HR-12

HAND-HELD TRAFFIC
RADAR

OPERATORS MANUAL

P/N 006-0420-00
REV. 3

Copyright 1992
Kustom Signals, Inc.
All rights reserved
Printed in the United States of America
The publication may not be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in whole
or in part in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or
otherwise without prior written permission of Kustom Signals Inc., 9325 Pflumm, Lenexa,
Kansas 66215-3347.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION ..............................................................................1
CONTROLS AND INDICATORS
Rear View.....................................................................................2
Side View .....................................................................................4
Remote Control.............................................................................5
INSTALLING THE RADAR .............................................................6
TEST SEQUENCE
Power On......................................................................................8
Circuit/Lamp Test .........................................................................8
Tuning Fork Test ..........................................................................8
Moving Test..................................................................................9
Doppler Audio ............................................................................10
SYSTEM OPERATION
Control and Function Selections..................................................11
Monitoring Target Speeds ...........................................................11
Locking and Releasing Targets ...................................................12
Hold Mode..................................................................................13
GENERAL INFORMATION
Theory of Operation....................................................................14
Interference.................................................................................15
Power Source for the HR-12 .......................................................16
Groundspeed...............................................................................16
Recommended Care and Maintenance.........................................16
Microwave Emission...................................................................17
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE.......................................................18
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS....................................................20
REFERENCES
Case Law ....................................................................................21
FCC Rules ..................................................................................22
WARRANTY ...................................................................................23
RADAR LOG...................................................................................24

INTRODUCTION

Kustom Signals' new HR-12 offers you the same quality and ease of use you
have come to expect from Kustom Signals' traffic radar units. We have taken
our HR-12 hand-held moving radar and updated its features to offer you an
even more useful piece of equipment for your speed law enforcement needs.
We have added a Day/Night switch so you can adjust the brightness of the
LED displays to suit ambient light conditions. And we have added a handheld remote control so you can "keep your eyes on the road" but still lock
target speeds or put the unit in Hold Mode. In addition, there are two new
indicator lights--RFI and Hold--to give you more information about operating
conditions.
To get the most from your new HR-12, we urge you to read this operator's
manual carefully. While this manual is not intended as a training manual and
cannot replace a training class, it does describe the HR-12's controls and their
functions as well as give information on operating procedures. If you have
questions or experience operating difficulty, contact your Kustom Signals
representative or our Customer Service personnel for assistance.

CONTROLS AND INDICATORS

REAR VIEW

D
TARGET

PATROL

F
LO-VOLT

RFI

KUST
OM
POWER

VOLUME

HOLD

POWER

HR-12

TEST

A
H

A. POWER/VOLUME. Dual purpose control for ON/OFF and target Doppler audio volume.
Turn the control clockwise (past the "click") to turn the unit on and to increase the level
of the Doppler audio. The pilot light (lower right corner of TARGET display) will light
to indicate the radar is receiving power.
B. LOW VOLTAGE INDICATOR (LO VOLT). When lit, indicates battery voltage has
dropped below 10.8 Volts. Displays will be forced blank unless in Lock Mode.
C. PATROL DISPLAY. Registers speed of the patrol vehicle in the Moving Mode.
D. RFI INDICATOR. When lit, indicates the presence of strong RF interference. Displays
will be forced blank in the presence of strong RF unless in the Lock Mode.

CONTROLS AND INDICATORS

E. HOLD INDICATOR. When lit, indicates the HOLD switch on either the side of the unit
or the remote control has been depressed and the microwave source is turned off. Audio
will be automatically squelched in the Hold Mode.
F. TARGET DISPLAY. Registers speed of approaching vehicle in Moving Mode. Registers
speed of approaching or receding vehicle in Stationary Mode. The lower right corner of
the display is the Power Indicator, which will be glowing whenever the radar is receiving
power.
G. TEST. When this button is pressed, the system will conduct a brief light test of all display
segments and indicators followed by an internal circuit test. A short sampling of the
Doppler audio will also be heard, indicating proper functioning of the audio components.
H. REMOTE CONTROL CONNECTOR. Provides attachment, via cable, to the HR-12's
remote control.

