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Innovations in Telecommunication and Automation |
Radar Detector Detector MD-3/S
Radar Detector Detector MD-3/S |
The MD-3/S detects the presence of a Radar Detector. Radar Detectors are illegal in many countries.
When a signal from a Radar Detector is captured, it is digitized and processed by the microprocessor which then activates one to five red LEDs and audio signals to indicate the signal strength. As the RD carrying car comes closer, more LEDs light up. Simultaneously, an acoustical signal increases in pitch and repetition rate.
The blue LED in the center fades in and out every ten seconds if no radar activity is detected to confirm that the microprocessor is running and the unit is ready for microwave reception. When a signal is detected, it transmits an optical data stream, which can be picked up and processed by a laptop computer.
The 50 mm antenna produces a relatively narrow beam for good spatial discrimination between cars. Two front-end microwave transistors and filters decouple the system's local oscillator from the antenna to help prevent its detection by Radar Detector Detector Detectors.
A signal is available via an optional mini DIN connector, which can be used to switch video equipment on and off. As soon as the unit detects a Radar Detector, the traffic will be recorded and when the signal ceases, the video recorder switches off automatically. This feature is useful for court evidence as well as for training purposes (for example to demonstrate the effects of locations with known radiation sources causing false alarms).
A coiled cable with plugs is provided.
Mounting options include windshield
and dashboard mounting.
Specifications:
Operating voltage is 12 Volt DC (from the cigarette lighter receptacle of the vehicle); the unit will work between 10 V and 18 V.
Average current is about 300 mA (milliampere) when a signal is detected and 120 mA without a signal.
This unit is protected against over-voltage (spikes), over-current and reverse polarity.
Unit has been temperature tested between -10 C (17 F) and +70 C (137 F) and performed without failure.
The MD-3/S measures approximately
160mm x 78mm x 61mm (6.3’’x 3’’x 2.4’’) including knob.
Here is a heavier version in a sturdy
extruded aluminum enclosure.
It measures 156 mm x 105 mm x 66
mm (approx. 6 1/8'' x 4 1/8'' x 2 1/2 '').
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And here is a small, lightweight version in a fiberglas enclosure measuring 155 mm x 38 mm square (approx. 6.1'' x 1.5 '')
Development, production and service
is in Central Texas. The MD-3 has a warranty of one year.