Escort Redline User Manual

Designed in the USA
Manufactured in Canada

ESCORT Inc.
5440 West Chester Road
West Chester OH 45069
USA

800.433.3487
www.EscortRadar.com

©2011 ESCORT Inc. ESCORT®, RedLine™, TotalShield Technology™, SmartCord™, AutoMute™, SmartMute™,
AutoMode™, SpecDisplay™, and ExpertMeter™ are trademarks of ESCORT Inc.
SWS™ is a trademark of SWS, L.C.

Features, specifications and prices subject to change without notice.

R A D A R

•

L A S E R

D U A L A N T E N N A E

I N C R E D I B L E R A N G E

•

S A F E T Y•D E T E C T O R

Owner’s Manual

Congratulations

Quick Reference Card

The ESCORT RedLine
is the most advanced radar, laser and safety
detector ever designed by ESCORT.
The ESCORT RedLine includes full X, K,
SuperWide Ka, and Safety Warning System
radar capability, front and rear laser
detection, dual antennae with varactor­tuned (VTO) microwave receiver, 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 ESCORT RedLine
introduces the follow revolutionary
features:

• Dual antennae with varactor-tuned
receiver provides the longest range
possible against all radar threats.

• Exclusive TotalShield Technology for
the ultimate in undetectability.

• Programmable Alert Lamp for
additional visual indication of alerts.

• New high and low voltage warning is
given any time the vehicle’s voltage
goes above 16.5 volts, or drops below

10.5 volts.

• Easy-to-use Preferences lets you
customize up to 8 features.

• Exclusive AutoMode logic which
intelligently reduces unwanted false
alarms, plus Highway and Auto NoX
settings.

• Ultra-bright text-display provides easy
to read information from any angle.

• SpecDisplay provides actual numeric
radar frequency for any radar signal.

• New Programmable Bands (on/off ).

• Detects and decodes up to 64 Safety
Warning System messages.

• Includes new coiled SmartCord,
which provides convenient mute
button right on the plug.
If you’ve used a radar detector before, a
review of the Quick Reference Guide on
pages 4 and 5, and the Preferences
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 RedLine’s outstanding performance
and innovative
features.
Please drive safely.

FCC NOTE: Modifications not expressly
approved by the manufacturer could void
the user’s FCC granted authority to
operate the equipment.

 Remove card along perforations 

ESCORT RedLine Quick Reference Card

1

There are 8 user-selectabl e options so you
can customize your RedLine for your own
preferences .
The buttons labeled VOLUME/ MUTE
and SENS are also used to enter the
Program Mode, REVIE W yo ur current
program settin gs, and to CHANGE any
settings as desired. The abbrevi ations
PGM, RVW, and CHG are located below the
buttons and are highlighted in graphics .

How to use Preferences

1 To enter Prog ram Mode, press and
hold both VOLUME /MUTE and SENS
button s down for 2 seconds. The unit

will beep twice, and will display the word

Prefs.

2 The n press the RVW but ton to
review the curre nt settings. You can

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

3 Pres s the CHG button to change
any setting. You can either tap the button

to change from setting to setting, or hold
the but

 Remove card along perforations 

4 To leave Prefer ences, simply wait 8
seconds wit hout pressing any butt on.

The unit will display
return to normal operation.

ton to scroll through all the options.

Complete and

Factory De fault Settin gs

To reset the RedLine to its original
factor y s ettings, press and hold the

“VOLUME/MU TE,” and “SENS,” buttons

while turning the power on. RedLine
will display a
accompanied by an audible alert
acknowledg ing the r eset.

Reset message,

An example :

Here is how you would turn RedLine’s
AutoMute feature off:

1 Enter the Program Mode by holding
both the VOLUME/MUTE and SENS
buttons down for 2 seconds. RedLine will

beep twice and display Prefs.

2 Then hold the RVW butto n d own. The
RedLine will scroll through the categories,
starting with power-on indicatio n (
then Brightness (
Power-on sequence (
Strength meter (
AutoMute (

3 Releas e t he RVW button when the
RedLine shows the aMute item. Since the

factory settin g for AutoMute is on, RedLine
will display aMute ON.
Note: If you accidentally don’t release the
RVW button in time, and RedLine goes to the
next categor y, simply hold the RVW button
down again, and scroll through the
categories again until aMute is displayed.

