Technical Details
18
Interpreting Alerts
Although the STi MAGNUM has a
comprehensive warning system and this
handbook is as complete as we can make
it, only experience will teach you what to
expect from your STi MAGNUM and how
to interpret what it tells you. The specific
type of radar being used, the type of
transmission (continuous or instant-on) and
the location of the radar source affect the
radar alerts you receive.
The following examples will give you
an introduction to understanding the STi
MAGNUM’s warning system for radar, laser
and safety alerts.
Explanation
You are approaching a continuous radar
source aimed in your direction.
An instant-on radar source is being used
ahead of you and out of your view.
An instant-on radar source or laser source is
being used nearby. This kind of alert requires
immediate attention!
Laser is being used in the area. Because laser
is inherently difficult to detect, any laser alert
may indicate a source very close by.
A moving patrol car with continuous radar is
overtaking you from behind. Because these
signals are reflected (reflections are increased
by large objects), they may or may not
eventually melt into a solid point even when
the patrol car is directly behind you.
Alert
The STi MAGNUM begins to sound slowly,
then the rate of alert increases. The Signal
Meter ramps accordingly.
STi MAGNUM emits short alerts for a few
seconds and then falls silent only to briefly
alert and fall silent again.
STi MAGNUM suddenly sounds a continuous
tone for the appropriate band received. All
segments in the Signal Strength Meter are lit.
A brief laser alert.
STi MAGNUM receives weak signals. These
signals may be a little stronger as you pass
large, roadside objects. The signals increase in
frequency.
19
Explanation
You are approaching a radar unit concealed
by a hill or an obstructed curve.
A patrol car is traveling in front of you with a
radar source aimed forward. Because signals
are sometimes reflected off of large objects
and sometimes not, the alerts may seem
inconsistent.
A patrol car is approaching from the other
direction, sampling traffic with instant-on
radar. Such alerts should be taken seriously.
You are driving through an area populated
with radar motion sensors (door openers,
burglar alarms, etc.). Since these transmit-
ters are usually contained inside buildings or
aimed toward OR away from you, they are
typically not as strong or lasting as a real radar
encounter.
Alert
STi MAGNUM alerts slowly for a while and
then abruptly jumps to a strong alert.
STi MAGNUM alerts intermittently. Rate and
strength of alerts may be consistent or vary
wildly.
STi MAGNUM alerts intermittently. Rate and
strength of signal increases with each alert.
STi MAGNUM gives an X-band or K-band alert
intermittently.
CAUTION:
Since the characteristics of
these alerts may be similar to some of
the preceding examples,
overconfidence in an unfamiliar area
can be dangerous. Likewise, if an alert
in a commonly traveled area is suddenly
stronger or on a different band than
usual, speed radar may be set up nearby.
