Kustom Signals Pro-Lite, Reference Manual

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Pro-Lite Operator’s Manual
Page 11
OPERATION
NOTE: The following guide to operating the Pro-Lite
LIDAR system is not intended to be a training
program. Before operating this unit or any
other speed measuring system, Kustom
Signals urges all operators to have prior
training in LIDAR speed monitoring devices.
Such courses are offered by Kustom Signals,
various state and local agencies and either
IPTM (Institute of Police Technologies and
Management) or Northwestern University.
Contact your District Manager or Kustom
Signals at 1-800-4KUSTOM for further details.
Setup
There are several factors to consider when setting up to
take speed or distance measurements with the Pro-Lite.
They have to do with the location of the instrument relative
to the roadway upon which traffic is moving, and with the
actual setup in or around the patrol car or motorcycle.
In selecting a location for monitoring traffic, be aware
that the Pro-Lite is subject to the cosine effect in the same
manner as conventional microwave radar and other laser-
based speed measuring systems. The cosine effect is a
principle that states the apparent measured speed of a
target will decrease from its actual speed depending upon
the angle between the direction of observation and the true
direction of travel.
The amount of error is defined by a trigonometric
relationship known as cosine. From a judicial standpoint,
the measurement inaccuracy introduced by the cosine
effect is always in favor of the motorist, since it has the
effect of reducing the measured speed. Cosine effects will
never raise the target vehicle’s speed when using a
stationary measurement device.