Solo USA Radar Detector R D 5 1 1 0 User Manual

CORDLESS RADAR/LASER DETECTOR  
S O L O  
Check Quick  
Reference Guide  
inside cover !  
®
pwr/vol  
dim  
city  
mute  
O W N E R ' S M A N U A L  
M O D E L R D - 5 1 1 0  
®
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T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S  
Installing SOLO's Batteries..........................................................1  
Battery Life Indication ..............................................................1,7  
Low Battery Warning ...............................................................2,7  
AutoOff.......................................................................................2  
Mounting SOLO..........................................................................3  
Controls and Indicators  
Power On .............................................................................4  
Volume.......................................................................................4  
Mute...........................................................................................5  
AutoMute....................................................................................5  
Highway/City Modes.............................................................5  
Dim Modes...........................................................................5  
Audible Alerts .......................................................................6  
Power On Indicator...............................................................6  
City Indicator ........................................................................6  
Band Indicators.....................................................................6  
Signal Meter..........................................................................6  
Safety Signals ........................................................................6  
Mounting Adjustment Button ................................................7  
Radar Antenna ......................................................................7  
Laser Lenses..........................................................................7  
Power Jack............................................................................7  
Programmable Options...............................................................8  
Tutorial Mode ...........................................................................10  
Specifications...............................................................................11  
Interpreting Alerts ......................................................................12  
How Radar Works .....................................................................14  
How Laser Works......................................................................14  
How Safety Signals Work...........................................................15  
Troubleshooting..........................................................................16  
Service........................................................................................18  
Warranty....................................................................................19  
Optional Accessories ................................................................20  
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I M P O R T A N T B A T T E R Y I N F O R M A T I O N  
SOLO is designed to operate on two standard AA alkaline batteries. AA  
lithium batteries and AA alkaline rechargeable batteries may also be used,  
however the resulting battery life will vary. We do not recommend using  
NiCad rechargeable batteries.  
Installing SOLOs Batteries  
1
2
Make sure SOLO is turned off.  
Turn SOLO upside down. Depress the  
battery door and sliding in the direction  
of the arrow, remove door from the  
battery compartment.  
3
4
Remove any old batteries (both batteries MUST  
be replaced at the same time).  
Observing the polarity indication inside the battery  
compartment, insert two fresh AA alkaline batteries.  
Replace battery door.  
5
6
Turn SOLO on to verify correct battery installation.  
NOTE: Please dispose of used batteries properly in accordance with  
federal, state and local requirements.  
Battery Life  
SOLOs efficient design provides the typical driver with about 50 hours of  
battery life from two AA alkaline batteries. Battery life is affected by many  
variables, including the brand and age of the batteries, the ambient  
temperature, how many and what type of alerts SOLO receives (weak  
signals use less battery power than full alerts). In addition, the way you  
use SOLOs alert system will affect the battery life (low audio volume uses  
less power than full volume, and Dim mode uses less power than normal  
mode). The approximate battery life figures we quote are based on  
laboratory testing, using fresh batteries. Your specific conditions and  
usage may result in longer or shorter battery life.  
Battery Life Indication  
As discussed in the Signal Meter section on page 7, remaining battery life  
is displayed on SOLO's Signal Meter both at power up and power down.  
NOTE: Extreme temperature conditions can cause SOLO's Battery Life  
Indication to be inaccurate until SOLO's temperature returns to normal.  
REGARDLESS OF YOUR ACTUAL BATTERY LIFE, SOLOS PERFOR-  
MANCE WILL NOT DEGRADE AS BATTERY VOLTAGE BEGINS TO  
DROP. SOLO IS DESIGNED TO SHUT DOWN BEFORE PERFORMANCE  
IS IMPAIRED BY WEAK BATTERIES.  
For best battery performance:  
Purchase fresh, name brand batteries.  
Store batteries in their original packaging before use to prevent the  
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IMPO RTANT BATTERY INFO RMATIO N  
1
I M P O R T A N T B A T T E R Y I N F O R M A T I O N  
battery contacts from shorting against metal objects.  
Never mix old and new batteries in SOLO or any device.  
Since batteries last longest if used at room temperature, use SOLO at  
room temperature whenever possible.  
Turn off SOLO when not in use.  
AutoOff  
SOLO has a special automatic shut-off feature to conserve battery life in  
case you forget to turn SOLO off. (Please refer to page 4 for an explana-  
tion of the AutoOff circuit.)  