4 Press the CHG button to change from

aMute ON to aMute OFF.

5 To complete Preferences, simply wait 8
seconds without pressing any button . The

display

will read Complete and return to

normal operation.

Brt), alert lamp (Alamp),

PwrOn), Signal

Meter), and then

aMute).

Preference s Details 

Pilot),

Quick Reference Card

Table of Contents

 Remove card along perforations 

ESCORT RedLine Quick Reference Card

Press the RVW button to go

from one categor y

to the next

PILOT

(Power-on indication)

POWER-ON SEQUENCE

SIGNAL STRENGTH METER

* Factory Default Settings

Pilot HWY
Pilot H
Pilot H.>
Pilot V

BRIGHTNESS

Brt Auto
Brt Min
Brt Med
Brt Max
Brt Dark

ALAMP

Alamp ON

(Alert Lamp)

Alamp OFF

PwrOn FST
PwrOn STD

Meter STD
Meter EXP
Meter SPC

AUTOMUTE

aMute ON
aMute OFF

VOICE

Voice ON
Voice OF

BANDS

Bands DFT
Bands MOD

X ON
K ON or OFF (default is on)
Ka ON or OFF (default is on)
POP ON o r OFF (default is off)

SWS ON o r OFF (default is off)

LSR ON o r OFF (default is on)
TSR ON o r OFF (default is off)

Press the CHG button
to change your setting
within a category

* Full word: Highway or Auto or AutoNoX

L etter: H or A or ANX
L etter, with scanning dot
Vehi cle voltage

* Automatic

M inimum
M edium
M aximum
Ful l dark

* Alert Lamp on

A lert Lamp off

* Fast power-on sequence

St andard power-on sequence

* Standard signal strength meter

E xpertMeter
S pecDisplay

* AutoMute on

Au toMute off

* Voices on

Voice s off

F

* Default settings

O ne or more bands disabled

Turn bands ON or OFF by pressing
a nd h olding the SENS button

or OFF (default is on)

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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

• Voice Alerts 8

• AutoMute 8

• Mute

• Sensitivity 8

• Brightness 9

• Dark Mode 9

• Audible Alerts 9

• Power Connector 10

• Signal Strength Meter 10

• ExpertMeter 10

• SpecDisplay 11

Preferences 12-16

• How To Use Preferences 12

• Example of Preferences 12

• Overview of Preferences 13

• Details of Preference Options 14-16

Technical Details 17-23

• Specifications 17

• Interpreting Alerts 18-19

• How Radar Works 20

• How POP Works 20

• How Laser Works 21

8

• TSR Signal Ranking Software 22

• How Safety Radar Works 22-23

Service 24-29

• Troubleshooting 24-25

• Service 26

• Accessories 2

• Warranty 2

32

9

9

Quick Reference Guide

To begin using your RedLine,
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 RedLine on your windshield
using the supplied windshield Mount.

3 Press the PWR

located on the left side of the control
panel, to turn RedLine on.

4 Press and hold the VOLUME/MUTE
button to adjust the volume level.

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

button,

QuickMount Slot

Insert RedLine’s adjustable Windshield

Page 7

Page 7

Power

Page 8

Page 8

Mount into this slot.

4 5

Press the release button and slide the

Windshield Mount into one of its four

Press the PWR

Press and hold the VOLUME/MUTE button

to adjust the alert volume level.

RedLine’s patented AutoMute

automatically reduces the volume level of

the audio alert after a brief period. If you

prefer, you can turn AutoMute off.

QuickMount Button

locking positions.

button to turn

RedLine on.

Volume

AutoMute

Radar Antennae and Laser Lens

The rear panel of your RedLine should

have a clear view of the road. For the

best performance, do not mount the
RedLine directly behind windshield
wipers or tinted areas.
Page 6

Alphanumeric Display

RedLine’s display will show Highway,
Auto, or Auto NoX as its power-on

indication. If you prefer, you can choose

other power-on indications.

Pages 12-14

During an alert, the display will

indicate radar band, and a precise bar

graph of signal strength

0

Page 1

NOTE: In the Dark Mode the
display will not light during an alert.

9

Page

.

Rear Laser Port

Receives laser signals from behind the
vehicle.

Power Jack

Plug the power cord into this connector

Page 10

Earphone Jack

Accepts standard 3.5mm earphone.

