Cobra XRS 9540 User manual

mportant nformation and
Customer Assistance
ntroduction
A1 English
Imp rtant Inf rmati n •
Federal Laws Governing the Use of Radar Detectors
It is not against federal law to receive radar transmissions with your Cobra radar/
laser 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 from doing so by federal court action.
Safety Alert
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 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.
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.
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.
Cust mer Assistance •
Should you encounter any problems with this product, or not understand its many features,
please refer to this owner’s manual. If you require further assistance after reading this
manual, Cobra Electronics offers the following customer assistance services:
For Assistance in the U.S.A.
Automated Help Desk English only. 24 hours a day, 7 days a week 773-889-3087 (phone).
Customer Assistance Operators English and Spanish. 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Central Time
Mon. through Fri. (except holidays) 773-889-3087 (phone).
uestions English and Spanish. Faxes can be received at 773-622-2269 (fax).
Technical Assistance English only. www.cobra.com (on-line: Frequently Asked
Questions). English and Spanish. [email protected] (e-mail).
For Assistance Outside the U.S.A.
Contact Your Local Dealer ©2008 Cobra Electron cs Corporat on
6500 West Cortland Street
Ch cago, Ill no s 60707 USA
www.cobra.com
Customer Assistance
XRS9540
12 BAND
HIGH-PERFORMANCE
DIGITAL RADAR/LASER
DETECTOR WITH XTREME RANGE
SUPERHETERODYNE®TECHNOLOGY
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®English
Operating Instructions
Printed in China
Part No. 480-418-P
Version C
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®English
For more information or to
order any of our products,
please visit our website:
www.cobra.com
The Cobra line of quality products includes:
CB Radios
microTALK®Radios
Radar/Laser Detectors
Safety Alert®Traffic Warning Systems
Mobile GPS Navigation Systems
HighGear®Accessories
CobraMarine®VHF Radios
Marine Chartplotters
Power nverters
Accessories

mportant nformation and
Customer Assistance
ntroduction Accessories Order Info
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®25
Customer Assistance
Display and Product Features
ntroduction
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®A3
Xtreme Range
Superheterodyne Technology
With super-fast sweep circuitry,
XRS provides extra detection range
and the best possible advance warning
to even the fastest radar guns
Detection and Separate Alerts For:
Radar signals (X, K,Ka and Ku bands,
with signal strength indicated),
laser signals, Safety Alert signals,
Strobe Alert signals, Spectre 1 signals,
V -2 signals
LaserEye
For 360° detection of laser and
strobe signals
Instant-On Ready
Detects radar guns with “instant-on”
(very fast) speed monitoring capabilities
Tone Alert or Voice Alert
With adjustable volume
City or Highway
Modes to reduce false alerts
DigiView Data Display
With easy-to-read alpha/numeric dot
matrix text readout
Alert Programming
Easy setting of radar bands to be monitored
Safety Alert
Traffic warning system distinguishes
important safety alerts from other
K band signals
Strobe Alert
Emergency vehicle warning system
Manual Mute or Auto Mute
A mute function of audio alerts
IntelliMute
A mute function which
automatically reduces false
alerts by sensing engine RPMs
Mounting
Mounts easily on windshield
or dashboard
Pr duct Features •
Congratulations! You’ve made a smart choice by purchasing a high
performance radar/laser detector from Cobra. Just look at some of
the sophisticated features and capabilities your new unit includes:
Display •
This booklet describes the simple steps for mounting and setting up your detector. It also provides helpful
information about how radar and laser guns are used and how you can interpret the alerts you receive.
Alpha/Numeric Dot Matrix Text Display
See pages 6 – 16 for more information about
display features.
h
Controls, ndicators
and Connections
ntroduction
A2 English
C ntr ls, Indicat rs and C nnecti ns •
12V DC
Power Jack
On-Off/
Volume Control
Allows you to adjust the
volume of the tone alerts.
ntelliMute Button
Engine RPM sensing mute function
which reduces false alerts. Button
turns IntelliMute on and off.
(Also enters IntelliMute setting mode.*)
LaserEye
For 360° detection of
laser and strobe signals.
Windshield Bracket
Release Button
Mute Button
For manual mute or auto
mute of audio alerts.
(Also turns Voice Alert
on and off.*)
* Press and hold for four seconds to
access these functions.
Windshield
Bracket Mount
WARN NG
Mod f cat ons or parts subst tut ons not approved
by Cobra Electron cs Corporat on may v olate
FCC Rules and vo d your author ty to operate
th s equ pment.
Dim Button
Allows you to adjust
the DigiView Data Display
brightness for easy reading.
(Also turns Spectre 1 and V -2
alerts on and off.*)
Audio Jack
City Button
For City or Highway
modes to reduce
false alerts. (Also
turns Ku alerts On
and Off.)
Ordering From U.S.A.
Call 773-889-3087 for pricing or visit www.cobra.com.
For Credit Card Orders
Call 773-889-3087 [Press one from the main menu] 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Central Time,
Monday through Friday.
Make Check or Money Order Payable To
Cobra Electronics, Attn: Accessories Dept.,
6500 West Cortland Street, Chicago, IL 60707 U.S.A.
To Order Online
Please visit our website: www.cobra.com
Item # Description
420-030-N-001 Straight 12V P wer C rd
420-026-N-001 C iled 12V P wer C rd
545-159-N-001 Windshield M unting Bracket
CLP-2B Dual P rt P wer Adapter
Speaker

