Radar Detector Buying Guide

Radar Detectors are a simple and reliable way to alert a user to the location of sophisticated radar guns. One confusing aspect of radar detectors is determining the features you want. A consideration of buying a radar detector is getting one that differentiates between different radar signals. Most door sensors, like what you'd find at a grocery or convenience store for example, send out a signal very similar to a radar gun, often times making an inferior detector think you are encountering a threat from a radar gun. A good radar detector can tell the difference between a radar gun used to hand out tickets and a radar signal that shouldn’t concern you.

Many times manufacturers give you a ton of information and it really is more than you need as long as you understand a few things.

Currently there are two types of detectors available: Radar Detectors and Laser Detectors. Some of the radar detectors Abt offers feature both radar and laser Detectors.

Radar detectors are small electronic devices that let drivers know when a police officer is using a radar gun to catch speeding vehicles. Due to the limited ability of these detectors, newer technology (such as laser guns) may not be detected.

Laser detectors are also small electronic devices that let drivers know when a police officer is trying to catch a speeding vehicle. Laser detectors typically monitor both Radar Signals as well as new Laser Signals, in order to help you avoid getting a ticket. Due to the price tag, most users will be fine with a basic model, however for those who are able to spend a bit more, features have been added that will notify where Red Light Cameras are and areas that police officers typically hand out tickets.

Though basic radar/laser detectors may only offer the ability to detect radar and laser signals. For those who are able to spend a bit more, you will have access to features that will help you stay up to date with new police enforcement technology.

With red light/speed-based camera alerts the detector will inform you where the cameras are located. This feature is typically available at an extra cost, though many radar detectors do come with up to a 3 year subscription.

Similar to the red light/speed-based camera alerts, this feature alerts you when a speed trap is coming up. This feature is also available at an additional cost; however, many radar detectors come with up to a 3 year subscription.

Many radar detectors are corded or are cordless. Cordless detectors offer a more discreet installation, meaning that you will remain unnoticed. Corded ones are mounted on your dashboard and plug into the cigarette lighter socket. Corded models typically must remain plugged in, unless a battery is included.

Please note that these features are not available on all models of radar detectors, check out the specific models you are interested in to find out which features are offered. For more information on radar detectors or if you have any questions, contact an Abt mobile electronics sales specialist today at 800-860-3577.