NOTE: The presence of even a weak signal can cause SOLO to remain  
on. Turn SOLO off whenever you leave your car as the AutoOff circuit  
turns SOLO off after 45 minutes ONLY if no signals are detected. A  
passing police car or a nearby motion sensor could be enough to keep  
SOLO on, thereby draining your batteries.  
NOTE: We recommend using only standard AA alkaline batteries for the  
most consistent battery life. While AA lithium batteries and AA alkaline  
rechargeable batteries may also be used, the resulting battery life will  
vary. We do NOT recommend NiCad rechargeable batteries.  
WARNING  
Do not leave SOLO in direct sunlight in a parked vehicle, as it may  
exceed the battery’s temperature limit and damage the batteries and the  
detector. This damage is not covered by SOLOs warranty.  
Low Battery Warning  
When SOLO's batteries have only approximately six hours of battery life  
remaining, SOLO will sound two “bleeps” and flash the entire Signal  
Strength Meter every five minutes. SOLOs batteries should be replaced at  
this time since performance begins to decline once the batteries are  
within the warning range. The amount of battery life remaining depends,  
to a large extent, on how many alerts you receive and how your SOLO is  
being used. If you are unable to replace SOLOs batteries at the start of  
the Low Battery warning, consider lowering your SOLOs audio volume  
and utilizing the AutoMute, Mute and Dim features to prolong battery life.  
Optional Power Cord  
SOLOs power jack allows you to power SOLO using an optional Power  
Cord. SOLO is designed for 3V operation and its unique circuitry will not  
accommodate a standard 12V power cord. Using any cord other than the  
Power Cord/Converter Set designed specifically for SOLO may cause  
damage not covered by warranty. To order a SOLO Power Cord/Converter,  
call 1-800-433-3487 toll-free.  
WARNING  
SOLO should never be directly wired to any power source, particularly a  
12V automotive source. Use ONLY with SOLO's 3V power converter.  
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2
IMPO RTANT BATTERY INFO RMATIO N  
M O U N T I N G S O L O  
WARNING  
ESCORT CANNOT ANTICIPATE THE MANY WAYS SOLO CAN BE  
MOUNTED. IT IS IMPORTANT THAT YOU MOUNT SOLO WHERE IT  
WILL NOT IMPAIR YOUR VIEW NOR PRESENT A HAZARD IN CASE OF  
AN ACCIDENT.  
For optimum detection performance, we recommend the following:  
Using the Windshield Mount, mount SOLO relatively level and high  
enough on your front windshield to provide a clear view of the road  
from the front and rear.  
Mount SOLO away from windshield wipers, other solid objects and  
heavily tinted areas that might obstruct the radar antenna or laser lens.  
Keep the laser lens at the rear of SOLO clean. To clean, apply a small  
amount of eyeglass cleaning solution with a soft cloth.  
Mounting SOLO to Your Windshield:  
SOLOs patented EasyMount windshield bracket is designed for  
unobtrusive and hassle-free mounting.  
1
Insert each suction cup into large end of bracket hole and rotate cup  
outward, locking into place.  
2
Depress the adjustment button on the top of SOLO and slide  
EasyMount bracket into the slot until mount is locked into the position  
which best fits the angle of your windshield. (For extremely horizontal  
or extremely sloped windshields, the EasyMount bracket can be bent.)  
Mount SOLO on your windshield. Use the adjustment button to slide  
SOLO forward or backward to a horizontal position. WHEN  
ADJUSTED PROPERLY AND TO MINIMIZE BOUNCING, THE BACK  
TOP EDGE OF SOLO SHOULD REST SOLIDLY AGAINST YOUR  
WINDSHIELD.  
3
To ensure that the suction  
cups adhere to the windshield  
firmly, be sure to keep both  
your windshield and the  
suction cups clean.  
CAUTION!  
Some windshields have an “anti-lacerative” coating. Use of suction cups  
could permanently mar the coating. Consult your dealership or the  
vehicle’s owner’s manual to determine if your windshield has this coating.  
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MO UNTING SOLO  
3
C O N T R O L S A N D I N D I C A T O R S  
11  
10  
12 13  
2
3
4
11 5  
1
®
pwr/vol  
dim  
city  
mute  
6 7 8  
9
MEMORY RETENTION FOR PREFERRED SETTINGS  
Keep the factory preset settings for Volume, Dim, AutoMute, City and  
other programmable features or select your own with SOLO's on-board  
computer. Your selected settings stay in SOLO's Memory even when it's  
turned off or the batteries are changed. For more information on SOLO's  
programmable options, the first in the industry, see page 8.  
