Laser Atlanta SpeedLaser S User manual

SPEED LASER ®
USER'S GUIDE
Laser Atlanta
2827 Peterson Place
Norcross, GA 30071
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
http://www.laseratlanta.com
mailto:[e-mail]
P/N 40150-H
(FOR Version 4.96 AND ABOVE)

3
SpeedLaser “S” and “R”
Use the same instructions
S
S
R

4
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Appendices: .......................................................................5
1 INTRODUCTION......................................................................6
Cautions.............................................................................7
Capabilities ........................................................................8
2 GETTING STARTED...............................................................10
Packing List .....................................................................10
SpeedLaser®Controls & Layout ......................................11
Battery Handle Power......................................................13
Connecting a Handle .......................................................14
To Power ON...................................................................15
To Power OFF..................................................................15
3 SPEED MEASUREMENT...................................................16
Measuring Speed .............................................................16
Approaching and Receding Targets:................................17
Manufacturer’s Recommended Daily Test.......................18
Range (Mapping) Measurement ......................................22
4 USER SETTINGS....................................................................23
Intensity and Contrast .....................................................23
LCD Backlight:.................................................................23
LCD Contrast:..................................................................23
HUD Brightness:..............................................................23
The MENU System ..........................................................24
Test Mode ........................................................................28
Audio...............................................................................29
HUD Mode.......................................................................30
AIMING MENU.................................................................31
5 APPENDICES .........................................................................34

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APPENDICES:
A: Troubleshooting / Error Messages 36
B: Care and Maintenance 37
C: Technical Specifications 39
D: SpeedLaser®and Accessory Diagrams 40
E: Measuring Surface Datum 41
F: Battery Handle Notes 42
G: LIDAR Menu Tree 43
Warranty Rear Cover

6
CHAPTER 1 Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the SpeedLaser®from Laser Atlanta. This
rugged laser speed gun integrates the latest in solid-state laser
technologies to bring you hand-held, eye-safe laser speed and distance
measurement.
The SpeedLaser®is a Class 1 eye safe, multi-function device generally
used to measure range and speed of targets up to 2,000 feet away.
The technology utilized by the SpeedLaser®is called LIDAR: LIght
Detection And Ranging. Your SpeedLaser®measures the time it takes a
pulse of laser light to travel from the LIDAR to the target vehicle and
back (pulsed time-of-flight). This round trip time is converted to a
distance (d=ct/2). The distance to the target vehicle is measured in this
manner over two hundred times per second. Sophisticated computer
algorithms combine these individual distance measurements to compute
the extremely accurate speed measurements displayed.
To get the most from your new SpeedLaser®, please take the time to read
through this manual. For your convenience and ease of understanding,
it has been divided into 5 sections:
Chapter 1: Introduction
Chapter 2: Getting Started
Chapter 3: Speed Measurement
Chapter 4: User Setting’s
Appendices: Information on care, troubleshooting, and
specifications
If you have questions or comments, please do not hesitate to contact
Laser Atlanta via any of the following means:
Voice: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Web: http://www.laseratlanta.com

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Cautions
Every step has been taken to ensure your SpeedLaser®is completely safe
to use. However, certain common-sense precautions should always be
taken when using your SpeedLaser®.
• Do not open the case under any circumstances.
• Do not point the SpeedLaser®directly at the sun.
• Use only Laser Atlanta approved power sources.
• Do not leave SpeedLaser®in areas of high humidity.
• Do not place SpeedLaser®on unstable surfaces.
• Always transport the SpeedLaser®in its carrying case.
Your SpeedLaser®is a Class 1 Laser Product that complies with 21 CFR
1040.10 and 1040.11. Class 1 is the lowest classification of laser
products, with regards to risk while in use. This class of lasers cannot
emit levels of optical radiation above the exposure limits for the eye
under any exposure conditions inherent to the laser product.
Caution: The use of optical instruments with this product will
increase eye hazard. Do not point this laser at anyone with optical
viewing devices within 50 feet of the operator.
Although optical viewing instruments may increase eye hazard, it is
unlikely that actual damage can occur. Prescription eyeglasses, contact
lenses, and sunglasses are not considered optical gain devices since they
merely correct the focus of the human eye to normal.
Optical devices that provide magnification may increase the risk of eye-
hazard. These include binoculars, telescopes and magnifying glasses.

