TYPES OF RADAR DETECTORS

A radar detector is basically a radio receiver that beeps when it receives radar and laser signals. It is generally used in cars and bikes to detect radar or laser signals emitted from the laser guns of cops, who use these guns to intercept speeding vehicles.

There are three basic types of radar detectors: the traditional corded radar detectors, the cordless radar detectors and the ones that can be remotely mounted radar detectors

Corded radar detectors are the most commonly used detectors. Their installation is easy, requiring only a few seconds. They are generally placed on the windshield with a suction cup. Corded radar detectors can detect quite effectively  signals emitted by the latest POP Radars, which are generally not detectable by any other type of radar detector since their cycle is powered every millisecond.  An added advantage is that these types of detectors do not require batteries. Corded radar detectors on the other hand need to have their batteries replaced every 3 weeks at least, sometimes sooner depending upon usage.

The biggest advantage of cordless radar detectors is the absence of dangling cords making them more portable. However, the lower end cordless detectors are not very effective at picking signals from POP radars as their mechanism works by switching on and off every millisecond in order to save battery charge, whereas signals from POP radars are powered every millisecond. Only the higher end cordless detectors are effective enough for the POP radars. This gives most of the cordless detectors a limited range when compared to the corded ones. Moreover, as the batteries don’t get recharged, they have to be changed frequently.         

The third type of detectors, the remote mounted radar detectors are very small and are not very noticeable. They are thus not only portable but are less prone to getting lost or stolen. Some types of remote mounted detectors have an active laser-jammer too, however, these units are expensive since they have additional features. These detectors need to be installed professionally in order to function smoothly.

Using certain types of radar detectors is illegal is illegal in many countries. So before buying one, it is very important to find out if a radar detector can be legally used.