1 POWER AND VOLUME To turn SOLO on and off: briefly press the Power/  
Volume Button. The Power-On indicator blinks to show SOLO is on  
and there will be a five-second test alert followed by a two-second  
display of remaining battery life on the Signal Meter. Battery life is also  
displayed each time you turn SOLO off. (Battery status indication is  
more thoroughly discussed in the Signal Meter section on page 7.) The  
five-second test alert can be bypassed and blinking Power-On indicator  
can be made continuous (see Programmable Options on page 8 for  
more information).  
To adjust audio volume: Press and hold the Power/Volume Button.  
SOLO will cycle through the 10 volume levels and show the relative  
audio level on the Signal Meter. To reverse the direction of the audio  
level, briefly release and press again. Once the volume level has been  
changed, a two second hold time will be engaged to allow you to  
further modify volume without turning SOLO off. Once selected, the  
volume setting will be retained in SOLOs memory.  
AUTOOFF SOLO has an automatic shut-off feature to conserve battery  
life in case you forget to turn SOLO off. If SOLO does not detect any  
signals for 45 minutes, it assumes that it is not in use and you have  
forgotten to turn it off. SOLO will sound a declining “power-down”  
alert and then turn itself off in five seconds. To keep SOLO from  
turning off (such as when you are driving through a very remote area  
where alerts are infrequent), press any of SOLOs buttons. SOLO will  
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4
CO NTRO LS AND INDICATO RS  
C O N T R O L S A N D I N D I C A T O R S  
sound a “double-bing” confirming that it will remain on. (AutoOff can  
be “permanently” deselected. See Programmable Options on page 8  
for more information).  
NOTE: Since the presence of even an extremely weak signal will keep  
SOLO on, turn SOLO off whenever you leave your car to prevent the  
batteries from being drained.  
2
MUTE To mute the audio for a single specific signal: Briefly press the  
Mute Button. After the signal has passed, SOLO will automatically reset  
for the next alert. If a new signal is encountered during the signal you  
have just muted, SOLOs patented SmartMuteTM reverts to full audio to  
ensure that you do not miss this new signal.  
AUTOMUTE SOLO is shipped with AutoMute engaged. In AutoMute  
mode, the audio for the first four audible tones or four seconds  
(whichever is longer) in an alert situation will be emitted at your  
selected volume level and all subsequent audible tones during the  
same alert will be emitted at a lower volume level. After the signal has  
passed, SOLO automatically resets to the volume level you have set.  
(AutoMute can be deselected. See Programmable Options on page 8  
for more information).  
3 HIGHWAY/CITY MODE Each time you turn SOLO on, the last Highway/  
City mode selected is the one which is automatically engaged. We  
recommend driving in Highway mode most of the time for maximum  
sensitivity. 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. To select City Mode:  
Briefly press the City Button. The City Indicator will blink and SOLOs  
X-band sensitivity level will be lowered to a level to suit most urban  
driving environments. Three other City Mode levels are available for  
more problematic urban environments (see Programmable Options on  
page 8 for more information). Also, the City Indicator can be  
programmed to not blink and light solid (see Programmable Options  
on page 8 for more information). To return to Highway Sensitivity:  
Briefly press the City Button again.  
4
DIM MODES To adjust SOLOs display: Briefly press the Dim Button.  
With each press, SOLO will cycle through the four display settings as  
follows: 1st press = Full Dark, 2nd press = Low, 3rd press = Medium,  
4th press = High. SOLO is preset at our factory on High (Full Bright).  
Your most recent selection is retained in SOLOs memory until you  
select a different brightness level as the default. (See Programmable  
Options on page 8 for more information on how to store a display  
default.)  
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CO NTRO LS  
5
C O N T R O L S A N D I N D I C A T O R S  
5
AUDIBLE ALERTS For Radar and Laser signals: SOLO uses a geiger-  
counter-like sound to indicate the signal strength and type of radar or  
laser signal being encountered. When you encounter radar or laser, 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-bleep tone, Laser = chirp tone.  
Please see page 12 for details on the typical behavior of various radar  
and laser signals.  
For Safety signals: Each type of safety signal has its own distinctive  
brap tone. Emergency Vehicle = rapid braps, Railroad Crossing =  
repetitive brap, Road Hazard = repetitive double brap. THE PRESENCE  
OF ONE OF THESE SIGNALS INDICATES A DANGEROUS DRIVING  
CONDITION. Be particularly alert and aware of what’s going on  
around you. (For more information on SOLOs SafetyPilotTM and the  
use of Safety transmitters, please see page 15.)  
6
7
8
POWER-ON INDICATOR When your SOLO is turned on, the Power-On  
Indicator will illuminate.  