CONTROLS AND INDICATORS

SIDE VIEW

KUSTOM

HR-12

NOTE: Some localities do not permit the use of any locking function. For this reason, your
unit may not be equipped with the LOCK-REL function. (The trigger will be
present but will not be functional, and there will be no LOCK-REL button on the
remote control.)
I. POWER CORD. Permanently attached to the radar unit, this cord supplies power to the
system from the patrol vehicle's power receptacle, or from a portable battery pack. The
fuse is located in the tip of the power plug.
J. DAY/NIGHT. Allows the operator to adjust brightness of the TARGET and PATROL
displays to suit ambient light conditions.

CONTROLS AND INDICATORS

K. AIMING SIGHTS. Enables the operator to correctly aim the HR-12 antenna to obtain
maximum effective range.
L. STATIONARY/MOVING (STA-MOV). By sliding the switch on the top panel to the
desired position, the operator can choose either Stationary or Moving Mode.
M. SQUELCH/UNSQUELCH (SQ-UNSQ). By sliding the switch on the top panel to
desired position, the operator can choose either squelched or unsquelched (continuous)
audio. In the Unsquelched Mode, audio will be heard whether or not a target vehicle is
present.
N. HOLD. Pressing the HOLD switch will shut off microwave transmission to avoid
detection by traffic radar detectors. This button also releases the system from the Hold
Mode. (This function is also available on the remote control.)
O. TRIGGER. Pulling the trigger once will lock a target vehicle's speed into the TARGET
display. Pulling the trigger a second time will release a locked-in speed. (This function
is also performed by the LOCK-REL button on the remote control.)

REMOTE CONTROL
The remote control unit allows the operator to maintain visual contact with the target
while performing the normal Lock/Release and Hold functions.
The LOCK/RELEASE (LOCK-REL) button, on the face of the remote control, is used to
lock and release target vehicle speeds. This button is not present on units without lock.
The HOLD button, on the top of the remote control unit, is used to place the system in the
Hold Mode (sometimes referred to as Standby). This button also releases the system
from the Hold Mode.

INSTALLING THE RADAR

A dash mount is provided to allow you to mount your HR-12 on the dashboard of the car.
To install the dash mount:
1. Place the bracket on top of the dashboard. Slide the HR-12 into the U-shaped holding
bracket until the radar is securely locked into the bracket.
2. Start the vehicle's engine, then turn the PWR-VOL control to the ON position.
Switch the SQ-UNSQ control to the UNSQ position. Adjust the audio to a
comfortable listening level above the engine noise.
3. With the HR-12 and mount sitting in the middle of the dashboard, and the antenna
aimed straight ahead, adjust the heater/air conditioner fan motor to a mid-range fan
speed.
4. Listen for fan noise in the audio; adjust the position of the radar/mount left or right as
needed for a NULL or no fan noise.
5. Moisten the bracket's suction cups; slide the bracket toward the windshield, keeping it
level. Push the suction cups firmly against the windshield. Attach the stretch cords
to the mount and hook into defroster vents.
6. Use the aiming sights on top of the radar to make sure the radar is aimed correctly.
Due to the highly directional beam transmitted by the HR-12, both the horizontal and
vertical aiming is important to the effective operation of the unit.
An optional kit is available from Kustom Signals to allow permanent mounting to the
dashboard to eliminate the possibility of the radar flying about the vehicle in the event of
a sudden stop or change of direction.
Plug the remote control into the 6-pin connector on the rear of the radar unit. Do not
force the connection--if the two connectors are not matched, broken or bent pins will
result and the remote will not work.
Insert the HR-12's power plug into the vehicle's cigarette lighter receptacle, auxiliary
power receptacle, or portable battery pack.
NOTE: Ignition systems in certain vehicles sometimes interfere with the proper operation of
any traffic radar system. Therefore, an auxiliary power receptacle and shielded
cable, which can be mounted under the dashboard and wired directly to the battery,
is available for your HR-12.
To install the auxiliary receptacle and cable: Mount the receptacle in the desired
location and ground the black wire to the receptacle bracket. Run the cable to the
battery; attach the white wire to the positive terminal, and the black wire to the
negative terminal. Ensure all attachments are firm and will not easily vibrate loose.

INSTALLING THE RADAR

TEST SEQUENCE
To assure functionality and accuracy, we recommend that circuit/lamp test, tuning fork test,
and moving test be conducted at the beginning and end of each patrol shift. The results can
be recorded in a radar log (such as the one at the rear of this manual) for future reference. If
the unit fails any of these tests, it should be removed from service immediately and taken to
an authorized service center for repair.

