Escort 8500 User Manual

DISCREET ULTIMATE PERFORMANCE

RADAR•LASER•SAFETY•DETECTOR

Owner’s Manual

Congratulations

The Passport 8500 is the most
advanced radar, laser and safety detector
available.

The Passport 8500 includes full X, K,
SuperWide Ka, and Safety Warning System
radar capability, front and rear laser detec­tion, digital signal processing (DSP) for
superior range and reduced false alarms, our
patented Mute and AutoMute, audible and
visual band alerts, and all the performance
you'd expect from Escort.

In addition, the Passport 8500 intro­duces a new level of revolutionary perfor­mance and innovative features.

• Breakthrough long-range radar and

laser detection circuitry

• Advanced EZ-Programming lets you

customize 9 features

• AutoSensitivity mode, plus Highway

and City settings

• Ultra-bright alphanumeric Display

with 280 LEDs

• ExpertMeter tracks and displays up to

8 radar signals simultaneously

• New SpecDisplay provides actual

numeric radar frequency

• New Programmable Bands (on/off)

• Detects Safety Warning System

signals

• Includes coiled SmartCord

If you’ve used a radar detector before, a
review of the Quick Reference Guide on
pages 4 and 5, and the EZ-Programming
information on pages 12 and 13 will briefly
explain the new features.

If this is your first detector, please read
the manual in detail to get the most out of
your Passport’s outstanding performance
and innovative features.

Please drive safely.

Quick Reference Card

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Passport 8500 Quick Reference Card

There are 9 user-selectable options so you
can customize your Passport 8500 for your
own preferences.

The buttons labeled CITY and DIM are
also used to enter the Program Mode,
REVIEW your current program settings, and
to CHANGE any settings as desired. The
words PROGRAM, REVIEW, and CHANGE

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are located on the top of the detector, and
are highlighted in blue graphics.

How to use EZ-Programming

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

will display the word “Program”).

2Then press the REVIEW button to
review the current settings. (You can

either tap the button to change from item
to item, or hold the button to scroll through
the items).

3 Press the CHANGE button to change
any setting. (You can either tap the button

to change from setting to setting, or hold
the button to scroll through all the options).

Remove card along perforations

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

(The unit will display Complete, beep 4
times, and return to normal operation).

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Factory Default Settings

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

1

audible alert, acknowledging the reset.

An example

For example, here is how you would turn
Passport’s AutoMute feature off.

1 Enter the Program Mode by holding
both the city and dim buttons down for
2 seconds. Passport will beep twice and

display Program.

2 Then hold the REVIEW button down.

Passport will scroll through the categories,
starting with Pilot Light (Pilot), then
Power-on sequence (PwrOn), then Signal
strength meter (Meter), and then
AutoMute (aMute).

3 Release the REVIEW button when
Passport shows the AutoMute item. Since

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

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

4 Press the CHANGE button to change
from aMute ON to aMute OFF.

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

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

EZ-Programming Details 왘

Quick Reference Card

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Passport 8500 Quick Reference Card

Press the REVIEW button

to go from one category

to the next

PILOT LIGHT

(Power-on indication)

POWER-ON SEQUENCE

SIGNAL STRENGTH METER

AUTOMUTE

AUDIOTONES

CITY MODE SENSITIVITY

BRIGHTNESS

DARK MODE

BANDS

*Factory Default Settings

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Press the CHANGE
to change your setting
within a category

Pilot HWY
Pilot H
Pilot H.>
Pilot +
Pilot +.>
Pilot +>
Pilot V

PwrOn STD
PwrOn FST

Meter STD
Meter EXP
Meter SPC

aMute ON
aMute OFF

Tone STD
Tone LOUD

City STD
City LoX
City NoX

Brt LAST
Brt MIN
Brt MED
Brt MAX
Brt DARK

DARK LAST
DARK LAST

Bands ALL
Bands MOD

*Full word: Highway or Auto or City

Letter: H or A or C
Letter, with scanning dot
Symbol: + or •or -­Letter, with scanning dot
Scanning symbol
Vehicle voltage

*Standard power-on sequence

Fast power-on sequence

*Standard signal strength meter

Expert Meter
SpecDisplay

*AutoMute on

AutoMute off

*Standard tones

Loud tones

*Standard City mode sensitivity

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

*Last brightness used

Minimum brightness when turned on
Medium brightness when turned on
Maximum brightness when turned on
Dark Mode when Passport turned on