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®1
Contents
ntroduction
Intr ducti n
ImportantInformation ........................................A1
CustomerAssistance .........................................A1
Controls, Indicators and Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A2
Display....................................................A3
ProductFeatures ............................................A3
Y ur Detect r
Installation ..................................................2
ettingStarted...............................................5
AuxiliaryAudioJack .........................................5
Settings ....................................................5
Highway/CityMode..........................................6
DigiView Data Display Brightness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
MutinganAlert.............................................8
AutoMuteMode............................................8
IntelliMute.................................................9
Voice/ToneSetting .........................................12
Spectre 1 and V -2 Alert Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
RadarAlertSettings.........................................12
Detection ..................................................14
SignalsDetected...........................................14
AudioAlerts ..............................................14
VisualDisplay .............................................14
Instant-OnDetection........................................17
RespondingtoAlerts .......................................17
UnderstandingRadarandLaser ................................18
Maintenance................................................20
Specifications...............................................21
Warranty
Limited1-YearWarranty ......................................22
Cust mer Assistance
ProductService .............................................23
TrademarkAcknowledgement ..................................23
OptionalAccessories .........................................24
AccessoriesOrderInfo .......................................25

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®
nstallation
Your Detector
3
nstallation
Your Detector
2English
Installati n •
Where to Mount Your Unit
You will get optimum performance from your detector 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. Make sure the unit is level with the road. You can also
mount it directly on the dashboard.
The unit’s lens must not be blocked and the LaserEye should have a clear view
out the back window to allow 360° detection.
Radar and laser signals pass through glass but not through other materials
and objects. Objects that can block or weaken incoming signals include:
■Windshield wiper blades
■Mirrored sun screens
■Dark tinting at the top of the windshield
■Heated windshields currently available on some vehicles
(Instaclear for Ford, Electriclear for M.) Consult your dealer
to see if you have this option.
1. Attach the rubber
cups to the bracket.
2. Make sure the rubber cups and your windshield are clean.
3. Push the bracket firmly
onto the windshield.
4. Attach the detector to
the bracket. Check the
angle of the unit.
5. To adjust the angle if
necessary, gently push or
pull on the bracket to bend
it. DO NOT use the detector
to bend the bracket.
6. Plug the power cord
into the detector.
7. Plug the cigarette lighter
adapter on the power
cord into your vehicle’s
cigarette lighter.
8. You can temporarily remove the detector whenever you
wish by pressing the bracket release button and sliding
it off the bracket.
Windshield Mounting
The LaserEye Should Have a Clear View
Windshield Mounting Dashboard Mounting

