ESCORT Passport 9500ix - Radar Detector Manual

Introduction

You've just purchased the most intelligent radar and laser detector in the world—the PASSPORT 9500ix.
The PASSPORT 9500ix delivers extreme long-range warning on all radar bands including X, K, Superwide Ka, and instanton POP modes. Multiple front and rear laser sensors provide 360 degree laser protection, including the widest field of view.
For the ultimate in Laser protection, the PASSPORT 9500ix can also be used in conjunction with our Laser Shifter product. Visit our website at EscortRadar.com or call us toll-free at 800-433-3487 for more details. The PASSPORT 9500ix's GPS-powered intelligence provides permanent relief from false alarms including automatic door openers, motion sensors and other radarbased sensors. And, it comes pre-loaded with thousands of red light and fixed position speed camera locations throughout North America.
In addition, the PASSPORT 9500ix introduces the following state-of-the-art performance and features:

• New AutoLearn feature automatically learns and rejects false radar sources based on exact location and frequency.
• New AutoPower feature automatically shuts off the detector to save unnecessary drain on your battery.
• New Safety Camera Database stores thousands of red light and fixed position speed cameras throughout North America.
• New web-ready access allows you to update your safety camera data and other software through our website.
• Revolutionary AutoSensitivity mode provides real-time radar performance based on vehicle speed, plus Highway and Auto No X settings.
• SpeedAlert feature provides an instant view of your vehicle's speed during an alert.
• Mark Location feature allows you to instantly "Mark" known speed traps, cameras and other places of interest.
• Easy-to-use Preferences allow you to customize up to 10 features.
• Ultra-bright alphanumeric display with 280 LEDs.
• Exclusive ExpertMeter tracks and displays up to 8 radar signals simultaneously.
• Exclusive SpecDisplay provides actual numeric frequency for any radar signal.
• Selectable radar and laser bands (on/ off) allow you to customize which bands are monitored.
• Selectable Markers (on/off) allow you to customize which Markers are monitored.
• Includes exclusive SmartCord for easy access to Mute and TrueLock features.

If you've used a radar detector before, a review of the Quick Reference Guide, and the Preferences information on will briefly explain the new features. If this is your first detector, please read the manual in detail to get the most out of your PASSPORT's revolutionary performance and innovative features.
Please drive safely.

Quick Reference Card

There are 10 user-selectable options so you can customize your 9500ix for your own preferences. The buttons labeled "MRK" and "BRT" are also used to enter the Preferences Mode, REVIEW your current Preferences settings, and to CHANGE any settings as desired. The words "PREF," "MRK" and "BRT" are located on the top of the detector.

How to use EZ-Preferences

1. To enter Preferences, press and hold the "MRK" and "BRT" buttons down for 2 seconds. The unit will beep twice, and will display the word .
2. Then press the "BRT" button to review the categories. You can either tap the button to change categories, or simply hold the button down to scroll through the categories.
3. Press the "MRK" button to change any setting. You can either tap the button to change from setting to setting, or hold the button down to scroll through all the options.
4. To exit Preferences, simply wait 8 seconds without pressing any button, or press the power button. The unit will display beep 4 times, and return to normal operation.

Restoring the Factory Default Settings
To restore your PASSPORT to its original factory settings, press and hold the "SEN" and "BRT" buttons while turning the power on. A message will be displayed, accompanied by an audible alert, acknowledging the reset.

Quick Reference Guide

To begin using your PASSPORT, just follow these simple steps

1. Plug the small end of the power cord into the side jack of the detector, and plug the large end of the power cord into your car's accessory socket.
2. Mount your PASSPORT on the wind- shield using the supplied windshield mount.
3. Press the power button, located on the top case.

Adjust the volume level by pressing the "VOL" + or – buttons, also located on the top case.
Please read the manual to fully understand PASSPORT's operation and features.

Preferences
PASSPORT is ready to go, just plug it in and turn it on. But you can also easily change 10 features for your preferences.

