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-6160CS 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-6160CS is designed to differentiate between
a standard K-band alert and a Safety Alert.
Since Safety A l e r t
®
technology is relatively new and the number of transmitters in operation is not yet
w i d e s p read, you may not receive Safety alerts on a daily basis and should not be surprised to encoun-
ter some emergency vehicles, road hazards and trains that are not yet equipped with these transmitters
and there f o re fail to provide a signal. As Safety A l e r t
®
transmitters become more prevalent (the number
of operating transmitters is growing every day), these safety warnings 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
™
-6160CS works and how radar and (LIDAR) laser are
used. Enjoy your Cobra ESD-6160CS 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-6160CS onto the wind-
shield, simply press it firmly on to the glass. Some-
times 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-6160CS AS A LEVER.
e. Removal
To remove the Cobra ESD-6160CS 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-6160CS to the dashboard of your vehicle requires a clear, level unob-
structed 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 illustration 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-6160CS 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-6160CS 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-6160CS is very important for opti-
mum performance. Both radar and laser transmissions pass through glass but not through
other objects. For this reason the Cobra ESD-6160CS lens 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-6160CS 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-6160CS by acting as an impenetrable bar-
rier 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.
H. Band Alarm Indicators
When the Cobra ESD-6160CS detects an X-band radar signal, the red "X" Visual A l a r m
Indicator (LED) will flash in unison with the X-Band audio tone. When the ESD-6160CS
detects either a K-band or a Ka-band radar signal, the yellow "K/Ka" Visual Alarm Indicator
(LED) will flash in unison with the K or Ka Band audio tone. When the ESD-6160CS detects
pulses of laser light, the red single digit display will illuminate in unison with the Laser
audio tone. When VG-2 is detected, the green "VG-2" Visual Alarm Indicator LED will flash
in unison with the VG-2 audio tone. When a Safety Alert signal is detected, the red single
digit display will illuminate
in unison with its independent audio tone and red “SA” Visual Alarm Indicator (LED).
I.
Muting Mode
The ESD-6160CS offers two MUTE modes-AUTO and MANUAL. To switch between them,
press the MUTE button when NO signal is being received. In AUTO mode the alarm will
be reduced in volume after three seconds automatically. In MANUAL mode, press the
MUTE button to reduce the volume. The unit will automatically be set to the AUTO mode
when turned on.
J.
Highway/City
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, pre s s
down on the Highway/City button. The single digit display will illuminate a to indicate
the detector is in the CITY m o d e. The single digit display will illuminate an to indicate
the detector is in the HIGHWAY mode.
In the Highway Mode, your Cobra ESD-6160CS operates at full sensitivity on all three radar
bands plus laser. The unit is automatically set to the Highway Mode.
In the City Mode, the X-band audio alert sensitivity is lowered to reduce false alerts. In or
near cities, there are many sources of false radar signals. Microwave relay towers for tele-
phone and TV signaling, anti-shoplifting systems and bank alarms–all are examples of false
X-band sources.
K. Dim Button
You may select from four levels of brightness for your Cobra ESD-6160CS display: Normal,
Dim, Dimmer and Dark. Each time you turn your ESD-6160CS on, the display is automati-
cally set to full brightness. Pressing once on the Dim Button reduces the display’s brightness
to Dim; pressing a second time reduces the brightness to Dimmer; pressing a third time, the
Dark mode, the single digit display will illuminate a and pressing a
fourth time returns the display to Normal.
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. Single Digit LED Display
The ESD-6160CS’ state-of-the-art LED single digit display presents clear visual
messages even in sunlight. A four position DIM mode is provided for dusk or night driving
(please see DIM BUTTON for details).
C. Signal Strength Meter
The single digit display shows the band signal strength in numeric form for X, K/Ka:
. It does not show the signal strength for Laser, VG-2 or Safety Alert.
D. Audible Alarm Indicator
A different alert tone will sound for X, K, Ka, Las
er, VG-2 and Safety Alert
®
signals.
E. Instant-on Detection
The Cobra ESD-6160CS is also designed to detect Instant-on speed monitoring signals.
Immediate action is required when warning is given.
F. Power/Volume Control
Plug the Cobra ESD-6160CS power adapter cord into POWER connector. Insert other end into
c i g a rette lighter of the vehicle. The POWER/VOLUME CONTROLon the left side of the Cobra
ESD-6160CS controls power and regulates the audible alert volume. To turn on, turn the thumb-
wheel away from you. Each time the unit is turned on, an automatic test pattern takes place:
• This pattern consists of three chirps.
• The red single digit display will illuminate the for Highway after the test
sequence is completed.
G. VG-2 Undetectable
Some states or municipalities use devices re f e r red 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 energ y. The ESD-6160CS detects the VG-2’s radiation before the
VG-2 can detect the ESD-6160CS. The ESD-6160CS then briefly turns off its internal oscilla-
t o r, rendering it invisible to the VG-2, and alerts you to VG-2’s presence. During these short
intervals, the ESD-6160CS is not able to receive radar or Safety Alert signals (laser re c e p t i o n
is not affected). Once past the VG-2, the ESD-6160CS returns to normal operation.
A. Radar/VG-2/Laser Alerts
Type of Audible Signal
Your COBRAESD-6160CS starts to signal
slowly, then increases in rate very rapidly.
Your COBRAESD-6160CS 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.”
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.
V. Maintenance
Your COBRAESD-6160CS RADAR/LASER DETECTOR will give you years of trouble-free ser-
vice 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-6160CS isn’t operating, we suggest you make the fol-
lowing 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 num-
ber 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 $10.00
Description
Part No. Cost Ea. X Qty. = Amount
STRAIGHT DC POWER CORD
Including plug/fuse for ESD-6160CS
CURLED TYPE POWER CORD For ESD-6160CS
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
$4.00
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.
(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
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 proof-of-purchase, such as a mechanical
reproduction or carbon or sales receipt. If you send the original receipt it cannot be
returned.
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 Parcel Service (UPS), Roadway Parcel Service (RPS), or First Class Insured Mail
to Cobra Factory Service, Cobra Electronics Corporation, 6500 W. Cortland St., Chicago,
IL 60707. Cobra is not responsible for units not received if package has not been prop-
erly insured.
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]
- EMERGENCY VEHICLE APPROACHING,
- ROAD HAZARD AHEAD, or
- RAILROAD
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
- DARK (Highway or City),
U.S. Patent No. 5,497,148
ESD-6160CS.MANUAL.qx 10/23/98 4:52 PM Page 2
