Operating Instructions for Your
Cobra® 10 Band™ Extra Sensory Detection®
RADAR/LASER
DETECTOR
M O D E L E S D – 9 8 6 0
U
LT
R
A
N
Nothing comes close to a Cobra™
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• ULTRA-SENSITIVITY
• Detects and provides separate alerts for:
• “INSTANT-ON” speed monitoring detection
• TONE ALERT or VOICE ALERT™ with
adjustable volume
• DIGIVIEW™ DATA DISPLAY with
easy-to-read alpha/numeric dot matrix
text readout
• MANUAL MUTE or AUTO MUTE
RADAR/LASER
of audio alerts
• EASYSET™ programming menu
• AUXILIARY AUDIO JACK for external
speaker connection
• Distinguishes important safety alerts from
other K band signals
• Mounts easily on windshield or dashboard
This booklet describes the simple steps for mounting
and setting up your ESD-9860. It also provides helpful
information about how radar and laser guns are used
and how you can interpret the alerts you receive.
radar signals (X, K, and Ka bands, with
signal strength indicated)
laser signals
emergency vehicle safety and strobe
alert signals
VG-2 signals
DETECTOR
MODEL ESD – 9860
Congratulations
• CITY or HIGHWAY modes to reduce
You’ve made a smart choice by
purchasing the ESD-9860 radar/laser
detector from Cobra. Just look at some
of the sophisticated features and
capabilities your new unit includes:
false alerts
®
®
• SAFETY ALERT Traffic Warning System
• 8-POINT COMPASS displays direction
• STROBE ALERT™
of travel
®
• SMARTMUTE™ a mute function which
automatically reduces false alerts by sensing
engine RPMs
• LASEREYE for 360° detection of laser
and strobe signals
12V DC
POWER JACK
LASEREYE® for 360°
detection of laser and
strobe signals.
U
LT
R
A
ON-OFF/VOLUME
control allows you to
adjust the volume of the
TONE alerts.
SPEAKER
12V DC POWER JACK
ON-OFF/VOLUME control
AUXILIARY AUDIO
JACK
windshield
bracket
mount
SET/CITY button for
CITY or HIGHWAY modes
for fewer false alerts
(and to change user
mode settings while
programming).
System Ready
alpha/numeric dot matrix text display showing*:
user mode settings
programming
instructions
signal strength
indicators
*See “Operations” (pages 5-19) for more information
about display features.
CITY/HIGHWAY
mode indicators
PROGRAM/MUTE button to
manually mute audio alerts (and to
enter programming mode).
SELECT/DIM button to adjust the display
brightness for easy reading (and to scroll through
user mode settings while programming).
radar, VG-2 and
safety/strobe
indicators
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Important Information
Table of Contents
Important information about...
Federal Laws, Safety Alert®/Strobe Alert™, Safe Driving,
Security of Your Vehicle, Customer Support.................................................................................. A1
Important information about...
Federal Laws Governing the Use of
Radar Detectors
Safe Driving
Motorists, as well as operators of
emergency or service vehicles, are
expected to exercise all due caution
while using this product, and to obey
all applicable traffic laws.
Installation .................................................................................................................................. 2-4
Operation–Getting Started ............................................................................................................ 5
Operation–User Mode Settings ...................................................................................................... 6-15
EasySet™ Programming: Programming User Modes ...................................................................... 7
SmartMute™ ............................................................................................................................ 8-10
Auto Mute Mode .................................................................................................................... 11
Muting an Alert ...................................................................................................................... 11
Voice/Tone Setting ................................................................................................................ 11
Auxiliary Audio Jack ................................................................................................................ 11
Compass ................................................................................................................................ 12-13
VG-2 Alert® ............................................................................................................................ 14
DigiView™ Data Display Brightness .................................................................................................. 14-15
Highway/City Mode .................................................................................................................... 16
Detection .................................................................................................................................... 17-20
Signals Detected .................................................................................................................... 17
Audio Alerts ............................................................................................................................ 17
Visual Display ........................................................................................................................ 17-19
Instant-On Detection ................................................................................................................ 20
Responding to Alerts ................................................................................................................ 20
Understanding Radar and Laser ...................................................................................................... 21-22
Maintenance and Service .............................................................................................................. 23-24
Limited 1-Year Warranty ................................................................................................................ 25
Specifications .............................................................................................................................. 26
Optional Accessories .................................................................................................................... 27
Order Form .................................................................................................................................. 28
It is not against federal law to receive radar
transmissions with your Cobra® radar
detector. The Communications Act of 1924
guarantees your right to receive radio
transmissions on any frequency. Local laws
that contravene this Act, while illegal, may
be enforced by your local law enforcement
officials until and unless they are prohibited
Security of Your Vehicle
Before leaving your vehicle, always
remember to conceal your radar
detector in order to reduce the
possibility of break-in and theft.