CITY INDICATOR The City Indicator will light whenever City mode is  
selected.  
BAND INDICATORS When a radar or laser signal is detected, the  
appropriate Band Indicator will light to show which type of signal is  
being detected; “X” for X-band, “K” for K-band, “Kafor Ka-band or  
L” for laser.  
9
SIGNAL METER The Signal Meter consists of 5 red LEDs and provides the  
following information.  
Signal Strength: The more meter lights lit during a radar or laser  
encounter, the stronger and closer the signal.  
Type of Safety Signal: Safety Signals are displayed as shown below.  
EMERGENCY VEHICLE  
Signal Meter scans quickly from right to left.  
ROAD HAZARD  
All Signal Meter lights double-flash simultaneously.  
RAILROAD  
First two Signal Meter Lights alternate flashing with last two Signal Meter Lights.  
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6
CO NTRO LS AND INDICATO RS  
C O N T R O L S A N D I N D I C A T O R S  
Battery Life Indication: Remaining battery life is displayed on the Signal  
Meter for 2 seconds both at power-up (after the five-second test alert)  
and at power-down. NOTE: Extreme temperature conditions can cause  
SOLO's Battery Life Indication to be inaccurate until SOLO's  
temperature returns to normal.  
5 LEDs lit = 80% of battery life remains  
4 LEDs lit = 60% to 80% of battery remains  
3 LEDs lit = 40% to 60% of battery life remains  
2 LEDs lit = 20% to 40% of battery life remains  
1 LED lit = less than 20% of battery life remains  
Low Battery Warning: When approximately six hours of battery life  
remains, SOLO will sound two short “bleeps” and flash the entire  
Signal Meter every five minutes to indicate the batteries need  
replacing. The amount of battery life remaining depends, to a large  
extent, on how many alerts you receive and how SOLO is being used.  
If you are unable to replace SOLOs batteries at the start of the Low  
Battery warning and do not have a SOLO Power Cord, lower SOLOs  
audio volume and utilize AutoMute or Mute and Dim to prolong  
battery life.  
10 RADAR ANTENNA The antenna detects incoming radar signals.  
11 LASER LENSES Dual lenses provide 360 degree protection.  
12 MOUNTING ADJUSTMENT BUTTON This button allows you to adjust the  
mounting bracket to suit your driving environment. Please refer to  
page 3 for a complete explanation on mounting.  
13 POWER JACK Allows you the option of using a power cord in place of  
the battery power source in order to provide back-up or alternative  
power for your SOLO through your vehicle’s cigarette lighter.  
(SOLOs unique circuitry will not accommodate a standard 12V  
power cord. Using any cord other than the Power Cord designed  
specifically for SOLO may cause damage not covered by warranty. To  
order a SOLO Power Cord, call 1-800-433-3487 toll-free.)  
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CO NTRO LS AND INDICATO RS  
7
P R O G R A M M A B L E O P T I O N S  
SOLOs features are preset for optimum performance and battery life but  
you may change some settings to better suit your specific needs. Once a  
setting is stored into memory, it remains until you decide to reprogram it.  
OPTION  
WHEN TO USE  
HOW TO SELECT  
Disengage  
AutoMute  
If you prefer full audio Press and HOLD the Mute  
volume for the duration button. A “bing” tone will  
of alerts. NO TE: Any confirm your selection. To  
single alert may still be re-engage AutoMute, press  
muted by briefly pressing and hold the Mute button  
the Mute button during again. A “double-bing”  
that alert.  
tone will confirm your  
return to AutoMute.  
If you find the power-on Press and HOLD the Mute  
test alert bothersome. If button at the same time you  
you wish to preserve a bit turn SOLO on to replace the  
Bypass five-second  
test alert  
more battery life.  
five-second sequence with  
a one-second alert. Repeat  
operation to re-engage the  
full test alert.  
Press and HOLD the Dim  
button at the same time you  
turn SOLO on. The Power-  
On Indicator will light con-  
tinuously while SOLO is  
on. The City Indicator will  
light continuously while  
SOLO is in City mode.  
Non-blinking  
Power-On  
Indicator and  
City Indicator  
If you find the blinking  
Power-On and City Indi-  
cators too bothersome.  
WARNING:Selectingthis  
option will reduce your  
battery life.  
If you drive in an remote  
area where alerts are very  
infrequent, this option  
keeps SOLO from trying  
to turn itself off due to  
lack of signals.  
