Whistler 1770 User Manual

THE WHISTLER GROUP
CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS

13016 N. Walton Blvd.
Bentonville, AR 72712
TEL [phone] FX [phone]
www.whistlergroup.com

PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT CENTER

25 Industrial Ave.
Chelmsford, MA 01824
TEL [phone] FX [phone]

CUSTOMER RETURN CENTER

1201 N. Dixieland Rd.
Rogers, AR 72756
Consumer Relations Tel [phone]
E-Mail [e-mail]

P/N 1770MAN, © WHISTLER 2001

OWNER’S MANUAL

1770

WEATHER RADIO
LASER/RADAR DETECTOR

INTRODUCTION

If you have questions concerning the
operation of this Whistler product
please call consumer relations:

1-800-531-0004

Hours:

Monday - Friday

8:00 am - 5:00 pm CT

Please keep the receipt in a safe
place. If the unit is returned without a
dated proof of purchase an out of
w a rranty service charge applies.
Note: Your warranty period begins at
the time of purchase. The warranty is
validated o n l y by re t u rn of the
Warranty Validation card.
Now is the time to record the serial
number of the unit in the space pro­vided in the warranty section of the
manual.

Dear Whistler Owner,
Thank you for purchasing the Whistler 1770 Laser/Radar

Detector with NOAA Weather Radio alerts. We hope this
product provides you a safer and more enjoyable time
behind the wheel of your vehicle.

Whistler has added a number of useful features to its class­leading radar detector. The 1770 scans all seven (7) frequen­cies of the NOAA Weather Radio (NWR) system (as well as
Weather Radio Service of Canada) and broadcasts reports
and alerts for your driving area. In addition, the 1770 pro­vides Safety Warning System® alerts and our unique Stay
Alert™ feature. The 1770 also gives you complete protec­tion with Whistler’s All Band™ technology.

Even though the 1770 is packed full of features, it is still very
easy to use. However, to fully utilize the unit to its potential,
we recommend reading this entire manual.

Enjoy the Whistler 1770 and please drive safely.
Sincerely,
THE WHISTLER GROUP

We’re Driving Technology

TABLE OF CONTENTS

WHISTLER FEATURES

Topic Page

Model Features Summary...................................................................3 - 5

Installation............................................................................................6 - 8

• Mounting Guidelines

• Dash/Visor/Windshield Mounting

• Power Connection And Fuse Replacement

Operation...........................................................................................9 - 19

• Power On And Self-Test

• Integrated Real Voice™

• Memory/Beep Confirmation

• Audio Level Adjustment

• NOAA

• Auto Quiet/Quiet Modes

• City Mode

• Dim/Dark Mode

• Engaging/Disengaging VG-2 Detection

• Stay Alert

• NOAA Modes

• Squelch Mode

• Option Select Mode

• Teach/Tutorial Mode

• Vehicle Battery Saver Mode

Radar, Laser And VG-2 Alerts.........................................................20 - 24

• Radar Alerts

• Pulse Protection

• Safety Radar Audio/Visual Alerts

• Laser Audio/Visual Alerts

• VG-2 Audio/Visual Alerts

• Alert Priority

• Reset Features

• Care and Maintenance

Troubleshooting Guide.......................................................................... 25

Are Detectors Legal?..............................................................................26

Speed Monitoring Technologies................................................... 26 - 28

• Radar Facts

• Laser Facts

• Other Speed Detection Systems

• Radar Detector Detectors

Warranty Information...................................................................... 29 - 31

Specifications.......................................................................................... 32

FCC Information.............................................................................. 33 - 34

Accessories..............................................................................................35

Accessory Order Form............................................................................36

®

Whistler 1770

7

8

2

1

6
4

3

4

5

Whistler’s ergonomic and user-friendly design provides a
new level of operating convenience. Special feature s
include:

1. Bracket Release Button – Provides quick and easy
release of the mounting bracket.

2. Speaker – Provides distinct audio and Real Voice™
warnings for X, K, Ka band radar, safety radar, laser, VG-2
and NOAA transmissions & alerts.

3. Power/Dim/Dark/Button – Tu rns unit on/off and
engages Dim/Dark modes (press and hold for 2 seconds).

4. Volume Up/Down Buttons – Adjust volume up or
down. In NOAA mode, select the next available weather
channel. Pressing both buttons changes NOAA modes.