Customer Support
from doing so by federal court action.
®
™
Safety Alert and Strobe Alert
In this user's manual, you should find all
the information you need to install and
operate your ESD-9860. If you require
further assistance after reading through
this manual, Cobra® Electronics offers the
following customer support services:
Automated Help Desk is available 24 hours
a day, 7 days a week at 773-889-3087.
Customer Service Operators are available
at 773-889-3087 Monday through Friday,
8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. CST.
Questions can be faxed to 773-622-2269.
Automated Technical Assistance is
available 24 hours, 7 days a week via e-mail
On-line answers to frequently asked questions
Use of this product is not intended to, and
does not, ensure that motorists or
passengers will not be involved in traffic
accidents. It is only intended to alert the
motorist that an emergency vehicle
equipped with a 3M Corporation
®
™
Opticom or Tomar preemption system,
or a Cobra® Safety Alert® transmitter is
within range as defined by that product.
Please call local fire and police departments
to learn if coverage exists in your area.
A1
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INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION
1
1
Radar and laser signals pass through glass
but not through other materials and objects.
Objects that can block or weaken incoming
signals include:
5. To adjust the angle if necessary,
Where to Mount Your Unit
Windshield Mounting
gently push or pull on the bracket
to bend it. DO NOT use the
detector to bend the bracket.
You will get optimum performance from
your ESD-9860 if you mount it at a point
approximately in the center of the vehicle,
as low as possible on the front windshield
without obstructing the unit's view of the
road either to the front or rear. You can
also mount it directly on the dashboard.
1. Attach the rubber cups to the bracket.
windshield wiper blades
mirrored sun screens
dark tinting at the top of the
windshield
2. Make sure the rubber cups and
heated windshields currently available
N
W
h
®
your windshield are clean.
on some vehicles (Instaclear for Ford,
6. Plug the power cord into the detector.
®
Electriclear for GM, consult your
3. Push the bracket firmly onto
dealer to see if you have this option)
the windshield.
Windshield mounting
NW
h
7. Plug the cigarette lighter adapter on
the power cord into your vehicle's
cigarette lighter.
Dashboard mounting
4. Attach the detector to the bracket.
The unit's lenses must not be blocked and
the LaserEye® should have a clear view out
the back window to allow 360° detection.
Check the angle of the unit.
8. You can temporarily remove the
detector whenever you wish by
sliding it off of the bracket.
Instaclear for Ford ® is a registered trademark of Ford Motor Company, Inc.
Electriclear for GM® is a registered trademark of General Motors Corporation.
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3
2
INSTALLATION
OPERATION•GETTING STARTED
1
2
4. Attach the detector to the hook-and-loop
fastener. You can remove and reattach
the unit as often as you like.
1. Turn on the unit and adjust
audio volume by rotating the
ON-OFF/VOLUME CONTROL DIAL
clockwise (away from you).
3. The display will cycle through the
user mode settings (SmartMute™ and
City/Highway status) for approximately
1 second each.
Dashboard Mounting
1. Place the detector on the dashboard
to find a location where the unit has
a clear, level view of the road. The
angle can NOT be adjusted after
mounting.
4. Start-up is complete when the
display continuously shows the
current compass direction (N, NE,
E, SE, S, SW, W, or NW) plus
2. Remove the paper backing from one
side of the hook-and-loop fastener.
single letters indicating current user
mode settings (c = city mode, h =
2. You will see and hear the messages
5. Plug the power cord into the detector.
“TESTING” (3 beeps will sound),
then “SYSTEM READY”,
“VOICE ALERT”, indicating that the
power is on.
highway mode, s = SmartMute™ on).
NW h
3. Attach the pad to the dashboard at
your chosen location and remove the
other paper backing.
Testing
NOTE: In some vehicles, power is
supplied to the cigarette lighter even
while the ignition is off. If this is the
case with your vehicle, you should turn
off or unplug your ESD-9860 when
parking for lengthy periods.
6. Plug the cigarette lighter adapter on
the power cord into your vehicle's
cigarette lighter.
System Ready
Voice Alert On
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5
4
OPERATION•USER MODE SETTINGS
OPERATION•EASYSET™ PROGRAMMING
3
3
™
EasySet Programming Menu
All user mode settings on your ESD-9860
can be changed by using Program mode.