*Standard Dark: shows HD, AD, CD

All Dark, no display

*All bands enabled

One or more bands are disabled

X ON or OFF
K ON or OFF
Ka ON or OFF
LSR ON or OFF
SWS ON or OFF

Turn bands “ON” or “OFF” by
pressing the mute button

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button

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2

Table of Contents

Quick Reference Guide 4-5

Installation 6-7

• Power Connection 6

• Mounting Location 6

• Windshield Mount 7

Controls and Features 8-11

• Power and volume control 8

• Power-on indication 8

• AutoMute 8

• Mute 8

• Auto / Highway / City Switch 8

• Dim / Dark Switch 9

• Dark Mode 9

• Audible Alerts 9

EZ-Programming 12-16

• How to use EZ-Programming 12

• Example of Programming 12

• Overview of Programming 13

• Details of Programming 14-16

T echnical Details 17-23

• Specifications 17

• Interpreting Alerts 18-19

• How Radar Works 20

• How Laser Works 21

• How Safety Radar Works 22-23

Service 24-28

• Troubleshooting 24-25

• Service 26

• Signal Strength Meter 10

• ExpertMeter 10-11

• SpecDisplay 11

• Warranty 28

• Accessories 28

3

Quick Reference Guide

T o begin using your Passport,
just follow these simple steps

1 Plug the small end of the power cord

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

2 Mount your Passport on the windshield

using the supplied windshield mount.

3 Rotate the volume thumbwheel on

Passport’s left side to turn Passport on
and adjust the volume.

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

EasyMount Slot

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

Rear Laser Port

Receives laser signals from behind the
vehicle.

EasyMount Button

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

Page 7

City Button

Switches between AutoSensitivity, City, and
Highway settings. In general, we recom­mend the Auto mode. Page 8

Power/Volume Control

Rotate the thumbwheel to turn Passport on
and set the volume. Page 8

AutoMute

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

4

Quick Reference Guide

Radar Antenna and Laser Lens

The rear panel of your Passport should have
a clear view of the road ahead. For best
performance, do not mount Passport
directly behind windshield wipers or
tinted areas. Page 6

Alphanumeric Display

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

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

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

Earphone Jack

Accepts standard 3.5mm earphone.

Power Jack

Plug the SmartCord into this connector.

Page 6

Dim Button

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

In the Dark Mode, the power-on
indication will be changed to a dim “AD,”
“HD,” or “CD” (indicating Auto, Highway,
or City Dark). In the Dark Mode, Passport’s
meter will not display during an alert, only
the audio will alert you. Page 9

Mute Button

Briefly press this button (next to the
display) to silence the audio for a specific
alert. (The audio will alert you to the next
encounter.) Page 8

EZ-Programming

Passport is ready to go, just plug it in and
turn it on. But you can also easily change 9
features for your preferences. Page 12-1 6

5

Power Connection and Mounting Location

Power Connection

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

2 volts DC negative

Passport operates on
ground only. The lighter plug provided is a
standard size and will work in most vehicles.
However, some vehicles may require the
enclosed sleeve to ensure a snug fit. If so,
simply slide the sleeve over the SmartCord’s
lighter plug adapter. Of course, your lighter
socket must be clean and properly
connected for proper operation.

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

Optional power cords

See the Accessories section for details on
our optional Direct-wire SmartCord.

1

Mounting Location

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

Where to mount Passport

For optimum detection performance, we
recommend the following:

• Using the Windshield Mount, mount your
Passport level, and high enough on your
front windshield to provide a clear view of
the road from the front and rear.

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

6

Windshield Mount

Windshield Mount

Passport’s EasyMount windshield bracket is
designed for unobtrusive and hassle-free
mounting.

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

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

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

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

Caution!

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

User’s Tip

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

7

Controls and Features

Power and volume control

To turn Passport on and adjust the alert
tone volume level, rotate the thumbwheel
on Passport’s left side. Turn the control
away from you to increase the audio
volume. When you turn Passport on, it goes
through a sequence of alerts.

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

Power-on indication

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

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

AutoMute

Your Passport has our patented AutoMute
feature. After Passport alerts you to a radar
encounter at the volume you have selected,
the AutoMute feature will automatically
reduce the volume to a lower level. This
keeps you informed without the annoyance
of a continuous full-volume alert.

If you prefer, you can turn the AutoMute
feature off. See the EZ-Programming section
for details.

Mute

The Mute button, located on Passport’s
front panel, allows you to silence the audio
alert during a radar encounter.

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

Auto / Highway / City Switch

The City button selects Passport’s sensitivity
mode. We recommend the Auto
(AutoSensitivity) mode for most driving.

Passport’s AutoSensitivity mode
provides long-range warning, with
minimum false alarms. In this mode,
Passport’s internal computer continuously
analyzes all incoming signals and intelli­gently adjusts the sensitivity circuits.