VOLUME/MUTE Button

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

Page

Sensitivity Button (SENS)

Switches between Highway, Auto, and

Auto NoX settings. In general, we

recommend the Highway for the best
performance.

Page 8

Alert Lamp

Indicates radar or laser alert.

Preference

RedLine is ready to go out of the box, just
plug it in and turn it on. But you can also
easily change 8 features for your
preferences.

Pages 12-16

8

s

.

Installation Windshield Mount

Power Connection

To apply power to the RedLine, plug the

small end of the power cord, (telephone­type connector) into the modular jack on
the RedLine’s right side, and plug the
lighter plug adapter into your vehicle’s
lighter socket or accessory socket.

Your RedLine operates on 12 volts DC

negative ground only. The lighter plug

provided is a standard size and will work

in most vehicles. However, some vehicles
may require the optional European sleeve
to ensure a snug fit. If so, simply call our
service department to order one. This
sleeve slides over the power cord’s lighter

plug adapter. Of course, your lighter

socket must be clean and properly
connected for proper operation.
NOTE: Depending on your vehicle,

the lighter socket may either be
continuously on, or switched on and
off with your ignition.

Optional power cords

See the Accessories section for details on
our optional coiled SmartCord or Direct­wire power cords.

Mounting Location

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

Where to mount RedLine

For optimum detection performance, we
recommend the following:

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

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

Windshield Mount

RedLine’s QuickMount Windshield
Bracket is designed for unobtrusive and
hassle-free mounting.

1 Depress the adjustment button on the

top of the RedLine (by the word ESCORT)
and slide the QuickMount Bracket into the

slot until it is locked into the position
which best fits the angle of your
windshield (there are four settings

available). For extremely horizontal or

extremely sloped windshields, the
QuickMount Bracket can be bent.

To ensure that the suction cups

adhere to the windshield firmly, be sure

to keep both your windshield and the

suction cups clean.

2 To adjust the RedLine on your
windshield, use the QuickMount
adjustment button located on the top of
the RedLine, and slide RedLine forward or
backward to obtain a level position.
When installed and adjusted properly,
the back top edge of the RedLine should
rest solidly against your windshield.

User’s Tip

You can leave the QuickMount Bracket in

place on your windshield, and easily
remove RedLine by pressing the
adjustment button and sliding RedLine 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.

CAUTION! A few vehicles
(including some Porsches) have
windshields with a soft anti­lacerative 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.

6 7

Controls and Features

Power

To turn RedLine on or off, press the

PWR

panel. When you turn RedLine on, it
provides a quick audible tone to confirm

it’s working.

If you prefer, you may program your

RedLine for a longer power-on sequence.
See the Preferences section for details.

button located on the control

Volume

Press and hold the VOLUME/MUTE button

located on the detector or the Mute button
on SmartCord to adjust RedLine’s alert
volume level. The audio will ramp up and
down, accompanied by a bar-graph on the
display. Once you’ve reached your
preferred audio level, simply release the

button.

Power-on Indication

After RedLine’s start-up sequence is
complete, the alphanumeric display will

show Highway, Auto, or Auto NoX to

indicate which sensitivity mode is

selected.
If you prefer, you can select alternate
power-on displays. See Preferences for
details.

Voice Alerts

RedLine provides digital voice

announcements of radar and laser bands
detected. If Safety Radar (SWS) is turned
on, a safety message will also be announced.

See the Preferences section for details.

AutoMute

RedLine has our patented AutoMute
feature. After you encounter an alert at the
volume you selected, the AutoMute feature
will automatically reduce the volume to a
lower level. This keeps you informed
without the annoyance of a continuous full­volume alert.
If you prefer, you can turn the

AutoMute feature off. See Preferences for

details.

Mute

The VOLUME/MUTE button, located
center on the RedLine’s control panel ,
allows you to silence the audio alert
during a radar encounter.
To mute the audio for a single specific
signal, briefly press the VOLUME/MUTE
Button on the detector or the Mute button
located on the SmartCord. After that
encounter has passed, the audio will
automatically reset to your previously
selected audio level.

Sensitivity Button

The “SENS” button selects RedLine’s
sensitivity mode. We recommend
Highway for the best overall performance.
RedLine’s “Auto” mode provides long­range warning, but uses patented logic to
minimize false alarms from automatic
door openers etc. In this mode, RedLine’s
internal computer continuously analyzes
all incoming signals and intelligently
filters them..