3

WHISTLER FEATURES

WHISTLER FEATURES

5. High Visibility Display – Provides distinct visual confir-

mation of signals detected, signal strength, and indicates
engaged modes of operation.

6. Quiet/Menu/Button - Pressing QUIET before a signal is
detected engages Auto Quiet Mode which automatically
reduces the audio level after the initial warning to a low
audio level setting. Pressing QUIET during a radar/laser
encounter silences audio alerts, while allowing visual alerts to
keep you informed. Pressing and holding for 2 seconds
allows you to enter Option Select Mode (see page 18).

7. CITY/CITY 1/CITY 2 Button - Reduces the annoyance
of false alerts typically encountered in urban driving areas.

8. Laser Antenna (Rear) - An integrated optical wave­guide provides detection of laser signals transmitted from
behind.

11

9. Power Jack - Provides connection for the power cord.

10. Laser Antenna (Front) - High gain optical lens

provides increased sensitivity and field of view for leading­edge laser detection.

11. NOAA Antenna - Adjustable design allows for best
reception of NOAA signals.

12. Mounting Bracket Location - Slot holds mounting
bracket firmly.

9

12

10

Accessories

Accessories included are highly functional and easy to use.
Power Cord - Connects to the unit’s power jack and your

vehicle’s lighter socket.
Windshield Bracket - Allows installation of unit on your

vehicle’s windshield.
Hook & Loop Fasteners - Designed to secure the unit on

a level dashboard.

4

5

INSTALLATION

INSTALLATION

Mounting Guidelines

• Mount the unit as low and level as possible near the center

of the windshield.

• Do not mount your unit behind wipers, ornaments, mir­ro red sunscreens, etc. These obstructions have metal sur­faces which can affect radar and laser signals and reduce crit­ical warning time. (Regular tinted glass does not affect re c e p­t i o n . )

• Some windshields have an Instaclear™or Electriclear™
type coating, which affect radar signals. Consult your dealer
or the owner’s manual supplied with your vehicle to deter­mine if your windshield has this coating.

• Avoid placing unit in direct contact with windshield.

• To reduce the possibility of theft, conceal your unit when

not in use.

Windshield Mounting

• Clean the two suction cups with a glass-type cleaner.

Install them along with the rubber bumper onto the bracket
by fitting them into their holes.

• P ress the suction cups onto the windshield at the location
you have chosen. I M P O RTA N T: Some newer cars have a

plastic safety coating on the inside of the windshield. The
suction cups may leave permanent marks on this type of
s u rface. To find out if your vehicle has this type of wind­shield, check the owner’s manual or ask your dealer. We
recommend that you do not leave the suction cup bracket
on the window in direct sunlight. If the detector is
removed, this may cause blistering of the dash in some
v e h i c l e s .

• Slide the detector onto the bracket until it locks into place.

• If necessary, the unit may be leveled by bending the wind-

6

shield bracket. Press the bracket release button and re m o v e
the detector before bending.

• Adjust the NOAA antenna such that it does not come in
contact with the windshield.

Dash Mounting

• Make sure the mounting location you have chosen is

relatively level and is clean and dry. Clean with isopro p y l
alcohol if necessary to remove any waxes or polishes.

• Separate the fastener strips. Peel the paper backing off
each strip and adhere one piece to the dash and the other
piece to the bottom of the unit, taking care not to cover

the serial number.

• NOAA reception may be adversely affected by mount­ing on dash board .

Be careful not to place the fastener strip over the unit’s serial number. If the
fastener strip is removed, the serial number may be pulled off the unit. Units
without serial numbers are not covered under warr a n t y.

7

INSTALLATION

OPERATION

Visor Mounting (optional accessory )

• Slide the visor bracket into the bracket mounting slot.

• Clip the visor bracket onto the visor making sure it is
relatively level and has a clear view of the ro a d .

Slide on view

Insert into bracket mounting slot. Do not bend this
section of bracket.

Power Connection

• Plug the small end of the power cord into the unit’s power
j a c k .

• Plug the large end into the vehicle’s cigarette lighter.

Fuse Replacement

The lighter socket plug is equipped with a replaceable 2
amp 3AG fuse located behind the silver tip. To replace the
fuse, carefully unscrew the tip of the plug. (I M P O RTA N T:
U n s c rew slowly. The tip contains a spring which may fly out
when disassembling.) Insert the new fuse with the spring and
s c rew on the tip. With use, screw cap on plug may loosen.

Retighten occasionally.