Getting Started and
Auxiliary Audio Jack
Getting Started •
Your Detector
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®5
nstallation
Your Detector
4English
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.
2. Remove the paper backing
from one side of the hook-
and-loop fastener.
3. Attach the pad to the
dashboard at your chosen
location and remove the
other paper backing.
4. Attach the detector to the
hook-and-loop fastener.
You can remove and
reattach the unit as
often as you like.
5. Plug the power cord
into the detector.
6. Plug the cigarette lighter
adapter on the power
cord into your vehicle’s
cigarette lighter.
Dashboard Mounting
System Ready
Power On
Testing
Voi e Alert
On-Off/
Volume Control
Rotate clockw se
(away from you)
To Turn On the Unit and Adjust the Audio Volume
Rotate the On-Off/
Volume control
clockwise (away
from you).
Tone Voice Visual Display
Three beeps Testing, then
three beeps
System Ready, then
Voice Alert
The display will
cycle through and
show the user
modes.
Start-up is complete when the display continuously
shows the letters indicating the current user settings
(=City mode, h=Highway mode, i=IntelliMute on)
Start-Up Complete
h
Auxiliary Audio Jack •
The Auxiliary Audio Jack can be used to connect external speakers in
environments with high ambient noise levels. The internal speaker will
be disconnected. (This uses a mini stereo audio connector.)
Auxiliary
Audio Jack
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
detector when parking for lengthy periods.

Settings
Your Detector
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®7
Settings
Your Detector
6English
Highway/City Mode
Setting your detector to City mode delays 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.
To change settings, follow the procedure listed below, which indicates
what you will see and hear (either in Voice Alert or Tone Alert mode)
as you complete each step. The factory setting is Highway mode.
City Mode
Highway Mode
To Change From Highway Mode to City Mode
Press and release
the City button. Tone Voice Visual Display
One beep City appears
in the display
To Change From City Mode Back to Highway Mode
Press and release
the City button again. Tone Voice Visual Display
Two beeps Highway happears
in the display
h
DigiView Data Display Brightness
You can choose from four (4) settings for Brightness of the display.
You can cycle through the settings by repeatedly pushing the Dim button.
The factory setting is Bright.
Dim Button
Press and
release
Bright
Dark Dim
Dimmer
Press and
release
Dim button
To Change the Brightness to Dim
Press and release
the Dim button
once.
Tone Voice Visual Display
One beep Dim Display dims
To Change the Brightness to Dimmer
Press and release
the Dim button
again.
Tone Voice Visual Display
None Dimmer Display dims further
To Change the Brightness to Dark
Press and release
the Dim button
a third time.
Tone Voice Visual Display
One beep Dark Display remains
dim (no visual
alerts will be seen)
To Change the Brightness to Bright
Press and release
the Dim button a
fourth time.
Tone Voice Visual Display
Two beeps Bright Display returns
to full brightness
Dark ndicator
.
City Button
Press and
release
Settings •
When changing the Settings on your detector, please keep in mind:
■Buttons can have multiple functions.
■Depending on your choice of Voice Alert or Tone Alert mode, you will
hear either voice messages or tones confirming changes in settings.
■All settings will be stored in memory when the power is
turned off and recalled when the power is turned back on.