Installation

Power Connection
To power PASSPORT, plug the small end of the SmartCord, (telephone-type connector) into the modular jack on PASSPORT's left side, and plug the lighter plug adapter into your vehicle's lighter socket or accessory socket.
PASSPORT operates on 12 volts DC negative ground only. The lighter plug provided is a standard size and will work in most vehicles. However, some vehicles may require our optional sleeve to ensure a snug fit. If so, simply call or visit our website.
NOTE: depending on your vehicle, the lighter socket power may either be continuously on, or it may be switched on and off with your ignition switch. Optional power cords Call or visit our website for our optional Direct-wire SmartCord.

Mounting Location

ESCORT cannot anticipate the many ways PASSPORT can be mounted. It is important that you mount PASSPORT where it will not impair your view nor present a hazard in case of an accident.

Where to mount PASSPORT
For optimum detection performance, we recommend the following:

• Using the supplied windshield mount, position your PASSPORT level and high enough on your front windshield to provide a clear view of the road ahead. For optimum rear detection, center the detector between the driver and passenger.
  
• Mount PASSPORT away from windshield wipers, other solid objects, and heavily tinted areas that might obstruct the radar antenna or laser lens.
  NOTE: In order for PASSPORT's GPS-powered features to work properly, the top case must have a clear view of the sky.
  

Windshield Mount

Windshield Mount
PASSPORT's EasyMount windshield bracket is designed for unobtrusive and hassle-free mounting.

1. Depress the adjustment button on the top of PASSPORT (by the word ESCORT) and slide the EasyMount bracket into the slot until it is locked into the position which best fits the angle of your windshield (there are four settings available). For extremely horizontal or extremely sloped windshields, the EasyMount bracket can be bent. However, we suggest that you do not do this when the bracket is connected to the detector.
   To ensure that the suction cups adhere to the windshield firmly, be sure to keep both your windshield and the suction cups clean.
   
2. To adjust PASSPORT on your windshield, use the EasyMount adjustment button located on the top of the PASSPORT, and slide PASSPORT forward or backward to obtain a level position.
   
   When installed and adjusted properly, the back top edge of PASSPORT should rest solidly against your windshield.
   

User's Tip
You can leave the EasyMount bracket in place on your windshield, and easily remove PASSPORT by pressing the adjustment button and sliding PASSPORT off the mount. Again, be sure to position the bracket where it won't present a hazard in the event of an accident. Additional mounts are available.

Power
To turn PASSPORT on or off, press the power button on the top case. When you turn PASSPORT on, it will provide a double beep tone, acknowledging it's ready.

AutoPower
This feature automatically turns PASSPORT off if the vehicle has not moved for 4 hours. This is especially useful if your vehicle has a hot plug (12 volts all the time). See the Preferences section for details.

Volume Control (VOL)
To increase or decrease the audio volume, press and hold the (+) or (–) volume control buttons located on the top case. A sample alert tone will be generated, along with a corresponding bar-graph on the display. Once you have reached your desired volume level, simply release the button. This level will be stored in memory.

Power-on Indication
After PASSPORT's start-up sequence is complete the display will show the full word: Highway, Auto, or Auto NoX to indicate which sensitivity mode is selected.
If you prefer, you can select alternate power-on indicators. See the Preferences section for details.

GPS Signal Indicator
The GPS signal indicator provides a visual indication that PASSPORT is receiving satellite data.
NOTE: Satellite reception is required to get the most out of your PASSPORT 9500ix. To receive satellite data, the top of the detector must have a clear view of the sky. See Mounting Location for more details.
The GPS indicator will flash on and off until it receives satellite data. Once received, the icon will stop flashing and remain on the display. The GPS indicator also provides a visual acknowledgement that the detector is rejecting a signal that has been stored in memory using the TrueLock feature. Once a false alarm has been stored, the GPS indicator will rotate clockwise, indicating that it is rejecting that signal.

Mute
The Mute button, located on PASSPORT's top panel and SmartCord, allow you to silence the audio alert during a radar encounter. To mute the audio for a specific signal, briefly press the Mute button. After that radar encounter has passed, the mute will automatically reset and the audio will alert you to the next encounter.

AutoMute
Your PASSPORT has our patented AutoMute feature. After PASSPORT alerts you to a radar encounter at the volume you have selected, the AutoMute feature will automatically reduce the volume to a lower level. This keeps you informed without the annoyance of a continuous full-volume alert.
If you prefer, you can turn the AutoMute feature off. See the Preferences section for details.

