- A radar detector is an active gadget that is capable of generating interference within a certain radio frequency.
- Radar detector - a passive action gadget installed on a car to detect the traffic police radar.
As you already understood, the second option is preferable. In addition, even good radar detectors sometimes they find it, and budget analogs are even more so, which is accompanied by a fine due to the generated interference.
Types of Radar Detectors
At the beginning of 2019, manufacturers produce blocks of the following types of signal processing: digital, hybrid. Analog options are considered obsolete. When choosing a radar detector for a car, you should know the following about the types of signal processing units:
- Hybrid - is the most common, due to the high speed, loyal price and a minimum of false signals. Market leaders are Crunch, Beltronics, Whistler and Escort;
- Digital - the most modern, therefore more expensive. They work on the basis of a multi-computer complex. They differ in ultrahigh speed and a scanty amount of errors.
You must understand that regardless of the type, it is important to consider precisely the frequencies. The more modern the model, the more signals are captured.
Varieties of frequencies
Modern models determine the frequency in the ranges of X, K and Ka. Let's take a closer look at each:
- X-band - the most common signal, oriented at 10525 MHz. The vast majority of old Sokol and Barrier type radars operate in this range;
- K-band is a relatively new frequency, perceiving up to 24150 MHz. The Spark and Golden Eagle of the new generation work mainly in this range;
- Ka-band - the most modern frequency, which is considered the most promising due to the high accuracy and range. If you plan to choose a good radar detector, you should pay attention to this parameter. Such models determine the traffic police for 1,500 kilometers.
Installation method
Choosing a radar detector in terms of parameters and price, you have done only half the battle. Now you need to install and properly connect the device. Given that the principle of the device resembles a receiver, it is obvious that access to electromagnetic radiation should be open:
- In most cases, the device is installed on the windshield in the mirror area;
- If there are suction cups, you can install the device on a dashboard.
It is important that there are no reflective surfaces at the installation sites to prevent the arrival of a high-quality signal. Interferences include metallic-coated sun strips and other metal parts.
Connection and setup
Connecting a radar detector in most cases involves the use of a cigarette lighter socket. If you have a DVR installed, then you will have to use a double or tee. Today, many users are trying to compensate for this shortcoming by purchasing a multifunctional DVR with GPS function, radar detector or radar detector.You should understand that such devices are not able to combine with highly specialized devices.
As for optimization, it is important that the device supports manual tuning to select the operating mode in different conditions: in the city, on the highway, in suburban areas. The more modes, the better. Each is aimed at optimizing the interaction with signals, taking into account the characteristic electromagnetic interference. If there are few modes, there will be many errors even when using a sensitive device.
Tips for choosing a radar detector
If you do not know how to choose a radar detector in terms of price and quality, keep in mind that budget models are very susceptible to false signals. Even mobile phones, a power line or a satellite dish can disrupt their effectiveness. In urban conditions, you understand, there are many such factors. Therefore, they are completely useless. It is better to focus on a segment from 130-150 dollars.
Judging by customer reviews, a lot of good devices are produced by Korean companies whose products are distinguished by a long distance of action and a minimum of false positives.
Premium segment
If you want to choose a radar detector with GPS or other additional functions, focus on the premium segment from $ 200. Otherwise, additional functions indicate a cheaper technology due to important details and implementation due to additional features. As practice shows, cheap models with various modules do not meet the expectations of buyers.
Premium models from developers such as Escort, Valentine and Beltronics work on the basis of powerful processors that allow you to perform several tasks at once. They respond to various traffic police radar signals even at high speed in the presence of irritants.
We hope this is enough for you to choose a good device. Do not break, but be prepared for an unplanned inspection. Good luck