When changing the settings, please keep
in mind:
again. When you exit Program mode,
the new setting will automatically be
saved.
1. Press and release the PROG/MUTE button to enter Program mode.
2. Press and release
the SELECT/DIM button
to cycle through the
user modes:
3. Press and release the
SET/CITY button to choose
the desired setting for
each user mode:
4. When you have finished programming
any or all of the user modes, press and
release the PROG/MUTE button
to exit Program mode. Or simply wait
10 seconds without pushing any
buttons. SETTINGS SAVED will appear
in the display.
• Buttons can have multiple functions.
VISUAL
VISUAL
RESULT
SmartMute Mode
SmartMute On
All alerts (except for strobe signals from
emergency vehicles) are automatically
muted below the engine rev point you set .
• All settings will be stored in memory
when the power is turned off and recalled
when the power is turned back on.
SmartMute Off
Set SmartMute
Normal operation.
SmartMute Set
Allows you to set the engine rev point
when using SmartMute™.
(not shown if SmartMute™ is off)
(see page 10 to set activation point)
In general, the procedure for using
Program mode is as follows:
Auto Mute Mode
AutoMute On
The audio volume of all alerts will be
automatically muted after 4 seconds for as
long as the signal is detected.
NOTE: You cannot enter Program mode
during an alert. The unit will not detect
signals while in Program mode. During
programming, if no buttons are pushed for
10 seconds, the unit will automatically exit
Program mode and save the last settings.
1. Press and hold the PROG/MUTE button
for 2 seconds to enter Program mode.
You will hear 3 beeps and the word
PROGRAM will appear in the display.
Then brief programming instructions will
scroll through the display two times.
AutoMute Off
Voice Alert™
Tone Alert
All alerts will sound at full volume for as
long as the signal is detected.
Voice/Tone Alert Mode
Voice is heard for alerts and
confirmation of user settings.
Tone is heard for alerts and
confirmation of user settings.
™
Set Compass
Set Compass
Allows you to calibrate the compass.
EasySet Programming:
Programming User Modes
2. While the programming instructions
are scrolling, press and release the
SELECT/DIM button to cycle through the
user modes. You will hear 1 beep each
time you press the button. As each
mode is displayed, the current setting for
that mode will be shown.
(see page 13 to calibrate compass)
VG-2 Detect
VG-2 Detect On
VG-2 Detect Off
VG-2 Audio On
The unit will detect VG-2 signals.
The unit will not detect VG-2 signals.
With VG-2 Detect On, the unit
will give audible alerts for VG-2 signals.
The table on the next page shows you how
to program all user modes and the settings
you can choose from.
VG-2 Audio
(not shown if VG-2 Detect is off)
VG-2 Audio Off
With VG-2 Detect On, the unit
will give only visual alerts for VG-2 signals.
NOTE: On the following pages, you will
find more detailed explanations of each
setting.
Display Brightness*
Display Bright
Display Dim
Display Dimmer
Display Dark
Display is at full brightness.
Partially dimmed for dusk or night driving.
More dimmed for dusk or night driving.
Display is off.
3. With the user mode you wish to change
displayed, press and release the
See page 10 for instructions on setting the
SmartMute™ activation point.
Highway/City Mode*
Program Exit
Highway Mode On
City Mode On
All X band alerts are sounded immediately.
Audio for all X band alerts are blocked until
signal strength reaches level 3.
SET/CITY button to change the setting.
You will hear either 1 or 2 beeps,
depending on your selection. To move to
the next selection, press SELECT/DIM
See page 13 for instructions on calibrating
the compass.
EXIT PROGRAM
Allows you to exit Program mode.
NOTE: To reset user modes and settings to factory default, press and hold PROG/MUTE button while turning on the unit.
* The settings for these user modes can also be changed with the one-button method. See the description of each user mode (following) for details.
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7
6
OPERATION•SETTINGS
OPERATION•SETTINGS
3
3
SmartMute™
What to Remember
If, for any reason, the unit stops sensing
your engine’s revs, SmartMute™ will indicate
an error and automatically turn off.
While Using SmartMute™
SmartMute™ is a unique new feature of
the ESD-9860 that allows you to avoid
alerts you don’t need to hear because
you are stopped or moving slowly. By
sensing the “revs” (RPMs) of your
engine, SmartMute™ knows when you
are at low speed and automatically
mutes all alerts (except for strobe
signals from emergency vehicles).
When you turn SmartMute™ on while
in Voice Alert™ mode, you will hear
“SmartMute on.” In Tone mode you
will hear two beeps. “s” will appear in
the display. When you turn SmartMute™
off while in Voice Alert™ mode, you will
hear “SmartMute off.” In Tone mode you
will hear one beep. (See page 7 for
instructions using the Program mode to
select SmartMute™.)