You can also select Auto NoX mode.
This is particular helpful when driving in

urban areas where annoying X-band
intrusion alarms and door openers are
common. Auto NoX mode can be engaged
to turn off X-band completely to eliminate
these alerts. Full sensitivity is maintained
on all other bands.

See the Preferences section for details.

Brightness

RedLine’s display brightness is controlled
by a photocell located behind the front
display lens. This photocell will
automatically adjust the display based on
the ambient light in your vehicle. If you
prefer, you can select a fixed brightness
level, including Full Dark Mode.

See the Preferences section for details.

Dark

When RedLine is in Dark mode, the

display will not show visual alerts and the
alert lamp will not flash when it detects
signals. Only the audible alert tones will
tell you a signal has been detected.

Audible Alerts

For Radar signals:

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

When you encounter radar, RedLine’s

audible alert will sound and occur faster
as the signal gets stronger. This allows you
to judge the distance from the signal
source without taking your eyes from the
road.
Each band has a distinct tone for easy
identification:

• X-band = beeping

• K-band = brap

• Ka-band = double-brap

• POP = full double brap

For Laser signals:

Since laser signals are a possible
threat no matter how weak, RedLine alerts
you to these bands at full signal strength.

For POP signals:

Since POP signals are a possible threat
no matter how weak, RedLine alerts you
to these bands at full signal strength.

For Safety Radar Signals:

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

98

Controls and Features

Power Connector

RedLine’s power jack uses a telephone-

type connector. This 4-conductor
connector only works with the included

SmartCord or optional direct-wire or our

standard power cord.
For more information or to order, call

us toll-free at 1-800-433-3487.

Signal Strength Meter

RedLine’s alphanumeric display consists of
280 individual LEDs, to provide an

intuitive ultra-bright display of signal

strength and text messages.
RedLine’s standard bar-graph signal

strength meter only displays information
on a single radar signal. If there are

multiple signals present, RedLine’s

internal computer determines which

signal is the most important threat to

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

“POP.”

NOTE: If you are operating
RedLine 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

RedLine ‘s ExpertMeter option is an
advanced display for experienced
detector users. Please use RedLine 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 MeterExp in Preferences (see
pages 14-16).
RedLine’s ExpertMeter simultaneously
tracks up to 8 radar signals. It provides
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.
ExpertMeter is actually a miniature
spectrum analyzer. It shows what band
each signal is on and its relative signal
strength.

KA|| K|| X

Above is the ExpertMeter display if
RedLine 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
RedLine 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.

|

X

| X||

K

Here ExpertMeter shows 1 strong K-band

signal, and three X-band signals, two

strong and one weak.

KA

Here ExpertMeter shows 1 strong Ka-band

signal, and three weak X-band signals.

'

'''

X

On very weak signals, there will be no

vertical line. 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

The RedLine’s SpecDisplay option is for
the experienced detector user. In this
mode, the RedLine 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 some amount of
time to get familiar with this new level

of information about detected signals.

10 11

How To Use Preferences Overview of Preferences

How to customize RedLine
with Preferences

There are 8 user-selectable options so
you can customize your RedLine for your
own preferences. The buttons labeled
VOLUME/MUTE and SENS are also used to
enter Preferences, REVIEW your current
program settings, and to CHANGE any

settings as desired. The words PGM, RVW,
and CHG are located next to the buttons,
and are highlighted in colored graphics.
Pages 14-16 explain each option in more

detail.

1

How to use Preferences

To enter Preferences, press and hold

both the VOLUME/MUTE and SENS
buttons down for 2 seconds.

display the word

2

Then press the RVW button to review the

Prefs.

current settings. Simply tap the button to
change from item to item.

3

Press the CHG button to change any
setting. You can either tap the button to

change from setting to setting, or hold the

button to scroll through all the options.

4

To leave Preferences, simply wait 8

seconds without pressing any button, or
press the PWR button

display

Complete return to normal

operation.

The unit will

). The unit will

(

An example

Here is how you would turn RedLine’s

AutoMute feature off.

1 Enter Preferences by holding both the

VOLUME/MUTE and SENS buttons down for

2 seconds. RedLine will beep display

Prefs.

