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C.  Radar Frequencies

There are now three frequencies that have been approved by the FCC (Federal
Communications Commission) for use in speed monitoring equipment.
They are: X Band (10.525 GHz), K Band (24.150 GHz), Ka Band (33.400—36.000 GHz)

Your Cobra ESD-6700 can detect signals in all three bands including photo radar and STA L K E R
radar which use the Ka band, Cobra Safety Alert signals on the K band, VG-2 and laser.

D.  Facts About LIDAR (Laser)
• What is LIDAR?

LIDAR stands for Light Detection And Ranging. While everyone refers to it as LASER the
correct name is LIDAR.

• How does LIDAR work?

LIDAR operates a lot like RADAR. Like RADAR, it spreads out. Not as quickly, but it does
spread, as shown on the diagram below.

LIDARs must have a clear line of sight to target a vehicle during the entire measurement inter-
val. Intervening objects such as signposts, utility poles, tree branches, etc., will prevent a valid
speed reading.
• Does weather have any effect on LIDAR?

Yes, rain, snow, smoke, fog, and airborne dust particles will all reduce the effective range, and if
s u fficiently dense, may prevent its operation.

• Can LIDAR operate through glass?

No, LIDAR guns cannot obtain readings through any glass. But the laser pulse can be
received through glass to easily and quickly trigger a laser detector's alarm. 

• Can LIDAR operate while moving?

No, since LIDAR is line of sight, an officer cannot drive, aim, and shoot while driving. 

• Is a LIDAR DETECTOR legal to use?

Yes, it is legal in all 50 states. 

IV. Detection Alert

B. Facts About the Safety Alert

®

Traffic Warning System

FCC-approved Safety Alert Transmitters emit microwave radar signals to indicate the presence
of a safety-related concern. Depending on the frequency of these signals, as set on the transmit-
ter, the outgoing signal can indicate whether the transmitter is on a speeding emergency vehicle
or train, or at a stationary road hazard location.
These microwave signals are located in the K-band  and  as a result, any radar detector which
detects K-band radar will detect these Safety signals as standard K-band radar alerts. However,
unlike a standard radar detector, your Cobra 

ESD-6700 is designed to differentiate between a

standard K-band alert and a Safety Alert. 
Since Safety technology is relatively new and the number of transmitters in operation is not yet wide-
spread, you may not receive Safety alerts on a daily basis and should not be surprised to encounter
some emergency vehicles, road hazards and trains that are not yet equipped with these transmitters
and therefore fail to provide a signal. As Safety transmitters become more prevalent (the number of
operating transmitters is growing every day), these Safety Alerts will become more common.

I. Introduction

Congratulations!

You have just purchased the most sophisticated RADAR/LASER DETECTOR available
today. This booklet contains instructions and information designed so that you will be able
to understand how the Cobra ESD

-6700  works and how radar and (LIDAR) laser are

used. Enjoy your Cobra ESD-6700 Radar/Laser Detector and DRIVE SAFELY.

Federal Law Governing Use of Radar Detectors
It is not against Federal Law to receive radar transmissions on your COBRA Radar
Detector. The Communications Act of 1934 guarantees your right to receive radio transmis-
sions on any frequency. Local laws that contravene the Communications Act of 1934, while
illegal, may be enforced by your local law enforcement officials until and unless they are
prohibited from doing so by Federal Court action.

WARNING: Before leaving your car, make sure that you
conceal your radar detector. This will reduce the possibili-
ty of break-in and theft of your unit.

Use of this product is not intended to, and does not, ensure that the motorist and
any passenger will not be involved in a traffic accident. It is only intended to alert
the motorist that an emergency or service vehicle equipped with a CODE 3 or
Cobra Safety Alert Transmitter is in the area as defined by the range of the prod-
uct. Motorists are expected to exercise all due caution while using this product,
and to observe and follow all applicable traffic laws. Operators of emergency or
service vehicles are also expected to exercise all due caution while using this
product, and to observe and follow all applicable traffic laws.

c. Mounting on Windshield

To install the Cobra ESD-6700 onto the windshield,
simply press it firmly on to the glass. Sometimes
the suction cups adhere better if they are slightly
moistened. In cold weather, you may need to warm
the suction cups before application.

d. Adjustment

If necessary to achieve correct angle,remove the
detector from the bracket and the bracket from the windshield. Adjust the bracket
by bending it. 
DO NOT BEND THE BRACKET USING THE ESD-6700 AS A LEVER.

e. Removal

To remove the Cobra ESD-6700  from your windshield, release each suction cup by
lifting one edge with your finger, or by pulling on tab.

