Mode)
In Program mode,
go to IntelliMute Pro.
ToneVisual DisplayVoice
Two beepsIntelliMute Pro On,
IntelliMute Pro On
then i blinks
in the display
One beepIntelliMute Pro Off,
IntelliMute Pro Off
then i is
steady in the
display
IntelliMute Pro On
Intelli
Mute Pro
On
NW ih
IntelliMute Pro Off
Intelli
Mute Pro
Off
NW ih
16
English
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra
®
17
Your Detector
Settings
Your Detector
Settings
Compass
Your detector includes an internal
NW
N
NE
8-point Compass that will continuously
display your current direction of travel:
N, NE, E, SE, S, SW, W or NW.
Calibrating the Compass
8-Point
W
Compass
SW
E
SE
S
NOTE
Before using it for the first time, you must calibrate the compass to provide
accurate indications of direction. See page 7 for instructions
on using the Program mode to select Set Compass.
Calibration allows the compass electronics to measure and store information
about the magnetic fields generated by your vehicle.
The compass will remain accurately calibrated as long as your detector is mounted
in the same place in your vehicle. If you change the location where the unit is
mounted or move it to another vehicle, you must recalibrate the compass.
The compass temporarily may not provide accurate readings if you are inside a
building or enclosure, or are close to a large metal tractor/trailer, truck, or train.
Once you are away from such a location, the compass will work correctly again.
NOTE
When the instructions direct you to drive in two circles, a large parking lot is
the most convenient place to do so. It does not matter what direction your
vehicle is pointing when you start the circles, which direction you go to make
the circles, and it does not have to be exactly two circles. You do NOT have to
make perfect circles. You can drive in any pattern, as long as you make two
complete turns. Four three-point turns, two small squares, or any two
complete loops will work as well as two circles. It does not matter what size
the circles are, if your speed is constant, or how fast you make the circles
[but less than two minutes]. Please be careful when making the circles and
watch for other traffic.
Select/Dim Button
Program/Mute Button
To Calibrate the Compass Using Program Mode
(See Page 7 For Instructions on Using Program Mode)
In Program mode, go to
Set Compass.
Press and release the Set/City button
to begin setting the compass.
Tone
Visual Display Voice
NoneSet CompassNone
One (1) beepDrive in 2
circles…
Press SET
when done…
Within two minutes, drive your
vehicle in a circle twice, then press
the Set/City button again.
Three beepsCompass Set!
For two
seconds
followed by
direction of
travel (N, NE,
E, SE, S, SW,
W or NW)
Press and release either the Select/Dim
NoneNoneNone
button to proceed to the next user mode
or the Program/Mute button
to exit Program mode.
Set Compass
Se t Co mp a. ..
Calibrate
Compass
Dr iv e in .. .
Pr es s SE T.. .Se t!
Compass Set
Co mp ass
NOTE
If you do not press the Set/City button within two minutes after beginning
the set compass process, compass calibration will automatically terminate.
ToneVisual DisplayVoice
One beepCompass not set…
Please try again…
Compass not set…
Please try again…
Terminate
Co mp ass n .. .
Pl ea se tr. ..
Set/City
Button
Set Compass
Compass Set
Direction
of Travel
N W h
18
English
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra
®
19
Your Detector
Settings
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 singles 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 Detect Mode On or Off Using Program Mode
(See Page 7 For Instructions on Using Program Mode)
In Program mode,
go to Pop Detect.
ToneVisual DisplayVoice
Two beepsPop OnPop On
One beepPop OffPop Off
Pop Detect On
Po p On
Pop Detect Off
Po p Off
K, Ku and X Band Detection
The new Ku Band may be introduced to North America in the future. To prevent false
alerts until it is, the factory default for Ku Band detection is Off. In parts of North
America, annoying false alerts from door openers and similar devices are triggered on
the X Band and K Band. If desired, X Band or K Band can be turned Off. The factory
default for X Band and K Band detection is On.
To Turn X, K and/or Ku Mode On or Off Using Program Mode
(See Page 7 For Instructions on Using Program Mode)
In Program mode,
go to X, K or Ku band.