You can also select conventional
Highway and City modes. When driving in
urban areas where annoying X-band intru­sion alarms and door openers are common,
City mode can be engaged to lower X-band
sensitivity and reduce X-band alerts. Full
sensitivity is maintained on all other bands.
You can customize Passport’s City mode
sensitivity. See the EZ-Programming section
for details.

8

Controls and Features

Dim / Dark Switch

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

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

Dark Mode

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

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

If you prefer, you can have Passport’s
display totally dark,(see the EZ-Programming
section) and use the visual alerts on the
SmartCord.

Audible Alerts

For Radar signals:

Passport uses a Geiger-counter-like
sound to indicate the signal strength and
type of radar signal being encountered.

When you encounter radar, a distinct
audible alert will sound and occur faster as
the signal gets stronger. When the signal is
very strong, the audible alerts will blend
into a solid tone. This allows you to judge
the distance from the signal source without
taking your eyes from the road.

Each band has a distinct tone for easy
identification.

X-band = beep tone

K-band = raspy brap tone

Ka-band = double-brap tone

For Laser signals:

Since laser signals are a possible threat
no matter how weak, Passport alerts you to
all laser signals with a full laser alert.

For Safety signals:

Passport will alert you to these signals
with a double-beep tone, and a corresponding
text message. A complete listing of the text
messages is on page 23.

9

Controls and Features

Power Connector

Passport’s power jack uses a telephone-type
connector. This 4-conductor connector
only works with the included coiled
SmartCord, or the optional Direct-wire
SmartCord.

The coiled SmartCord is a special
power cord that has a power-on indicator
(which only lights up when the 8500 is
turned on), a bright alert light that warns of
radar or laser, and a convenient mute
button right on the plug. It’s perfect for any
car where reaching the detector’s mute
button on the windshield is a stretch.
For discreet night driving, put Passport in
the Dark mode, and use the SmartCord for
your visual alerts. Other drivers won’t know
you have a detector.

An optional Direct-wire SmartCord is
also available. This version includes a small
display module, which can be wired directly
into your electrical system, with a 10 foot
straight cord to route to your Passport.

For more information or to order, call
us toll-free at 1-800-433-3487.

Signal Strength Meter

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

Passport’s standard bar-graph signal
strength meter only displays information on
a single radar signal. If there are multiple

signals present, Passport’s internal computer
determines which is the most important
threat to show on the bar-graph meter.

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

NOTE: If you are operating Passport in
the Dark mode, the display will not light
when a signal is detected – only the audio,
and the flashing alert lamp on the
SmartCord.

ExpertMeter

Passport’s ExpertMeter option is an
advanced display for experienced detector
users. Please use Passport for a few weeks
to get familiar with its other features before
using ExpertMeter.

To use the ExpertMeter instead of the
bar graph signal strength meter, you must
select ExpertMeter in Passport’s EZ­Programming (see page 12-15).

Passport’s ExpertMeter simultaneously
tracks up to 8 radar signals. It shows you
detailed information on up to 2 Ka-band, 2
K-band, and 4 X-band signals.

ExpertMeter can help you spot a
change in your normal driving environment;
for example, a traffic radar unit being oper­ated in an area where there are normally
other signals present.

10

Controls and Features

The ExpertMeter is actually a miniature
spectrum analyzer. It shows what band
each signal is and its signal strength.

||K||X||||

KA

Above is the ExpertMeter Display if
Passport was detecting 2 strong Ka-band,
2 strong K-band, and 4 strong X-band
signals.

As you can see, there are vertical lines
after each band designator. Each line shows
a signal being detected. The height of each
line shows the relative signal strength of
that signal.

NOTE: If you use ExpertMeter, the
brief signal shown in the power-on
sequence when you turn on your Passport
will also be in ExpertMeter: an X with a
single vertical line.

A few more examples will help you
better see how the ExpertMeter works.

K|X

Here ExpertMeter shows 1 strong K-band
signal, and three X-band signals, two
strong and one weak.

|

KA

Here ExpertMeter shows 1 weak Ka-band
signal, and three weak X-band signals.

|||

|||

X

X

On very weak signals, there will not be a
vertical line at all. This shows a very weak
X-band signal.

ExpertMeter Details

The band designators (X, K, Ka) will
stay on the display for a few seconds after
the signal has passed. This allows you to see
what the unit detected, even on very brief
signals.

However, the vertical lines repre­senting individual signals continuously
change (several times a second) to give you
a continuous instantaneous view of all radar
signals present.

SpecDisplay

Passport 8500’s new SpecDisplay option is
also for the experienced detector user. In
this mode, Passport will display the actual
numeric frequency of the radar signal being
received.

