Technical Details
18
Interpreting Alerts
Although the STi DRIVER has a comprehen-
sive warning system and this handbook is as
complete as we can make it, only experience
will teach you what to expect from your STi
DRIVER and how to interpret what it tells
you. The specific type of radar being used,
the type of transmission (continuous or
instant-on) and the location of the radar
source affect the radar alerts you receive.
The following examples will give you
an introduction to understanding the STi
DRIVER’s warning system for radar, laser
and safety alerts.
Explanation
You are approaching a continuous radar
source aimed in your direction.
An instant-on radar source is being used ahead
of you and out of your view.
An instant-on radar source or laser source is
being used nearby. This kind of alert requires
immediate attention!
Laser is being used in the area. Because laser is
inherently difficult to detect, any laser alert
may indicate a source very close by.
A moving patrol car with continuous radar is
overtaking you from behind. Because these
signals are reflected (reflections are increased
by large objects), they may or may not
eventually melt into a solid point even when
the patrol car is directly behind you.
Alert
The STi DRIVER begins to sound slowly, then
the rate of alert increases. The Signal Meter
ramps accordingly.
STi DRIVER emits short alerts for a few
seconds and then falls silent only to briefly
alert and fall silent again.
STi DRIVER suddenly sounds a continuous
tone for the appropriate band received. All
segments in the Signal Strength Meter are lit.
A brief laser alert.
STi DRIVER receives weak signals. These
signals may be a little stronger as you pass
large, roadside objects. The signals increase in
frequency.
19
Explanation
You are approaching a radar unit concealed by
a hill or an obstructed curve.
A patrol car is traveling in front of you with a
radar source aimed forward. Because signals
are sometimes reflected off of large objects
and sometimes not,the alerts may seem
inconsistent.
A patrol car is approaching from the other
direction, sampling traffic with instant-on
radar. Such alerts should be taken seriously.
You are driving through an area populated
with radar motion sensors (door openers,
burglar alarms, etc.). Since these transmitters
are usually contained inside buildings or aimed
toward OR away from you, they are typically
not as strong or lasting as a real radar
encounter.
Alert
STi DRIVER alerts slowly for a while and then
abruptly jumps to a strong alert.
STi DRIVER alerts intermittently. Rate and
strength of alerts may be consistent or vary
wildly.
STi DRIVER alerts intermittently. Rate and
strength of signal increases with each alert.
STi DRIVER gives an X-band or K-band alert
intermittently.
CAUTION: Since the characteristics of
these alerts may be similar to some of
the preceding examples,
overconfidence in an unfamiliar area can
be dangerous. Likewise, if an alert in a
commonly traveled area is suddenly
stronger or on a different band than
usual, speed radar may be set up nearby.