Kustom Signals Talon Radar User manual

Talon
TrafficSafetyRadar
OPERATOR’S MANUAL
P/N 006-0604-00
Rev. 6
1010 W CHESTNUT CHANUTE, KS 66720-094
7

Copyright © 2003, Kustom Signals, Inc.
All Rights Reserved. Printed in U.S.A.
This publication may not be reproduced, stored in a retrieval
system, or transmitted in whole or in part in any form or by any
means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or
otherwise without prior written permission of Kustom Signals,
Inc., 9325 Pflumm Road, Lenexa, KS 66215-3347
Customer Service 1-800-835-0156 or [phone]
Sales Department 1-800-4-KUSTOM or [phone]

Table of Contents
1. INTRODUCTION..........................................................1.1
2. SPECIFICATIONS ........................................................2.1
2.0 General.....................................................................2.1
2.1 Operational...............................................................2.3
3. INSPECTION AND INSTALLATION.........................3.1
3.0 Initial Inspection.......................................................3.1
3.1 Material Supplied.....................................................3.1
3.2 Cable Installation
3.2.1 Auxiliary Power Receptacle...........................3.2
3.2.2 Speedometer Pulse Cable...............................3.3
3.3 Radar Installation.....................................................3.4
4. UNIT DESCRIPTION ....................................................4.1
4.0 Side View.................................................................4.1
4.1 Rear Panel ................................................................4.2
4.2 Remote Control........................................................4.5
5. GENERAL THEORY of OPERATION........................5.1
5.0 General.....................................................................5.1
5.1 Microwave RF Emissions ........................................5.3
6. TESTING PROCEDURES.............................................6.1
6.0 General.....................................................................6.1
6.1 Power-On .................................................................6.1
6.2 Automatic Self Test..................................................6.1
6.3 Manual Test..............................................................6.2
6.4 Tuning Fork Testing.................................................6.2
6.4.1 Stationary Tuning Fork Test..........................6.3
6.4.2 Moving - Opposite Direction
Tuning Fork Test......................................6.3
6.4.3 Moving - Same Direction
Tuning Fork Test......................................6.4

Table of Contents
6.4.4 Tuning Fork Test Failure ...............................6.5
6.5 Speedometer Verification.........................................6.5
6.6 Minimum Patrol Speed Set ......................................6.7
6.7 Moving Mode Test...................................................6.7
7. SYSTEM OPERATION..................................................7.1
7.0 Operating Modes......................................................7.1
7.1 Setup.........................................................................7.1
7.1.1 Battery Charging ...........................................7.2
7.1.2 Battery Operation...........................................7.3
7.1.3 Location .........................................................7.3
7.1.4 Adjusting Audio.............................................7.4
7.1.5 Audio Unsquelch............................................7.4
7.1.6 Range .............................................................7.4
7.1.7 Backlight........................................................7.5
7.2 Operation - Handheld...............................................7.5
7.2.1 Setup...............................................................7.5
7.2.2 Target Lock....................................................7.6
7.2.3 Fastest Vehicle Mode.....................................7.6
7.3 Operation - Dash Mounted.......................................7.7
7.3.1 Setup...............................................................7.7
7.3.2 Stationary Mode.............................................7.7
7.4 Moving Mode - Opposite Direction.........................7.8
7.4.1 Hold Mode .....................................................7.8
7.4.2 Moving Mode - Target Lock..........................7.8
7.4.3 Moving Mode - Patrol Select.........................7.9
7.4.4 Moving Mode - Fastest Vehicle.....................7.9
7.4.5 Moving Mode - Fastest Vehicle Lock............7.9
7.5 Moving Mode - Same Direction.............................7.10
8. INFLUENCES AND INTERFERENCE........................8.1
8.0 Natural Influences....................................................8.1
8.1 Man-Made Influences ..............................................8.2
8.2 Groundspeed.............................................................8.3

Table of Contents
9. CARE OF THE TALON................................................8.1
9.0 Routine Care.............................................................9.1
9.1 Equipment Repair/Return.........................................9.2
9.2 Battery Disposal.......................................................9.3
10. CASE LAW..................................................................10.1
11. FCC RULES.................................................................11.1
11.0 Transmitter Rules Amended.................................11.1
11.1 Radar Unit Licensing ...........................................11.2
12. TROUBLESHOOTING..............................................12.1
13. OPTIONS.....................................................................13.1
13.0 Options Setup.......................................................13.1
13.1 Options Description..............................................13.2
13.1.1 Automatic Unlock......................................13.2
13.1.2 Track Through Lock ..................................13.2
13.1.3 Minimum Audio Level...............................13.2
13.1.4 Patrol Blank................................................13.3
13.1.5 Fastest Operation........................................13.3
13.1.6 Interface Output Protocol...........................13.3
13.1.7 Speed Reading Units..................................13.3
13.2 Options Examples ................................................13.4
14. WARRANTY...............................................................14.1