SmartMute™ works with both City and Auto
Mute modes.
The rev point you set will be stored in
the unit’s memory when power is turned
off, and recalled each time the power is
turned on.
Whenever engine revs are below the
activation point, an arrow pointing down
will appear in the display.
The rev point must be reset if you use your
ESD-9860 in a different vehicle.
Important: When initially choosing your
SmartMute™ activation point, a setting of
approximately 300 to 600 RPMs above
idle is recommended. You can reset the
activation point at any time to fit your
individual preferences and driving style.
Before SmartMute™ will work, you must
set an activation point for your engine’s
revs (see page 10). Whenever the revs
are below that point, SmartMute™ will
begin muting. The activation point will
be stored in memory and recalled each
time power is turned on.
NW s h
NW sh
Above the activation point, an arrow
pointing up will appear.
The factory setting is SmartMute™ off.
NOTE: SmartMute™ may not work with
some vehicles because it cannot sense
the engine’s revs. In such cases, you can
reduce unwanted audio alerts by using Auto
Mute and City modes when appropriate.
NW sh
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9
8
OPERATION•SETTINGS
OPERATION•SETTINGS
3
3
™
Caution: Do not attempt to set the rev
point while driving. Your vehicle should
be parked and idling.
Setting the SmartMute
Activation Point
Auto Mute Mode
Voice/Tone Setting
Auto Mute will automatically reduce the
audio volume of all alerts after 4 seconds
You can set your ESD-9860 to sound
alerts and confirm user settings with
for as long as the signal is detected. When either a voice or a tone. When you
you turn Auto Mute on or off while in Voice turn Voice Alert™ on, you will hear
Alert™ mode, you will hear “Auto Mute on" “Voice Alert.” When you turn Tone Alert
or “Auto Mute off.” In Tone mode, you will on, you will hear “Tone Alert” and
hear 2 beeps for Auto Mute on and 1 beep subsequent voice alerts will be turned
Your ESD-9860 must be installed in
your vehicle.
SmartMute™ must be turned on.
Procedure
Tone
Voice
Visual Display
1.
In Program mode, go to Set
SmartMute. Press and release the
SET/CITY button to begin
setting SmartMute™.
2 beeps
“set engine
revs”
Press SET again at
desired RPMs...
Press SET again...
for Auto Mute off. (See page 7 for
instructions on using the Program mode
to select Auto Mute.)
off. (See page 7 for instructions on
changing the Voice/Tone setting.)
Procedure
Tone
Voice
Visual Display
2.
3.
The factory setting is Voice Alert™ mode.
Rev your engine to the level you
wish to set. Rev the engine
slightly above idle and hold revs
steady for 2 seconds.
none
none
none
The factory setting for Auto Mute is ON.
Auxiliary Audio Jack
Muting an Alert
Use to connect an external speaker in
environments with high ambient noise
levels. The internal speaker will be
disconnected.
Error
NOTE: If the unit is unable to sense
usable pulses within three seconds,
SmartMute™ will indicate an error and
automatically turn off.
1 beep
“smart mute
error”
followed by
Error
SmartOff
Your ESD-9860 allows you to quickly
turn off an audio alert by momentarily
pressing and releasing the PROG/MUTE
button. If you press and release the
PROG/MUTE button a second time
during the alert, the audio alert will be
turned back on.
SmartOff
“smart mute off”
Procedure
Tone
Voice
Visual Display
Smart
SET!
At the desired rev level,
press and release the
SET/CITY button.
3 beeps
“smart mute
set”
Smart
then
SET!
NOTE: If you do not set a rev point
within 20 seconds of beginning these
steps, SmartMute™ will indicate an
error and automatically turn off.
1 beep
“smart mute
error”
Error
SmartOff
PROG/MUTE button
Press and release
followed by
Error
“smart mute off”
SmartOff
Procedure
Tone
Voice
Visual Display
4.
Press and release either the
SELECT/DIM button to proceed
to the next user mode or the
PROG/MUTE button to exit the
Program mode.
none
none
none
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11
10
OPERATION•SETTINGS
OPERATION•SETTINGS
3
3
To calibrate the compass:
The compass will remain accurately
Compass
calibrated as long as your ESD-9860 is
mounted in the same place in your vehicle.
If you change the location where the unit is
mounted or move it to another vehicle, you
must recalibrate the compass.
Procedure
Tone
Voice
Visual Display
1.