X-Band On
X-Ba nd On
X-Band Off
X-Ba nd Off
K-Band On
K-Ba nd On
English
20
ToneVisual DisplayVoice
Two beepsX-Band OnX On
One beepX-Band OffX Off
Two beepsK-Band OnK On
One beepK-Band OffK Off
Two beepsKu-Band OnKu On
One beepKu-Band OffKu Off
K-Band Off
K-Ba nd Off
Ku-Band On
Ku -B a nd O n
Ku-Band Off
Ku -B a nd O ff
Your Detector
Settings
VG-2 Alert
The detector is undetectable by VG-2 detection devices 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
VG-2 Alerts. With VG-2 Detect mode On, you can also
choose whether or not you want your unit to sound audible VG-2 Alerts.
The factory settings are VG-2 Detect Off and VG-2 Detect Audio Off.
To Turn VG-2 Detect Mode On or Off Using Program Mode
(See Page 7 For Instructions on Using Program Mode)
In Program mode,
go to VG-2 Detect.
To Turn VG-2 Audio Mode On or Off Using Program Mode
(See Page 7 For Instructions on Using Program Mode)
In Program mode,
go to VG-2 Audio.
ToneVisual DisplayVoice
Two beepsVG2 On VG2 On
One beepVG2 OffVG2 Off
VG-2 Detect On
VG2 On
VG-2 Detect Off
VG2 Off
ToneVisual DisplayVoice
Two beepsVG2 Audio OnVG2 Audio On
One beepVG2 Audio OffVG2 Audio Off
VG-2 Audio On
...Audio On
VG-2 Audio Off
...Audio Off
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra
®
21
Your Detector
Settings
Your Detector
Settings
Spectre I & IV+ Alerts
Police use radar detector detectors (RDDs) to spot users of radar detectors.
Your detector is able to identify signals from 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
Spectre I RDDs. You can choose whether or not you want your unit to show SpectreAlerts. With Spectre Detect mode On, you can also choose whether or not you want
your unit to sound audible Spectre Alerts. The factory settings are Spectre Detect Off,
Spectre Audio Off.
To Turn Spectre Detect Mode On or Off Using Program Mode
(See Page 7 For Instructions on Using Program Mode)
In Program mode,
go to Spectre Detect.
To Turn Spectre Mode On or Off Using Program Mode
(See Page 7 For Instructions on Using Program Mode)
In Program mode,
go to Spectre Audio.
ToneVisual DisplayVoice
Two beepsSpectre OnSpectre On
One beepSpectre OffSpectre Off
Spectre Detect On
Spectre On
ToneVisual DisplayVoice
Two beepsSpectre Audio OnSpectre Audio On
One beep
Spectre Audio On
Spectre Detect Off
Spe c t r e O f f
Spectre Audio OffSpectre Audio Off
Spectre Audio Off
SmartPower
Your detector includes the SmartPower feature that, when activated, will put the unit
into Standby mode (low power) for about 30 minutes after the car’s engine has been
turned Off. After 30 minutes in Standby mode, the unit will automatically turn Off.
SmartPower Entering
Standby Mode
Pwr Sav e
To Turn SmartPower Mode On or Off Using Program Mode
(See Page 7 For Instructions on Using Program Mode)
In Program mode,
go to SmartPower.
Before SmartPower enters Standby mode, you will hear one
beep and Pwr Save will appear on the display. To return the
unit to normal Power mode or exit Standby mode, start the
car, press any button or turn the unit Off and then On again.
The factory setting is SmartPower On.
ToneVisual DisplayVoice
Two beepsSmartPower OnSmartPower On
One beepSmartPower OffSmartPower Off
SmartPower On
...Power On
SmartPower Off
...Power Off
22
English
...Audio On
...Audio Off
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra
®
23
Your Detector
Assistance
Warranty
Settings
Your Detector
Settings
DigiView Data Display Brightness
Your detector has a Bright display mode (for daytime driving) and three levels of
Dim display modes (Dim for dusk driving, Dimmer for night driving and Dark
where no visual alerts will be displayed) to control the display’s brightness levels.
The factory setting is Bright. The factory Dim mode
default setting is Dimmer.
Dark Indicator
.
Select/Dim Button
Press and release
To Change the Brightness to Dim
Press and release the
Select/Dim button once.
Dim Display
Dim
NOTE
When you change to Dim mode, the unit will enter whichever
dim default mode is set at the time.
To Change the Brightness to Bright
Press and release the
Select/Dim button again.