POWER ON
Turn the POWER/VOLUME knob clockwise (past the "click"). Check to ensure the
power indicator is glowing. If the indicator does not come on when the
POWER/VOLUME knob has been turned past the "ON" point, recheck the connection to
the power source.
NOTE: Battery voltage must be between 10.8 VDC and 16.5 VDC for proper operation of
the HR-12.
When first turned on, the HR-12 automatically conducts a power-on self test. The
PATROL and TARGET displays will register "188" "188", followed by "64" "64" in
Moving Mode and " " "64" in the Stationary Mode, along with a brief sample of Doppler
audio (volume must be turned up).

CIRCUIT/LAMP TEST
Press and hold the TEST button. The PATROL and TARGET displays will read "188"
"188" followed by "64" "64" in the Moving Mode, " " "64" in the Stationary Mode, and a
sample of Doppler audio.

TUNING FORK TEST

Stationary Mode
1. Place the system in the Stationary Mode by setting the MOV-STA switch to the STA
position. Turn the RANGE control fully clockwise.
2. Two tuning forks (35 & 65 MPH or 45 & 80 KPH) are supplied with the HR-12.
Strike the lower speed tuning fork on a hard, non-metallic surface, such as the rubber
heel of a shoe. Hold the vibrating tuning fork approximately one inch in front of the
antenna. The TARGET display should register "35" (45).
3. Repeat the procedure with the higher speed tuning fork. The TARGET display should
register "65" (80).

TEST SEQUENCE
Moving Mode
1. Place the system in the Moving Mode by setting the MOV-STA switch to the MOV
position. Leave the RANGE control clockwise.
2. Lightly strike both tuning forks on a hard, non-metallic surface. Hold the 35 MPH
(45 KPH) tuning fork approximately one inch in front of the antenna until the
PATROL display registers "35" (45). Then place the second tuning fork
approximately one inch in front of the antenna (both forks should be in front of the
antenna at this time). The TARGET display should register "30" (35).
If the proper reading is not obtained:
1. Make sure that Kustom Signals K-Band tuning forks have been used ("K-Band" is
stamped plainly on each fork). X-Band tuning forks, or tuning forks designed for use
with other manufacturers' radar, will not give the proper readings.
2. Striking the tuning forks too hard may produce false overtones which may be read as
speeds slightly above or below those specified. These possible false readings are
momentary, and the proper readings should appear as the false overtones dissipate.
Do not move the tuning forks after placing in front of the antenna.
3. Ensure the system is not in the Hold Mode.
4. Extremely cold or extremely hot tuning forks may give readings slightly above or
below those specified, due to the effect of extreme temperature on the metal. If this is
the case, warm or cool the forks to normal room temperature before use.
NOTE: If correct readings are not obtained after Points 1-4 have been rechecked, the
system should be shut down and taken out of service.

MOVING TEST
For an additional check of the unit, aim the radar straight ahead, drive the patrol vehicle,
and compare the reading in the display with the vehicle's speedometer. The speed
registered in the display and speedometer should coincide, or be within reasonable limits
(allowing for minor speedometer error). These comparisons, on a day-by-day basis, are a
reliable way to check the accuracy of your radar. If there are major discrepancies
between the speed registered and the vehicle speedometer, the system should be taken out
of service until the discrepancies are resolved. (This check is one of the best ways to
verify the proper operation of your radar.)

TEST SEQUENCE
DOPPLER AUDIO
To receive Doppler audio, set the POWER/VOLUME control past the Power-Off
position. Volume of the audio can be increased by turning the control clockwise. The
audio pitch will correspond to the speed being displayed; that is, the greater the speed, the
higher the pitch. Audio will be present from approaching or receding vehicles. The
audio presentation is especially useful in the case of multiple targets, when target
identification is more difficult. The operator has the option of squelched or unsquelched
audio by setting the SQ-UNSQ switch to the desired position. When no target is present,
selecting the Unsquelched mode allows the operator to listen for possible interference in
the operating area.

10

SYSTEM OPERATION
CONTROL AND FUNCTION SELECTION
Select Moving or Stationary Mode by sliding the MOV-STA switch to the desired
position. Use Moving Mode when the patrol vehicle is cruising and monitoring
approaching target vehicles and Stationary Mode when at a fixed position and monitoring
approaching or receding target vehicles.
Adjust the volume control for comfortable listening to the Doppler audio level. To select
unsquelched (continuous) audio, slide the SQ-UNSQ switch to the UNSQ position.