K 24.150

SpecDisplay shows one K-band signal at

24.150 gigahertz.

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

11

How to customize Passport with EZ-Programming

There are 9 user-selectable options so you
can customize your Passport 8500 for your
own preferences. The buttons labeled CITY
and DIM are also used to enter the Program
Mode, REVIEW your current program
settings, and to CHANGE any settings as
desired. The words PROGRAM, REVIEW,
and CHANGE are located on the top of the
detector, and are highlighted in dark blue
graphics. Pages 14-16 explain each option in
more detail.

How to use EZ-Programming

To enter Program Mode, press and hold

1

both top buttons down for 2 seconds.

(The unit will beep twice, and will display
the word “Program”).

Then press the REVIEW button to review

2

the current settings. (You can either tap
the button to change from item to item, or
hold the button to scroll through the items).

Press the CHANGE button to change

3

any setting. (You can either tap the button
to change from setting to setting, or hold
the button to scroll through all the options).

To leave the Program Mode, simply wait

4

8 seconds without pressing any button.

(The unit will display Complete, beep 4
times, and return to normal operation).

An example

For example, here is how you would turn
Passport’s AutoMute feature off.

1 Enter the Program Mode by holding
both the city and dim buttons down for
2 seconds. Passport will beep twice and

display Program.

2 Then hold the REVIEW button down.

Passport will scroll through the categories,
starting with Pilot Light (Pilot), then
Power-on sequence (PwrOn), then Signal
strength meter (Meter), and then
AutoMute (aMute).

3 Release the REVIEW button when
Passport shows the AutoMute item. Since

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

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

4 Press the CHANGE button to change
from aMute ON to aMute OFF.

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

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

12

Overview of EZ-Programming Options

Press the REVIEW button

to go from one category

to the next

(Power-on indication)

PILOT LIGHT

POWER-ON SEQUENCE

SIGNAL STRENGTH METER

AUTOMUTE

AUDIOTONES

CITY MODE SENSITIVITY

BRIGHTNESS

DARK MODE

BANDS

*Factory Default Settings

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

Pilot HWY
Pilot H
Pilot H.>
Pilot +
Pilot +.>
Pilot +>
Pilot V

PwrOn STD
PwrOn FST

Meter STD
Meter EXP
Meter SPC

aMute ON
aMute OFF

Tone STD
Tone LOUD

City STD
City LoX
City NoX

Brt LAST
Brt MIN
Brt MED
Brt MAX
Brt DARK

DARK LAST
DARK LAST

Bands ALL
Bands MOD

X ON or OFF
K ON or OFF
Ka ON or OFF
LSR ON or OFF
SWS ON or OFF

13

Press the CHANGE button
to change your setting
within a category

*Full word: Highway or Auto or City

Letter: H or A or C
Letter, with scanning dot
Symbol: + or •or -­Letter, with scanning dot
Scanning symbol
Vehicle voltage

*Standard power-on sequence

Fast power-on sequence

*Standard signal strength meter

Expert Meter
SpecDisplay

*AutoMute on

AutoMute off

*Standard tones

Loud tones

*Standard City mode sensitivity

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

*Last brightness used

Minimum brightness when turned on
Medium brightness when turned on
Maximum brightness when turned on
Dark Mode when Passport turned on

*Standard Dark: shows HD, AD, CD

All Dark, no display

*All bands enabled

One or more bands are disabled
Turn bands “ON” or “OFF” by

pressing the Mute button

Details of EZ-Programming Options

Pilot Light (Power-on indication)

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

PilotHWY (Full description)
In this setting, Passport will display
“Highway,” “City,” or “Auto” as its power­on indication. (factory default)

Pilot H (Letter)
In this setting, Passport will display “H” for
Highway, “C” for City, and “A” for Auto.

Pilot H.> (Letter with scanning dot)
In this setting, Passport will display “H” for
Highway, “C” for City, and “A” for Auto.
Also, a single dot will continuously scroll
across the display.

Pilot+ (Symbol)
In this setting, Passport will display “+” for
Highway, “.” for Auto, and “–” for City.

Pilot+.> (Symbol with scanning dot)
In this setting, Passport will display “+” for
Highway, “.” for Auto, and “–” for City. Also,
a single dot will continuously scroll across
the display.

Pilot V (Vehicle voltage)
In this setting, Passport will continually
display “H” for Highway, “C” for City, and
“A” for Auto, and the vehicle’s voltage. If
the vehicle’s voltage drops below 10.5 volts,
a low voltage warning is displayed, followed
by an audible alert. A high voltage warning
is also given if the voltage goes above 16.5
volts. The high-voltage warning is also
followed by an audible alert.