TrueLock/GPS Filter
The "GPS" filter button turns PASSPORT's GPS-powered TrueLock feature on and off. (default is on)
To lockout a false alert, (X, K or Laser only) press the mute button three (3) times, (either on the detector or the SmartCord) during the alert. Pressing the mute button the first time will silence the audio. Pressing it a second time will generate a prompt on the display that will read: "Lockout?" Press it a third time to confirm that you want to lock this signal out by location and frequency. A "Stored" message will be displayed. Once a signal has been stored, the detector will reject this signal the next time you approach this area. (The GPS indicator will rotate clockwise, providing a visual indication that the signal is being rejected).
To unlock a signal that has already been stored, simply press and hold the mute button while the GPS indicator is rotating. The display will read: "Unlock?" Press the mute button again to unlock it from memory.

AutoLearn
The AutoLearn feature analyzes (over time) the source of radar signals by location and frequency. This allows PASSPORT to determine if a signal is a real threat or a false one. If it determines that the signal is an automatic door opener, motion sensor, etc., PASSPORT automatically locks out this source at this particular location. A "stored" message, accompanied by a single beep, will appear on the display when a signal has been automatically locked out.
NOTE: AutoLearn typically needs to see the exact frequency in the same location approximately three times to lock it out. Since some door openers are turned on and off routinely, some variations may occur.
NOTE: When AutoLearn is on, PASSPORT will also UnLearn signals to protect you from locking out real threats. If a particular signal is no longer present at a location that was previously locked out, PASSPORT will unlock that signal.
If you prefer, you can turn AutoLearn off. See the Preferences section for details.

Sensitivity Switch (SEN)
The "SEN" button selects PASSPORT's sensitivity mode. We recommend the Auto (AutoSensitivity) mode for most driving. In the "Auto" mode, the 9500ix provides real-time radar performance based on your vehicle speed. As your vehicle speed increases, the radar sensitivity (X and K-band) is set to maximum range. As the vehicle speed decreases, the radar sensitivity (X and Kband only) is minimized to further reduce unwanted false alarms. Full sensitivity is maintained on all other bands. You can also select conventional Highway and Auto NoX. Highway mode provides maximum sensitivity on all bands. Auto NoX is the same as Auto mode with X-band turned off.

Brightness (BRT)
PASSPORT's BRT button selects the brightness of PASSPORT's display and keypad. There are five settings: Minimum (BRT MIN), Medium (BRT MED), Maximum (BRT MAX), Auto (BRT AUTO) and Full Dark (BRT DARK). Brightness Auto (BRT AUTO) (default) In this setting, the display and key-pad brightness will automatically adjust based on the ambient light in the vehicle.

BRT Dark (Full Dark Mode)
When you select the Dark mode with the BRT switch, the display will not show any visual alerts, (i.e. display or keypad) when PASSPORT detects signals. Only the audible alert will tell you of detected signals.
In this mode, visual alerts can be seen on the SmartCord in addition to the audio alerts on the detector.

Mark Location (MRK)
The "MRK" button allows you to mark a specific location and label it for future reference. Once marked, PASSPORT will provide an alert with an arrow indicating the direction of the location when you reach this area again. This can be extremely useful when there are known speed traps or camera locations that you would like to remember. To mark a particular location, press the "MRK" button. The display will read: "Mark?" Press the "MRK button again to assign a label to it. There are four (4) labels: Red Light, Speed Camera, Speed Trap and Other.
To scroll through the labels, simply press the volume (+) or (–) buttons until you reach the desired label. Once you've selected the label, press the "MRK" button again to confirm.
Once marked and assigned a label, PASSPORT provides the following alert distances:

• Red Light Cameras = 250' or 10 seconds
• Speed Cameras = 250' or 10 seconds
• Speed Traps = 1/3 mile
• Other = 1/3 mile

NOTE: When a location is marked the first time, you must travel at least one mile away from that location to receive an alert.
To unmark a location, simply press the "MRK" button when you are receiving a "marked location" alert. The display will read "Unmark?" Press the "MRK" again to confirm. The display will read: "Unmarked".