Power On And Self-Test

Each time your Whistler detector is turned on, an auto­matic self-test sequence confirms which features are pro­grammed On or Off.

• Press Power or apply Power. Display reads:

Note: If any of the radar/laser bands are not displayed
during the self-test, this means they were turned off in
Option Select Mode (see page 18).

U n s c rew the tip of the lighter socket plug carefully when replacing the 2 amp
f u s e .

8

9

OPERATION

OPERATION

Integrated Real Voice™

When selected, Real Voice will be used to articulate the
following:

1.Band Identification

2.Safety Warning System messages

Note: In certain cases the voice message does not repli­cate the text message.

3.Feature Selection

Note: NOAA is not affected by Real Voice™ selection.
Memory/Beep Confirmation

All features selected (except Stay Alert and Quiet) are
retained in memory. Each time a button is pressed one
beep confirms feature “on”, two beeps confirm feature

“off”.
Audio Level Adjustment

The audio levels can be adjusted high to low, or low to
high, in nine steps: (0) is no audio level, (8) the highest.

• Press and Release Volume up to increase audio one

level.

• Press and Release Volume down to decrease audio

one level.
As audio level is adjusted, beeps are provided and the dis-

play indicates volume level. Example:

NOAA

The 1770 is programmed from the factory in “NWR STBY”
mode. This allows the unit to receive laser/radar signals
while scanning the seven (7) NOAA Weather Radio (NWR)
broadcast channels. Weather announcements will only be
heard if a weather warning or advisory is in your area. With
a few exceptions, NOAA broadcasts can be received
throughout the U.S. Many of the transmitters, however, are
low powered (300 to 1000 watts) so reception may not
always be clear. As with any radio transmission, range and
quality of receptions can vary due to local terrain and
atmospheric conditions. If you are camping, for example,
it is best to switch the unit to NWR ON mode to see if a
clear NOAA broadcast is received. If so, switch the unit
back to NWR STBY mode for receiving emergency broad­casts only.

For more information on NWR functions and program­ming, see NWR Modes section on page 16. For more
detailed information about NOAA, NWR transmitter infor­mation and other departments please visit their web site:
www.nws.noaa.gov/nwr.

Note: Volume for NOAA reception is independent of the
laser/radar volume setting.

10

11

OPERATION

OPERATION

Auto Quiet Mode

Auto Quiet reduces the selected audio level to level (1)
approximately 5 seconds after a radar or safety radar signal
is detected. The alert for any new signal within 20 seconds
will resume at level (1). Auto Quiet does not affect VG-2 or
laser alerts.

• P ress Quiet/Menu (before a signal is detected) to
engage Auto Quiet. Display reads:

• Once the Auto Quiet mode is engaged, you may cancel
the audio alarm by pressing Quiet.

• Press Quiet (when the unit is not alarming) to cancel
Auto Quiet mode.

• NOAA is not effected by Auto Quiet. Auto Quiet mode
is canceled if an NWR alert is received.

Quiet Mode

Quiet cancels audio during an alert and any new alert with­in 20 seconds. After 20 seconds, approximately 2 beeps
are provided on any new alert and unit then remains quiet.

• Press Quiet to cancel the audio.

• Press Quiet a second time during an alert to restore the
standard audio alert pattern; or turn the unit off, then on.

City/City 1/City 2 Mode

W h i s t l e r’s Three Stage City Mode is designed to reduce the
annoyance of automatic door openers, intrusion alarms and
other devices which share frequencies with police radar.
Generally X band is used for these devices.

• P ress City to engage City. Display re a d s :

• P ressing City a second time engages City 1. Display re a d s :

• P ressing City a third time engages City 2. Display re a d s :

• P ressing City a fourth time cancels City, City 1, and City 2.
Display re a d s :

In City Mode, weak speed/safety radar signals give an initial
a l a rm of two beeps, and then remains quiet unless the signal
becomes very strong. When the signal strength incre a s e s ,
two additional beeps are provided. In City 1 Mode, only the
X band sensitivity is lowered. In City 2 Mode, X-band is not
detected. CAUTION: When selecting this mode, some
towns/small cities may still be using X band radar.
If Auto Quiet is engaged in City 1 or City 2 modes and the
unit receives a strong radar signal, the unit perf o rms the Auto
Quiet feature. City Modes do not change the audio alert for
l a s e r, VG-2 or NOAA.