2. Dashboard Mounting

Mounting  your ESD-6700 to the dashboard of your vehicle requires a clear, level
unobstructed view of the road for the detector, without blocking the driver's vision.
Select a mounting position that allows the detector to have a clear view of the road
ahead. Using the hook and loop material provided, proceed as follows: (See illustra-
tion on reverse side)
a. Remove backing from one side and apply to dash.
b. Clean dashboard with common rubbing alcohol to remove dirt and grease.

Remove backing from other side and place detector on top. Let adhesive set.

Note:  With this hook and loop material dashboard mounting, it's easy for you to remove
and reinstall your Cobra ESD-6700  detector at any time.

Remember:  Without means to adjust the angle of the detector (when mounted as above),
be sure you that your Cobra ESD-6700  has a level, clear view of the road before you
attach the hook and loop material.

II. Installation

A. Location 
Selecting the proper location to mount the Cobra ESD-6700  is very important for optimum
performance. Both radar and laser transmissions pass through glass but not through other
objects. For this reason the Cobra ESD-6700 lenses must not be blocked, and it should have
a view of the rear window to take advantage of LaserEye 360° detection. It is best to locate
your detector in the middle of the front windshield. 
Examples of metal in the windshield area that can block or weaken incoming radar/laser

signals:

1. Windshield wiper blades. Mount your Cobra ESD-6700  so that it will NOT be behind

the blades when they are at rest.

2. Mirrored sun screens. It  is recommended that sun screens be removed, or they may

impair the performance of your Cobra ESD-6700  by acting as an impenetrable barrier

to radar/laser signals.

3. Regular tinted glass does not affect radar reception, although the darker tint at the top

of the tinted windshield prevents laser light from penetrating.

4. Heated windshields, currently available as an option for some Ford® (Instaclear) and

GM® (Electriclear) vehicles act as an impenetrable barrier to radar signals. (If in doubt,
check with your dealer to see if this applies to your vehicle).

B. Mounting

1. Windshield Mounting

The  WINDSHIELD  MOUNTING  BRACKET  offers 
convenient mounting to windshields and provides for
easy movement of detector between vehicles.
Note: Some new vehicles have a soft plastic coating
on the inside surface of the windshield. Suction cups
can permanently mark this "anti-lacerative" coating.
Check with your owner's manual to see if this applies
to your vehicle.

a. Assemble suction cup on bracket by putting round

“buttons” through larger holes in the bracket and

pressing them toward the outside edges until they

snap into position.

b. Install bracket to detector: align bracket with slot on rear of detector and slide bracket

into opening. To remove bracket from detector, simply pull bracket out of slot.

D. Instant-on Detection
The Cobra ESD-6700 is also designed to detect Instant-on speed monitoring signals. 
Immediate action is required when warning is given.
E. Power/Volume Control
Plug the Cobra ESD-6700 power adapter cord into POWER connector. Insert other end into cig-
a rette lighter of the vehicle. The POWER/VOLUME CONTROLon the left side of the Cobra
ESD-6700 controls power and regulates the audible alert volume. To turn on, turn the thumb-
wheel away from you. 
F. VG-2 Undetectable
Some states or municipalities use devices referred to as “VG-2”. The VG-2 device detects
low level energy radiated by the internal oscillators of radar detectors. The VG-2 device also
radiates a similar type of energy. The ESD-6700 detects the VG-2’s radiation before the VG-
2 can detect the ESD-6700. The ESD-6700 then briefly turns off its internal oscillator, ren-
dering it invisible to the VG-2, and alerts you to VG-2’s presence. During these short inter-
vals, the ESD-6700 is not able to receive radar or Safety Alert signals (laser reception is not
affected). Once past the VG-2, the ESD-6700 returns to normal operation.
G. Muting Mode

The ESD-6700 offers two Mute modes-Auto and Manual. To switch between them,press the

Mute button when no signal is being received. In Auto mode (an “M” is shown in the display)

the alarm will be reduced in volume after three seconds. In Manual mode, press the Mute but-

ton to reduce volume. Will also announce “Mute” or “Auto Mute.” In either mode, the next

alarm will begin with normal volume. The ESD-6700 will retain the chosen mode while Off .

Switching from Tone/Voice+Tone:

When no signal is present, pressing the button for more than 2 seconds will switch the unit

between Tone and Voice+Tone Mode. A “Voice Alert” will confirm Voice+Tone has been

selected and a single beep will confirm that Tone Only Mode has been selected.