Your ESD-9860 includes an internal 8-point
compass that will continuously display your
current direction of travel: N, NE, E, SE, S,
SW, W, or NW.
In Program mode, go to Set compass.
Press and hold the SET/CITY button to
begin setting the compass.
“set compass”
Drive in 2 circles…
Press SET when done...
2 beeps
Calibrating the Compass
The compass temporarily may not provide
accurate readings if you are inside a
building or enclosure, or are close to a
large metal tractor/trailer, truck, or train.
Once you are away from such a location,
the compass will work correctly again.
Important: Before using it for the first
time, you must calibrate the compass to
provide accurate indications of direction.
(See page 7 for instructions using the
Program mode to select Set Compass.)
Procedure
Tone
Voice
Visual Display
2.
Within 2 minutes, drive your
vehicle in a circle twice, then
press the SET/CITY button again.
“compass set”
Compass Set!
for 2 seconds followed by
direction of travel (N, NE, E,
SE, S, SW, W, or NW)
3 beeps
Calibration allows the compass electronics to
measure and store information about the
magnetic fields generated by your vehicle.
NW
h
Voice
Visual Display
Tone
NOTE: If you do not press the SET/CITY
button within 2 minutes, compass
calibration will automatically terminate
1 beep
1 beep
Error
for 2 seconds
Error
Procedure
Tone
none
Voice
Visual Display
3.
Press and release either the
SELECT/DIM button to proceed
to the next user mode or the
PROG/MUTE button
none
none
to exit Program mode.
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13
12
OPERATION•SETTINGS
OPERATION•SETTINGS
3
3
VG-2 Alert®
DigiView™ Data
When you set display brightness while in
Voice Alert™ mode, you will hear the
corresponding voice message, “bright,”
“dim,” “dimmer,” or “dark.” In Tone
mode, you will hear 2 beeps for bright,
1 beep for dim, dimmer, and dark. (See
page 7 for instructions on using the
Program Mode to set Display Brightness.)
Display Brightness
The ESD-9860 is undetectable by police
VG-2 detection devices, and will alert you
when such a device is in use near your
vehicle. During the alert, the unit continues
to detect other signals. You can choose
whether or not you want your unit to show
VG-2 alerts. With VG-2 detection on, you
can also choose whether or not you want
your unit to sound audible VG-2 alerts.
You can choose from four settings for
brightness of the display:
Bright for daytime driving
Dim for dusk driving
Dimmer for night driving
Dark (no visual alerts will be displayed)
NOTE: You can set display brightness
without entering Program Mode by
repeatedly pressing and releasing the
SELECT/DIM button.
When you turn VG-2 detection on or off
while in Voice Alert™ mode, you will hear
“VG-2 on” or “VG-2 off.” In Tone mode,
you will hear 2 beeps for VG-2 on or
1 beep for VG-2 off.
h
The factory setting is Bright.
Dark indicator
Bright
You can cycle through the 4 settings by
repeatedly pressing and releasing the
SELECT/DIM button.
When you turn VG-2 audio on or off
while in Voice Alert™ mode, you will hear
“VG-2 audio on” or “VG-2 audio off.” In
Tone mode, you will hear 2 beeps for VG-2
audio on or 1 beep for VG-2 audio off. (See
page 7 for instructions on using the Program
Mode to turn VG-2 alerts on and off.)
Dim
Dark
Dimmer
The factory settings are VG-2 Detect On,
VG-2 Audio On.
SELECT/DIM button
Press and release
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14
15
OPERATION•SETTINGS
DETECTION
3
4
When you set City mode “c” will appear
in the display. In Voice Alert™ mode, you
will hear “city.” In Tone mode, you will
hear 1 beep.
Highway/City Mode
Signals Detected
Visual Display
Setting your ESD-9860 to City mode
prevents all X band audio alerts until the
signal strength reaches level 3. (A single
beep will sound when the signal is first
detected.) This will reduce false alerts
while you are driving in or near urban
areas where there are many sources
for conflicting X band signals such as
microwave towers and automatic
door openers.
The tables on the following pages show
you the types of signals your ESD-9860
will detect, as well as the voice and
visual alerts it provides for each one.
An indication of the type of signal
detected will appear in the DigiView™
Data Display. During X, K, and Ka alerts,
you will also see from 1 to 5 vertical bars,
indicating the strength of the signal
detected.
When you set Highway mode “h” will
appear in the display. In Voice Alert™
mode, you will hear “highway.” In Tone
mode, you will hear 2 beeps. (See page
7 for instructions on using the Program
mode to select Highway or City mode.)