Settings
Your Detector
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®9
Settings
Your Detector
8English
Muting an Alert
Your detector allows you to quickly turn off an audio Alert by momentarily
pressing the Mute button. If you press the Mute button a second time
during the Alert, the audio Alert will be turned back on.
Auto Mute Mode
Auto Mute will automatically reduce the audio volume of all alerts
after four seconds for as long as the signal is detected. The factory
setting is Auto Mute on.
ntelliMute
IntelliMute is a unique new feature 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, IntelliMute knows when you are at low
speed and automatically mutes alerts (except for strobe signals from
emergency vehicles).
Before IntelliMute will work, you must set an activation point for your engine’s
revs (see page 11). Whenever the revs are below that point, IntelliMute will
begin muting. The activation point will be stored in memory and recalled
each time the power is turned on. The factory setting is IntelliMute off.
NOTE
IntelliMute 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 mode when appropriate.
ntelliMute Button
Press and release
Mute Button
Press and release
To Turn Auto Mute Off
Press and release
the Mute button
while no alert
is occurring.
Tone Voice Visual Display
One beep Auto Mute Off None
To Turn Auto Mute On
Press and release
the Mute button
again while no
alert is occurring.
Tone Voice Visual Display
Two beeps Auto Mute On None
To Turn ntelliMute On
Press and release
the IntelliMute
button.
Tone Voice Visual Display
Two beeps IntelliMute On iappears in
the display
To Turn ntelliMute Off
Press and release
the IntelliMute
button again.
Tone Voice Visual Display
One beep IntelliMute Off None
ntelliMute On
ih

To Set the ntelliMute Activation Point
Press and hold
the IntelliMute
button for two
seconds.
Tone Voice Visual Display
Two beeps Set Engine Revs Press IntelliMute
button again at
desired RPMs
Rev your engine to
the level you wish
to set (recommend
slightly above idle)
and hold revs steady
for two seconds.
None None None
At the desired
rev level, press
and release the
IntelliMute button.
Three beeps IntelliMute Set IntelliMute Set!
Settings
Your Detector
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®11
Settings
Your Detector
10 English
What to Remember While Using IntelliMute
IntelliMute works with both City and Auto Mute modes.
Whenever engine revs are below the activation point, an arrow
pointing down will appear in the display. Above the activation point,
an arrow pointing up will appear.
If, for any reason, the unit stops sensing your engine’s revs,
IntelliMute will indicate an error and automatically turn off.
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.
NOTE
The rev point must be reset if you use your detector in a different vehicle.
NOTE
When initially choosing your IntelliMute 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.
Setting the IntelliMute Activation Point
Your detector must be installed in your vehicle.
CAUTION
Do not attempt to set the rev point while driving.
Your vehicle should be parked and idling.
IntelliMute must be turned on before setting the activation point. Depending
on whether the unit is in Tone Alert or Voice Alert mode, you will hear a
series of beeps or voice messages as you follow the steps on page 11.
Tone Voice Visual Display
Four beeps IntelliMute Not
Set, Please Try
Again followed by
IntelliMute not set
Please try again
One beep IntelliMute Off IntelliMute Off
NOTE
If the unit is unable to sense usable pulses within three
seconds or if you do not set a rev point within 20 seconds
of beginning these steps, IntelliMute will indicate an error
and automatically turn off.
Below Activation Point
ih
Above Activation Point
ih
Press Int...
button ag...
desired RPMs
Hold ntelliMute Button
Intelli
Mute
Set!
Rev Level Set
IntelliMu...
Please tr...
ntelliMute
Not Set
Intelli
Mute
Off
ntelliMute Off
ntelliMute Button
Press and hold for
two seconds