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Capabilities
Performance
• Target Acquisition in 0.3 seconds
• Speed Accuracy of ± 1 mph (± 1.6 kph)
• Range to 4,000 feet (1,220 m) or more
Advanced Input-Output
• Remote Fire trigger switch
• Full Remote control via RS-232 port
• Data Collection via RS-232 port
• Data Collection via PCMCIA SRAM Cards
Ease of Use
• Menu Driven
• Head Up Display (HUD) shows both target and speed/distance
data through the same sighting mechanism
• Rechargeable NiMH Battery Handle
• 12 V Cigarette Adapter
• Optional 8X Monoscope for distant viewing
• Optional Shoulder Stock for steadying while hand-held
• Optional Monopole and Tripod for mounting
• Optional Mapping system upgrade
Environmental Features
• Water Resistant
• Ruggedized Case
• Rechargeable NiMH Battery Handles

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Optional carrying cases and cords in a variety
of styles are available

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Chapter 2
Getting Started
PACKING LIST
Please check to make sure the following items were included in your
shipment:
• SpeedLaser®LIDAR Gun
• Battery Handle
• Softside Carrying Case (or optional hard-shell case)
• Battery Charger
• 12 volt Charging Cable (s)
• User's Guide
• Warranty Card
Additionally, you may have received the following optional parts:
• RS-232 Serial Data Cable
• 8X Monoscope
• Additional Battery Handles
• Shoulder Stock Kit
• Additional optional charging cords and accessories
(Please see Appendix D for diagrams of these items.)

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SpeedLaser®Controls & Layout
A: Head Up Display (HUD) E: Liquid Crystal Display (LCD)
B: HUD Sighting Reticle F: Keypad Keys
C: HUD Character Display G: Rear Bumper
D: Serial Number H: PCMCIA Card Slot
A
G
FIRE
BACKPWR
LCD
MENU
HUD
LASER ATLANTA
LASER ATLANTA LLC S/N: 23456
NORCROSS, GA 30071 MF’D: AUGUST 2009
BCD
A
H
D
F
C
E
Laser Atlanta
SpeedLaser®
P/N YYYYY-EEEE vx.xx
SYSTEM READY.

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N
I
J
K
M
L
O
SPEEDLASER®
LASER ATLANT
A
I: Transmit Optics M: Battery Handle
J: Receive Optics N: External Data Port
K: Handle Trigger (Tripod mountable handle
L: Handle Latch has data port on the side)
O: Laser Warnings

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Battery Handle Power
The SpeedLaser®comes equipped with a rechargeable battery handle (or
additional extra handles as an option), shipped uncharged, so you will
need to charge them (10-12 hours) with the wall charger or 12V cigarette
cable completely before first use. Each handle will provide an average
of five (5) hours of continuous use per charge.
These handles are also capable of powering the SpeedLaser from a 12V
source such as an automotive cigarette power adapter using the cable
provided. Plug the small circular connector onto the bottom of the
handle and the cigarette adapter end into an automotive cigarette-power
adapter. You can charge the handles in this manner while oopperating
the unit.
To charge your battery handle:
1. Plug the circular connector into the side of the handle. Do not
force the connector as it is keyed...slowly rotate the connector
(holding the black rubber) and push gently until it clicks and
locks into place.
2. Plug the charger into a standard 120 VAC power receptacle OR
plug the cigarette adapter into a power source.
3. Charge the handle for ten to twelve hours.
4. To remove the connector, pull gently downward on the outside
of the metal connector.
5. Unplug the charger from the wall. The handle is now charged.
CAUTION! DO NOT:
• Charge handles with other chargers/power supplies
• Short circuit the battery pins
• Charge handle for over sixteen (16) hours continuously