Section 1--Introduction
1.1
1. INTRODUCTION
The Kustom Signals Talon radar system comes from a
long standing commitment to the law enforcement
community to provide quality, state- of-the-art speed
measuring equipment. The Talon offers features never
before available on a moving/stationary handheld Ka-
Band radar system, yet allows easy operation and simple
one button mode changes.
Since the Talon radar system uses Digital Signal
Processing (DSP), it has available options which allow
same direction speed detection and fastest vehicle mode,
showing the operator the speeds of the strongest and
fastest vehicles’ returns detected. Along with the above
features, the Talon offers Kustom Signals proven
quality, and service to the customer.
This is the smallest handheld, battery operated radar
Kustom Signals has produced. While small size was an
important feature during the design of the Talon,
durability was another key issue. We know police radar
equipment, having built the first digital traffic radar unit
in 1970. Our history of firsts has never overshadowed
the need for durability and a strong case. Things do get
dropped. Our Falcon, HR-12 and other handheld
products are designed to meet these demanding needs.
The Talon is no exception and its one-piece extruded
aluminum case protects the electronics not only from
shock and vibration, but from rain and moisture.
All these features and performance standards are packed
into this small, lightweight, battery operated unit, a unit
that must be seen to be believed.

Section 2--Specifications
2.1
2. SPECIFICATIONS
2.0 GENERAL
Type: One-piece, Moving/Stationary True
Doppler radar system
Frequency: Ka-Band 33.4-36.0 GHz +100 MHz
Tuning Forks Forks stamped “KSI Ka-Band” are
for units with microwave frequency
35.5 GHz. Forks for any other Ka-
Band frequency will have that
frequency clearly labeled on the fork.
System Accuracy: Stationary +1 mph (+2km/h)
Moving +1/-2 mph (+2/-3 km/h)
Corded: 10.8 to 16.5 VDC, 800 mA
max
There are conditions when the Talon
will operate normally and not display
a low voltage alert when the external
battery voltage drops substantially
below the specified 10.8 VDC.
Operating Voltage:
Cordless: 6.5 to 9.0 VDC
7.2 VDC nominal NiMH
Low Voltage
Threshold Corded: Approximately 10.8 VDC Cordless: Approximately 6.5 VDC

Section 2—Specifications
2.2
Nominal Power
Requirements:
Voltage (VDC) Current (mA)
Without target
present: 13.6 510
With target
present: 13.6 560
Without target &
backlight: 13.6 520
With target &
backlight: 13.6 570
Standby (HOLD): 13.6 100
Reverse Voltage
Protection: Diode protection. No damage if supply leads reversed.
Electronic
Components: 100% solid state; integrated circuits, microprocessor and Digital Signal
Processor.
Operating
Temperature: -22°F to +140°F (-30°C to +60°C) 90% relative humidity at 37°C, non-
condensing.
Dimensions:
Unit:
Height: 3.56” (9.04 cm)
Width: 3.0” (7.62 cm)
Depth: 7.25” (18.42 cm)
Weight: 1 lb. 12 oz. (.79 kg)
Handle:
Height: 5.75” (14.6 cm)
Width: 2.17” (5.51 cm)
Depth: 3.61” (9.16 cm)
Weight:
Cordless: 13 oz (.37 kg)
Corded: 6 oz (.17 kg)

Section 2--Specifications
2.3
2.1 OPERATIONAL
Speed Processor: Digital Signal Processing (DSP)
performs all signal analysis.
Operational All functions are microprocessor
Processor: controlled.
Manual Test: All display segments checked; checks
internal calibration and performs a
cross check of quartz crystals for
accuracy.
Automatic self-test: Comparison of quartz crystals done
periodically (5 minutes maximum),
upon every mode change and at the
time of lock. “Err 4” displayed if an
error is found.
Lock Time: Instantaneous.
PATROL window: Displays Doppler patrol speed.
Target window: Displays truncated target speed.
Lock/Fast Window: Displays locked target speed or
fastest vehicle in Fast mode.
Display Type: Active matrix Liquid Crystal Display
(LCD).
Back Lighting: Fiberoptic, single Light Emitting
Diode (LED).
Automatic Clear: All locked displays are cleared when
mode of operation changes.