Settings
Your Detector
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®13
Settings
Your Detector
12 English
Dim Button
Press and hold for two seconds
Voice/Tone Setting
You can set your detector to sound alerts with either a Voice
or a Tone. You can change settings by using the Mute button.
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.
The factory setting is Voice Alert mode.
Spectre 1 and VG-2 On
Spe tre1
& VG2
On
Spectre 1 and VG-2 Off
Spe tre1
& VG2
Off
Mute Button
Press and hold for
two seconds
To Change From Voice Alert to Tone Alert
While no signal
is being detected,
press and hold
the Mute button for
two seconds.
Tone Voice Visual Display
One beep Tone Alert None
To Change From Tone Alert Back to Voice Alert
While no signal
is being detected,
press and hold
the Mute button
for two seconds
again.
Tone Voice Visual Display
None Voice Alert None
To Turn VG-2 and Spectre 1 Alerts On and Off
While no signal
is being detected,
press and hold the
Dim button for four
seconds.
Tone Voice Visual Display
On = Two Beeps Spectre VG-2 On Vwill blink twice
in the display
Spectre VG-2 Off Vwill blink once
in the display
Off = One Beep
Radar Alert Settings
The detector allows you to choose whether it will show alerts on the X, K,
and Ku bands. The factory settings are: X Band and K Band On; Ku Band Off.
To Turn K Band On and Off
While no signal is
being detected, press
and hold both the
Mute and City buttons
for four seconds.
Tone Voice Visual Display
K On = Two beeps K On Kwill blink twice
in the display
To Turn Ku Band* On and Off
While no signal is being
detected, press and
hold the City button
for four seconds.
Tone Voice Visual Display
Ku On = Two beeps Ku On Xand Kwill blink
twice in the display
Kwill blink once
in the display
K Off = One beep K Off
Ku Off Xand Kwill blink
once in the display
Ku Off = One beep
To Turn X Band On and Off
While no signal is
being detected, press
and hold both the Dim
and Mute buttons for
four seconds.
Tone Voice Visual Display
X On = Two beeps X On Xwill blink twice
in the display
X Off Xwill blink once
in the display
X Off = One beep
VG-2, Spectre 1 Alert Settings, K & Ku Band Detection
The detector is undetectable by police VG-2 and Spectre 1 radar detector
detectors 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 and Spectre 1 alerts.
The factory setting is VG-2 and Spectre 1 alert Off. (See table on the next page.)

Detection
Your Detector
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®15
Detection
Your Detector
14 English
X Signal Detected K Signal Detected Ka Signal Detected
Radar Signals, Voice and Visual Displays
Type of Signal Voice Visual Display
X Band Radar X Alert X and Signal Strength
K Band Radar K Alert K and Signal Strength
Ka Band Radar Ka Alert Ka and Signal Strength
Ku Band Radar Ku Alert Ku and Signal Strength
Laser Signals, Voice and Visual Displays
Type of Signal Voice Visual Display
LTI 20-20* Laser Alert Laser 20/20
LTI Ultra-Lyte* Laser Alert Laser UltraLyte
Kustom Signals ProLaser* Laser Alert Laser Pro Laser
Kustom Signals ProLaser III* Laser Alert Laser Pro Laser 3
* Your detector provides 360˚ detection of these signals.
NOTE
Beep rate changes with different laser alerts.
Detecti n •
Signals Detected
The tables on the following pages show you the types of Signals your detector
will detect, as well as the voice and visual alerts it provides for each of them.
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.
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, Ka and Ku band radar signals, the tones will repeat faster as
you approach the signal source. The repeat rate of the tones gives you useful
information about the signal detected. (See responding to alerts on page 17.)
Visual Display
An indication of the type of signal detected will appear in the DigiView Data
Display. During X, K, Ka and Ku alerts, you will also see from 1 to 5 vertical
bars, indicating the strength of the signal detected.
Signal Strength Chart
Signal Strength = 1
(Weakest Signal)
-
Signal Strength = 2
-
--
Signal Strength = 3
-
-
--
---
Signal Strength = 4
-
--
--
---
----
Signal Strength = 5
(Strongest Signal)
-
-_
--
---
---
----
----_
X2
-
-- K-3
-
--
--- -
-_
--
Ka ---5
---
----
----_
Ku Signal Detected
_
-
Ku --4
--
---
----
LT 20-20
Laser
20/ 2 0
LT Ultra-Lyte
Laser
UltraLyte
Kustom Signals
ProLaser
Laser
Pro Laser
Kustom Signals
ProLaser
Laser
Pro Laser 3