MONITORING TARGET SPEEDS

Once the radar has been properly set up and tested (see preceding sections), it is ready for
use. Acquiring and displaying valid target (and patrol) speeds requires obtaining a proper
tracking history, as described below:
1. Visually observe target vehicle and estimate its speed.
Recheck antenna aim and MOV-STA selection.
Observe other vehicles which may be in the radar beam and which are potential
targets (or may block the radar's "view" of the selected target), especially those which
are larger, closer, or much faster than the selected target.
Be alert to terrain or roadside features, which can cause interference, incorrect
readings, or display blanking. (Such features include power lines, radio/TV
transmitters, bridges, guardrails, and other large reflectors, etc.)
2. Listen to the Doppler audio. The pitch of the tone should correspond to the visual
estimate made above. The tone should be clear and strong; scratchy, buzzy, or
garbled tones could indicate interference of some sort.
3. Check the radar TARGET display. The reading should closely match the visual
estimate and the pitch of the audio tone.
4. If you are operating in Moving Mode, check your speedometer against the PATROL
display. The readings should correspond. Discrepancies indicate the radar is reading
the PATROL speed incorrectly, and thus displaying an incorrect TARGET speed.
Common causes of incorrect PATROL readings are large reflectors (such as trucks)
immediately ahead of the patrol vehicle or at the roadside. If this is the case, passing
or putting more distance between the patrol vehicle and the reflector should clear up
the discrepancy. Proper antenna aiming will help eliminate cosine error in the
PATROL speed. After obtaining a proper groundspeed reading, repeat steps 1-4.

11

SYSTEM OPERATION
LOCKING AND RELEASING TARGETS
NOTE: To comply with various state and local requirements, your unit may not be
equipped with the lock feature. References to the lock feature do not apply to these
units.
The Moving Mode and the Stationary Mode of locking and releasing targets are the same,
except no PATROL display will register if in Stationary Mode. The hand-held remote
control LOCK-REL button or the trigger is used to manually lock or release a target
To aid in positive identification of a target, the HR-12 automatically unsquelches the
audio as soon as the target is locked in. This means that audio will continue to be heard
and the antenna will continue to transmit RF energy and may thus be detected by radar
detection devices. Should you wish to escape detection in the Lock Mode, you can use
the Hold Mode (no RF energy will be transmitted in the Hold Mode). The unit will
remain in the Hold Mode until manually deactivated by depressing the HOLD button
again.
1. Observe target vehicle; obtain proper tracking history.
2. Press and hold the LOCK-REL button on the remote control or pull the trigger until
the locked-in speeds flash in the displays and the unit has beeped.
3.

To release a target in either mode of operation, press the LOCK-REL button or pull
the trigger again after completion of the alarm beep.

NOTE: Prior to locking, the HR-12 performs a brief, internal accuracy test. (This test will
not appear in either display.) If the system passes the test, it will allow locking of
target and patrol speeds. If the self-test fails, the TARGET display will register "0".
Release any locked-in speed and try again. If the unit continues to display "0",
remove from service and take to an authorized service center for repair.

12

SYSTEM OPERATION
HOLD MODE
The advanced electronics in the HR-12 enable it to completely escape detection by traffic
radar detectors by eliminating all microwave transmission in the Hold Mode. To activate
the HOLD function in either Moving or Stationary Mode:
1.

Press the HOLD button on the remote control or the side of the HR-12.

2.

Both displays will become blank and the HOLD indicator will light.

3. Visually acquire the target to begin tracking history.

4. Press the same HOLD button a second time to release the system from the Hold
Mode. When released from the Hold Mode, the HR-12 recaptures groundspeed (if in
Moving Mode) and acquires target vehicle speed almost instantaneously.
NOTE: You must use the same HOLD switch to release the unit from the Hold Mode as you
used to place it into the Hold Mode--that is, if you placed the radar in Hold with the
remote control, you must release it from Hold with the remote control. Use of one
HOLD switch (either on the remote or on the unit) will lock out the other HOLD
switch.
After a complete tracking history is obtained, you may now perform the locking function
by pressing the LOCK-REL button on the remote control or by pulling the trigger.

