Whistler 1540 Laser Radar Detector Owners Manual PDF

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Summary of Content for Whistler 1540 Laser Radar Detector Owners Manual PDF

If you have questions concerning the op- eration of this Whistler product please call customer technical service:

1-800-531-0004

Hours: Monday - Friday

9:00 am - 5:00 pm EST

Dear Whistler Owner,

For many of us, a vehicle is more than just transportation. It can be a mobile office, communications or entertainment center, or simply an expression of our personality. Whistler Corporation recognizes this and has created a selection of products we call Enhanced Driving Tools. These products are designed to make the time you spend in your vehicle more productive, more fullfilling, safer, or just simply more fun. Our mission is to provide products that improve your driving experience though keeping you...

IN TOUCH IN COMFORT IN CONTROL

Your new Whistler 1540/1545 laser/radar detector detects all ra- dar, laser and safety radar systems, plus offers Whistlers exclusive Safe Driving System. This comprehensive safety system detects Safety Warning System, keeping you informed of road hazards and adverse weather. Whistlers 1540/1545 also offers a digital dis- play to keep you informed while you drive.

To fully acquaint yourself with the operation of the Whistler 1540/ 1545 and to better understand the differences between detect- ing radar, laser and safety radar signals, we recommend reading this entire manual.

Enjoy the Whistler 1540/1545 and please drive safely.

Sincerely,

WHISTLER CORPORATION

INTRODUCTION

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Topic Page Model Features Summary 3 - 4 Installation 5 - 7 Mounting Guidelines Dash/Visor/Windshield Mounting Power Connection And Fuse Replacement Operation 8 - 11 Power On And Self-Test Feature Engaged Confirmation Audio Level Adjustment Auto Quiet/Mute Modes City Mode Engaging/Disengaging VG-2 Detection Teach/Tutorial Mode Radar, Laser And VG-2 Alerts 12 - 14 Speed Radar Audio/Visual Alerts Pulse Protection

Safety Radar Audio/Visual Alerts Laser Audio/Visual Alerts VG-2 Audio/Visual Alerts Alert Priority Reset Features/Care Maintenance Troubleshooting Guide 15 Are Detectors Legal? 16 Speed Monitoring Technologies 17 - 18 Radar Facts Laser Facts Other Speed Detection Systems Radar Detector Detectors Warranty Information 19 - 21 Specifications 22 Accessories 23

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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Whistler 1540/1545

Whistlers ergonomic and user-friendly design provides a new level of operating convenience. Special features include:

1. Bracket Release Button - Provides quick and easy re- lease of the mounting bracket.

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

3. Speaker - Provides distinct audio warnings for X, K, Ka band radar, safety radar, laser and VG-2.

4. Power/Volume Button - Turns unit on/off and adjusts audio level.

5. Digital Display - Provides distinct visual confirmation of sig- nals detected, signal strength, and indicates engaged modes of operation.

6. Band Identifying LEDs - Identifies type of radar detected.

7. MUTE Button - Pressing MUTE before a signal is detected engages Auto Quiet Mode which automatically reduces the au- dio level after the initial warning to a low audio level setting. Press- ing MUTE during a radar/laser encounter silences audio alerts,

WHISTLER FEATURES

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1540

PWR CITY

MUTE

1

2

3

5 4

6

8

7

9

WHISTLER FEATURES

while allowing visual alerts to keep you informed.

8. CITY Button - Reduces the annoyance of false alerts typically encountered in urban driving areas.

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

10. Laser Antenna (Front) - High gain optical lens array provides increased sensitivity and field of view for leading- edge laser detection.

11. Radar Antenna - Compact, high-efficiency antenna re- ceives radar signals.

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

Accessories Accessories included are highly functional and easy to use.

Coiled Power Cord - Connects to the units power jack and your vehicles lighter socket.

Windshield Bracket - Allows installation of unit on your vehicles windshield.

Velcro Fasteners - Designed to secure the unit on a level dashboard.