Power-on Sequence

PwrOnSTD (Standard)
In this setting, each time you turn on
Passport, it will display “Passport 8500,”
“LASER,” “Ka-band,” “K-band,” “X-band,”
followed by a brief X-band alert. (factory
default) If any bands have been disabled, a
double X-band tone and corresponding
message (i.e. “X OFF”), will alert you that
one or more bands have been turned off.

PwrOnFST (Fast power-on)
In this setting, Passport will provide a single
X-band tone if all bands are enabled. If any
bands have been disabled, a double X-band
tone and corresponding message (i.e. “X
OFF”), will alert you that one or more bands
have been turned off.

Pilot+> (Scanning symbol)
In this setting, Passport will display “+” for
Highway, “.” for Auto, and “–” for City. Each
will continuously scroll across the display.

Signal Strength Meter

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

14

Details of EZ-Programming Options

MeterEXP (ExpertMeter)
In this setting, the meter simultaneously
tracks multiple radar signals. It can display
up to 2 Ka band, 2 K band, and 4 X band
signals at the same time.

Note: The ExpertMeter feature is
explained in more detail on pages10-1 1.

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

Note: The SpecDisplay feature is
explained in more detail on page1 1.

AutoMute

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

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

ToneLOUD (Loud tones)
This setting uses tones that are more
piercing. This setting is recommended for
louder vehicles.

City Mode Sensitivity

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

City LoX (Low X band sensitivity)
In this setting, when you put Passport in the
City mode, X-band sensitivity is reduced
more than the standard setting. This will
reduce X band alarms from other sources
even further, but also significantly reduces
range to X band traffic radar.

City NoX (No X band sensitivity)
In this setting, when you put Passport in the
City mode, Passport will not respond to any
X band signals. WARNING: Only choose

this setting if you are absolutely certain
that there are no X band traffic radar
units where you drive.

Audio T ones

Tone STD (Standard tones)
This setting uses more pleasing tones.
(factory default)

Note: These settings only apply when
Passport is operated in City mode. X-band
sensitivity is not affected when used in
“Auto,” or “Highway” modes.

15

Details of EZ-Programming Options

Brightness

Brt LAST (last)
In this setting, when you turn on Passport,
the display will be the last brightness you
had selected during operation with the dim
button. (factory default)

Brt MIN (minimum)
In this setting, each time you turn on
Passport, the display will be at the lowest
brightness.

Brt MED (medium)
In this setting, each time you turn on
Passport, the display will be at the medium
brightness.

Brt MAX (maximum)
In this setting, each time you turn on
Passport, the display will be at the
maximum brightness.

Brt DARK (dark)
In this setting, each time you turn on
Passport, the display will be in the dark
mode. This is recommended only when
using Passport’s SmartCord so you have a
visual indication to confirm that Passport is
operational.

Dark Mode

Dark STD (standard)
In this setting, when you select the dark

mode, the only display will be a very dim
HD, AD, or CD, indicating Highway-Dark,
Auto-Dark, or City-Dark). (factory default)

Dark ALL (all)
In this setting, when you select the dark
mode using the dim button, Passport’s
display will be totally dark, without even
displaying any power-on indication. In this
setting, Passport’s SmartCord will provide
the only visual indication to confirm that
Passport is operational.

Bands

BandsALL

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

BandsMOD

In this setting, Passport will warn you with
an audible alert, and associated text
message stating which band is turned off
(i.e. “SWS OFF”). This warning is displayed
during the start up sequence (standard or
fast).

WARNING: Only modify bands if you
are absolutely certain that there are no
traffic radar units using that specific
band in your area.

16

Specifications

Features and Specifications

Operating Bands

• X-band 10.525 GHz ± 25 MHz

• K-band 24.150 GHz ± 100 MHz

• Ka-band 34.700 GHz ± 1300 MHz

• Laser 904nm, 33 MHz bandwidth

Radar Receiver / Detector Type

• Superheterodyne, GaAs FET VCO

• Scanning Frequency Discriminator

• Digital Signal Processing (DSP)

Laser Detection

• Quantum Limited Video Receiver

• Multiple Laser Sensor Diodes

Display Type

• 280 AlGaAs LED Alphanumeric

• Bar Graph, ExpertMeter, or SpecDisplay

• 3-Level Dimming, plus Dark Mode

Power Requirement

• 12VDC, Negative Ground

• SmartCord (included)

Programmable Features

• Power-On Indication

• Power-On Sequence

• Signal Strength Meter

• AutoMute

• Audio Tones

• City Mode Sensitivity

• Display Brightness

• Dark Mode

• Radar / Laser Bands

Sensitivity Control

• AutoSensitivity, Highway and City

Auto Calibration Circuitry
SmartShield VG2 Immunity
Dimensions (Inches)