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Connecting a Handle
To install a handle onto the SpeedLaser®:
1. Press the handle latch forward on the handle.
2. Push the front of the handle into the front handle catch on the
bottom of the SpeedLaser®.
3. Rotate the rear of the handle upward.
4. Release the handle latch.
NOTE: Make certain the handle latch slides into position and secures the
handle to the SpeedLaser®. If necessary, push the handle latch toward the
back to secure the handle to the SpeedLaser®.
Handle
Catch
Handle
Latch
SpeedLaser
LASER ATLANTA

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Turning the SpeedLaser®ON and OFF
TO POWER ON
1) Press and hold the PWR key located on the back of the
SpeedLaser®for approximately one second.
NOTE: The self-test (pg. 19) will automatically run when the unit is first
powered ON. When the self-test is completed successfully the LCD will
display “SYSTEM READY”
TO POWER OFF
1) Press and HOLD the PWR key on the back of the
SpeedLaser®for approximately three seconds.
NOTE: Keep the key pressed until no information is displayed on the
LCD. If the button is not depressed for a long enough time, it toggles the
LCD backlight ON and OFF.
PWR MENUBACK
A B C D
FIRE
LCD HUD
Laser Atlanta
SpeedLaser®
P/N YYYYY-EEEE vx.xx
System Ready.
Power Key

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Chapter 3
Speed Measurement
When the SpeedLaser®is first turned ON, it automatically and quickly
runs the self-test function. To capture a speed, simply follow the
procedure below when the self-test is complete.
MEASURING SPEED
NOTE: Always verify operational procedures for Alignment Check.
1. Align the HUD Sighting Reticule (+ symbol in the HUD) on the
target you wish to measure the speed of.
2. Squeeze and hold the Handle Trigger until the speed is
displayed.
3. Release the Handle Trigger to stop measurement and lock
information in the HUD and on the LCD.
The speed will be shown in three places…twice on the rear right of the
LCD and also in the HUD (when selected) character display. Notice that
two of the speed displays are truncated to the nearest mph.
The distance to the target will be shown on the left side of the LCD.
NOTE: Pressing the trigger will take you to the Speed Display Page
regardless of any other mode the SpeedLaser®may be in. (The exception
is when in the TEST mode.)
- 13
HUD Speed
Display
LCD
Speed
Display
LCD
Range
Display

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APPROACHING AND RECEDING TARGETS:
The SpeedLaser®can measure the speeds of both approaching
(oncoming) and receding targets.
When the target is receding, a “-“ sign will precede the speed displayed
in the HUD and on the LCD.
Example of an Approaching target
34
Oncomin
g
Target
Oncomin
g
Target
(No sign)
- 13
Recedin
g
Target
Example of a Receding target
Receding
Target
(“-“ sign)

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Manufacturer’s Recommended Daily Test
In keeping with NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration) and IADLEST (The International Association of
Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training) guidelines
general operational considerations for LIDAR Speed Measurement
devices, the operator must perform the following accuracy checks prior
to beginning enforcement operations:
1) Internal Circuit Check
2) LED Segment Test
3) Range (Chronometer) Accuracy Test
4) Horizontal Sight Alignment Test
5) Vertical Sight Alignment Test
WHAT THE DAILY TEST ACCOMPLISHES:
To ensure that the SpeedLaser®is in good working order, the
SpeedLaser®should be tested using the Manufacture’s daily test
described later in this chapter. This test restores the factory default
settings, checks the LIDAR hardware (including the program and
dynamic memories), tests the displays and timing circuits, and then
allows the operator to verify that the HUD aiming crosshairs are
correctly aligned with the laser beam.
NOTE: The alignment crosshairs in the HUD are set at the factory and
generally do not need realignment over the life of the SpeedLaser®.
1) Internal Circuit Check
When the operator presses Menu followed by Test (button A on the
keypad), the SpeedLaser®runs a BIT (Built-In-Test) program. The
BIT program tests the hardware and verifies that the SpeedLaser®
firmware is loaded correctly. It then checks that the processor is
executing the data gathering, storing (memory), sorting, filtering,
conversion and linear regression algorithms correctly.
2) LED Segment Test
This test allows the operator to verify that the seven-segment display,
used to show speed of the target vehicle, is in good working order by
displaying a simple known pattern. The operator can then confirm
that each segment operates correctly.