Press and HOLD the Mute  
and Dim buttons at the  
same time when SOLO is  
on. A “bing” tone confirms  
your selection. Repeat to  
Disengage  
AutoOff  
re-engage AutoO ff.  
A
“double-bing” tone will  
confirm your selection.  
Select a default  
Assures SOLO returns to Press and HOLD the Dim  
brightness setting  
your favorite brightness Button at the selected  
for SOLOs display settingeach time you turn brightnesslevel. A“double-  
iton. (Ifno brightnesslevel bing” tone will confirm  
isselected, SOLO willuse your selected default.  
the last one selected.)  
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8
PRO GRAMMABLE OPTIO NS  
P R O G R A M M A B L E O P T I O N S  
OPTION  
WHEN TO USE  
HOW TO SELECT  
Select an alternative If you drive in an urban Press and HOLD the City  
X-band sensitivity area where non-police X- button. SOLO will cycle  
level for City Mode band alerts from motion through the 4 available  
sensors and intrusion City sensitivity levels and  
alarms are prevalent, this display relative X-band  
option allowsyou to select sensitivity on the Signal  
an X-band sensitivitylevel Meter (as shown below).  
below the standard City Release button at your  
Mode setting.  
preferred setting.  
Signal Meter LEDS LIGHT UP IN THE PATTERNS INDICATED AS YOU ADJUST CITY LEVELS  
Level 4 Moderately reduced X-band sensitivity. Best suited to  
suburban environments where intruding signals are  
occasional.  
Level 3 Significantlyreduced X-band sensitivity. SOLO'sdefault  
setting and best suited to typical driving environments.  
Level 2 Drastically reduced X-band sensitivity. For use in  
downtown areas which are aggressively populated  
with intruding signals.  
Level 1 Zero X-band sensitivity. To be used ONLY in those  
rare locations where X-band radar is not used.  
Select alternate  
audio tones  
Allows you to select al- Press and HOLD the Dim  
ternative audio tones and Citybuttonsatthe same  
(owners of earlier ES- time you turn SOLO on.  
CORT detectors will rec- Repeat operation to re-  
ognize these tones as the select the factory default  
more "classic" style used audio tones.  
in the past).  
Returning To SOLO's Factory Preset Settings  
You may re-engage SOLO's factory preset settings at any time. To do so,  
press and HOLD the Mute, City and Dim buttons at the same time as you  
turn SOLO on.  
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PRO GRAMMABLE OPTIO NS  
9
T U T O R I A L M O D E  
SOLO is equipped with a Tutorial mode to demonstrate all of the alerts and  
settings below in order to better familiarize you with them. To access the  
tutorial mode, simultaneously press and hold the Mute and City buttons as  
you turn SOLO on. SOLO will then demonstrate each of the following:  
FEATURE  
DEMONSTRATION  
Laser Alert  
Laserindicatorlightsassignalmeterramps  
down. Laser audio sounds.  
Ka-band Alert  
K-band Alert  
X-band Alert  
Ka indicator lights as signal meter ramps  
down. Ka audio sounds.  
K indicator lights as signal meter ramps  
down. K audio sounds.  
X indicator lights as signal meter ramps  
down. X audio sounds.  
AutoMute  
As SOLO simulates an X-band encounter,  
AutoMute is demonstrated when audio  
automatically reduces after first several  
tones.  
Emergency Vehicle Alert  
Railroad Alert  
Signal Meter scans swiftly right to left.  
Emergency Vehicle audio sounds.  
Two end Signal Meter positions alternate  
flashing (like a railroad crossing sign).  
Road Hazard Alert  
Entire Signal Meter double-flashes. Road  
Hazard audio sounds.  
Cycling of four City settings  
Shows how four available City settings  
are indicated on the Signal Meter as city  
level is selected.  
Cycling of four Dim settings  
Cycling of ten Volume settings  
Shows how four available Dim/Dark set-  
tings are indicated on the Signal Meter  
as the display brightness level is selected.  
Shows how ten available Volume set-  
tings are indicated on the Signal Meter  
as volume level is selected.  
Low Battery Warning  
AutoOff Warning  
Signal Meter flashes as two short "bleep"  
tones sound.  
SOLO sounds a declining "power down"  
alert and SOLO turns off.  