2 Then hold the RVW button down.

RedLine will scroll through the categories,
starting with Pilot, Brightness, Alert Lamp
(Alamp), Power-on sequence (PwrOn),

Signal strength meter
AutoMute

(aMute).

(Meter), and then

3 Release the RVW button when RedLine

Press the RVW button

to go fro m one category

to the next

PILOT LIGHT

(Power-on indication)

BRIGHTNESS

ALAMP

(Alert Lamp)

POWER-ON SEQUENCE

Pilot HWY
Pilot H
Pilot H.>
Pilot V

Brt Aut
Brt Min
Brt Med
Brt Max
Brt Dark

Alamp ON
Alamp OFF

PwrOn FST
PwrOn STD

shows the AutoMute item. Since the factory
setting is for AutoMute to be on, RedLine will

SIGNAL STRENGTH METER

display aMute ON.
If you accidentally don’t release the RVW
button in time, and RedLine goes to the next

AUTOMUTE

category, simply hold the RVW button down
again and it will scroll through all of the
categories.

4 Press the CHG button to change from

VOICE

BANDS

aMute ON to aMute OFF.

5 To complete or exit Preferences, simply
wait 8 seconds without pressing any button,
or press the PWR button (

display

Complete and return to normal

). RedLine will

operation.

12 13

* Factory Default Settings

To reset the RedLine to its
original factory settings, press
and hold the “VOLUME/MUTE,”
and “SENS,” buttons while
turning the power on. RedLine
will display a Reset message,
accompanied by an audible alert
acknowledging the reset.

Meter STD
Meter EXP
Meter SPC

aMute ON
aMute OFF

Voice ON
Voice OFF

Bands DFT
Bands MOD

X ON
K ON or OFF (default is on)
Ka ON or OFF (default is on)
POP ON or OFF (default is off)
SWS ON or OFF (default is off)
LSR ON or OFF (default is on)
TSR ON or OFF (default is off)

Press the CHG button
to change your setting
within a category

* Full word: Highway or Auto or AutoNoX
Letter: H or A or C
Letter, with scanning dot
Vehicle voltage

* Automatic

o

Minimum
Medium
Maximum
Full Dark

* Alert Lamp on
Alert Lamp off

* Fast power-on sequence
Standard power-on sequence

* Standard signal strength meter
ExpertMeter
S

pecDisplay

* AutoMute on
AutoMute off

* Voices on
Voices off

* Default settings
One or more bands disabled

Turn bands ON or OFF by pressing
and holding the SENS button

or OFF (default is on)

Details of Preferences Options

Pilot (Power-on indication)

NOTE: When you are using the
Dark mode, the display will only show
ESCORT, REDLINE momentarily.

PilotHWY (Full description)

In this setting, RedLine will display

“Highway,” “Auto,” or “Auto NoX” as its

power-on indication. (factory default)

Pilot H (Letter)

In this setting, RedLine will display “H” for
Highway, “A” for Auto and “ANX” for Auto
NoX.

Pilot H.> (Scanning dot)

In this setting, RedLine will display “H” for
Highway, “A” for Auto and “ANX” for
Auto NoX with a scrolling dot afterwards.

Pilot V (Vehicle voltage)

In this setting, the RedLine will continually
display “H” for Highway, “A” for Auto, and

“ANX” for Auto NoX, plus the vehicle’s

voltage.
NOTE: A high or low voltage

warning is given any time the vehicle’s
voltage goes above 16.5 volts, or drops
below 10.5 volts. This feature is always
on, regardless of the Pilot setting.

Brightness

BrtAuto (Factory default)

In this setting, the brightness for the display

is controlled automatically by a sensor that
measures the ambient light in the vehicle.
Sunlight will increase the brightness level,

while dim or no light (night driving) will

decrease the brightness.

BrtMin

In this setting, the display is set to a

minimum light level. This setting is retained
in memory even if the power is turned off.

BrtMed

In this setting, the display is set to a

medium light level. This setting is retained
in memory even if the power is turned off.

BrtMax

In this setting, the display is set to a

maximum light level. This setting is retained
in memory even if the power is turned off.

BrtDark

In this setting, the display will be totally

dark. The supplied SmartPlug will provide
the only visual indication that the RedLine
is operational.