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3) Range (Chronometer) Accuracy Test
The SpeedLaser®hardware ONLY measures Time. Range and
Speed are computed values derived from multiple time
measurements by the firmware, which was checked for proper
operation during BIT. The design of the firmware was verified as
part of the IACP certification process.
This test uses the SpeedLaser®’s high-speed chronometer (timer) to
measure the time it takes a light pulse to travel a know distance (i.e.;
from the SpeedLaser®to a target at a known distance and back).
Since the speed of light in air is known, the SpeedLaser®can
calculate the range that the light pulse traveled. The operator then
compares the reported range to the known distance to the target. To
verify that the timing hardware is working correctly the computed
range must match the known distance to within ±1 foot (25 cm). At
least two such comparisons using targets at least twenty (20) feet
apart must be made.
In normal operation, the SpeedLaser®measures the time it takes for a
light pulse to travel from the SpeedLaser®to a moving vehicle and
back. The SpeedLaser®makes hundreds of such round trip time
measurements each second, each time measurement is converted to a
range and stored. When the SpeedLaser®has sufficient stored
ranges, it performs a linear regression calculation that yields the
speed of the vehicle. Numerous firmware filters are used to confirm
the computed speed before it is displayed.
4) Horizontal Sight Alignment Test
This is a test to confirm that the sighting system and the invisible
light pulse emitted by the SpeedLaser®are aligned horizontally. The
operator uses the sighting system to aim at an object and then
confirms that the light pulses of the SpeedLaser®are hitting that
object by observing that the SpeedLaser®is reporting the range to
that object. The operator then moves the sighting system off of the
object and observes that the reported range changes, just as the
sighting system is no longer on the object and indeed should change.
5) Vertical Sight Alignment Test
Same as Horizontal alignment test but in the vertical axis

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Running the Manufacturer’s Recommended Daily Tests
1) Internal Circuit Check
Press MENU followed by “A” on the keypad, which selects Test.
The LIDAR will then automatically:
a) Enter the TEST/RESET Mode
b) Restore factory default settings
c) Run the internal circuit check
d) Run the program and dynamic memory test
e) Runs an LED count test (1111, 2222, …, 9999)
f) Defaults the HUD display to 8888
Wait for when “Memory-OK” is displayed, which indicates that
the test is complete.
2) Light Segment Test
Confirm that the HUD is displaying the aiming “+” with the data
“8888”.
3) Range (Chronometer) Accuracy Test
Confirm that the LIDAR can correctly compute two or more known
ranges using any one of the following methods:
a) From one location, range to two targets at known distances.
b) From two locations, range to one target at a known distance.
c) Range to a random target, back up a known ‘delta’ distance,
and confirm that LIDAR computes a new range with the
same delta distance. Then back up a second, but different
delta distance and confirm that LIDAR computes a new
range that matches the new delta range.
d) Combine method a) with the horizontal and vertical
alignment tests (4 and 5) on next page. This requires that the
targets used for the Horizontal and Vertical alignment are at
different known ranges.
Using your preferred method from above:
a) Stand at the selected position.
b) Aim at selected target.
c) Squeeze and hold trigger until tone sounds (range is
computed).
d) Confirm that reported range is within ±1 foot of expected.
e) Repeat steps a) thru d) using a know distance that is at least
20 feet different then the first known distance.
Continued on next page

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4) Horizontal Sight Alignment Test
a) Locate a tall, vertical object (such as a utility pole) with clear sky
behind it (and preferably greater then 150 feet away.)
b) Aim to the right of the object, and pull the trigger.
c) While keeping the trigger pulled, slowly sweep the crosshair
sight to the left. Press D (Done) when completed.
d) The distance should be displayed in the HUD, only when the
target edge is in view of the crosshair.
5) Vertical Sight Alignment Test
a) Turn the unit 90 degrees sideways and repeat steps 4) a – d.
b) Press MENU or DONE to exit Test Mode.
Sweep from
the RIGHT
Sweep from
the LEFT