Audible Alerts
For Radar signals:
When you encounter radar, a distinct audible alert will sound and occur faster, (Geiger-counter-like) as the signal gets stronger. When the signal is very strong, the audible alerts will blend into a solid tone. This allows you to judge the distance from the signal source without taking your eyes from the road.
NOTE: If your vehicle is moving less than 20 mph and you encounter a radar or laser signal, only a doubletone (specific to the type of signal) is used. However, PASSPORT's meter will keep you informed of the signal strength until it has passed or until you reach a speed above 20 mph.
Each band has a distinct tone for easy identification:

• X-band = beep tone
• K-band = raspy brap tone
• Ka-band = double-brap tone
• POP = solid brap tone

For Laser and POP signals:
Since laser and POP signals are a possible threat no matter how weak, PASSPORT will provide a solid audio alert for these signals.

SmartCord
PASSPORT's power jack uses a telephonetype connector. This 4-conductor connector only works with the SmartCord (included), or the optional Direct-wire SmartCord.
The SmartCord is a special power cord that has a power-on indicator (which only lights up when the 9500ix is turned on), a bright alert light that warns of radar or laser, and a convenient mute button right on the plug. It's perfect for any car where reaching the detector's mute button on the windshield is a stretch. For discreet night driving, put PASSPORT in the Dark mode, and use the SmartCord for your visual alerts. Other drivers won't know you have a detector. An optional Direct-wire SmartCord is also available. This version includes a small display module which can be wired directly into your electrical system, with a 10 foot straight cord to route to your PASSPORT. For more information or to order, visit our website at EscortRadar.com or call us toll-free at 1-800-433-3487.

Speed Alert
PASSPORT's Speed Alert feature provides a visual indication of your vehicle speed during the first few seconds of an alert. This allows you to instantly check your speed without looking at your speedometer. Speed Alert is displayed regardless of your meter setting.
NOTE: When traveling 15 mph or less, your speed will not be displayed. If you prefer, you can turn the Speed Alert feature off. See Preferences for details.

Signal Strength Meter
PASSPORT's display provides an intuitive ultra-bright display of signal strength and text messages. PASSPORT's standard bargraph meter provides information on a single radar signal. If there are multiple signals present, PASSPORT's internal computer will determine which one is the most important threat to display. When PASSPORT detects radar, it displays the band (X, K, or Ka), and a precise bar-graph of the signal strength. When PASSPORT detects a laser signal the display will display "LASER."
NOTE: If you are operating PASSPORT in the Dark mode, the display will not light when a signal is detected—only the audio and the flashing alert lamp on the SmartCord.

ExpertMeter
PASSPORT's ExpertMeter option is an advanced display for experienced detector users. Please use PASSPORT for a few weeks to get familiar with its other features before using ExpertMeter. To use the ExpertMeter instead of the bar graph signal strength meter, you must select ExpertMeter in PASSPORT's Preferences.
PASSPORT's ExpertMeter simultaneously tracks up to 8 radar signals.
It provides detailed information on up to 2 Ka-band, 2 K-band, and 4 X-band signals. ExpertMeter can help you spot a change in your normal driving environment; for example, a traffic radar unit being operated in an area where there are normally other signals present. The ExpertMeter is actually a miniature spectrum analyzer. It shows what band each signal is on and its relative signal strength.

Above is the ExpertMeter display if PASSPORT was detecting 2 strong Kaband, 2 strong K-band, and 4 strong X-band signals.
As you can see, there are vertical lines after each band designator. Each line shows a signal being detected. The height of each line shows the relative signal strength of that signal.
NOTE: If you use ExpertMeter, the brief signal shown in the power-on sequence when you turn on your PASSPORT will also be in ExpertMeter: an X with a single vertical line.
A few more examples will help you better see how the ExpertMeter works.

Here ExpertMeter shows 1 strong K-band signal, and three X-band signals, two strong and one weak.

Here ExpertMeter shows 1 strong Ka-band signal, and three weak X-band signals.

On very weak signals, there will be no vertical line. This shows a very weak X-band signal.

ExpertMeter Details
The band designators (X, K, Ka) will stay on the display for a few seconds after the signal has passed. This allows you to see what the unit detected, even on very brief signals.
However, the vertical lines representing individual signals continuously change (several times a second) to give you a continuous instantaneous view of all radar signals present.