Description Interpretation Recommended
Response
Tone repeats slowly at
first, then speeds up
rapidly.
Probably police radar FULL ALERT
Tone sounds one
time only. Probably a false alarm, but possibly pulsed radar,
Spectre 1 or V -2 nearby
Exercise caution
Tone instantly begins
repeating rapidly. Radar, Spectre 1 or V -2 nearby has been activated
suddenly
FULL ALERT
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. Probably a false alarm Exercise caution
Any type of laser alert. Laser alerts are
never false alarms FULL ALERT
Any Safety Alert
or Strobe Alert. You are nearing an emergency vehicle,
railroad crossing,
or road hazard
(construction,
accident, etc.)
Exercise caution
Detection
Your Detector
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®17
Detection
Your Detector
16 English
nstant-On Detection
Your detector is designed to detect Instant-On speed monitoring signals,
which can suddenly appear at full strength.
NOTE
You should take appropriate action
immediately whenever an instant-on alert is given.
Responding to Alerts
Strobe and Safety Alert Signals, Voice and Visual Displays
Type of Signal Voice Visual Display
3M Opticom or Tomar* Emergency Vehicle Approaching Emergency Vehicle
Emergency Vehicles Emergency Vehicle Approaching Emergency Vehicle
Road Hazards Road Hazard Ahead Road Hazard
Trains Train Approaching Train
* Your detector provides 360˚ detection of this signal.
VG-2 Alert Signal, Voice and Visual Display
Type of Signal Voice Visual Display
Interceptor V -2 VG-2 Alert V 2
NOTE
There are different tones for each Safety Alert.
NOTE
There are different tones for each alert.
NOTE
There are different tones for each alert.
Emergency Alert
Signal Detected
VG-2 Alert Signal
Detected
VG2
Spectre 1 Alert Signal, Voice and Visual Display
Type of Signal Voice Visual Display
Spectre Spectre Alert Spectre1
Spectre 1 Alert Signal
Detected
Spe tre1
Road Hazard Alert
Signal Detected
Road
Hazard
Train Alert Signal
Detected
Train
Emergen y...
Strobe Alert Display
(Flashing)
Emergen y...

Understanding Radar and Laser
Your Detector
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®19
Understanding Radar and Laser
Your Detector
18 English
Understanding Radar and Laser •
Radar Speed Monitoring Systems
Three band frequencies have been approved by the Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) for use by speed monitoring radar equipment:
X band 10.525 Hz
K band 24.150 Hz
Ka band 33.400 – 36.00 Hz
Your detector detects signals in all three radar bands, plus Ku band (13.435 Hz),
which is an approved frequency used in parts of Europe and Asia.
Spectre 1 and VG-2
Spectre 1 and VG-2 are “detector detectors” that work by detecting low-level
signals emitted by most radar detectors. Your detector does not emit signals
that can be detected by Spectre 1 or V -2, but does detect Spectre 1 and V -2
signals and will alert you when a device is in use near your vehicle, if you
so choose.
Safety Alert Traffic Warning System
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 emergency vehicle or train,
or a stationary road hazard.
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 detector, however, is designed to differentiate between
standard K band and Safety Alert signals, and give separate alerts for each.
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.
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.
Strobe Alert
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.
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.
L DAR (Laser)
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 widely. 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.
Some common questions about LIDAR include:
■Does weather have any affect on LIDAR?
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 through glass?
Yes. Newer LIDAR guns can obtain readings through most types of glass.
However, the laser pulse also can be received through glass to trigger
an alarm by your detector.
■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.
■Is LIDAR legal to use?
Yes. It is legal in all 50 states.

Specifications
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®21
Maintenance
20 English
Maintenance •
Maintenance of Your Radar Detector
Your detector is designed and built to give you years of
trouble-free performance without the need for service.
No routine Maintenance is required.
If your unit does not appear to be operating properly,
please follow these troubleshooting steps:
■Make sure the power cord is properly connected.
■Make sure the socket of your vehicle’s cigarette lighter
is clean and free of corrosion.
■Make sure the power cord’s cigarette lighter adapter
is firmly seated in your cigarette lighter.
■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 2-amp fuse only.)
Specificati ns •
Band and Frequencies
Band Frequencies
X Band 10.525 ± 0.050 Hz
K Band 24.125 ± 0.125 Hz
Safety Alert 24.070 ± 0.010 Hz
Traffic Warning 24.110 ± 0.010 Hz
System 24.190 ± 0.010 Hz
24.230 ± 0.010 Hz
Ka Band 34.700 ± 1.300 Hz
Ku Band 13.435 ± 0.050 Hz
V -2 11.500 ± 0.250 Hz
Spectre 1 13.300 ± 0.200 Hz
Laser 910 ± 50 nm
Strobe 700 ± 300 nm
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.
Your Detector Your Detector