Alamp

Alamp On (Alert lamp on)

In this setting, the Alert Lamp will flash on

and off during an alert.

AlampOFF (Alert lamp off)

In this setting, the Alert Lamp will not flash

on and off during an alert.

Power-on Sequence

PwrOnFST (Fast power-on)

In this setting, RedLine will provide a

single X-band tone if the factory default

settings have not been changed.
If any of the factory default band

settings have been disabled, a double X­band tone and corresponding message (i.e.

“X OFF”), will alert you that one or more

bands have been turned off. (factory

default)

PwrOnSTD (Long)

In this setting, each time you turn RedLine,
it will display “ESCORT”, “ REDLINE,”

“LASER,” “Ka-band,” “K-band,” “X-band,”

followed by a brief X-band alert. (factory

default)
If any of the factory default bands
have been disabled, a double X-band tone

and corresponding message (i.e. “X OFF”),
will alert you that one or more bands have
been turned off.

Signal Strength Meter

MeterSTD (Standard meter)

In this setting, the meter displays the band

of the received signal, and a bar-graph will
show the relative signal strength. (factory
default)

MeterEXP (ExpertMeter)

In this setting, the meter will

simultaneously track multiple radar
signals, including relative signal strength
for each.
NOTE: ExpertMeter is explained

in more detail on pages 10-11.

MeterSPC (SpecDisplay meter)

In this setting, the meter displays the

actual numeric frequency of the radar
signal received.
NOTE: The Spec Display feature is

explained in more detail on page 11.

14 15

Specifications Details of Preference Options

AutoMute

aMute ON (AutoMute on)

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

aMuteOFF (AutoMute off)

With AutoMute off, RedLine’S audio alerts
will remain at the volume you set for the

duration of the radar encounter.

Voice

VoiceON (Voice announcements on)

In this setting, all radar, laser, and SWS
messages (if programmed) will be
announced using a digital voice. (factory
default)

VoiceOFF (Voice announcements off)

In this setting, only the distinct audio tone

will be heard when a radar, Laser, or SWS

message is detected.

Bands

BandsDFT

In this setting, the factory default settings

for radar and laser are monitored.
This is the factory setting, and it is
highly recommended that you use your

RedLine in this mode.

BandsMOD

In this setting, RedLine will warn you with

an audible alert, and associated text
message stating which band has changed
from the original factory setting (i.e. “SWS
ON”). This warning is displayed during
the start up sequence (standard or fast).

WARNING: Do not turn off a
band unless you are absolutely
certain that there are no traffic
radar units using that specific band
in your area.

NOTE: These settings only apply

when RedLine is operated in Auto
NoX mode. X-band sensitivity is not
affected when used in “Auto,” or

“Highway” modes.

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

• Twin Antennae

• Superheterodyne, VTO

• Scanning Frequency Discriminator

• Digital Signal Processing (DSP)

Laser Detection

• Quantum Limited Video Receiver

• Multiple Laser Sensor Diodes

Display Type

• 280 LED Alphanumeric

• Bar Graph, ExpertMeter or SpecDisplay

• 4 Levels of Brightness Control, Plus
Dark Mode

Power Requirement

12VDC, Negative Ground

•

• SmartCord Power Cord (included)

Preferences

• Power-On Indication

• Brightness

• Alert Lamp

• Power-on Sequence

• Signal Strength Meter

• AutoMute

• Voice Alerts

• Radar / Laser Bands

Sensitivity Control

• Highway, Auto and Auto NoX

Auto Calibration Circuitry
Tota

lShield™ Technology

Dimensions (Inches)

• 1.25 H x 2.75 W x 4.75 L

16 17

Interpreting Alerts

Although RedLine 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 RedLine and how to

interpret what it tells you. The specific

type of radar being used, the type of

Alert

RedLine begins to sound slowly, then the
rate of alert increases. The Signal Meter
ramps accordingly.

RedLine emits short alerts for a few seconds

and then falls silent only to briefly alert and

fall silent again.

RedLine suddenly sounds a continuous tone

for the appropriate band received. All

segments in the Signal Strength Meter are
displayed.

A brief laser alert.

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

frequency.

transmission (continuous or instant-on)
and the location of the radar source affects
the radar alerts you receive.
The following examples will give you
an introduction to understanding
RedLine’s warning system for radar, laser
and safety alerts.