Audio Alerts
In Voice Alert™ mode you will first hear
several tones, then a voice message
announcing the type of signal detected,
followed by more tones. In Tone Alert
mode, you will hear the tones only.
SIGNAL STRENGTH CHART
Weakest
Signal
1
2
NOTE: You can also select Highway or
City mode without entering Program
mode simply by pushing and releasing
the SET/CITY button.
SET/CITY button
Press and release
In both Voice Alert™ and Tone Alert modes,
a distinctly different alert tone is used for
each type of signal detected (including
separate tones for each laser signal).
For X, K, and Ka band radar signals,
the tones will repeat faster as you
3
4
5
The factory setting is Highway mode.
approach the signal source. The repeat
rate of the tones gives you useful
information about the signal detected.
(See Responding to Alerts, page 19.)
Strongest
Signal
NW c
City mode
NW h
Highway mode
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17
16
DETECTION
DETECTION
4
4
Type of Signal
Voice
Visual Display
Type of Signal
Voice
Visual Display
Safety Alert®
X band radar
K band radar
Ka band radar
”X alert“
”K alert“
”Ka alert“
X
K
Ka
Radar
emergency vehicles
”emergency vehicle
approaching“
”road hazard ahead“
"train approaching"
Emergency Vehicle…
road hazards
trains
Road Hazard
Train
PLEASE NOTE: There are different tones for each Safety Alert ®
X
5
K
5
Ka
5
Train
Road
Emergency Vehicle...
Type of Signal
Voice
Visual Display
Laser
20/20…
Laser
Laser*
LTI 20-20™*
”laser alert“
”laser alert“
”laser alert“
"laser alert"
Hazard
LTI Ultra-Lyte™*
UltraLyte…
Laser
Kustom Signals ProLaser™*
Kustom Signals ProLaser III™*
Pro Laser…
Laser
Type of Signal
Voice
“VG-2 alert”
Visual Display
VG2
VG-2 Alert®
Pro Laser 3…
Interceptor VG-2™
PLEASE NOTE: Beep rate changes with different laser alerts
VG2
Laser
Laser
Laser
Laser
20/20...
UltraLyte...
Pro Laser...
Pro Laser 3...
Type of Signal
3M Opticom™ or Tomar®
Voice
Visual Display
* your ESD-9860 provides LaserEye® 360° detection of these signals
”emergency vehicle
approaching“
Emergency Vehicle…
Strobe Alert™*
Safety Alert® Traffic Warning System, VG-2 Alert®
and LaserEye® are registered trademarks of
Cobra Electronics Corporation.
(flashing)
20-20™ and Ultra-Lyte™ are trademarks of Laser
Technology, Inc.
PLEASE NOTE: There are different tones for each Safety Alert®
ProLaser™ and ProLaser III™ are trademarks of
Kustom Signals, Inc.
Emergency Vehicle
Opticom™ is a trademark of 3M Corporation.
Tomar® is a registered trademark of TOMAR
10 Band Ultra™, EasySet™, Strobe Alert™
and SmartMute™ are trademarks of Cobra
Electronics Corporation.
Electronics, Inc
Interceptor VG-2™ is a trademark of TechniSonic
Industries LTD.
* your ESD-9860 provides LaserEye® 360° detection of these signals
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19
18
DETECTION
UNDERSTANDING RADAR & LASER
4
5
Instant-On Detection
Radar Speed
Monitoring Systems
You should take appropriate
action immediately whenever
an alert is given.
Your ESD-9860 is designed to detect
instant-on speed monitoring signals, which
can suddenly appear at full strength.
emergency vehicle or train, or a stationary
road hazard.
Three band frequencies have been approved
by the Federal Communications Commission
(FCC) for use by speed monitoring radar
equipment:
Because these microwave signals are within
the K band frequency, most conventional
radar detectors will detect Safety Alert®
signals as standard K band radar. Your
ESD-9860, however, is designed to
X band 10.525 GHz
K band 24.150 GHz
Ka band 33.400-36.00 GHz
Responding To Alerts
differentiate between standard K band
Description
Interpretation
probably police radar
Recommended Response
Your ESD-9860 detects signals in all three
radar bands.
and Safety Alert® signals, and give separate
alerts for each.
tone repeats slowly at first, then
speeds up rapidly
FULL ALERT
exercise caution
FULL ALERT
VG-2
Safety Alert® technology is relatively new.