12

13

OPERATIONOPERATION

Dim/Dark Mode

Dim/Dark Mode reduces the illumination of the display.

• P ress and hold the Power button for 2 seconds to re d u c e

illumination to a Dim setting. Display re a d s :

• P ressing and holding the Power button for 2 seconds a

second time engages Dark Mode. Display re a d s :

Dim or dark can be engaged during an alert. In Dark Mode,
the display goes dark for as long as a signal is being detect­ed and for 20 seconds after, then the display re t u rns to the
dimmer setting.

• P ressing and holding the Power button a third time

re s t o res full illumination to the display.

Engaging/Disengaging VG-2

See option select mode to turn this feature on.

Stay Alert Feature

The Stay Alert Feature is designed to test a driver’s alert-

ness. To engage (when unit is not alarming):

• Press and hold the City button for approximately 2 sec­onds. Release the button during or immediately following
the alert given. Display reads:

Within 30-60 seconds two beeps are sounded; to show alert­ness, the driver must press either the (Volume), City or

Quiet button within 3-5 seconds. If the button is pressed with­in 3-5 seconds, the cycle is re p e a t e d .

If a button was not pressed within 3-5 seconds alarm sounds
and the display re a d s :

• Press Power to exit.
WA R N I N G ! ! ! Stay Alert is NOT intended as a substitute for

adequate rest. You should NOT operate a vehicle if you are

d ro w s y. During extended periods of vehicle operation, you
should take frequent breaks. Improper reliance on the Stay
A l e rt feature may result in vehicle damage, personal injury or

d e a t h .NEVER OPERATE A VEHICLE IF YOU ARE DROWSY.

14 15

OPERATIONOPERATION

NOAA Modes

• Changing NWR modes

Through the option select mode, (page 18) or by pressing
both volume buttons simultaneously and release, the unit
can be programmed to listen to NWR continuous weather
reports while still searching for laser/radar signals (NWR
ON) or the NOAA can be turned off completely (NWR OFF)
while still being able to receive laser/radar signals.

• NWR STBY
The laser/radar detector will function as normal (including
displaying HIGHWAY or CITY modes), unless an NWR Alert
is detected while scanning the seven (7) frequencies. In the
event of an NWR Alert, the text display will show one of sev­eral warnings (i.e. FLOOD, TORNADO, EMERGENCY), and
the speaker provides the NWR advisory message. At the
conclusion of the NWR Alert, the 1770 returns to the stand­by mode.

or

• NWR ON
The 1770 auto scans to the first active channel it finds and
broadcasts the NWR continuous weather report. The text
display shows the NWR channel frequency, instead of the
standard HIGHWAY/CITY message as shown below.

• In the event that you are in an area that receives two or
more NWR channels, you can scan for an alternate NWR
channels by pressing and holding either volume
button. Display read:

• After holding the volume button down for approxi­mately 1.5 seconds, a feedback beep is provided. Upon
release of the volume button, the 1770 will scan for the
next active channel. If there are no other active channels
in the area, the 1770 will return to the initial channel.

• A quick press and release of either volume button dur­ing a NOAA broadcast will adjust volume to the next
level. Another press and release of either volume button
will go to another level, etc, until either the min or max
volume is reached. This volume setting is independent of
the volume set while the unit is in radar mode (highway or
city).

Squelch Mode

While receiving weak signals in NWR ON mode the audio
may become intermittent. This is caused by the signal
being too weak to be received clearly and the audio is
squelched. To hear as much of the audio broadcast as
possible, squelching can be turned off, static will be heard
along with the audio broadcast. If this is desired, see the
Option Select mode section on page 18 to turn the
squelch (SQ) off.

16 17

OPERATION

OPERATION

Option Select Mode

Entering Option Select Mode allows you to customize
options such as Tone Select, NOAA Select, Abbreviated
Power Up Sequence and VG-2 Mode. When selecting
options, the , or Quiet must be pressed within 20 sec­onds or options mode will automatically be exited. To enter:

Press : *Display To Change, Option:
Quiet Reads: Press

For 2 seconds COMBO or NWR STBY=Radar & NOAA

2nd time SQ ON = ON Squelch ON

3rd time TONE 3 = YES Tone 1, 2, or 3

4th time Test = ON X,K,KA Audio tones

5th time X = ON X Band On

6th time K = ON K Band On

7th time Ka = ON Ka Band On

8th time LASER = ON Laser On

9th time VG-2 OFF = ON Turns VG-2 On

10th time SR = ON Turns Safety Radar On

11th time VOICE = ON Real Voice engaged

12th time B SVR = ON Battery Saver On

*Factory settings.
Press power anytime to exit.