Section 2—Specifications
2.4
Speed Range: Meets IACP/NHTSA specifications.
Stationary: Target channel sensitivity
of 10 dB from 35 to 90 mph (56 to
144 km/h); 5 dB from 60 to 90 mph
(96 to 144 km/h).
Moving (Opposite direction): within
10 dB for targets between 40 to 90
mph (64 to 144 km/h). Maximum
closing rate 210 mph (336 km/h).
Moving (Same direction): 10 dB for
target difference speeds of 5 to 25
mph (8 to 40 km/h).
Stationary: 10 to 210 mph (16 to 255 km/h).
Moving:
Patrol: 10 to 80 mph (16 to 128 km/h)
Typical patrol speeds to 120 mph
(193 km/h).
Target
Opposite Dir.: Maximum target speed is a function
of combined patrol and target speeds
to 210 mph (336 km/h).
Same Direction: Minimum difference: 3 mph (5 km/h)
Maximum difference: 0.65 x Patrol
Speed
Indicators:
Stationary: “TARGET” window displayed.
Moving: “PATROL” and “TARGET” both
displayed in window.

Section 2--Specifications
2.5
Low Battery Flashing “BATT” displayed and an
audio warning tone sounds every 2
minutes when internal battery voltage
falls below approximately 6.6 VDC.
Operator is prompted that
approximately 15 minutes of
transmitter operation remains.
Low Voltage: Steady “BATT” displayed when
internal battery voltage falls below
approximately 6.2 VDC (minimum
transmitter operating voltage). The
transmitter is disabled, but locked
speeds will remain. At approximately
6.0 VDC, the Talon shuts itself off.
Radio Frequency “RFI” displayed during strong radio
Interference: frequency interference. Active speed
displays will blank during this
condition. Locked speeds will
remain.
Error: “ERR x” (where xis a number)
displayed when an internal error in
the operating system is detected.
Active speed displays will blank.
Locked speeds will remain.
Hold: “HOLD” is displayed when the
system is not transmitting.
Controlled by the trigger in stationary
mode or remote control in moving
mode.

Section 2—Specifications
2.6
Opposite: “OPP” displayed when in moving-
opposite direction mode.
Same: “SAME” displayed when in moving-
same direction mode.
Lock: “LOCK” displayed and flashing
indicating locked target speed.
Fastest: “FAST” displayed when fastest mode
(stationary or moving-opposite)
selected. Flashes in locked fastest
mode.
Slower: “SLOWER” displayed in moving-
same direction mode when operator-
selected (if target is moving slower
than patrol vehicle). Flashes in
locked slower mode.
Microwave Source: Gunn-Effect diode.
Beam Width: 12°+1°.
Polarization: Circular.
Power Density: Less than 5 mW/cm2at aperture.
Power Output: 25 mW max, 15 mW typ.
Side Lobes: 25 dB below main lobe.
Receiver: Low Noise Schottky diode.
Weather Resistant: For use outside vehicle.

Section 3—Inspection and Installation
3.1
3. INSPECTION AND INSTALLATION
3.0 INITIAL INSPECTION
Before installing your Talon, please take a moment to
carefully inspect the shipping carton for damage. Contact
the shipping carrier at once if you notice any damage.
Remove the unit from the shipping carton and check the
packing list against your original purchase order. If the
shipment is incomplete or parts are missing, please contact
Kustom Signals Customer Service Department at 1-800-
835-0156, or [phone].
3.1 MATERIALS SUPPLIED
The following equipment is normally included:
Antenna/Display Unit
Corded Handle
Dash Mount
Mounting Pod
Remote Control
55 mph Tuning Fork
30 mph Tuning Fork
Speedometer Pulse Cable
Operator’s Manual
OPTIONAL
Fastest Vehicle Mode
Same Direction Mode
Battery Handle
110V Trickle Charger
Fast Charger with 12VDC Charging Cord
AC Adapter for Fast Charger (110V or 220V)
Battery Pack w/charger
Heavy Duty Carrying Case
Auxiliary Power Receptacle Cable

Section 3—Inspection and Installation
3.2
3.2 CABLE INSTALLATION
3.2.1 AUXILIARY POWER RECEPTACLE
Cigarette lighter receptacles have been the traditional source
of power for traffic radar over the years. In newer vehicles,
it is possible that poor grounding of this receptacle and
electrical noise from various sources can combine to create
an unacceptably high level of electronic interference.
This interference can affect the radar’s performance in
several ways: decreased range, no target speeds being
displayed, or abnormal tones or noise in the audio. An
auxiliary power receptacle and cable, which mounts under
the dashboard and wires directly to the battery, is available
from Kustom.
1. Mount the receptacle in the desired location using the
hardware provided.
2. Connect the black wire to the receptacle’s mounting
bracket. Connect the white wire (with Faston terminal)
to the rear plug of the receptacle. Route the cable
through the firewall and up to the battery.
3. Connect the white wire of the power cable to the battery
(+) positive terminal and the black wire to the (-)
negative terminal.
4. The auxiliary power receptacle is supplied with a 2 amp
fuse to protect the wiring and battery should the cable
become shorted.