• 1.25 H x 2.85 W x 5.32 L

Patented Technology

Passport is covered by one or more of the
following US patents.
6,069,580 5,600,132 5,587,916 5,668,554
5,559,508 5,365,055 5,347,120 5,446,923
5,402,087 5,305,007 5,206,500 5,164,729
5,134,406 5,111,207 5,079,553 5,049,885
5,049,884 4,961,074 4,954,828 4,952,937
4,952,936 4,939,521 4,896,855 4,887,753
4,862,175 4,750,215 4,686,499 4,631,542
4,630,054 4,625,210 4,613,989 4,604,529
4,583,057 4,581,769 4,571,593 4,313,216
D314,178 D313,365 D310,167 D308,837
D296,771 D288,418 D253,752

Passport is also covered by one or more of
the following Canadian patents:
1,295,715 1,295,714 1,187,602 1,187,586

Other patents pending. Additional patents
may be listed inside the product.

17

Interpreting Alerts

Although Passport has a comprehensive
warning system and this handbook is as
complete as we can make it, only experi­ence will teach you what to expect from
your Passport and how to interpret what it
tells you. The specific type of radar being
used, the type of transmission (continuous

Alert

Passport begins to sound slowly, then the rate
of alert increases until the alert becomes a
solid tone. The Signal Meter ramps accordingly.

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

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

A brief laser alert.

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

or instant-on) and the location of the radar
source affect the radar alerts you receive.

The following examples will give you
an introduction to understanding Passport’s
warning system for radar, laser and safety
alerts.

Explanation

You are approaching a continuous radar
source aimed in your direction.

An instant-on radar source is being used ahead
of you and out of your view.

An instant-on radar source or laser source is
being used nearby. This kind of alert requires
immediate attention!

Laser is being used in the area. Because laser is
inherently difficult to detect, any laser alert
may indicate a source very close by.

A moving patrol car with continuous radar is
overtaking you from behind. Because these
signals are reflected (reflections are increased
by large objects), they may or may not eventu­ally melt into a solid point even when the
patrol car is directly behind you.

Passport alerts slowly for awhile and then
abruptly jumps to a strong alert.

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

18

Interpreting Alerts

Alert

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

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

Passport gives an X-band alert intermittently.

Explanation

A patrol car is travelling in front of you with a
radar source aimed forward. Because signals
are sometimes reflected off of large objects and
sometimes not,the alerts may seem inconsistent.

A patrol car is approaching from the other
direction, sampling traffic with instant-on
radar. Such alerts should be taken seriously.

You are driving through an area populated
with radar motion sensors (door openers,
burglar alarms, etc.). Since these transmitters
are usually contained inside buildings or aimed
toward OR away from you, they are typically
not as strong or lasting as a real radar encounter.

CAUTION: Since the characteristics of these
alerts may be similar to some of the preceding
examples, overconfidence in an unfamiliar
area can be dangerous. Likewise, if an alert
in a commonly traveled area is suddenly
stronger or on a different band than usual,
speed radar may be set up nearby.

19

How Radar Works

How Radar Works

Traffic radar, which consists of microwaves,
travels in straight lines and is easily reflected
by objects such as cars, trucks, even
guardrails and overpasses. Radar works by
directing its microwave beam down the
road. As your vehicle travels into range, the
microwave beam bounces off your car, and
the radar antenna looks for the reflections.
Using the Doppler Principle, the radar
equipment then calculates your speed by
comparing the frequency of the reflection
of your car to the original frequency of the
beam sent out.

Traffic radar has limitations, the most
significant of these being that it typically
can monitor only one target at a time. If
there is more than one vehicle within range,
it is up to the radar operator to decide
which target is producing the strongest
reflection. Since the strength of the reflec­tion is affected by both the size of the
vehicle and its proximity to the antenna, it
is difficult for the radar operator to deter­mine if the signal is from a sports car nearby
or a semi-truck several hundred feet away.

Radar range also depends on the power
of the radar equipment itself. The strength
of the radar unit's beam diminishes with
distance. The farther the radar has to travel,
the less energy it has for speed detection.

Because intrusion alarms and motion
sensors often operate on the same
frequency as X-Band radar, your Passport
will occasionally receive non-police radar
signals. Since these X-Band transmitters are
usually contained inside of a building, or
aimed toward the ground, they will gener­ally produce much weaker readings than
will a true radar encounter. As you become
familiar with the sources of these pseudo
alarms in your daily driving, they will serve
as confirmation that your Passport’s radar
detection abilities are fully operational.