ON

ON

ON

ON

ON

ON

ON

= OFF

= NO

= OFF

= OFF

= OFF

= OFF

= OFF

= OFF

= OFF

= OFF

= OFF

NWR on=NOAA & Radar
NWR off=Radar Only

Squelch OFF

(3 different X, K, Ka
patterns)

1 beep during Power Up

X Band Off

K Band Off

Ka Band Off

Laser Off

Turns VG-2 Off

Turns Safety Radar Off

Real Voice disengaged

Battery Saver Off

18

Teach/Tutorial Mode

Provides simulated alerts for each type of signal.

• Press the City and Quiet buttons simultaneously and
release. Display reads:

• Press the Power button to exit.

Vehicle Battery Saver Mode

The Vehicle Battery Saver Mode automatically shuts off
your detector within 3 hours if you forget to turn it off. The
timer is reset if the detector is turned off, unplugged or
any button is pressed before the 3 hours have expired. The
detector will alert you with an audible and visual warning
before it shuts off. Display reads:

During this warning you can momentarily reset the unit by
pressing any button. This will reset the timer.

If the unit has automatically turned itself off, press the
Power button to turn the unit back on. You can manually
engage the Vehicle Battery Saver Mode by pressing and
holding the City button until one beep is heard.

Refer to “Option Select Mode” for instructions for deacti­vating battery saver mode feature.

19

SAFETY RADAR ALERTSRADAR ALERTS

Speed Radar Audio/Visual Alerts

When X, K or Ka is detected the band ID and signal
strength is displayed. The audio alert is continuous and
has a geiger counter-like pattern. The faster the beep the
closer or stronger the radar source. Example:

1 = weak signal, 9 = strong signal

Pulse Protection

®

When a pulse type signal (instant on strong signal) is
detected an urgent 3 second audio warning is sounded
and the display reads:

After 3 seconds standard alert pattern continues.

In communities where transmitters are located, the Safety
Warning System displays over 60 text messages. When
Safety Radar is detected the audio alert is geiger counter­like.

Safety Warning System Text

Example: Poor Road Surface:

Note: Not all areas have Safety Warning System transmitters.
Visit safety warning system, web page at www.safetyradar.com for
SWS locations.

20 21

LASER/VG-2 ALERTS

RESET FEATURES

Laser Audio/Visual Alerts

When a laser signal is detected the word “Laser” and sig-

nal strength is displayed, the audio alert is continuous for

a minimum of 3 seconds. Example:

The more “|||” the closer the laser source.

VG-2 Audio/Visual Alerts

Note: You must turn this feature on in option select mode before

it will detect VG-2.

When a VG-2 signal is detected, the detector “hides” its own

radiated signal and becomes undetectable by the VG-2.

Text message confirms detection of VG-2.

Every 30 seconds, the detector checks for a VG-2 signal. If

a VG-2 signal is still present, the unit continues to hide and

repeats the VG-2 alert. If no signal is detected, two beeps

are provided, indicating an “all clear” condition. During

VG-2 Alert X, K, and Ka band signals cannot be received.

(Reference page 26 for VG-2 information.)

Alert Priority

When two or more signals are received at the same time,

the alert priority is:

1. NWR Alert (NWR STBY)

2. Laser

3. Speed Radar

4. Safety Radar

5. NWR weather reports (NWR ON)
Example:
If X band is alerting, then suddenly VG-2 is detected, the
VG-2 warning will override the X band alert.

22

Reset Features

All user features can be reset to factory settings.

• Unplug Power Cord from unit.

• Press and hold the Power and Quiet buttons.

• Plug Power Cord into unit.

• Wait for 2 beeps.

• Release the Power and Quiet buttons. Unit is now reset.

1. Audio to level (6).

2. Display reads Highway.

3. Dim/Dark Mode to full illumination of display.

4. Auto Quiet Mode OFF.

5. VG-2 Detection Mode OFF.

6. Voice ON.

7. Safety ON.

8. Vehicle Battery Saver ON.

9. Full Power Up sequence.

10. Default TONE 3.

11. Unit ON or OFF.

12. All Band ON.

13. NOAA in Standby Mode.

14. SQ (Squelch) ON

23

CARE & MAINTENANCE

TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE

Care And Maintenance

During the summer months, avoid prolonged exposure to

direct sunlight by removing your unit from the dash when
your vehicle is parked for an extended period of time.