Bright Display
Tone
Visual DisplayVoice
Two beepsDim, Dimmer
or Dark
Dimmer Display
Dimmer
Tone
Dark Display
Dark
Visual DisplayVoice
One beepBrightBright
Dim, Dimmeror Dark
Setting Dim Default
You can set the default level for Dim mode (Dim, Dimmer or Dark)
either in Program mode or directly using the Select/Dim button.
Select/Dim Button
Press and hold
Dark
To Set the Display Dim Mode Default Directly Using the Set/Dim Button
Press and hold the
Select/Dim button.
Tone or Voice
One beep each time the
Visual Display
Cycles – see chart above
display cycles
Release the Select/Dim
NoneDim, Dimmer or Dark
button to select the
current display as default.
To Set the Display Dim Mode Default Using Program Mode
(See Page 7 For Instructions on Using Program Mode)
In Program mode,
go to Display Dim,
Dimmer or Dark.
ToneVisual DisplayVoice
Two beepsDim Dim
One beepDimmerDimmer
One beepDarkDark
Dim
Press
and hold
Select/Dim
button
Dimmer
24
Bright
English
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra
®
25
Your Detector
Assistance
Warranty
Detection
Your Detector
Detection
Detection
Signals Detected
The tables on the following pages show you the types of Signals your
detector will detect, as well as the visual alerts it provides for each of them.
Audio Alerts
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 29.
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 one to five vertical
bars, indicating the strength of the signal detected.
Signal Strength Chart
Signal Strength = 1
(Weakest Signal)
-
Signal Strength = 4
-
--
--
---
----
Signal Strength = 2
123
45
-
--
Signal Strength = 5
(Strongest Signal)
-
--
---
---
----
----
_
-
_
Signal Strength = 3
-
-
--
---
•
Radar Signals and Visual Displays
Type of SignalVisual DisplayVoice
X Band RadarX and Signal StrengthX Alert
K Band RadarK and Signal StrengthK Alert
Ka Band RadarKa and Signal StrengthKa Alert
Ku Band RadarKu and Signal StrengthKu Alert
Pop Radar ModePopPop Alert
X Signal DetectedK Signal DetectedKa Signal Detected
_
-
-
X2
-
--
Pop Signal Detected
K-2
--
---
-
Ka---5
--
---
----
----
_
Ku Signal Detected
_
Ku- - 4
-
--
---
----
Pop
Laser Signals and Visual Displays *Detector provides 360° detection of these signals.
Type of SignalVisual DisplayVoice
LTI 20-20*Laser 20/20Laser Alert
LTI Ultra-Lyte*Laser UltraLyteLaser Alert
Kustom Signals ProLaser*Laser Pro LaserLaser Alert
Kustom Signals ProLaser III*Laser Pro Laser 3Laser Alert
Stalker LIDAR*Laser StalkerLaser Alert
Laser Atlanta – Speedlaser*Laser SpeedlaserLaser Alert
LTI 20-20
LTI Ultra-Lyte
Kustom Signals
ProLaser
Kustom Signals
ProLaser III
26
English
Laser
20/ 2 0
Stalker Lid ar
Laser
Stalker
Laser
UltraLyte
Laser Atlanta – Speedlaser
Laser
Speedlaser
Laser
Pro Laser
Laser
Pro Laser 3
NOTE
Beep rate changes with
different laser alerts.
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra
®
27
Your Detector
Assistance
Warranty
Assistance
Warranty
Assistance
Warranty
Detection
Your Detector
Detection
Strobe Alert Signals and Visual Displays
Type of SignalVisual DisplayVoice
3M Opticom or Tomar*Emergency VehicleEmergency Vehicle Approaching
* Your detector provides 360° detection of these signals.
VG-2 and Spectre I & IV+ Alert Signals and Visual Displays
Type of SignalVisual DisplayVoice
VG-2 AlertVG2VG-2 Alert
SpectreSpectreSpectre Alert
Spectre Alert
Signal Detected
Spectre
VG-2 Alert
Signal Detected
VG2
NOTE
There are different tones for each alert.
English
28
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.
Pop Detection
Your detector is designed to detect single pulse mode radars. These radars are
designed to have a low probability of detection. You should note that these radar
guns have a much shorter range while in this mode.
Responding to Alerts
DescriptionInterpretation
Tone repeats slowly at first, then
speeds up rapidly.
Tone sounds one
time only.
Tone instantly begins
repeating rapidly.