SpecDisplay
PASSPORT'S SpecDisplay option is also for the experienced detector user. In this mode, PASSPORT will display the actual numeric frequency of the radar signal being received.

SpecDisplay shows one K-band signal at 24.150 gigahertz.
NOTE: Even long-time detector users will require some amount of time to get familiar with this new level of information about detected signals.

Clearing The Database
At some point you may want to clear all of the data in PASSPORT'S database. This includes all markers and your false alarm locations. In order to do this, simply press and hold the "SEN", "BRT" and MUTE buttons at the same time. To confirm this action, press the "GPS" button.

How to use Preferences

There are 10 user-selectable Preferences so you can customize your 9500ix for your specific driving needs. The buttons labeled "MRK" and "BRT" are also used to enter Preferences, REVIEW your current settings, and to CHANGE any settings as desired. The word PREF is located on the top of the detector, and is highlighted in colored graphics.

How to use Preferences

1. To enter Preferences, press and hold the "MRK" and "BRT" buttons down for 2 seconds. The unit will beep twice, and will display the word .
2. Then press the "BRT" button to review the current settings. You can either tap the button to change from item to item, or hold the button to scroll through the items.
3. Press the "MRK" button to change any setting. You can either tap the button to change from setting to setting, or hold the button to scroll through all the options.
4. To exit Preferences, simply wait 8 seconds without pressing any button, or press the power button (). The unit will display Complete, beep 4 times, and return to normal operation.

An example
Here is how you would turn PASSPORT's AutoMute feature off.

1. Enter Preferences by holding both the MRK and BRT buttons down for 2 seconds.
   PASSPORT will beep twice and display .
2. Then hold the "BRT" button down. PASSPORT will scroll through the categories, starting with Pilot Light (), then SpeedAlert (), Power-on sequence (), then Signal strength meter (), and then AutoMute ().
3. Release the "BRT" button when PASSPORT shows the AutoMute item. Since the factory setting is for AutoMute to be on, PASSPORT will display .
   If you accidentally don't release the "BRT" button in time, and PASSPORT goes to the next category, simply hold the "BRT" button down again, and after PASSPORT scrolls through all categories, it will begin again at the top of the list.
4. Press the MRK button to change from to .
5. To complete choosing your Preferences, simply wait 8 seconds without pressing any buttons, or press the power button (). PASSPORT will display , beep 4 times, and return to normal operation.

Overview of Preferences

Details of Preferences

Pilot Light (Power-on indication)
(Full word)
In this setting, PASSPORT will display "Highway," "Auto," or "Auto NoX" as its power-on indication. (factory default)

(Letter)
In this setting, PASSPORT will display "H" for Highway, "A" for Auto and "ANX" for Auto No X.

(Letter with scanning dot)
In this setting, PASSPORT will display "H" for Highway, "A" for Auto and "ANX" for Auto No X plus a single dot that will continuously scroll across the display.

(Vehicle voltage)
In this setting, PASSPORT will continually display "H" for Highway, "A" for Auto and "ANX" for Auto No X plus the vehicle's battery voltage.
NOTE: If the vehicle's voltage drops below 10.5 volts, a low voltage warning is displayed, followed by an audible alert. A high voltage warning is also given if the voltage goes above 16.5 volts. The high-voltage warning is also followed by an audible alert.

(Vehicle speed)
In this setting, PASSPORT will continually display "H" for Highway, "A" for Auto and "ANX" for Auto No X plus the vehicle speed.

SpeedAlert

(SpeedAlert on)
In this setting, your vehicle's speed will be displayed for a few seconds during an alert. After a few seconds, PASSPORT will display the meter type you have selected, e.g. bar-graph, ExpertMeter or SpecMeter. (factory default)

(SpeedAlert off)
With speed alert off, PASSPORT will display the meter type you have selected.

AutoLearn

(AutoLearn on)
In this setting, PASSPORT will automatically learn and lock out false alarms. (factory default)

(AutoLearn off)
In this setting, false alarms can be locked out manually by pressing the Mute button three times during the false alarm.