Product Service and
Trademark Acknowledgement
Customer Assistance
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®23
Warranty
22 English
Limited 1-Year Warranty •
For Products Purchased in the U.S.A.
Cobra Electronics Corporation warrants that its Cobra 12 Band Radar/Laser
Detectors, and the component parts thereof, will be free of defects in
workmanship and materials for period of one 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 12 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.
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.
This warranty gives you specific rights, and you may also have other rights
which vary from state to state.
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.
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.
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.
Pr duct Service •
For any questions about operating or installing this new Cobra product, or if
parts are missing…PLEASE CALL COBRA F RST…do not return this
product to the store. See customer assistance on page A1.
If this product should require factory service, please call Cobra first at
773-889-3087 BEFORE sending the product. This will ensure the fastest
turnaround time on any repair.
If Cobra asks that the product be sent to its factory, the following must be
furnished to have the product serviced and returned: 1) Send the complete
unit, including power cord. (It is not necessary to include the mounting
bracket.) 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. 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. 4) Pack the unit securely to
prevent damage during transit. If possible, use the original packing materials.
5) Ship prepaid and insured using a traceable carrier such as United Parcel
Service (UPS), Federal Express, or Priority mail with delivery confirmation.
Ship to: Cobra Factory Service, Cobra Electronics Corporation, 6500 West
Cortland Street, Chicago, IL 60707 U.S.A. 6) Please allow three to four weeks
before contacting us about the status of your service. Call 773-889-3087 for
assistance. 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.
Trademark Ackn wledgement •
Cobra®, DigiView®, EasySet®, Extra Sensory Detection®, IntelliMute®, IntelliShield®, LaserEye®,
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®, Safety Alert®Traffic Warning System, Strobe Alert®,
V -2 Alert®, Xtreme Range Superheterodyne®and the snake design are registered trademarks
of Cobra Electronics Corporation, USA.
Cobra Electronics Corporation™, 12 Band™, ExtremeBright Data rafix™, IntelliLink™,
Revolution™ Series, SmartPower™, Spectre Alert™, Super-Xtreme Range Superheterodyne™,
S-XRS™, UltraBright™, and Voice Alert™ are trademarks of Cobra Electronics Corporation, USA.
Opticom™ is a trademark of 3M Corporation. Instaclear®for Ford is a registered trademark of
Ford Motor Company, Inc. Electriclear®for M is a registered trademark of eneral Motors
Corporation. 20-20™ and Ultra-Lyte™ are trademarks of Laser Technology, Inc. ProLaser™ and
ProLaser III™ are trademarks of Kustom Signals, Inc. Bee III™ and Pop™ are a trademarks of
MPH Industries. Spectre™ is a trademark of Stalcar. Interceptor V -2™ is a trademark of
TechniSonic Industries LTD. Tomar®is a registered trademark of TOMAR Electronics, Inc.
Warranty

Optional Accessories
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Opti nal Access ries •
You can find quality Cobra products and accessories
at your local Cobra dealer, or in the U.S.A., you can
order directly from Cobra. See ordering info on page 25.
Windshield Mounting Bracket
Includes suction cups
Item # 545-159-N-001
Straight 12V DC Power Cord
Includes plug and fuse
Item # 420-030-N-001
Coiled 12V DC Power Cord
Includes plug and fuse
Item # 420-026-N-001
Dual Port Power Adapter
Includes adjustable plug
(up to 90˚) and fuse
Item # CLP-2B
Customer Assistance