Explanation

You are approaching a continuous radar

source aimed in your direction.

An instant-on radar source is being used

ahead of you and out of your view.

An instant-on radar source or laser source is

being used nearby. This kind of alert

requires immediate attention!

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

A moving patrol car with continuous radar is

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

Alert

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

wildly.

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

RedLine gives an X-band alert intermittently.

Explanation

A patrol car is traveling in front of you with a

radar source aimed forward. Because signals
are sometimes reflected off of large objects
and sometimes not, the alerts may seem
inconsistent.

A patrol car is approaching from the other

direction, sampling traffic with instant-on
radar. Such alerts should be taken seriously.

You are driving through an area populated

with radar motion sensors (door openers,

burglar alarms, etc.). Since these

transmitters are usually contained inside

buildings or aimed toward OR away from
you, they are typically not as strong or as
long 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.

RedLine 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 19

Radar POP Laser

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 RedLine
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
RedLine’s radar detection abilities are fully
operational.

How “POP” Works

“POP” mode is a relatively new feature for

radar manufacturers. It works by
transmitting an extremely short burst

(approximately half a second) within the

allocated band, to identify speeding
vehicles in traffic. Once the target is
identified, or “POPPED”, the gun is then
turned to its normal operating mode to
provide a vehicle tracking history,

(required by law).

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.

20 21

TSR

SWS

TSR Signal Ranking Software

Your radar detector includes a new
optional boost in anti-falsing software to
eliminate excessive alerts from erroneous
X and K-band sources. One example of

this is traffic flow monitoring systems.
These systems, which are becoming more
widely used in several countries, generate
K-band signals to measure the flow of

traffic on a given road. Unfortunately most
detectors see this as a real threat and will

alert you to it unnecessarily. Our new
proprietary software (TSR), intelligently

sorts, ranks and rejects this type of false

alarm automatically. The result is ultimate
protection without excessive false alarms.
The TSR software is set up as an
option and can be activated through the

Programming section. We suggest you

turn TSR on if you are experiencing
extreme false alerts in your area. If not,
your detector is ready to start protecting
you right out of the box.
If you have any questions about this

new feature, please give us a call or visit
our website for more details

How SWS 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 RedLine can display
are listed on the facing page.
From the factory, your RedLine is
programmed with SWS decoding ON. If
SWS is used in your area, your RedLine
will display the safety messages
associated with the signal. If you do not
wish to detect this system, use the
Preferences feature to turn RedLine’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 RedLine’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.

SWS Text Messages

Highway Construction or Maintenance
1 Work Zone Ahead
2 Road Closed Ahead/Follow Detour
3 Bridge Closed Ahead/Follow Detour
4 Highway Work Crews Ahead
5 Utility Work Crews Ahead
6 All Traffic Follow Detour Ahead
7 All Trucks Follow Detour Ahead
8 All Traffic Exit Ahead
9 Right Lane Closed Ahead
10 Center Lane Closed Ahead
11 Left Lane Closed Ahead
12 For future use
Highway Hazard Zone Advisory
13 Stationary Police Vehicle Ahead
14 Train Approaching/At Crossing
15 Low Overpass Ahead
16 Drawbridge Up
17 Observe Drawbridge Weight Limit
18 Rock Slide Area Ahead
19 School Zone Ahead
20 Road Narrows Ahead
21 Sharp Curve Ahead
22 Pedestrian Crossing Ahead
23 Deer/Moose Crossing
24 Blind/Deaf Child Area
25 Steep
26 Accident Ahead
27 Poor Road Surface Ahead
28 School Bus Loading/Unloading
29 No Passing Zone
30 Dangerous Intersection Ahead
31 Stationary Emergency Vehicle Ahead
32 For future use