13

GENERAL INFORMATION
THEORY OF OPERATION
The HR-12 moving radar transmits a radio frequency of 24.150 Gigahertz, in compliance
with Federal Communications Commission (F.C.C.) regulations. A portion of the
transmitted signal strikes the surface of the roadway and surrounding terrain and is
reflected back to the antenna. This returning signal is referred to as the "low" Doppler.
From the antenna, it travels to the processor where the signal is translated into the speed
of the patrol vehicle (groundspeed) and registered in the PATROL display.
A portion of the transmitted signal strikes an oncoming vehicle (target vehicle) and
returns to the antenna at a much higher frequency because the two objects (patrol vehicle
and target vehicle) are converging. This returning signal is referred to as "high" Doppler.
Then the processor measures the speed of convergence, or combined speed, of the patrol
vehicle and target vehicle.
After receiving the "high" Doppler signal, the processor automatically computes the
difference between the speed of the patrol vehicle ("low" Doppler) and the speed of
convergence ("high" Doppler. The speed of the approaching vehicle is then registered in
the TARGET display.
If, for example, a HR-12 equipped patrol car is traveling 55 MPH, the "low" Doppler
frequency returned to the antenna is translated into 55 MPH and is registered in the
PATROL display. An oncoming vehicle is traveling 65 MPH. The "high" Doppler
frequency returned to the antenna is translated into 120 MPH, or the combined speed of
both vehicles. The processor automatically subtracts the "low" Doppler 55 MPH of the
patrol car from the 120 MPH "high" Doppler speed of convergence. The 65 registered in
the TARGET display is the speed of the approaching vehicle.

14

GENERAL INFORMATION
INTERFERENCE
Interference from any external event can influence the operation of the HR-12. These
influences can be natural or man-made. A knowledgeable operator will not be confused
by these external influences.
Natural events such as driving rain or blowing dust can cause a scattering effect, or
diffusion, which can decrease the effective range of the radar. The PATROL display can
be affected by a driving rain storm. Close observation of the patrol vehicle speed is
recommended.
Terrain can also affect the HR-12's range. Should the patrol car be on a slight decline,
with the radar mounted on a dash mount, the antenna could be shooting short of the target
vehicle. If on a slight incline, it could be shooting over the target vehicle. Range will be
shortened in either case.
Man-made influences are by far the most troublesome, because they generally involve
electronic signals, which may cause spurious displays. Electronic noises can be generated
by: power transformers, radio transmitters (especially those in the patrol vehicle), neon
lights, etc. These influences generate a phenomenon called harmonics", which can cause
a radar to display a false reading. The HR-12 is equipped with an RFI (Radio Frequency
Interference) detector that will cause the display to blank in the presence of strong RF
fields. No target speed measurement can be made when the RFI indicator is on to prevent
possible readings caused by the interference.
Intermittent readings need not be confusing if the officer is familiar with the operation of
the HR-12. For example, if the antenna is pointed at the dashboard of the patrol vehicle,
it may be reading the speed of the heater/defroster fan because most dashboards are now
made of plastic. A specially designed dashboard mount is available which will help to
eliminate this intermittent reading.
If the power supply voltage to the radar unit drops below the level required for proper
operation, the "LO VOLT" indication will appear and speed displays will be inhibited as
long as the low voltage condition persists. This prevents false readings from occurring
during periods of low voltage.

15

GENERAL INFORMATION
POWER SOURCE FOR THE HR-12
Cigarette lighter receptacles have been the traditional power source for traffic radar.
However, poor grounding, electronic ignition bleedover, and alternator noise in newer
cars can combine to create an unacceptably high level of ambient electronic interference.
Symptoms of such interference include abnormal tones or noise heard in the audio and/or
decreased range.
If radar operation is degraded by the electrical interference present in the vehicle, it is
recommended that a two-conductor, shielded cable be run from the battery directly to an
auxiliary receptacle installed at the dash or on the console. This should effectively
eliminate the power source problems.
GROUNDSPEED
All moving radar Systems must compute true groundspeed before a target vehicle speed
can be accurately computed. If the unit loses groundspeed, you can force the HR-12 to
recapture groundspeed by activating and then deactivating the Hold Mode. To avoid
possible confusion, closely observe the patrol vehicle speed.
NOTE: The HR-12 typically will not display groundspeeds lower than 15 MPH.