H. City/Highway

The Highway/City function is controlled by a 2-step momentary button. The Highway mode

is automatically engaged when the unit is powered up. To engage City Mode, press down on

the Highway/City button. To reactivate the Highway Mode simply press down on the

Highway/City button again. Adouble beep confirms Highway Mode. Will also announce

“Highway” or “City” in Voice Mode.The ESD-6700 will retain the chosen mode while Off. 
In the Highway Mode, your Cobra ESD-6700 operates at full sensitivity on all three radar

bands plus laser.
In the City Mode, the X-band audio alert threshold is lowered to reduce false alerts. In or near

cities, there are many sources of false radar signals such as microwave relay towers.
I.   Dim Button
You may select from four levels of brightness for your Cobra ESD-6700 display: Normal, Low
1,  Low 2  and Dark. Pressing once on the Dim Button reduces the display brightness to Low
1; pressing a second time reduces it to Low 2; pressing a third time turns the display off ;
p ressing it a fourth time returns the display to Normal. Adouble beep confirms Normal
brightness. Will also announce “Bright”, “Dim”, “Dimmer”, and “Dark.” The ESD-6700 will
retain the chosen mode while Off.

III. Operation 

A. Band Detection
This detector is designed to detect X, K, Superwide Ka Band Radar, Laser, VG-2, and
Safety Alert signals.

B. LED Text Display
The ESD-6700’s state-of-the-art LED dot matrix display presents clear text messages even
in sunlight. A four position Dim mode is provided for dusk or night driving (please see 
I. Dim Button” for details).

Radar

The display shows the band (X, K or Ka) signal strength in
bar form, and a numerical indication of signal strength.

Laser                                     VG-2

The  display  does  not  indicate 
signal strength.

Safety Alert

®

Traffic Warning System

City, Highway Mode

Mute

Auto Mode

Manual Mode
P ressing the Mute button during an alert will cause the display
to show “Mute” for three seconds, after which the display will
revert to the previous visual message.

C. Audible Alarm Indicator
A different alert tone will sound for X, K, Ka, Las

er, VG-2  and Safety signals (Emergency Vehicle,

Road Hazard and Train). Displays and announces “Testing...System Ready.”  The ESD-6700

will announce the reception of speed monitoring and Safety Alert signals as follows:

The message “Be Careful...” and the Voice Alert Message will sound at the start of the alert. 

The Voice Alert Message will be followed by the corresponding Tone Alerts. See Section G for

turning off the Voice Mode.

A. Radar/VG-2/Laser Alerts

Type of Audible Signal

Your COBRAESD-6700 starts to signal 
slowly, then increases in rate very rapidly.

Your COBRAESD-6700 signals 
just once.

Very fast signal rate instantly.

Slow signal rate as you approach hill or
bridge. Sharp increase in signal rate as you
reach hill or bridge.

Short-term, weak signaling; series of such
signals.

Laser "chirps.”

All Band Indicators illuminate,ESD-6700
double “braps” rapidly.

Interpretation and Response

Most likely police radar.
FULLALERT.

Most likely a false source, or could be pulsed
radar. EXERCISE CAUTION.

Radar or VG-2 close by has been suddenly
switched on. FULLALERT.

Most likely police radar on other side of hill
or bridge. FULLALERT.

Most likely a false radar source. 
EXERCISE CAUTION.

Take FULLCAUTION. There are no false
laser signals.

An emergency vehicle is in the vicinity,
you are in the vicinity of a railroad crossing,
or you are approaching a road hazard
(construction site, accident scene, etc.) .

V. Maintenance

Your COBRAESD-6700 RADAR/LASER DETECTOR will give you years of trouble-free service
with minimum maintenance.
Replacing Power Cord Fuse
U n s c rew cap of cigarette lighter adapter and remove fuse. Replace with 1-ampere fuse only.
Troubleshooting
If your COBRALASER DETECTOR ESD-6700 isn’t operating, we suggest you make the follow-
ing checks:

1. Is the power cord properly connected?
2. Is the fuse OK?
3. Is the cigarette lighter socket clean and free from corrosion?