Section 3—Inspection and Installation
3.3
3.2.2 SPEEDOMETER PULSE CABLE
This cable sends information about patrol speed from the
vehicle speedometer cable to the processing circuitry. The
radar then can find and display patrol speed faster.
1. The speedometer pulse cable has a connector at one end
which plugs into the mounting pod of the Talon, next to
the remote control connector.
2. The red wire (inner conductor) of the cable will be
connected to the patrol vehicle’s electrical speedometer
input cable using the splice connector provided. Due to
the vast amount of models, makes and years of vehicles
we have moved access to specific vehicle diagrams
online, where information can be better maintained and
distributed.
Installation details can be accessed at:
http://www.kustomsignals.com
(select: radar fixed mount)
If your vehicle year, make and/or model is not listed or
you need hard copies, please contact Kustom’s
Customer Service Department at [phone]. If you
are outside of the US and Canada, please call (620) 431-
2700.
NOTE: Only the inner conductor of the speedometer
pulse cable is used. The outer shield is not
connected.
3. The speedometer interface will be set up later, in
Section 6.6.

Section 3—Inspection and Installation
3.4
3.3 RADAR INSTALLATION
1. The Talon is shipped with the handle (corded or
cordless) attached. For dash mounting, remove the
handle by pressing the blue release button (latch) on the
bottom of the indicator and sliding the handle
backwards.
2. Locate the dash bracket and mounting pod. Fasten the
mounting pod to the dash bracket, then slide the Talon
onto the pod by placing it in front of the pod and sliding
backwards. The mounting pod may be turned 90°on the
mount and the Talon slid onto it from the side. Position
the radar and mount in a suitable location on the dash
within view of the driver and in a safety zone during
airbag deployment. Normally this will be to the left or
right of the steering wheel as space permits.
3. Connect the Talon’s power cable to the proper power
source. See Section 3.2.1.
4. Momentarily press the PWR switch on the rear panel of
the Talon. (Refer to Section 4.1 for location and
function of the switches.) The Talon will proceed
through an indicator test, internal test and several other
reliability tests. Select the Stationary mode of operation
by pressing the MODE switch, if required. (If
“PATROL” is displayed, press the MODE switch.)
Only “TARGET” will be displayed in the stationary
mode.
5. Momentarily press the AUD (audio) switch. The
TARGET window will display “Aud” and a number
from 0 to 5 indicating the audio level. With “Aud”
displayed, press the RNG (range) switch until level 4 or
5 is displayed. Also, with “Aud” displayed, press the
MODE switch, which will unsquelch the audio.

Section 3—Inspection and Installation
3.5
6. Start the patrol vehicle and position the A/C-heater fan
to a mid-range speed. Move the Talon left or right of its
initial location and listen for any raspy sound (fan
interference) in the audio. Position the Talon to
minimize the amount of interference.
CAUTION: Review the airbag warning statement
shown earlier in this manual before securing
the dash bracket.
7. When a suitable location is found, secure the dash
bracket to the windshield using the suction cups and
Velcro, or permanently mount the bracket to the
windshield.
8. Position of the antenna:
Moving: Aim the antenna parallel to the ground
and straight down the roadway.
Stationary: Unit may be moved on the mount or
handheld to achieve maximum
performance and pointed directly toward
the vehicles being monitored.

Section 4--Unit Description
4. UNIT DESCRIPTION
4.0 SIDE VIEW
When the handle is attached, the
Talon operates in Stationary
Mode only. The trigger is used
to:
•Activate the transmitter
•Lock the active target speed
•Control the optional fastest
vehicle feature
Trigger
4.1

Section 4—Unit Description
4.1 REAR PANEL
A B
W C
4.2
V
D
U
S E
T
R F
G
Q
H
P
O
I
N J
M L K

Section 4--Unit Description
4.3
A. TARGET Displays target vehicle speeds in
stationary and moving modes.
B. RFI Indicator Lights when an excessive amount of
RF interference is present.
C. ERR Indicator Lights when an internal error has
occurred.
D. BATT Indicates when the battery or
Indicator external power source is below the
minimum operating voltage.
E. RNG (Range) Bar graph display shows set level of
Indicator range control.
F. PATROL Displays the patrol vehicle speed.
G. PWR Turns radar on or off.
H. RNG (Range) Places the Talon in the range set
mode. Secondary function is the
increment (up) control.
I. Latch Press to unlock radar from pod or
handle.
J. Power Cable Permanently attached to the pod.
K. Remote Control Accepts the remote control jack.
L. Mounting Pod Allows attaching the Talon to a dash
mount and contains circuitry for the
moving mode and for interfacing to
other equipment.