Signal Strength Meter

(Standard meter)
In this setting, the meter displays the band of the received signal, and a bar graph shows the relative signal strength. (factory default)

(ExpertMeter)
In this setting, the meter simultaneously tracks multiple radar signals. It can display up to 2 Ka-band, 2 K-band, and 4 X-band signals at the same time.
NOTE: The ExpertMeter feature is explained in more detail.

(SpecDisplay meter) In this setting, the meter displays the actual numeric frequency of the radar signal received.
NOTE: The SpecDisplay feature is explained in more detail.

AutoMute

(AutoMute on)
In this setting, PASSPORT's audio alerts will initially be at the volume you set, but after a few seconds PASSPORT will automatically reduce the volume level to keep you informed, but not annoyed.
(factory default)

(AutoMute off)
With AutoMute off, PASSPORT's audio alerts will remain at the volume you set for the duration of the radar encounter.

AutoPower

(AutoPower on)
In this setting, PASSPORT will automatically shut off if the vehicle has not moved within four (4) hours. This reduces the current drain on the vehicle's battery when the vehicle is parked for a long period of time. (factory default)

(AutoPower off)
In this setting, PASSPORT should be unplugged or turned off manually when not in use.

Details of Preferences

Units
(Speed measured in miles per hour)
In this setting, all speed related features are displayed in miles per hour (MPH). (factory default)

(Speed measured in kilometers per hour)
In this setting, all speed related features are displayed in kilometers per hour (KPH).

Voice Announcements

(Voice announcements on)
In this setting, all alerts and instructions are communicated using a voice announcement. (factory default)

(Voice announcements off)
With voice off, normal tones will be used for alerts.

Bands

In this setting all radar and laser frequencies, (with the exception of POP mode) are monitored. This is the factory setting, and it is recommended that you use your PASSPORT in this mode.

In this setting, PASSPORT will warn you with an audible alert, and associated text message stating which band has been modified (i.e. "X OFF"). This warning is displayed during the start up sequence.

Only modify bands if you are absolutely certain that there are no traffic radar units using that specific band in your area.

Markers

In this setting, all makers in the database will be reported as you approach them. This is the factory setting and it is recommended that you use your PASSPORT in this mode.

In this setting, only the selected Markers will be reported.
NOTE: PASSPORT has plenty of built in memory to store thousands of locations. In the rare case that the database would become 80% full, a message will appear at start up to let you know you're reaching its limit.

Specifications

Features and Specifications

Operating Bands

• X-band 10.525 GHz ±25 MHz
• K-band 24.150 GHz ±100 MHz
• Ka-band 34.700 GHz ±1300 MHz
• Laser 904nm, 33 MHz bandwidth

Radar Receiver / Detector Type

• Superheterodyne, Varactor-Tuned VCO
• Scanning Frequency Discriminator
• Digital Signal Processing (DSP)

GPS Receiver
Laser Detection

• Quantum Limited Video Receiver
• Multiple Laser Sensor Diodes

Display Type

• 280 LED Alphanumeric
• Bar Graph, SpeedAlert, ExpertMeter, or SpecDisplay
• 5-Levels of Brightness Control, including Full Dark Mode

Power Requirement

• 12VDC, Negative Ground
• SmartCord (included)

Preferences

• Power-On Indication
• SpeedAlert
• AutoLearn
• Signal Strength Meter
• AutoMute
• AutoPower
• Units
• Voice Alerts
• Radar / Laser Bands
• Markers

Sensitivity Control

• AutoSensitivity, Highway and Auto NoX

Auto Calibration Circuitry
SmartShield VG2 Immunity
Dimensions (Inches)

• 1.40" H x 2.90" W x 5.35" L

Interpreting Alerts

Although PASSPORT 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 PASSPORT 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 PASSPORT's warning system for radar and laser alerts.

Since the characteristics of these alerts may be similar to some of the preceding examples, over-confidence 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.