Limited One Year Warranty

C O B R A ELECTRONICS CORPORATION warrants that its COBRAradar detectors, and the
component parts thereof, will be free of defects in workmanship and materials for a period of
one (1) year from the date of first consumer purchase. This warranty may be enforced by the first
consumer purc h a s e r, provided that the product is utilized within the U.S.A.
C O B R A will, without charge, repair or replace, at its option, defective radar detectors, products or
component parts upon delivery to the COBRAfactory Service Department, accompanied by proof of
the date of first consumer purchase, such as a duplicated copy of a sales re c e i p t .
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 war-
ranty. For further details concerning procedures for obtaining service, see the “If You Think You
Need Service” section of the Owner’s Manual.
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 limita-
tions may not apply to you.

COBRA ELECTRONICS CORPORATION

6500 W. Cortland Street, Chicago, Illinois 60707

COBRA RADAR DETECTOR ACCESSORIES

420-080-N-001     $10.00

420-080-N-002     $10.00

545-139-N-001     $7.00

Description

Part No.         Cost Ea.      X Qty. = Amount

STRAIGHT DC POWER CORD
Including plug/fuse for ESD-6700

CURLED TYPE POWER CORD  For ESD-6700

WINDSHIELD 
MOUNTING BRACKET

Allow 4 to 6 weeks delivery. Offer valid in Continental U.S. only.

★★

Illinois residents add 7%

★★

Cook County, ILresidents additional .75% (7.75% total)

★★

Chicago, ILresidents additional 1% (8.75% total) 

★★

Indiana residents add 5%

★★

Michigan residents add 6 %

★★

Ohio residents add 6%

★★

Wisconsin residents add appropriate %

Amount

__________

(Tax if applicable

✭✭

) __________

Shipping/handling

$3.75

Total

__________

Make check or money order (no stamps) payable to Cobra Electronics and mail with this order form to:

Cobra Accessories Dept.

6500 W. Cortland St., Chicago, IL 60707

Call 773-889-3087, or fax 773-622-2269 for credit card orders

Allow 4 to 6 weeks for delivery. Offer valid in Continental U.S. only.

If You Think You Need Service, Call 773-889-3087

If your product should require factory service please call Cobra first before sending

your unit in. This will ensure the fastest turnaround  time on your repair.

You may be asked to send your unit to the Cobra factory. It will be necessary to furnish the 
following, in order to have the product serviced and returned.
1. For Warranty Repair, include some form of pro o f - o f - p u rchase, such as a mechanical re p ro-

duction or carbon or sales receipt. If you send the original receipt it cannot be re t u r n e d .

2. Send the entire product. For example–must include detector, bracket with suction cups,

and cord.

3. Enclose a description of what is happening with the unit. Include a typed or clearly

printed name and address of where the unit is to be returned.

4. Pack unit securely to prevent damage in transit. If possible, use the original packing material.
5. Ship prepaid and insured by way of a traceable carrier (to avoid loss in transit) such as United

P a rcel Service (UPS), Roadway Parcel Service (RPS), or First Class Insured Mail to Cobra
Factory Service, Cobra Electronics Corporation, 6700 W. Cortland St., Chicago, IL60707. Cobra
is not responsible for units not received if package has not been properly insure d .

6. If the unit is in warranty, upon receipt of your unit it will either be repaired or

exchanged depending on the model. Please allow approximately 3 to 4 weeks before
contacting us for status. If the unit is out of warranty a letter will automatically be sent
informing you of the repair charge or replacement charge. If you have any questions,
please call 773-889-3087 for assistance.

For technical assistance, please call our Automated Help Desk which can assist

you by answering the most frequently asked questions about Cobra products.

(773) 889-3087

24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

A Consumer Service Representative can be reached through 

this same number 8:00 am - 8:00 pm, Monday through Friday, CST.

Technical assistance is also available on-line in the Frequently Asked Question

(FAQ) section at www.cobraelec.com or by e-mail to [email protected]

Automatically reduces 
volume of alert in progress
after 3 seconds.

(Prices subject to change without notice.)

Please print clearly: 

Name

__________________________________________________________________

Address (Not P. O. Box) ____________________________________________________

City ________________________________State____________Zip ________________

Telephone No.  (________) ________________________________________________

Credit Card No.______________________________________Exp. Date ____________

Customer Signature __________________________________________

Circle One:

Visa

MasterCard

Discover

Voice Alert Message:

“X Alert

“K Alert”

“Ka Alert” “Laser Alert”

“VG-2 Alert”

Safety Alert Warnings:

“E m e rgency Vehicle A p p ro a c h i n g ”

“Road Hazard A h e a d ”

“ Train A p p ro a c h i n g ”

“Be Careful...”

“Be Careful...”

ESD-6700.MANUAL.qx   10/23/98 3:55 PM  Page 2

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