RECOMMENDED CARE AND MAINTENANCE

The HR-12 is a sturdy, reliable piece of equipment designed and built to give trouble-free
service. Following certain basic care guidelines will help ensure it gives you that troublefree service.
1. As with all electrical or electronic equipment, protect from moisture. Should liquid of
any kind get inside the unit, remove power immediately and send for repair. Prompt
action can minimize damage.
2

Other than the fuse, there are no user-serviceable parts in the HR-12. Replace fuses
with the correct size and type--excessive current due to oversize fuses will cause
serious damage not covered by warranty. NEVER wire directly into AC current!!
Damage caused in this way may not be repairable.

3. Do not pick up or carry the HR-12 by the power cord. Do not yank or twist the power
cord, especially near the handle of the unit--broken wires inside the power cord are a
common cause of intermittent operation.
If the radar exhibits decreasing range over a period of time, the unit should be examined
by an authorized service center for possible receiver diode degradation. Receiver diode
degradation has no effect on the unit's accuracy, but will result in unsatisfactory range.
16

GENERAL INFORMATION
MICROWAVE EMISSION
Traffic radar operators may have some questions about the biological effects of exposure
to the microwave energy produced by the radar devices. According to all credible
evidence, the emission levels resulting from traffic radar use pose no threat whatsoever,
either to the radar operator or to target vehicle occupants.
One widely recognized authority for safe limits of nonionizing radiation exposure is the
American National Standards Institute, which recommends maximum exposure levels for
the frequencies on which Kustom traffic radar systems operate (ANSI/IEEE C95.1-1992,
"Standard for Safety Levels With Respect to Human Exposure to Radio Frequency
Electromagnetic Fields, 3 kHz to 300 GHz"). These exposure levels, expressed in terms
of power density, are 7 mW/cm2 for X-band radar units, and 10 mW/cm2 for K-band and
Ka-band radar units. Similarly, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA), a division of the U.S. Department of labor, recommends a 10 mW/cm2 exposure
limit for all three frequency bands ("Radiation Protection Guide", 29 CFR, Chapter XVII,
Subpart G, Part 1910.97). This limit is clearly accepted by most reputable scientific and
medical authorities.
Kustom radar systems utilize microwave transmitters, which produce aperture power
densities, measured directly at the face of the antenna, in the range of approximately 0.3
to 2.3 mW/cm2. Typical levels for the vast majority of units are in the 0.4 to 1.0 mW/cm2
range, which is but a small fraction of the recognized safe limits. Bear in mind that these
are level measurements taken directly in the main beam of the antenna, and that the
power densities produced at the sides and rear of the unit are typically at least one
hundred times lower than in the main beam.
Another reference document on this topic is a DOT publication entitled "Field Strength
Measurements of Speed Measuring Radar Units" (NHTSA Technical Report #DOT-HS805 928). This report documents a series of tests performed by the National Bureau of
Standards on twenty-two commonly used models of traffic radar units, from six different
manufacturers including Kustom. Aperture power density levels measured were from
0.25 to 2.82 mW/cm2, while back-lobe power density values ranged from 0.001 to 0.02
mW/cm2. These measurements were obtained with the radars mounted inside vehicles, as
in normal operating conditions. Since the NBS study, other laboratories have duplicated
these types of measurements, producing consistently similar results.
For a free copy of the latest information regarding the safe human exposure standards,
please call or write Kustom to request the "RF Emissions Packet." You may contact us at
our corporate headquarters:
Kustom Signals, Inc.
9325 Pflumm
Lenexa, KS 66215-3347
(913) 492-1400
While traffic radar devices do emit microwave energy, the levels are so low that there are
no probable harmful effects. You may use your Kustom radar unit with complete
confidence in its safety, as well as in its accuracy.

17

TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
TROUBLESHOOTING THE HR-12
If you are having operating difficulty, recheck the operating information in this manual, then
check the following before notifying your Kustom Signals representative of a problem.
Problem

Possible Solution

Unit will not turn on or no pilot

light

Check fuse. For access to fuse, remove tip of power

plug by turning counterclockwise. NOTE: Replace
fuse ONLY with 2A Slo-Blo! Check for dirty
cigarette lighter receptacle, dirty battery cables, or
dead battery. Use auxiliary receptacle connected
directly to battery, or portable battery pack, or
switch vehicles.

Intermittent readings (display

readings that temporarily blank)

Often caused by interference from stray RFI (check

RFI indicator) or from the vehicles electrical
system. Use auxiliary receptacle connected directly
to the battery. If this fails, use a battery pack or
switch vehicles. If the problem clears up, the
vehicles electrical system needs attention.