Safety Alert® transmitters can be found in
limited numbers in all 50 states, but the
number is growing. Depending on your
location, you may not receive these alerts
regularly and may often encounter
emergency vehicles, trains, and road
hazards without being alerted. As the
number of transmitters increases, these
alerts will become more common.
tone sounds one time only
probably a false alarm, but
possibly pulsed radar
VG-2 is a "detector detector" that works
by detecting low-level signals emitted by
most radar detectors. Your ESD-9860 does
not emit signals that can be detected by
VG-2, but does detect VG-2 signals and
will alert you when a device is in use
near your vehicle.
tone instantly begins
repeating rapidly
radar or VG-2 nearby has
been activated suddenly
tone repeats slowly as you
approach a hill or bridge, then
speeds up sharply as you reach it
probably police radar beyond
the hill or bridge
FULL ALERT
tone repeats slowly for a short period
any type of laser alert
probably a false alarm
exercise caution
FULL ALERT
Safety Alert® Traffic
Warning System
laser alerts are never
false alarms
any Safety Alert® or
Strobe Alert™
you are nearing an emergency
vehicle, railroad crossing, or road
hazard (construction, accident, etc.)
exercise caution
When you receive such an alert, please
watch for emergency vehicles ahead of you,
on cross streets, and behind you. If you see
an emergency vehicle approaching, please
pull over to the right side of the road and
allow it to pass.
FCC-approved Safety
Alert® transmitters emit
microwave radar signals that indicate the
presence of a safety-related concern.
Depending on the frequency of the signal
emitted, it can indicate a speeding
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21
20
UNDERSTANDING RADAR & LASER
MAINTENANCE & SERVICE
5
6
™
Strobe Alert
LIDAR (laser)
Maintenance of Your
Radar Detector
Service
The correct name for the technology that most
people refer to as laser is actually LIDAR,
which stands for Light Detection and Ranging.
LIDAR operates much like radar. Its signal
spreads out like a radar signal, though not as
quickly. Unlike radar, LIDAR must have a clear
line of sight to its target vehicle throughout
the entire measurement interval. Obstructions
such as sign posts, utility poles, tree branches,
etc., will prevent valid speed measurement.
Special strobes mounted on the light bars of
authorized emergency vehicles (fire trucks,
police cars, ambulances) automatically change
traffic signals as the vehicle approaches an
intersection. These strobes and the special
strobe detectors located on the traffic signals,
introduced fairly recently by 3M and Tomar,
are already in use in more than 1000 cities
nationwide. Cobra’s exclusive Strobe Alert™
detector will detect these special strobes and
give an Emergency Vehicle alert.
You can receive technical assistance with
your unit through one of our customer
support services:
Your ESD-9860 is designed and built to
give you years of trouble-free performance
without the need for service. No routine
maintenance is required.
Automated Help Desk is available
24 hours a day, 7 days a week at
773-889-3087.
If your unit does not appear to be
operating properly, please follow
these troubleshooting steps:
Customer Service Operators are
available at 773-889-3087 Monday
through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. CST.
Make sure the power cord is
properly connected.
Questions can be faxed to
773-622-2269.
When you receive such an alert, please watch
for an approaching emergency vehicle and pull
over to allow it to pass. To inquire about
coverage in your area, contact your local fire
and police departments.
Make sure the socket of your vehicle's
cigarette lighter is clean and free
of corrosion.
Automated Technical Assistance
is available 24 hours, 7 days a week
via e-mail at: [email protected]
Make sure the power cord's cigarette
lighter adapter is firmly seated in your
cigarette lighter.
On-line answers to frequently
asked questions can be found at:
Some common questions about LIDAR include:
Check the power cord fuse. (Unscrew
the ribbed end cap of the cigarette
lighter adapter and examine the fuse.
If required, replace it with a 1-amp
fuse only.)
Does weather have any affect
on LIDAR?
received through glass to trigger an alarm
by your ESD-9860.
Yes. Rain, snow, smoke, fog, or airborne
dust particles will reduce the effective
range of LIDAR and can, if dense enough,
prevent its operation.
Can LIDAR operate while in motion?
No. Because LIDAR operates by line of sight,
the person using it cannot drive the vehicle,
aim, and operate the gun all at the same time
.
Can LIDAR operate through glass?
Is LIDAR legal to use?
Yes. It is legal in all 50 states.
Yes. Newer LIDAR guns can obtain
readings through most types of glass.
However, the laser pulse also can be
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23
22
MAINTENANCE & SERVICE
WARRANTY
6
7
If you suspect that your unit
requires service, please call
773-889-3087 BEFORE shipping
it to Cobra®. This will ensure that
you receive service as quickly
as possible.