How Radar Works
Traffic radar, which consists of microwaves, travels in straight lines and is easily reflected by objects such as cars, trucks, even guardrails and overpasses. Radar works by directing its microwave beam down the road. As your vehicle travels into range, the microwave beam bounces off your car, and the radar antenna looks for the reflections.
Using the Doppler Principle, the radar equipment then calculates your speed by comparing the frequency of the reflection of your car to the original frequency of the beam sent out.
Traffic radar has limitations, the most significant of these being that it typically can monitor only one target at a time. If there is more than one vehicle within range, it is up to the radar operator to decide which target is producing the strongest reflection. Since the strength of the reflection is affected by both the size of the vehicle and its proximity to the antenna, it is difficult for the radar operator to determine if the signal is from a sports car nearby or a semi-truck several hundred feet away. Radar range also depends on the power of the radar equipment itself. The strength of the radar unit's beam diminishes with distance. The farther the radar has to travel, the less energy it has for speed detection.

POP

Because intrusion alarms and motion sensors often operate on the same frequency as X, and K-band radar, your PASSPORT will occasionally receive nonpolice radar signals. Since these X-Band transmitters are usually contained inside of a building, or aimed toward the ground, they will generally produce much weaker readings than will a true radar encounter. As you become familiar with the sources of these pseudo alarms in your daily driving, they will serve as confirmation that your PASSPORT's radar detection abilities are fully operational.

How "POP" Works
"POP" mode is a relatively new feature for radar gun manufacturers. It works by transmitting an extremely short burst, within the allocated band, to identify speeding vehicles in traffic. Once the target is identified, or "POPPED," the gun is then turned to its normal operating mode to provide a vehicle tracking history, (required by law).
NOTE: According to the operator's manual from the radar gun manufacturer, tickets should not be issued in POP mode.

Laser

How Laser (Lidar) Works
Laser speed detection is actually LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging). LIDAR guns project a beam of invisible infrared light. The signal is a series of very short infrared light energy pulses which move in a straight line, reflecting off your car and returning to the gun. LIDAR uses these light pulses to measure the distance to a vehicle. Speed is then calculated by measuring how quickly these pulses are reflected given the known speed of light. LIDAR (or laser) is a newer technology and is not as widespread as conventional radar, therefore, you may not encounter laser on a daily basis. And unlike radar detection, laser detection is not prone to false alarms. Because LIDAR transmits a much narrower beam than does radar, it is much more accurate in its ability to distinguish between targets and is also more difficult to detect. AS A RESULT, EVEN THE BRIEFEST LASER ALERT SHOULD BE TAKEN SERIOUSLY.
There are limitations to LIDAR equipment. LIDAR is much more sensitive to weather conditions than RADAR, and a LIDAR gun's range will be decreased by anything affecting visibility such as rain, fog, or smoke. A LIDAR gun cannot operate through glass and it must be stationary in order to get an accurate reading. Because LIDAR must have a clear line of sight and is subject to cosine error (an inaccuracy which increases as the angle between the gun and the vehicle increases) police typically use LIDAR equipment parallel to the road or from an overpass. LIDAR can be used day or night.

Red Light Cameras

How Red Light Cameras Work
Red-light cameras use three basic things:

1. a camera,
2. a way to trigger the camera, and
3. a computer.

An intersection may have more than one camera to monitor traffic from multiple directions. The trigger is typically a series of wires buried just beneath the surface of the road. These wires are separated by a pre-set distance in order to create a magnetic field or induction loop. Once a vehicle is in the intersection, the loop or circuit becomes closed and alerts the computer to take a picture. In some states, tickets are issued to the car's owner, no matter who's actually driving. In this case, the red-light camera only needs to photograph the vehicle's rear license plate. In other states, the actual driver is responsible for paying the ticket. In this case, the system needs a second camera in front of the car, in order to get a shot of the driver's face.

Speed Cameras

How Speed Cameras Work

There are several types of fixed position speed cameras used, including radar, laser, induction loop and photo-based. Radar and laser based cameras are typically mounted near the road and transmit a short range signal across the lanes monitored. Since this signal is transmitted across the road instead of down the road like many handheld systems, detecting them in time is critical. Another technology used is an inductive loop system. This type of system utilizes wire buried just beneath the surface of the road to trigger a computer which calculates speed between the two points.
Photo-based systems take two sets of pictures of all passing vehicles between two separate fixed locations. Both sets of photographs are date and time stamped, which enables the system to calculate average speed between the two locations. Fixed speed cameras can also be set up to monitor one to four lanes of traffic in the same direction. To achieve this, a sensor is installed in each lane and a wide angle camera lens is used to photograph the vehicle which is speeding.