Lack of Range

Check antenna aim and ensure the beam is not being

obstructed. Check for interference from the
heater/defroster/air conditioner fan. Switch vehicles
(electrical system interference sometimes affects
performance).

Random, obviously incorrect

readings (PATROL display)

Usually occurs if unit is set to Moving Mode but is

sitting still (such as at a stoplight) or is just
accelerating from a stop. If everything else is
normal, these can be ignored. If random readings
persist after patrol vehicle is moving faster than 1520 MPH, activate then deactivate Hold Mode to
force radar to acquire correct groundspeed and target
speed.

No TARGET readings
(PATROL readings may be
present)

Range may be adversely affected if patrol cars

speed greatly exceeds the speed of the oncoming
target. Check indicator lights on rear panelno
readings will be displayed if any of these indicators
is lit. Check that MOV-STA switch is set to STA if
operating in Stationary Mode.

18

TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
Problem

Possible Solution

No PATROL readings
(TARGET readings may be
present)

Ensure system is in Moving Mode while patrol

vehicle is cruising.

Displays are blank, power

indicator is on

Check indicator lights on rear panel. No readings

will be displayed if any of these (except POWER)
are lit. If a remote control is being used, unplug
from rear of unit. If readings appear, the remote
control should be taken out of service.

TEST sequence fails to work

Make sure TEST button has been pressed for 2-3

seconds before releasing.

19

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
MICROWAVE
Frequency:

24.25 + .1 GHz (K-Band)

Output Power:

12 mW typical, 40 mW max

Source:

Gunn-effect diode

Antenna Type:

Conical Horn

Polarization:

Circular

3 dB Beamwidth:

12o + 1 o

Antenna Gain:

Approx. 23 dBi

Power Density:

<5 mW/cm2 (measured at face of antenna)

Receiver Type:

Low-noise Schottky barrier diode

COUNTING UNIT
Operating Voltage Range:

10.8-16.5 VDC, 13.6 VDC nominal

Nominal Power Reqmts:

With displays illum:
Without displays illum:
With target present:
Without target present:
Standby (HOLD):

Voltage (VDC)
13.6
13.6
13.6
13.6
13.6

Current (A)
0.8
1.2
1.4
1.3
0.4

Environmental:

-30 oC to + 65 oC; 90% relative humidity at +37 oC,

non- condensing

Target Speed Range:

Typically 15 to 155 MPH (24 to 248 KPH) over a

broad sensitivity range. This unit complies with
IACP/NHTSA specifications for target channel
sensitivity (DOT HS-806-191, rev. May, 1989).

Patrol Speed Range:

20-80 MPH (combined Patrol and Target speeds will

not exceed 210 MPH).

Accuracy:

1 MPH ( 2 KPH) stationary, 2 MPH moving

20

REFERENCES
CASE LAW
This section on case law is included so that the radar operator and those individuals
responsible for apprehension and arrest can familiarize themselves with the more
important legal cases involving the use of traffic radar. Much of the referenced material
may be obtained at your community's local law library or through the prosecutor's office
Reference A--State v. Dantonio (N.J.) 1955 115 A2d 35, 49 ALR 2d 460. The landmark
case on the use of traffic radar.
Reference B--State v. Shelt (Ohio) 1975 75-D 0-3682, L-75-166. Establishes that the
court may take judicial notice of the reliability of moving radar.
Reference C--Honeycutt v. Commonwealth (Ky.) 1966 408 SW2d 421. Court establishes
that a tuning fork test is an accurate method of determining accuracy and that a properly
constructed radar, along with the visual observations of a trained operator, is an accurate
means of determining the speed of vehicles.
Reference D--Krueger, Pantos and Payne V. State of California 1986 (class action Suit)
887092, DP44339, and DP54571. Court ruled that properly built and tested radar used by
trained operators can determine the speed of vehicles. The judge dismissed each of the
defendants' claims that outside influences render the radar readings inaccurate in the
moving mode of operation. He ruled that proper classroom and field training enables an
officer to avoid any false or inaccurate readings due to outside influences.
The court held and took judicial notice of the accuracy of Doppler radar in both the
stationary and moving modes of operation.