5. Ship prepaid and insured using a
traceable carrier such as United
Parcel Service (UPS), Federal Express,
or first class mail with delivery
confirmation. Ship to:
QUALITY SEAL
Cobra Electronics Corporation
6500 West Cortland Street, Chicago, Illinois 60707
Cobra Factory Service
If you are asked to send your unit to the
Cobra® factory, please follow these steps:
Cobra Electronics Corporation
6500 West Cortland Street
Chicago, IL 60707 USA
COBRA ELECTRONICS CORPORATION
warrants that its Cobra® 10 Band Ultra™
Radar/Laser Detectors, and the component
parts thereof, will be free of defects in
workmanship and materials for period of one
(1) year from the date of first consumer
purchase. This warranty may be enforced by
the first consumer purchaser, provided that
the product is utilized within the U.S.A.
Cobra® will, without charge, repair or replace, at its
option, defective 10 Band™ Radar/Laser Detectors,
products or component parts upon delivery to the
Cobra® Factory Service Department, accompanied
by proof of the date of first consumer purchase,
such as a duplicated copy of a sales receipt.
Exclusions: This limited warranty does not apply;
1) to any product damaged by accident; 2) in
the event of misuse or abuse of the product or
as a result of unauthorized alterations or repairs;
3) if the serial number has been altered,
defaced or removed; 4) if the owner of the
product resides outside the U.S.A.
1. Send the complete unit, including
power cord. (It is not necessary to
include the mounting bracket.)
6. Please allow 3 to 4 weeks before
contacting us about the status of
your service. Call 773-889-3087
for assistance.
2. For warranty repair, enclose some
form of proof-of-purchase, such as a
photocopy or carbon copy of a sales
receipt. If you send the original
receipt, it cannot be returned.
If your unit is under warranty, it will
either be repaired or replaced upon
receipt, depending on the model. If your
unit is out of warranty, you will receive a
letter informing you of the repair or
replacement charge.
All implied warranties, including warranties of
merchantability and fitness for a particular
purpose are limited in duration to the length
of this warranty.
Cobra® shall not be liable for any incidental,
consequential or other damages; including,
without limitation, damages resulting from
loss of use or cost of installation.
3. Enclose a typed or clearly written
description of the problem you are
having with your unit, plus the name
and address where you want the
unit returned.
You must pay any initial shipping charges
required to ship the product for warranty
service, but the return charges will be at
Cobra's expense, if the product is repaired
or replaced under warranty.
4. Pack the unit securely to prevent
damage during transit. If possible,
use the original packing materials.
Some states do not allow limitations on how
long an implied warranty lasts and/or do not
allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental
or consequential damages, so the above
limitations may not apply to you.
This warranty gives you specific rights, and
you may also have other rights which vary
from state to state.
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25
24
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
SPECIFICATIONS
9
8
You can find these fine accessories at
your local Cobra® dealer. If you wish,
you can order directly from Cobra.
®
Band
Frequencies
To order by phone
X band
K band
Safety Alert®
10.525
24.125
24.070
24.110
24.190
24.230
34.700
910
0.050
GHz
GHz
GHz
GHz
GHz
GHz
GHz
nm
0.125
0.010
0.010
0.010
0.010
1.300
50
Call 773.889.3087
(Press 1 from the main menu
8 a.m.-6 p.m. M-F CST. )
Traffic Warning System
Straight 12V DC Power Cord
Includes plug and fuse
420-030-N-001
To order by mail or fax
Please fill out order form on next page,
and mail/fax directly to Cobra.
®
Ka band
Laser
To order online
Strobe
700
300
nm
®
“shop Cobra. ”
Unit Dimensions & Weight
3
5
11
Dimensions
Weight
3 ⁄16"W x 1 ⁄16"H x 4 ⁄16"D
170 grams
Windshield Mounting Bracket
Includes suction cups
545-139-N-001
This radar detector is covered by one or more of the following U.S. patents:
5,497,148; 5,594,432; 5,612,685; 6,078,279; 6,094,148. Additional
patents may be listed inside the product or pending.
Dual Port Power Adapter
Curled 12V DC Power Cord
Includes adjustable plug (upto 90˚)
and fuse xxx-xxx-N-001
Includes plug and fuse
420-026-N-001
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27
26
The Cobra® line of quality products includes:
CB radios
®
microTALK radios
Radar/Laser Detectors
®
Safety Alert
Traffic Warning Systems
Accessories
™
HighGear Accessories
For more information or
to order any of our products,
please visit our website:
Click “shop Cobra®”
Nothing comes close to a Cobra™
Printed in Korea
Part No. 480-020-P
©2002 Cobra Electronics Corporation
6500 West Cortland Street
Chicago, IL 60707 USA
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