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10  
TUTO RIAL MO DE  
S P E C I F I C A T I O N S  
RECEIVER TYPE  
RADAR:  
Double Conversion Superheterodyne Voltage  
Controlled Oscillator (VCO)  
LASER:  
Quantum Limited Video Receiver  
ANTENNA TYPE  
RADAR & SAFETY: Self-Contained, Die-Cast Horn, Linear Polarization  
(compatible with circular polarization)  
LASER:  
Infrared Photodiode with Fresnel Lens and  
Refractive/Prismatic Element  
DETECTOR TYPE  
RADAR & SAFETY: Scanning Frequency Discriminator  
Video Envelope  
LASER:  
OPERATING FREQUENCIES & WAVELENGTHS  
X-band: 10.525 GHz (center)  
K-band and Safety: 24.150 GHz (center)  
Ka-band: 34.7 GHz (center)  
Laser: 900 NanoMeters (center)  
BANDWIDTHS  
Radar and Safety:  
X-band: 50 MHz  
K-band and Safety: 200 MHz  
Ka-band: 2.60 GHz  
Laser:  
33MHz  
ALERT HOLD TIME 4 Seconds  
DIMENSIONS  
1.2 inches x 2.85 inches x 5.06 inches  
OPERATING TEMPERATURE RANGE  
With Alkaline Batteries: -18C to 55C (0F to 131F)  
With Power Cord Only: -18C to 70C (0F to 158F)  
STORAGE TEMPERATURE RANGE  
With Alkaline Batteries: -40C to 55C (-40F to 131F)  
With Power Cord Only: -40C to 85C (-40F to 185F)  
POWER REQUIREMENT  
Two Standard AA Batteries or Power Cord which converts 12V to 3V  
SIGNAL PROCESSING  
Digital Signal Processing (DSP)  
Specifications are subject to change without notice.  
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SPECIFICATIO NS  
11  
I N T E R P R E T I N G A L E R T S  
Although SOLO 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 SOLO and how to interpret what it “tells” you. The radar  
alerts you receive are affected by the type of radar being used, the type of  
transmission (continuous or instant-on) and the location of the radar  
source. The following examples will give you an introduction to  
understanding SOLOs warning system for radar, laser and safety alerts.  
ALERT  
EXPLANATION  
SOLO begins to sound slowly, then You are approaching a continuous  
the rate of alerts increase until a solid radar source aimed in your direction.  
tone is achieved. The Signal Meter  
ramps accordingly.  
SOLO emits short alerts for a few An instant-on radar source is being  
seconds and then falls silent only to used ahead of you and out of your  
briefly alert and fall silent again.  
view.  
SOLO suddenly sounds a continuous An instant-on radar source or laser  
tone for the appropriate band source is being used nearby. This  
received. AllLEDs in the SignalMeter kind of alert requires immediate  
are lit.  
attention!  
A brief laser alert.  
Laserisbeingused in the area. Because  
laser is inherently difficult to detect,  
even a weak laser alert may indicate  
a source very close by. Any laser alert  
requires immediate attention!  
SOLO receives weak signals. These A moving patrol car with continuous  
signals may be a little stronger as you radar is overtaking you from behind.  
pass large, roadside objects. The Because these signals are reflected  
signals increase in frequency.  
(reflections are increased by large  
objects), they may or may not  
eventuallymeltinto a solid pointeven  
when the patrol car is directly behind  
you.  
SOLO alerts slowly for awhile and You are approaching a radar unit  
then abruptly jumps to a strong alert. concealed by a hill or an obstructed  
curve.  
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12  
INTERPRETING ALERTS  
I N T E R P R E T I N G A L E R T S  
ALERT  
EXPLANATION  
SOLO alerts intermittently. Rate and Apatrol car is travelling in front of you  
strength of alerts may be consistent or with a radar source aimed forward.  
vary wildly.  
Because signals are sometimes  
reflected off of large objects and  
sometimes not, the alerts may seem  
inconsistent.  
SOLO alerts intermittently. Rate and A patrol car is approaching from the  
strength of signal increases with each otherdirection, “sampling”traffic with  
alert.  
instant-on radar. Such alerts should  
be taken seriously.  
SOLO gives an X-band alert  
intermittently.  
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, overcon-  
fidence in an unfamiliar area can be  
dangerous. Likewise, if an alert in a  
commonly travelled area is suddenly  
stronger or on a different band than  
usual, speed radar may be set up  
nearby.  
SOLO braps rapidly and the Signal A fast-travelling emergency vehicle is  
Meter scans from right to left. in the vicinity.  
SOLO sounds a repetitive “double- You are approaching a hazardous  
brap” and the entire Signal Meter road condition such as an accident  
flashes.  
site or construction.  
SOLO sounds a repetitive “brap” and You are approaching a dangerous  
the two LEDs on each end of the railroad crossing.  
Signal Meter alternate flashing.  
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INTERPRETING ALERTS  
13  
H O W R A D A R & L A S E R W O R K  
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 behind.  