Do not spray water, cleaners or polishes directly onto the

unit. The spray may penetrate through the openings and

damage the unit. Also, do not use any abrasive cleaners on

the unit’s exterior.

Your Whistler detector is expertly engineered and designed to exacting
quality standards to provide you with reliable, tro u b l e - f ree operation. If
your unit has been correctly installed following the guidelines in this
manual, but is not operating optimally, please refer to the tro u­bleshooting guide below.

P R O B L E M : No display or audio.

• Check fuse in Whistler plug; replace if necessary with a 2 amp 3AG type.

• Check fuse for lighter socket; replace if necessary.

• Make sure lighter socket is clean.
P R O B L E M : Unit alarms when vehicle hits bumps.

• Check for loose lighter socket; tighten and clean.

• Check connections at both ends of power cord. Substitute another cord to
d e t e rmine if cord is defective. Return defective cord to the factory.

P R O B L E M : Unit alarms when using vehicle equipment, electrical accessories

(

brakes, power mirrors/windows, directionals, horn, etc.), or when accelerating.

• Ve h i c l e ’s electrical system, including battery and altern a t o r, may have electri-

cal noise. Install a filter capacitor (470mfd. 25 volt or larger capacitance value)
on the back of the lighter socket.

P R O B L E M : Audio alerts are not loud enough.

• Cancel Auto Quiet Mode or City Mode.

• Check audio level setting (see page 10 - 13).

P R O B L E M : No X band signals.

• Cancel City 2, or turn X band on. (See page 18.)

P R O B L E M : Unit gives laser alert when accelerating.

• Possible bad or low quality distributor cap. Replace with high quality cap.

P R O B L E M : Not detecting radar/laser signals.

• Make sure that Laser or any one of the radar bands have not been turned

o ff in Option Select mode. (See page 18 )

P R O B L E M : Not receiving NOAA Signals in “NWR STBY “ mode.

• No weather emergencies are re p o rting in your are a .

• Readjust NOAA antenna (may re q u i re relocating unit.) Switch to “NWR ON”

If difficulties occur which cannot be solved by information in this
Troubleshooting Guide, please call Whistler Consumer Relations at
1-800-531-0004 before re t u rning your unit for serv i c e .

24

25

ARE DETECTORS LEGAL?

SPEED MONITORING TECHNOLOGIES

In Most States YES!

Laser detectors are completely legal in every state when
used in automobiles or light trucks (under 10,000 lbs.).
Similarly, when used in automobiles or light trucks, radar
detectors are legal in almost every state. Exceptions are

Virginia and Washington, D.C., which have local regulations
restricting the use of radar receivers in any vehicle.
Concerning trucks over 10,000 lbs., the Federal Highway
Administration (FHwA) issued a regulation, eff e c t i v e
January, 1994 which prohibits radar and laser detector use

in these types of vehicles nationally.
Prior to the FHwA regulation, laws existed in the state of
New York restricting the use of radar detectors in trucks

over 18,000 lbs. and in Illinois in trucks over 26,000 lbs.

Radar Facts

A radar gun operates by transmitting radio waves at cert a i n

f requencies which reflect off objects and are then picked up
by the radar gun’s receiving section. When a radar beam

reflects off a moving target, a measurable frequency shift
occurs. The radar unit converts this shift into miles per hour
to determine your vehicle’s speed.

C u rre n t l y, the FCC (Federal Communications Commission)
p e rmits operation of traffic radar guns at X Band (10.500 -

10.550 GHz), K Band (24.050 - 24.250 GHz), and Ka Band
(33.400 - 36.000 GHz).

N o t e : A radar detector will not alarm if an officer is not trans­mitting on any one of the above radar bands!

Laser Facts

I t ’s well documented that many radar guns cannot re l i a b l y
p rovide the speed of a targeted vehicle that is traveling in a
g roup of vehicles. In contrast, a laser gun can target a spe­cific vehicle out of a line of traffic and determine its speed.
The advantage of laser over radar in terms of target identifi­cation is the result of the laser gun’s narrow beam. A radar
transmission can cover more than a four-lane highway at a
distance of 1,000 feet, compared with a laser transmission
which covers about 3 feet at the same distance.
For best protection, keep these points in mind:

• Because your vehicle’s license plate or headlights are the laser
g u n ’s primary targets, mounting your Whistler detector on the
d a s h b o a rd can improve laser detection at short range.