SWS

How SWS Works
Safety Warning System, or SWS, uses a modified K-band radar signal. The SWS safety radar system has 64 possible messages (60 currently allocated). The SWS messages your PASSPORT can display are listed on the facing page.
From the factory, your PASSPORT is programmed with SWS decoding OFF. If you wish to detect this system, use the Preferences feature to turn PASSPORT's SWS decoding ON. If SWS is used in your area, your PASSPORT will display the safety messages associated with the signal.
NOTE: Some of the safety messages have been condensed, so that each message can be displayed on one or two screens on PASSPORT's eight-character display.
Since Safety radar technology is relatively new, and the number of transmitters in operation is not yet widespread, you will not receive Safety signals on a daily basis. Do not be surprised if you encounter emergency vehicles, road hazards and railroad crossings that are unequipped with these transmitters. As Safety transmitters become more prevalent (the number of operating transmitters is growing every day), these Safety radar signals will become more common.

SWS Text Messages

Highway Construction or Maintenance

Highway Hazard Zone Advisory

Weather Related Hazards

Travel Information/Convenience

Fast/Slow Moving Vehicles

TSR

TSR Traffic Signal Rejection
Your radar detector includes a new optional boost in anti-falsing software to eliminate excessive alerts from erroneous X and K-band sources. One example of this is traffic flow monitoring systems. These systems, which are becoming more widely used in several states, generate K-band signals to measure the flow of traffic on a given road. Unfortunately most detectors see this as a real threat and will alert you to it unnecessarily. Our new proprietary software (TSR), intelligently sorts, ranks and rejects this type of false alarm automatically. The result is ultimate protection without excessive false alarms. The TSR software is turned on by default in the Programming section of your detector. If you believe this type of system isn't used in your area, you can simply turn it off. Otherwise, your detector is ready to start protecting you right out of the box.
If you have any questions about this new feature, please give us a call or visit our website for more details.

GPS / Updates

How GPS Works

The Global Positioning System (GPS) is made up of twenty four orbiting satellites and was developed by the U.S. military. There are at least four satellites visible at any given time every day. A GPS receiver is designed to locate and receive data from four of these satellites. This data includes the distance to your location from each of the satellites. Once the distance from each satellite is known, the receiver can calculate and pinpoint your exact location.

Software Updates
PASSPORT's red light and speed camera database is easily updated using our exclusive detector software tools found on our web site. Firmware, or the operating software for the detector, can also be updated using these tools. In order to have access to these updates, you must register your PASSPORT at www.EscortRadar.com. Once registered, you will receive email notifications that updates are now available for your database or firmware. The PASSPORT 9500ix will need to be powered up to use the software tools. If you have a laptop computer, you can take it out to the vehicle to download the updates.

Service

Service Procedure
If Your PASSPORT ever needs service, please follow these simple steps:

1. Check the troubleshooting section of this manual. It may have a solution to your problem.
2. Call us at 1-800-543-1608. We may be able to solve your problem over the phone. If the problem requires that you send your PASSPORT to the factory for repair, we will provide you with a Return Authorization Number, which must be included on the outside of your shipping box.

Enclose the following information with your PASSPORT:

• Your Service Order Number
• Your name and return address
• Your daytime telephone number
• A description of the problem you are experiencing
• Please include the lighter cord you have been using with your unit
• If you have owned your PASSPORT 9500ix less than one year and did not purchase directly from ESCORT, please include a copy of your receipt from an Authorized Reseller

Troubleshooting

Explanation of Displays

No display	PASSPORT is in Dark mode. Press the BRT button to change the brightness.
	One of the many Preferences.
	PASSPORT has been set to ExpertMeter Mode in Preferences.
	PASSPORT needs to cycle power. Unplug it from power socket and restart.

Accessories

Accessories
The following accessories and replacement parts are available for PASSPORT 9500ix.

Coiled SmartCord 29.95
Straight SmartCord 29.95
Available in red or blue

Direct-wire SmartCord 29.95
Available in red or blue

Accessory Kit 14.95
Zippered Travel Case 14.95

ESCORT Extended Service Plan
ESCORT offers an optional extended service plan. Contact ESCORT Sales for details at 800-433-3487.