21

REFERENCES
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION: TRANSMITTER RULES
AMENDED
The Commission has amended its rules to eliminate the required annual measurement of
transmitter power, frequency and modulation, and to specify transmitter power in terms
of output power for licensees in the Public Safety, Industrial, and Land Transportation
Radio Services.
The action was the result of a rulemaking procedure initiated October 29, 1976 on request
of HT & B Electronics.
Under the rules, which amend Part 89, 91, and 93, licensees will continue to be required
to operate their transmitters within the specified technical parameters.
For the sake of convenience and simplicity of transmitter power measurement, the FCC
specified that in the future, transmitter output power, rather than the direct current input
power to the final radio frequency stage, be the standard parameter used to indicate
transmitter power. The FCC defined transmitter output power as that power measured at
the transmitter output terminals when connected to a load of the impedance
recommended by the equipment manufacturer.

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION; RADAR UNIT LICENSING

AMENDED (PART 90)
The Commission has eliminated a requirement for local governmental entities licensed in
the Public Safety Radio Services to obtain a separate authorization for radar speed
detection devices.
This change will reduce paperwork for the Commission's licensing staff and for police
and other local government units, which will no longer have to apply for new radar
authorizations or modify or renew existing licenses and may operate speed detection
devices as part of their base/mobile communications Systems.
To provide the Commission with a record of such units in use, licensees will be required
to list the number of speed detection units and the frequencies on which they operate at
the time of renewal of their land mobile authorizations. Ordinarily, this would be once
every five years and would not be a significant addition to the renewal process, the
Commission noted.
This action became effective February 1, 1983.

22

WARRANTY
TRAFFIC SAFETY LIMITED WARRANTY
The Kustom Signals Traffic Safety Radar system is guaranteed to be free of defects in
materials and workmanship for a period of two (2) years from date of delivery to the Owner
or Lessee.

This Warranty applies only to the original registered Owner or Lessee on file at Kustom
Signals, Inc., and cannot be assigned or transferred to a third party.

The Owner or Lessee shall use the Equipment in accordance with the manufacturers
operational instructions.

The Owners or Lessees exclusive remedy under this Warranty is limited to repair to the
manufacturers operational specifications or replacement, at the sole discretion of
Kustom Signals, Inc. or its agent, of the Equipment as (i) is covered by this Warranty; (ii)
is delivered to Kustom Signals, Inc. or its agent at the Owners or Lessees expense
within the term of this Warranty; and (iii) upon examination thereof discloses to the
exclusive satisfaction of Kustom Signals, Inc. or its agent to have been defective in
material or workmanship. Warranty service and repairs must be performed by an
Authorized Kustom Signals Warranty Service Center or the Factory Customer Service
Center or this Warranty is void.

Failure of the Owner or Lessee to observe any conditions set forth in this warranty; or
equipment damage arising from flood, fire, vehicle collision, act of God or similar event
or catastrophe; or tampering, abuse, or misuse of the equipment by Owner, Lessee or
third party will render the Owner or Lessee responsible for the cost of bringing the
system within the manufacturers operational specifications.

This warranty is not intended to supplant normal care and service by the Owner or
Lessee, as specified in the Operators Manual, and shall not apply to Equipment which
has been defaced or damaged through normal usage.

The liability of Kustom Signals, Inc., if any, with respect to the equipment, shall be
limited as provided in this Warranty. Kustom Signals, Inc. disclaims any obligation or
liability for the loss of use of the Equipment warranted, loss of time, inconvenience,
commercial loss or other direct, consequential, special or incidental damages. Kustom
Signals, Inc. makes no warranties of any kind other than as herein expressly provided,
expressed or implied, and specifically disclaims the implied warranties of merchantability
and of fitness for a particular purpose. You may have additional rights under this
Warranty that vary from state to state.

No action for breach of this warranty may be commenced more than one year after the
date of alleged breach.

Equipment Supplied with Consumable Items

Items such as tires, non-rechargeable batteries, light bulbs, transmitter carrying pouch,
and microphone cables w/microphone and windscreen are considered consumable items
and as such are not covered by this warranty.
SMART Radar
SMART system radar units are warranted for two years, subject to the warranty terms
listed above.
23

24

DATE

TEST

FORK
READ

L/T

ON DUTY TEST
DRIVE
SPEED
READ

SIGN

TEST

UNIT SERIAL NUMBER _________

FORK
READ

L/T

OFF DUTY TEST

HR-12 RADAR LOG

DRIVE
SPEED
READ

SIGN

COMMENTS