• Do not follow closely behind any vehicle you cannot see thro u g h .
If you can’t see past a vehicle ahead of you, chances are your
detector won’t either.

• The receiving range of your laser detector will not be the same as
a radar detector. Laser guns are most often used at short range.

Whistler Laser/Radar detectors receive all current laser guns
which operate at a laser wavelength of 905 +/- 10mm.

• P ro Laser™ I II III

• LT1 20-20

• Ultra Ly t e

26

27

SPEED MONITORING TECHNOLOGIES

WARRANTY INFORMATION

Other Speed Detection Systems

Several techniques other than radar or laser are used to
measure vehicle speeds. When these methods are being
used, no detector can provide a warning. These techniques
include:

• Pacing - A patrol car drives behind you and matches your
driving speed.

• Vascar/Aircraft - The time it takes a vehicle to travel a
known distance is measured.

Radar Detector Detectors (VG-2)

The Interceptor VG-2, or simply VG-2, is a microwave receiv­er used by police to detect signals radiated by the local oscil­lator of a radar detector. Because its purpose is to identify
persons driving with radar detectors, the VG-2 is known as a
“radar detector detector”.
The VG-2 is the primary tool used by the police to identify
radar detector equipped vehicles. If caught, in a state where
detectors are illegal, (see page 26), drivers risk losing their
radar detector and receiving a fine. In addition, instant-on
radar is almost always used in combination with a VG-2, leav­ing unsuspecting motorists vulnerable to receiving two tick­ets — one potentially for speeding, the other for possession
of a detector.
Having a radar detector capable of detecting the VG-2 may
alert you to the presence of a speed trap.

Consumer Warranty

This radar/laser Whistler detector is warranted to the original
p u rchaser for a period of one year from the date of original
p u rchase against all defects in materials and workmanship.

This limited warranty is void if the unit is abused, modi­fied, installed impro p e r l y, if the housing has been
removed, or if the serial number is missing. T h e re are no

e x p ress warranties covering this product other than those set
f o rth in this warr a n t y. All express or implied warranties for this
p roduct are limited to one year. Whistler is not liable for
damages arising from the use, misuse, or operation of this
p ro d u c t .

Service Under Warranty

During the warranty period, defective units will be re p a i red or
replaced (with the same or a comparable model), at Whistler’s
option, without charge to the purchaser when re t u rned pre­paid, with dated proof of purchase to the address below. Units
re t u rned without dated proof of purchase will be handled as
described in section “Service Out Of Wa rr a n t y.” Due to the
specialized equipment necessary for testing a radar/laser
re c e i v e r, there are no authorized service stations for Whistler
brand detectors other than the factory.
When re t u rning a unit for service under warr a n t y, please
follow these instru c t i o n s :

1. Ship the unit in the original carton or in a suitable sturdy
equivalent, fully insured, with return receipt requested, and
shipping charges prepaid to:

Whistler Repair Dept.

1201 North Dixieland Rd.

Rogers, AR. 72756

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WARRANTY INFORMATION

WARRANTY INFORMATION

I M P O RTA N T: Whistler will not assume responsibility for loss or

damage incurred in shipping. There f o re, please ship your unit
i n s u red with re t u rn receipt re q u e s t e d .

2. Include with your unit the following information, clearly printed:

• Your name and street address (for shipping via UPS), and
a daytime telephone number. (No P.O. Box please.)

• A detailed description of the problem (e.g., “Unit per
f o rms self-test but does not respond to radar”).

• A copy of your dated proof of purchase or bill of sale.

3. Be certain your unit is re t u rned with its serial number. For
re f e rence, please write your unit’s serial number in the following
space: s/n __________________.

Units without serial numbers are not covered under warr a n t y.
I M P O RTA N T: To validate that your unit is within the warranty

period, make sure you keep a copy of your dated proof of
p u rchase and re t u rn the Wa rranty Validation card .

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Service Out Of Warranty

Units will be repaired at “out of warranty” service rates
when:

• The unit’s original warranty has expired.

• Dated proof of purchase is not supplied.

• The unit has been returned without its serial number.