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11 12

1312

10

Mounting Guidelines Mount the unit as low as possible near the center of the windshield. Do not mount your unit behind wipers, ornaments, mirrored sunscreens, etc. These obstructions have metal surfaces which can affect radar and laser signals and reduce critical warning time. (Regular tinted glass does not affect reception.) Some newer windshields have an Instaclear or Electriclear type coating, which affect radar signals. Con- sult your dealer or the owners manual supplied with your vehicle to determine if your windshield has this coating. Avoid placing unit in direct contact with windshield. To reduce the possibility of theft, conceal your unit when not in use.

Windshield Mounting Install the two suction cups and rubber bumper onto the bracket by fitting them into their holes. Press the suction cups onto the windshield at the location you have chosen. Slide the detector onto the bracket until it locks into place. If necessary, the unit may be leveled by bending the wind- shield bracket. Press the bracket release button and remove the detector before bending.

INSTALLATION

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IMPORTANT: Some newer cars have a plastic safety coat- ing on the inside of the windshield. The windshield bracket may leave permanent marks on this type of surface. To find out if your vehicle has this type of windshield, check the owners manual or ask your dealer. We recommend that you do not leave the suction cup bracket on the win- dow in direct sunlight. If the detector is removed, this may cause blistering of the dash in some vehicles.

Dash Mounting Make sure the mounting location you have chosen is relatively level and is clean and dry. Clean with isopropyl alcohol if neces- sary to remove any waxes or polishes. Separate the Velcro fastener strips. Peel the paper back- ing off each strip and adhere one piece to the dash and the other piece to the bottom of the unit, taking care not to cover the serial number.

Be careful not to place the Velcro over the units serial number. If the Velcro is removed, the serial number may be pulled off the unit. Units without serial num- bers are not covered under warranty.

INSTALLATION

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Visor Mounting (optional accessory) Slide the visor bracket into the bracket mounting slot. Clip the visor bracket onto the visor making sure it is rela- tively level and has a clear view of the road.

Power Connection Plug the small end of the power cord into the units power jack. Plug the large end into the vehicles cigarette lighter.

Fuse Replacement The lighter socket plug is equipped with a replaceable 2 amp 3AG fuse located behind the silver tip. To replace the fuse, carefully unscrew the tip of the plug. (IMPORTANT: Unscrew slowly. The tip contains a spring which may fly out when disas- sembling.) Insert the new fuse with the spring and screw on the tip. With use, screw cap on plug may loosen. Retighten occasionally.

Unscrew the tip of the lighter socket plug carefully when replacing the 2 amp fuse.

INSTALLATION

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Slide on visor

Insert into bracket mounting slot

Power On And Self-Test Each time your Whistler detector is turned on, an automatic self-test sequence confirms that the speaker and visual dis- plays are functional and displays the engaged features. Press (Power/Volume) or apply Power. Display reads:

Memory/Beep Confirmation All features selected (except Stay Alert) are retained in memory. Each time a button is pressed one beep confirms feature on, two beeps confirm feature off.

OPERATION

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8 X

8

8

5.

L

K

H

K

X

X K

X K

Audio Level Adjustment The audio levels can be adjusted high to low, or low to high, in four steps: (1) is the lowest audio level, (4) the highest. Press and hold (Power/Volume) (for more than 1.5 seconds). Release when desired level is reached. As audio level is adjusted, beeps are provided and the dis- play indicates volume level. Example:

Lowest Audio Level

Highest Audio Level

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

Press (Mute) (before a signal is detected) to engage Auto Quiet. Display reads:

An A is displayed for 1 second.

Once the Auto Quiet mode is engaged, you may cancel the audio alarm by pressing . Press (when the unit is not alarming) to cancel Auto Quiet mode.

OPERATION

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1

4

A

Mute Mode Mute cancels audio during an alert and any new alert within 20 seconds. After 20 seconds, approximately 2 beeps are pro- vided on any new alert and then unit remains quiet.

Press to cancel the audio.

Press a second time during an alert to restore the stan- dard audio alert pattern or by turning the unit off then on.

City Mode City Mode is designed to reduce the annoyance of auto- matic door openers, intrusion alarms and other devices which share frequencies with police radar. Press (City) to engage City. Display reads:

Pressing (City) a second time cancels City. Display reads:

In City Mode, weak speed/safety radar signals give an initial alarm of two beeps, and then remains quiet unless the signal becomes very strong. When the signal strength increases, two additional beeps are provided. City Mode does not change the audio alert for laser or VG-2.