20

How Laser Works

How Laser (Lidar) Works

Laser speed detection is actually LIDAR
(Light Detection and Ranging). LIDAR guns
project a beam of invisible infrared light.
The signal is a series of very short infrared
light energy pulses, which move, in a
straight line, reflecting off your car and
returning to the gun. LIDAR uses these light
pulses to measure the distance to a vehicle.
Speed is then calculated by measuring how
quickly these pulses are reflected given the
known speed of light.

LIDAR (or laser) is a newer technology
and is not as widespread as conventional
radar, therefore, you may not encounter
laser on a daily basis. And unlike radar
detection, laser detection is not prone to
false alarms. Because LIDAR transmits a
much narrower beam than does radar, it is
much more accurate in its ability to distin­guish between targets and is also more
difficult to detect. AS A RESULT, EVEN

THE BRIEFEST LASER ALERT SHOULD
BE TAKEN SERIOUSLY.

There are limitations to LIDAR equip­ment. LIDAR is much more sensitive to
weather conditions than RADAR, and a
LIDAR gun’s range will be decreased by
anything affecting visibility such as rain, fog,
or smoke. A LIDAR gun cannot operate
through glass and it must be stationary in
order to get an accurate reading. Because
LIDAR must have a clear line of sight and is
subject to cosine error (an inaccuracy,
which increases as the angle between the
gun and the vehicle, increases) police
typically use LIDAR equipment parallel to
the road or from an overpass. LIDAR can be
used day or night.

21

How Safety Radar Works

How Safety Radar Works

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

From the factory, your Passport is
programmed with SWS decoding ON. If
SWS is used in your area, your Passport will
display the safety messages associated with
the signal. If you do not wish to detect this
system, use the EZ-Programming feature to
turn Passport’s SWS decoding OFF.

Note: some of the safety messages have
been condensed, so that each message can
be displayed on one or two screens on
Passport’s eight-character display.

Since Safety radar technology is rela­tively new, and the number of transmitters
in operation is not yet widespread, you will
not receive Safety signals on a daily basis.
Do not be surprised if you encounter emer­gency vehicles, road hazards and railroad
crossings that are unequipped with these
transmitters. As Safety transmitters become
more prevalent (the number of operating
transmitters is growing every day), these
Safety radar signals will become more
common.

For more information and details about
SWS safety radar, visit their web site at
www.safetyradar.com.

22

SWS Safety Radar Text Messages

SWS T ext Messages

1 WorkZone
2 Road Closed
3 Bridge Closed
4 WorkCrew Highway
5 WorkCrew Utility
6 Detour
7 Truck Detour
8 MustExit
9 Rtlane Closed
10 CntrLane Closed
11 LeftLane Closed
12 Future Use
13 Police
14 Train
15 Low Overpass
16 BridgeUp
17 Bridge Wt Limit
18 RockSlid Area
19 School Zone
20 Road Narrows
21 Sharp Curve
22 Croswalk
23 Deer Crossing
24 Blind or Deaf Kid
25 SteepUse LowGear
26 Accident
27 PoorRoad Surface
28 Loading SchoolBus
29 DontPass
30 Dangrous Intrsect
31 Emergncy Vehicle
32 Future Use

33 HighWind
34 Severe Weather
35 HeavyFog
36 Flooding
37 BridgIce
38 RoadIce
39 Dust Blowing
40 Sand Blowing
41 Blinding Snow
42 Future Use
43 RestArea
44 RestArea w/servic
45 24hrFuel
46 Insp Stn Open
47 Insp Stn Closed
48 Reduced Speed
49 Speed Enforced
50 HazMatls Exit
51 Expect Delay
52 10 Min Delay
53 20 Min Delay
54 30 Min Delay
55 1 Hour Delay
56 Traffic TunRadio
57 Pay Toll
58 Trucks ExitRght
59 Trucks ExitLeft
60 Future Use
61 Emerg Veh Moving
62 Police Pursuit
63 Oversize Vehicle
64 SloMovng Vehicle

23

Troubleshooting

Problem

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

Passport does not seem sensitive to
radar or laser.

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

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

Passport’s display is not working.
Passport’s audible alerts are less

loud after the first few alerts.
Passport bounces or sags on wind-

shield.

Solution

• An X-band motion sensor or intrusion alarm is located within
range of your route. With time, you will learn predictable
patterns of these signals.

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

• Determine if your vehicle has an Instaclear
solar reflective windshield which may deflect radar or laser
signals.

• Passport may be in City Mode.

• VASCAR (Visual Average Speed Computer and Recorder) a
stopwatch method of speed detection, may be in use.