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 SOLO will occasionally receive non-  
police radar signals. Since these X-Band transmitters are usually contained  
inside of buildings 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 SOLOs radar detection  
abilities are fully operational.  
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”  
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14  
HO W RADAR & LASER WO RKS  
H O W S A F E T Y S I G N A L S W O R K  
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 AND  
WEAKEST 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.  
HOW SAFETY SIGNALS WORKS  
FCC-approved Safety signal transmitters emit microwave radar signals to  
indicate the presence of a safety-related concern. Depending on the  
frequency location of these signals as set on the transmitter, the outgoing  
signal can indicate whether the transmitter is located in a speeding  
emergency vehicle, at a road hazard location or at a railroad crossing.  
These dual-frequency microwave signals are located in the K-bandwidth  
and, as a result, any radar detector which detects K-Band radar will detect  
these Safety signals as standard K-Band radar alerts. However, unlike  
standard radar detectors, your SOLO is designed to distinguish between a  
standard K-Band alert and a Safety signal alert. It will also demonstrate  
which type of Safety signal is being received: Emergency Vehicle, Road  
Hazard or Railroad.  
Since Safety technology is relatively new and the number of transmitters  
in operation is not yet widespread, you may not receive Safety signals on  
a daily basis and should not be surprised to encounter some emergency  
vehicles, road hazards and railroad crossings that are unequipped with  
these transmitters and, therefore, fail to provide a signal. As Safety  
transmitters become more prevalent (the number of operating transmitters  
is growing every day), these Safety signals will become more common.  
IF YOU EVER HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT THE PERFORMANCE OR OPERATION OF YOUR SOLO, PLEASE  
CALL TOLL-FREE 1-800-543-1608.  
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HO W SAFETY SIGNALS WO RK 15  
T R O U B L E S H O O T I N G  
PROBLEM  
SOLUTION  
SOLO will not turn on when Power  
Button is pressed.  
Check to make sure batteries are  
not missing.  
Batteries may need replacing.  
Batteries may be installed  
improperly.  
SOLO beeps briefly at the same  
location every day, but no radar  
source is in sight.  
SOLO is functioning properly.  
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 SOLOs radar  
antenna is not blocked by  
windshield wipers or solid  
objects or that the laser lens is  
not behind tinted areas.  
SOLO does not seem sensitive to  
radar or laser.  
Determine if your vehicle has an  
InstaclearTM, ElectriClear® or  
solar energy reflective  
windshield which may deflect  
radar or laser signals.  
SOLO may be in City Mode.  
SOLO did not alert when a police  
car was in view.  
VASCAR, a stopwatch method of  
speed detection, may be in use.  
Officer may not have radar or  
laser unit turned on.  
SOLO did not provide a Safety  
signal at a hazardous road  
condition, railroad crossing or  
while within range of an emergency  
vehicle.  
Safety transmitters may not be  
commonly used in your area.  
SOLO alerts for Ka radar when no  
radar source is in sight.  
Falsing on this band is virtually  
non-existant. Take all Ka alerts  
seriously. There may be an instant-  
on radar source out of sight. Only  
a smallnumberofproductsoperate  
in the Ka band which may cause  
an occasional false alert.  
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16  
TRO UBLESHO O TING  
T R O U B L E S H O O T I N G  
PROBLEM  
SOLUTION  
Signal Meter registers but no  
audible alert sounds.  
SOLO is probably in City mode  
where X-band alerts are  
purposefully reduced.  
SOLOs display is not working.  
Briefly press the Dim button to  
deactivate Dark Mode.  
SOLOs audible alerts are less loud  
after the first few alerts.  
SOLO is in AutoMute Mode. See  
page 5 for details.  
All Signal Meter lights flash  
occasionally and SOLO "bleeps"  
twice each time.  
SOLOs batteries are low.  
Replace batteries as described on  
page 1.  
SOLO bounces or sags on  
windshield.  
SOLO is not making contact with  
the windshield to provide stability.  
While holding down SOLOs  
EasyMount button, slide SOLO  
further back toward the wind-  
shield so that the back top edge  
makes firm contact. See page 3  
for details.  
Suction cups may be worn and  
need replacing. To order  
replacement suction cups, call  
1-800-433-3487.  
SOLO no longer provides the full  
test alert when turned on.  
You have inadvertently bypassed  
the test alert. To re-engage full  
test alert, press and hold the Mute  
button at the same time you are  
turning SOLO on.  