OPERATION

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C

H

Engaging VG-2 The Option Select Mode allows you to engage or disen- gage VG-2 Detection. (Your detector is shipped from the factory with the VG-2 detection mode (VG2) disengaged). Press and hold (Mute) for 2 seconds and release. Press (City) to engage or cancel VG-2. Feature is dis- played when engaged.

The - on the display confirms the VG-2 Detection mode is engaged.

Press (Power/Volume) to exit.

Teach/Tutorial Mode Provides simulated alerts for each type of signal. Press (City) and (Mute) simultaneously and release. Dim, Dark, City and Mute modes can also be accessed while Teach/Tutorial mode is engaged. Press to exit.

OPERATION

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- X K

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

Display confirms a Ka band signal is detected.

Pulse Protection

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

After 3 seconds standard alert pattern continues.

Safety Radar When Safety Radar is detected the audio alert is geiger counter-like.

Flashing S. confirms detection of Safety Radar.

RADAR/SAFETY RADAR ALERTS

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P X

Indicates K Band Detected

K

S.

9 KX

Laser Audio/Visual Alerts When a laser signal is detected an L is displayed, the au- dio alert is continuous for a minimum of 3 seconds. Example:

Reception of laser signal is confirmed by L on the display.

VG-2 Audio/Visual Alerts When a VG-2 signal is detected, the detector hides its own radiated signal and becomes undetectable by the VG-2.

- confirms detection of a VG-2 signal.

Every 30 seconds, the detector checks for a VG-2 signal. If a VG-2 signal is detected, the unit continues to hide and re- peats the VG-2 alert. If no signal is detected, two beeps are provided, indicating an all clear condition. During VG-2 Alert X, K, and Ka band signals cannot be received.

Alert Priority When two or more signals are received at the same time, the alert priority is:

1. Laser 2. VG-2 3. Speed Radar 4. Safety Radar

Example: If X band is alerting, then suddenly VG-2 is detected, the VG- 2 warning will override the X band alert.

LASER/VG-2 ALERTS

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L

-

RESET FEATURES/CARE & MAINTENANCE

Reset Features All user features can be reset to factory set positions.

Remove Power from unit. Press and hold (Power/Volume) and (Mute). Apply power to the unit. Wait for 2 beeps. Release and . Unit is now reset.

1. Audio to level (4). 2. Display reads H. 3. Auto Quiet Mode OFF. 4. VG-2 Detection Mode OFF. 5. Unit ON or OFF.

Care And Maintenance During the summer months, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight by removing your unit from the dash when your vehicle is parked for an extended period of time. Do not spray water, cleaners or polishes directly onto the unit. The spray may penetrate through the openings and damage the unit. Also, do not use any abrasive cleaners on the units exterior.

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Your Whistler detector is expertly engineered and designed to exacting quality standards to provide you with reliable, trouble-free operation. If your unit has been correctly installed following the guidelines in this manual, but is not operating optimally, please refer to the troubleshooting guide below. PROBLEM: No display or audio. Check fuse in Whistler plug; replace if necessary with a 2 amp

3AG type. Check fuse for lighter socket; replace if necessary. Make sure lighter socket is clean. PROBLEM: Unit alarms when vehicle hits bumps. Check for loose lighter socket; tighten and clean. Check connections at both ends of power cord. Substitute an-

other cord to determine if cord is defective. Return defective cord to the factory.

PROBLEM: Unit alarms when using vehicle equipment or electrical accessories (brakes, power mirrors/windows, directionals, horn, etc.). Vehicles electrical system, including battery and alternator, may

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

PROBLEM: Audio alerts are not loud enough. Cancel Auto Quiet Mode or City Mode. Check audio level setting (see page 9).

If difficulties occur which cannot be solved by information in this Troubleshooting Guide, please call Whistler Customer Technical Service at 1-800-531-0004 before returning your unit for service.

TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE

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In Most States YES! Laser detectors are completely legal in every state when used in automobiles or light trucks (under 10,000 lbs.). Similarly, when used in automobiles or light trucks, radar detectors are legal in almost every state. Exceptions are Virginia and Washington, D.C., which have local regulations restricting the use of radar receivers in any vehicle. Concerning trucks over 10,000 lbs., the Federal Highway Administration (FHwA) issued a regulation, effective January, 1994 which prohibits radar and laser detector use in these types of vehicles nationally. Because of legal and legislative efforts underway to repeal the regulation, and because enforcement varies from state to state, we recommend contacting the Radio Association Defending Airwave Rights (R.A.D.A.R.) for the most current information concerning the status and enforcement of the FHwA regulation in areas where you travel. RADAR can be reached at:

Telephone: (513) 667-5472 FAX: (513) 667-3178

Prior to the FHwA regulation, laws existed in the state of New York restricting the use of radar detectors in trucks over 18,000 lbs. and in Illinois in trucks over 26,000 lbs.

ARE DETECTORS LEGAL?

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Radar Facts A radar gun operates by transmitting radio waves at certain frequencies which reflect off objects and are then picked up by the radar guns receiving section. When a radar beam reflects off a moving target, a measurable frequency shift occurs. The radar unit converts this shift into miles per hour to determine your vehicles speed. Currently, the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) permits operation of traffic radar guns at X Band (10.500 - 10.550 GHz), K Band (24.050 - 24.250 GHz), and Ka Band (33.400 - 36.000 GHz). Laser Facts Its well documented that many radar guns cannot reliably provide the speed of a targeted vehicle that is traveling in a group of vehicles. In contrast, a laser gun can target a spe- cific vehicle out of a line of traffic and determine its speed. The advantage of laser over radar in terms of target identifi- cation is the result of the laser guns narrow beam. A radar transmission can cover more than a four-lane highway at a distance of 1,000 feet, compared with a laser transmission which covers about 6 feet at the same distance. For best protection, keep these points in mind: Because your vehicles license plate or headlights are the laser guns primary targets, mounting your Whistler detector on the dashboard can improve laser detection at short range. Do not follow closely behind any vehicle you cannot see through. If you cant see past a vehicle ahead of you, chances are your detector wont either. The receiving range of your laser detector will not be the same as a radar detector. Laser guns are most often used at short range.

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SPEED MONITORING TECHNOLOGIES

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Other Speed Detection Systems Several techniques other than radar or laser are used to mea- sure vehicle speeds. When these methods are being used, no detector can provide a warning. These techniques include: Pacing - A patrol car drives behind you and matches your driving speed. Vascar/Aircraft - The time it takes a vehicle to travel a known distance is measured.

Radar Detector Detectors The Interceptor VG-2, or simply VG-2, is a microwave receiver used by police to detect signals radiated by the local oscil- lator of a radar detector. Because its purpose is to identify persons driving with radar detectors, the VG-2 is known as a radar detector detector. The VG-2 is the primary tool used by the police to identify radar detector equipped vehicles. If caught, drivers risk los- ing their radar detector and receiving a fine. In addition, in- stant-on radar is almost always used in combination with a VG-2, leaving unsuspecting motorists vulnerable to receiv- ing two tickets one potentially for speeding, the other for possession of a detector. Having a radar detector capable of detecting the VG-2 alerts you to the presence of a speed trap and preserves your ra- dar detector investment.

SPEED MONITORING TECHNOLOGIES

WARRANTY INFORMATION

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Consumer Warranty Your Whistler detector is warranted to the original purchaser for a period of one year for the 1540 (two years for the 1545) from the date of original purchase against all defects in mate- rials and workmanship. This limited warranty is void if the unit is abused, modified, installed improperly, if the housing has been removed, or if the serial number is missing. There are no express warranties covering this product other than those set forth in this warranty. All express or implied warranties for this product are limited to one year for the 1540 and two years for the 1545. Whistler is not liable for damages of any type arising from the use, misuse, or operation of this product. Service Under Warranty During the warranty period, defective units will be repaired or replaced (with the same or a comparable model), at Whistlers option, without charge to the purchaser when returned pre- paid, with dated proof of purchase to the address below. Units returned without dated proof of purchase will be handled as described in section Service Out Of Warranty. Due to the specialized equipment necessary for testing a radar/laser re- ceiver, there are no authorized service stations for Whistler brand detectors other than the factory. When returning a unit for service under warranty, please fol- low these instructions: 1. Ship the unit in the original carton or in a suitable sturdy equivalent, fully insured, with return receipt requested, and shipping charges prepaid to:

Whistler CTS 16 Elizabeth Drive

Chelmsford, MA 01824

WARRANTY INFORMATION

IMPORTANT: Whistler will not assume responsibility for loss or damage incurred in shipping. Therefore, please ship your unit insured with return receipt requested.