• The unit has been abused, modified, installed improper­ly, or had its housing removed.
The minimum out of warranty service fee for your Whistler
detector is $65.00 (U.S.). If you require out of warranty serv­ice, please return your unit as outlined in the section
“Service Under Warranty” along with a certified check or
money order for $65.00. Payment may also be made by
MasterCard or VISA; personal checks are not accepted. In
the event repairs cannot be covered by the minimum
$65.00 service fee, you will be contacted by a Whistler
technical service specialist who will outline options avail­able to you. If you elect not to have your unit
repaired/replaced, it will be returned to you along with
your certified check or money order.

IMPORTANT: When returning your unit for service, be cer­tain to include a daytime telephone number.

Consumer Relations

If you have questions concerning the operation of your
Whistler detector, or re q u i re service during or after the
w a rranty period, please call Consumer Relations at
1-800-531-0004. Representatives are available to answer
your questions Monday - Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
( C T ) .

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SPECIFICATIONS

FCC INFORMATION

• Dimensions: 1.6”H x 4.7”W x 4”L

• Weight: 7.5 oz.

• Laser Wavelength:

905 ± 50 nanometers (nm)

• Radar Frequencies:

10.500 - 10.550 GHz (X Band)

24.050 - 24.250 GHz (K Band )

33.400 - 36.000 GHz (Ka Superwideband)

• NOAA Frequencies:

162.400 MHz

162.425 MHz

162.450 MHz

162.475 MHz

162.500 MHz

162.525 MHz

162.550 MHz

• Operating Temperature Range:

-20˚ C to +80˚ C (-4˚ F to +176˚ F)

• Power Requirements:

Operational 12 to 15 volts DC, 250mA nominal
Vehicle Battery Saver, 30mA nominal.

One or more U.S. patents apply: #5,146,227; #5,379,456;
5,666,120 and #5,990,821.

Note of Compliance

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Operation is subject to the condition that this device does
not cause harmful interference.

Wa rning: Changes or modifications to this unit not
expressly approved by the party responsible for compli­ance could void the user’s authority to operate the equip­ment.

NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to
comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant
to Part 15 if the FCC Rules. This limits are designed to pro­vide reasonable protection against harmful interference.
This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio fre­quency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance
with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to
radio communications.

Product: Radar Detector
Model: DE1770
Responsible Party: The Whistler Group

13016 North Walton Blvd.
Bentonville, AR 72712

Phone: [phone]

Specifications are subject to change without notice.

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33

FCC INFORMATION

ACCESSORIES

However, there is no guarantee that interference will not
occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does
cause harmful interference to radio or television reception,
which can be determined by turning the equipment off
and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the inter­ference by one of more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and

receiver.

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV

technician for help.

The following accessories can be ordered directly from
Whistler by calling 1-800-531-0004, by mailing in the order
form or using our online store www.whistlergroup.com.

Order Description Price
Code

202138 Visor Bracket $ 6.95
202140 Windshield Bracket Kit $ 9.95
206294 *Modular Lighter Plug $ 7.95

(Requires 206550 or

206551)

206550 *Modular Straight $ 6.95

Power Cord (5')

(Requires 206294)

206551 *Modular Coiled $ 7.95

Power Cord (7')

(Requires 206294)

206552 Straight Power Cord (5’) $14.95
206553 Coiled Power Cord (7’) $15.95
206879 Hook & Loop $ 1.95
206880 Hardwire Kit (10' ) $ 9.95

(for wiring to fuse box)

203283 Socket Multiplier $ 9.95

(Requires 206550 or

206551)

*Modular: interconnecting pieces cord and plug.
Shipping and handling (per order) $5.00
Prices are subject to change without notice.

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35

ACCESSORY ORDER FORM

PLEASE SHIP TO:

Name______________________________________________
Street______________________________________________
City________________________State_______Zip___ _ _ _ _ _ _
Telephone Number (______) _________________________ _

Order Code/Description Quantity Total Price

$

Subtotal
Sales Tax (if Applicable)
Shipping and Handling* $ 5.00
Total Enclosed $

SEND ORDER FORM WITH CERTIFIED CHECK OR
MONEY ORDER TO:

I F PAY I N G BY MASTERCARD OR VISA PLEASE PROVIDE:

Type of card ___MasterCard ___Visa ___American Expre s s
Name on Card______________________________________
Card Number_______________________________________
Expiration Date_____________________________________
Cardholder Signature________________________________

*For expedited shipping costs, contact Whistler Customer Service, 1-800-531-0004

Whistler CTS
PO Box 1844

Bentonville, AR 72712

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