Grade Ahead/Truck Use Low Gear

Weather Related Hazards
33 High Wind Ahead
34 Severe Weather Ahead
35 Heavy Fog Ahead
36 High Water/Flooding Ahead
37 Ice On Bridge Ahead
38 Ice On Road Ahead
39 Blowing Dust Ahead
40 Blowing Sand Ahead
41 Blinding Snow Whiteout Ahead
42 For future use
Travel Information/Convenience
43 Rest Area Ahead
44 Rest Area With Service Ahead
45 24 Hour Fuel Service Ahead
46 Inspection Station Open
47 Inspection Station Closed
48 Reduced Speed Area Ahead
49 Speed Limit Enforced
50 Hazardous Materials Exit Ahead
51 Congestion Ahead/Expect Delay
52 Expect 10 Minute Delay
53 Expect 20 Minute Delay
54 Expect 30 Minute Delay
55 Expect 1 Hour Delay
56 Traffic Alert/Tune AM Radio
57 Pay Toll Ahead
58 Trucks Exit Right
59 Trucks Exit Left
60 For future use
Fast/Slow Moving Vehicles
61 Emergency Vehicle In Transit
62 Police In Pursuit
63 Oversize Vehicle In Transit
64 Slow Moving Vehicle

22 23

Troubleshooting

Problem

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

RedLine does not seem sensitive to

radar or laser.

RedLine did not alert when a police

car was in view.

RedLine did not provide a Safety
Signal while within range of an

emergency vehicle.

RedLine’s display is not working.

RedLine’s audible alerts are less
loud after the first few alerts.

RedLine bounces or sags on

windshield.

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 RedLine’s
radar antennae and that the laser lens is not behind tinted
areas.

• Determine if your vehicle has an Instaclear
ElectriClear
deflect radar or laser signals.

• RedLine 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.

• Change Preferences to deactivate Dark Mode.

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

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

®

or solar reflective windshield which may

®

,

Problem

Your 14-year old son has changed all

8 of the Preferences options.

RedLine will not turn on.

RedLine feels very warm.

Solution

• You can return all of the Preferences options to the
factory defaults by holding down the VOLUME/MUTE and
SENS buttons while you turn RedLine on.

• Check the PWR is on.

• Check that vehicle ignition is ON.

• Check that vehicle lighter socket is functional.

• Try RedLine in another vehicle.

• It is normal for RedLine to feel warm.

Explanation of Displays

No display RedLine is in the Dark mode (pages 9, 14)

PilotHWY One of the many Preferences messages (pages 12-16)

WorkZone One of the many Safety Radar messages (pages 22-23)

Caution RedLine has detected a Safety Radar Signal, but the signal isn’t yet strong

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

Service RedLine has failed the calibration test. Contact ESCORT for repair
Required

RedLine’s power-on sequence

reoccurs while you are driving.

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

24 25

Service

__

Service Procedure

If your RedLine 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
RedLine 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 RedLine:

• 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 RedLine repaired

at the price quoted), your RedLine will be

returned, without repair. Payment can be

made by check, money order, or credit

card.

Mail RedLine and Power Cord To:

ESCORT

Customer Service Department

Service Order Number _________
5440 West Chester Road
West Chester OH 45069

For your own protection, we recommend

that you ship your RedLine postpaid and

insured. Insist on a proof of delivery, and

keep the receipt until the return of your

RedLine.

Register

online:

@www

EscortRadar.com

 Remove card along perforations 

ESCORT PRODUCT REGISTRATION CARD

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

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

2726

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

Address___ ______ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ______ ____ ____ ____ ____ ___

1. First Name:_____ ____ ____ ____ __ Middle Initial____ Last Name____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____

Phone Number (In case we have a question)_____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ______ ____ ______

City__ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ______ ____ ____ ____ _ State___ ____ ____ __ Zip____ _____

3. Place of Purchase_____ ____ ____ ______ ____ ____ ____ ____ _ Date___ ____ ____ Price_______

2. Product Purchased ESCORT RedLine Serial Number___ ____ ____ _____

______ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ______ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ___

______ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ______ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ___

______ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ______ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ___

4. Primary reason for purchasing this ESCORT product__ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ______ ____ ____ ____ _

______ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ______ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ___

Warranty Accessories

 Remove card along perforations 

Accessories

The following accessories and replacement
parts are available for ESCORT RedLine

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

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

Standard Coiled Power Cord ......

Direct-wire Power Cord ................

Detector Accessory Kit ..................

SuperCup Windshield Mount ...... $19.95

Windshield Suction Cups Mount ...$9.95

Zippered Travel Case .....................

:

$14.95

$14.95

$14.95

$14.95

ESCORT Extended Service Plan

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

ESCORT One Year
Limited Warranty

ESCORT warrants your RedLine 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
RedLine 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 RedLine. 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 RedLine has
been removed, or if your RedLine has
been subjected to physical abuse,
improper installation, or modification.

28

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