2. Include with your unit the following information, clearly printed: Your name and street address (for shipping via UPS), and a daytime telephone number. (No P.O. Box please.) A detailed description of the problem (e.g., Unit performs self-test but does not respond to radar). A copy of your dated proof of purchase or bill of sale. 3. Be certain your unit is returned with its serial number. For reference, please write your units serial number in the fol- lowing space: s/n __________________. Units without serial numbers are not covered under warranty.

IMPORTANT: To validate that your unit is within the war- ranty period, make sure you keep a copy of your dated proof of purchase.

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WARRANTY INFORMATION

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Service Out Of Warranty Units will be repaired at out of warranty service rates when: The units original warranty has expired. Dated proof of purchase is not supplied. The unit has been returned without its serial number. The unit has been abused, modified, installed improperly, or had its housing removed. The minimum out of warranty service fee for your Whistler detector is $55.00 (U.S.). If you require out of warranty ser- vice, please return your unit as outlined in the section Ser- vice Under Warranty along with a certified check or money order for $55.00. Payment may also be made by MasterCard or VISA; personal checks are not accepted. In the event re- pairs cannot be covered by the minimum $55.00 service fee, you will be contacted by a Whistler technical service spe- cialist who will outline options available to you. If you elect not to have your unit repaired/replaced, it will be returned to you along with your certified check or money order.

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

Customer Service If you have questions concerning the operation of your Whis- tler detector, or require service during or after the warranty period, please call Customer Technical Service at 1-800-531- 0004. Representatives are available to answer your questions Monday - Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (EST).

SPECIFICATIONS

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Dimensions: 1.1"H x 2.7"W x 4.6"L

Weight: 6.5 oz.

Laser Wavelength Detection Range: 905 50 nanometers (nm)

Radar Frequencies: 10.500 - 10.550 GHz (X Band) 24.050 - 24.250 GHz (K Band ) 33.400 - 36.000 GHz (Ka Superwideband)

Operating Temperature Range: -20 C to +80 C (-4 F to +176 F)

Power Requirements: Operational 12 to 15 volts DC, 200mA nominal

One or more U.S. patents apply: #4,315,261; #5,146,227; #5,379,456. Other patents pending.

Specifications are subject to change without notice.

The following accessories are available through Whistler retailers or can be ordered directly from Whistler by call- ing 1-800-531-0004.

Order Description Price Code 202138 Visor Bracket $6.95 202139 Windshield Bracket $9.95 206294 *Modular Lighter Plug $7.95

(Requires 206550 or 206551)

206553 Coiled Power Cord (7) $15.95 206552 Straight Power Cord (5) $14.95 206550 *Modular Straight $6.95

Power Cord (5') (Requires 206294)

206551 *Modular Coiled $7.95 Power Cord (7') (Requires 206294)

206879 Velcro $1.95 206880 Hardwire Kit (10' ) $9.95

for wiring to fuse box) 201998 Travel Case $9.95

*Modular: interconnecting pieces cord and plug.

Shipping and handling (per order) $3.00 Massachusetts residents please add applicable sales tax. Prices are subject to change without notice.

ACCESSORIES

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PLEASE SHIP TO: Name ___________________________________________ Street __________________________________________ City __________________ State _____ Zip _________ Telephone Number ( ______ ) ______________________

Order Code/Description Quantity Total Price $

Subtotal Sales Tax (if Applicable) Shipping and Handling $ 3.00 Total Enclosed $

SEND ORDER FORM WITH CERTIFIED CHECK OR MONEY ORDER TO:

Whistler CTS 16 Elizabeth Drive

Chelmsford, MA 01824

IF PAYING BY MASTERCARD OR VISA PLEASE PROVIDE:

Type Of Card _____ MasterCard _____VISA

Name On Card ___________________________________

Card Number ____________________________________

Expiration Date __________________________________

Cardholders Signature ____________________________

ACCESSORY

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