Pop mode tone.Pop mode gun very close.FULL ALERT
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 I or VG-2 nearby.
Radar, Spectre I 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
FULL ALERT
FULL ALERT
Exercise caution
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra
®
29
Your Detector
Understanding Radar and Laser
Your Detector
Understanding Radar and Laser
Understanding Radar and Laser
Radar Speed Monitoring Systems
Three band frequencies have been approved by the Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) for use by speed monitoring radar equipment:
X band10.525 GHz
K band24.150 GHz
Ka band33.400 – 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 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.
English
30
•
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 StrobeAlert 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, 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:
■
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 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).
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra
®
31
Your Detector
Maintenance
Your Detector
Specifications
Pop Radar Guns
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. Despite the fact that the
short, single pulse makes the unit very sensitive to officer hand and vehicle
movement and reduces the range of the gun in Pop mode to 50% of its range in
Continuous Wave mode, this feature is added in an attempt to make the radar gun
invisible to Radar Detectors.
Although your detector can sense Pop signals beyond the effective range
of Pop radar guns, there will be a signal to sense only if a gun is triggered.
In addition, the Pop mode receiver section is more prone to false alerts because of
its extra sensitivity. This is especially so in urban areas. As a result, you should
consider using the Pop Detect mode only in highway
and rural situations. Cobra Electronics has included a user selectable On
or Off Pop Detect mode.
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 Maintenance
is required.
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
is clean and free of corrosion.
■
Make sure the power cord’s cigarette lighter adapter
is firmly seated in your cigarette lighter.
■
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.)
Specifications
Band and Frequencies
BandFrequencies
X Band10.525± 0.050GHz
K Band24.125± 0.125GHz
Safety Alert24.070± 0.010GHz
Traffic Warning
System
Ka Band34.700± 1.300GHz
Ku Band13.435± 0.050GHz
VG-211.500± 0.250GHz
Spectre I13.300± 0.200GHz
Spectre IV+Not Disclosed
•
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.
Laser910± 50nm
Strobe700± 300nm
24.110± 0.010GHz
24.190± 0.010GHz
24.230± 0.010GHz
•
32
English
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra
®
33
Warranty
Warranty
Customer Assistance
Product Service
Limited 1-Year Warranty
For Products Purchased in the U.S.A.
Cobra Electronics Corporation warrants that its Cobra 15 Band Radar/Laser
Detectors, and the com po nent parts thereof, will be free of defects in workmanship
and materials for a period of one year from the date of first consumer purchase.
This war ran ty may be enforced by the first consumer pur chas er, pro vid ed that the
product is utilized within the U.S.A.
Cobra will, without charge, repair or replace, at its option, de fec tive 15 Band
Radar/Laser Detectors, products or com po nent parts upon de liv ery to the Cobra
Factory Service Department, ac com pa nied by proof of the date of first consumer
pur chase, such as a du pli cat ed 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:
1. To any product dam aged by accident.
2. In the event of misuse or abuse of the product or as a result
of un au tho rized alterations or repairs.
3. If the serial number has been altered, defaced or re moved.
4. If the owner of the product resides outside the U.S.A.
All implied warranties, including war ran ties of mer chant abil i ty and fitness for
a par tic u lar purpose are limited in duration to the length of this warranty.
Cobra shall not be liable for any incidental, con se quen tial or oth er dam ag es;
including, without lim i ta tion, damages re sult ing from loss of use or cost of
in stal la tion.
Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts and/or
do not allow the ex clu sion or limitation of incidental or con se quen tial dam ag es, so
the above lim itations may not apply to you.
•
Product Service
•
For any questions about operating or installing this new Cobra product, or if parts
are missing…PLe a s e c a LL c o b r a f ir s t …do not return this product to
the store. See customer assistance on page A1.
If this product should require factory service, please call Cobra first at
773-889-3087 BEFORE sending the product. This will ensure the fastest
turnaround 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. Send the complete unit, including power cord. (It is not necessary
to include the mounting bracket.)
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 to four 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.
34
English
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra
®
35
Customer Assistance
Optional Accessories
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. See ordering info on page 37.
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
English
36
Dual Port Power Adapter
Includes adjustable plug
(up to 90°) and fuse
Item # CLP-2B
Loading...
+ hidden pages
You need points to download manuals.
1 point = 1 manual.
You can buy points or you can get point for every manual you upload.