• Officer may not have radar or laser unit turned on.

• Safety transmitters may not be commonly used in your area.

• Press the Dim button to deactivate Dark Mode.

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

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

®

, ElectriClear®or

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

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

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

You can return all of the programming options to the factory
defaults by holding down the City, Dim, and Mute buttons
while you turn Passport on.

24

Troubleshooting

Problem

Passport will not turn on.

Passport feels very warm.

Solution

• Check that volume control is ON.

• Check that vehicle ignition is ON.

• Check that vehicle lighter socket is functional.

• Try Passport in another vehicle.

• It is normal for Passport to feel warm.

Explanation of Displays

AD Sensitivity control is in Auto mode, display is in Dark mode (page 9)
HD Sensitivity control is in Highway mode, display is in Dark mode (page 9)
CD Sensitivity control is in City mode, display is in Dark mode (page 9)

No display Passport is in the Dark mode, and is programmed for Dark All (page 9,16)

PilotHWY One of the many programming messages (pages12-16)
WorkZone One of the many Safety Radar messages (pages 22-23)
Caution Passport has detected a Safety Radar Signal, but the signal isn’t yet strong

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

|

X

, or K|, Passport has been programmed in the ExpertMeter Mode (page10-11)

|

KA

or

etc.

Self Cal Passport is running a self-calibration test.
Service Passport has failed the calibration test. Contact Escort for repair.

Required

25

Service

Service Procedure

If Your Passport ever needs service,
please follow these simple steps:

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

2 Call us at 1-800-543-1608. We may be
able to solve your problem over the phone.
If the problem requires that you send your
Passport to the factory for repair, we will
provide you with a Service Order Number,
which must be included on the outside of
your shipping box.

Enclose The Following Information
With Your Passport :

• Your Service Order Number

• Your name and return address

• Your daytime telephone number

• A description of the problem you are
experiencing.

Out Of Warranty Repairs

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

Mail Passport and Power Cord To:

ESCORT
Customer Service Department
Service Order Number ______________
5440 West Chester Road
West Chester, Ohio 45069

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

26

Register
online:

www

@

escortradar.com

 

Remove card along perforations



register online at our web address: www.escortradar.com.

ESCORT PRODUCT REGISTRATION CARD

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

27

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

Address______________________________________________________________________

City_______________________________________ State_____________ Zip______________

Phone Number (In case we have a question)_____________________________________________

1. First Name:___________________ Middle Initial____ Last Name__________________________

2. Product Purchased________________________ Model___________ Serial Number___________

3. Place of Purchase__________________________________ Date_________ Price____________

____________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________

4. Primary reason for purchasing this ESCORT product_______________________________________

왔

Remove card along perforations

왔

28

Warranty and Accessories

ESCORT One Year Limited Wa rranty

ESCORT warrants your Passport against all
defects in materials and workmanship for a
period of one (1) year from the date of the
original purchase, subject to the following
terms and conditions:

The sole responsibility of ESCORT

under this Warranty is limited to either repair
or, at the option of ESCORT, replacement of
the Passport detector. There are no
expressed or implied warranties, including
those of fitness for a particular purpose or
merchantability, which extend beyond the
face hereof. Some states do not allow limita­tions on how long an implied warranty lasts,
so the above limitations may not apply to you.

ESCORT is not liable for any incidental

or consequential damages arising from the
use, misuse, or mounting of the Passport.
Some states do not allow the exclusion or
limitation of incidental or consequential
damages, so the above limitation or exclusion
may not apply to you.

This Warranty gives you specific rights.

You may have other legal rights, which
vary, from state to state. This Warranty does
not apply if the serial number on the
housing of the Passport has been removed,
or if your Passport has been subjected to
physical abuse, improper installation, or
modification.

Accessories

The following accessories and replacement
parts are available for Passport 8500.

Standard Coiled SmartCord...........$29.95

Direct-wire SmartCord.....................$29.95

Accessory Kit ........................................$19.95

Visor Clip ..................................................$4.00

Escort Extended Service Plan

Escort offers an optional extended service
plan. Contact Escort for details.

8500 Travel Case.................................$19.95

29

Designed and printed in the USA
Escort Incorporated

5440 West Chester Road
West Chester Ohio 45069

Sales 800-433-3487
Service 800-543-1608
Fax [phone]

www.escortradar.com

©2000 Escort Inc. Escort®, Passport®, AFR®, SmartShield®, AutoSensitivity™, ExpertMeter™and
SpecDisplay™are trademarks of Escort Inc.
SWS™is a trademark of SWS, L.C.

Features, specifications and prices subject to change without notice.