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TRO UBLESHO O TING 17  
S E R V I C E  
IF YOUR SOLO 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 SOLO 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 SOLO:  
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 SOLO  
repaired at the price quoted), your SOLO will be returned, without repair.  
Payment can be made by check, money order or credit card.  
MAIL YOUR SOLO 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 SOLO  
postpaid and insured. Insist on a proof of delivery and keep the receipt  
until the return of your SOLO.  
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18  
SERVICE  
W A R R A N T Y  
ESCORT ONE YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY  
ESCORT warrants your SOLO 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 SOLO  
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 SOLO. 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 SOLO has been removed, or if  
your SOLO has been subjected to physical abuse, improper  
installation, or modification.  
TO OBTAIN WARRANTY SERVICE, PLEASE FOLLOW THE SERVICE PROCEDURE OUTLINED  
ON PAGE 18.  
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WARRANTY  
19  
A C C E S S O R I E S A N D O P T I O N S  
To order additional or replacement accessories, call ESCORT toll-free at  
1-800-433-3487. The following optional accessories are also available for  
SOLO:  
SOLO POWER CORD  
Provides back-up or alternative power for your SOLO through your  
vehicle’s cigarette lighter. NOTE: SOLO is designed for 3V operation and  
its unique circuitry will not accommodate a standard 12V power cord.  
Using any cord other than the Power Cord/Converter Set designed  
specifically for SOLO may cause damage not covered by warranty.)  
VISOR CLIP  
Allows you to mount SOLO on your vehicle’s sun visor.  
NOTE: Due to obstruction by tinting and vehicle headliner, visor  
mounting can substantially reduce laser detection range.  
HOOK AND LOOP FASTENER  
Allows you to mount SOLO to your vehicle’s dashboard.  
NOTE: The adhesive backing used on the Hook and Loop Fastener can  
permanently mar your vehicles dashboard.  
CARRYING CASE  
Soft case keeps SOLO protected when not in use.  
EscortPlus Club benefits are subject to change without notice.  
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20  
ACCESSO RIES AND OPTIO NS  
SOLO is designed and manufactured in the USA.  
ESCORT  
5440 West Chester Road  
West Chester, Ohio 45069  
CUSTOMER SERVICE: (800) 543-1608  
SALES:  
(800) 433-3487  
Manufactured under one or more of the following U.S. Patents:  
4,313,216 4,581,769 4,583,057 4,604,529 4,613,989 4,631,542  
4,686,499 4,750,215 4,862,175 4,887,753 4,896,855 4,952,937  
4,954,828 5,049,884 5,049,885.  
Other Patents Pending.  
Product, accessory and features, specifications and pricing are subject to change without  
notice.  
®
Recyclable  
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© 1999 ESCORT Inc.  
60-000096-22  
QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE  
To begin using your SOLO, just follow these three simple steps:  
a
b
c
Insert two standard AA alkaline batteries into the battery compartment.  
Mount your SOLO on the windshield using the windshield mount.  
Press the Power-On button to turn SOLO on.  
1
2
EasyMount Slot (page 3)  
Windshield mount is inserted here.  
Power Jack (page 7)  
Use optional Power Cord for back-up power source. To purchase, call toll-free  
1-800-433-3487.  
3
4
5
EasyMount Button (page 7)  
Press and slide the windshield mount to adjust mount angle.  
Battery Compartment (page 1)  
Uses 2 AA alkaline batteries.  
Mute Button (page 5)  
Briefly press to mute the audio for a specific alert. Press and hold to disengage or  
re-engage AutoMute.  
6
City Button (page 6)  
Briefly press to engage to reduce alerts from X-band intrusion alarms and door  
openers common in urban areas. Press and hold to adjust X-band sensitivity  
through four possible city sensitivity options to your preferred City setting.  
7
8
Dim Button (page 5)  
Briefly press to adjust display brightness.  
Power/Volume (page 4)  
Briefly press to turn SOLO on. Press and hold to adjust SOLOs audio volume.  
Once on, briefly press to turn SOLO off.  
9
Power-On Light (page 4)  
Blinks when SOLO is on.  
10 City Indicator (page 5)  
Blinks when City mode is selected.  
11 Band Indicators (page 6)  
Lights to indicate type of signal detected: X, K, Ka or L.  
12 Signal Meter (page 6)  
LEDs indicate incoming signal strength or the type of safety signal. Displays  
remaining battery life at both power-up and power-down.  
(bottom)  
2
4
3
1
5
7
8
6
®
Please read the entire  
manual to fully  
pwr/vol  
dim  
city  
mute  
understand SOLOs  
operation and features.  
9 10 3 12  
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