ESCORT Beltronics RX65 - Radar Detector Manual

Introduction

The BEL Pro RX65 is the most advanced radar, laser and safety detector ever designed by Beltronics. The BEL RX65 includes full X, K, SuperWide Ka, and Safety Warning System radar capability, front and rear laser detection, digital signal processing (DSP) for superior range and reduced false alarms, our patented Mute and AutoMute, audible and visual band alerts, and all the performance you'd expect from Beltronics. In addition, the BEL RX65 introduces a new level of revolutionary performance and innovative features.

• Superior long-range radar and laser detection, including new "POP" mode alert
• Advanced Programming lets you customize 7 features
• AutoScan mode drastically reduces false alarms, plus Highway and City settings
• Ultra-bright alphanumeric Display with 280 LEDs
• Exclusive Threat Display tracks and displays multiple radar signals, including signal strength.
• Tech Display provides actual numeric radar frequency for any radar signal
• New Programmable Bands (on/off), including International and North American settings.
• Detects and decodes Safety Warning System messages
• Includes new coiled SmartPlug

If you've used a radar detector before, a review of the Quick Reference Guide, and the Programming information 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 RX65's outstanding performance and innovative features.
Please drive safely.

BEL Pro RX65 Quick Reference Card

There are 7 user-selectable options so you can customize your RX65 for your own preferences. The buttons labeled CITY and BRT are also used to enter the Program Mode, REVIEW your current program settings, and to CHANGE any settings as desired. The words PROGRAM,RVW and CHG are located on the top of the detector, and are highlighted in graphics.

How to use Programming

1. To enter Program Mode, press and hold both CITY and BRT buttons down for 2 seconds. The unit will beep twice, and will display the word .
2. Then press the RVW 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 CHG 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 leave Program Mode, simply wait 8 seconds without pressing any button, or press the PWR button. The unit will display ,beep, and return to normal operation.

Factory Default Settings
To reset RX65 to its original factory settings, press and hold the"CITY"and "BRT"buttons while turning the powetr on. RX65's display will provide a Reset message, accompanied by an audible alert, acknowledging the reset.

An example
Here is how you would turn RX65's AutoMute feature off.

1. Enter the Program Mode by holding both the CITY and BRT buttons down for 2 seconds. RX65 will beep twice and display .
2. Then hold the RVW button down. The RX65 will scroll through the categories, starting with Pilot (), then Voice (), then Power-on sequence (), then Signal strength meter (), and then AutoMute ().
3. Release the RVW button when RX65 shows the AutoMute item. Since the factory setting is for AutoMute to be on, RX65 will display . If you accidentally don't release the RVW button in time, and the RX65 goes to the next category, hold the RVW button down again, and after RX65 scrolls through all categories, it will begin again at the top of the list.
4. Press the CHG button to change from to .
5. To complete the Programming, simply wait 8 seconds without pressing any button, or press the PWR button. The RX65 will display Complete, beep, and return to normal operation.

Programming Details

Quick Reference Guide

To begin using your RX65, 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 lighter socket.
2. Mount your RX65 on the windshield using the supplied windshield mount.
3. Press the PWR button, located top left, to turn RX65 on. 4 Press and hold the Volume/Mute button to adjust the volume.

Please read the manual to fully understand RX65's operation and features.

Installation

Power Connection
To power RX65,plug the small end of the SmartPlug,(telephone-type connector) into the modular jack on RX65's right side, and plug the lighter plug adapter into your vehicle's lighter socket or accessory socket.
RX65 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 the optional European sleeve to ensure a snug fit. If so, simply call our service department to order one. This sleeve slides over the SmartPlug's lighter plug adapter. Of course, your lighter socket must be clean and properly connected for proper operation.
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
See the Accessories section for details on our optional Direct-wire SmartPlug.

Mounting Location

BELTRONICS cannot anticipate the many ways the RX65 can be mounted.
It is important that you mount RX65 where it will not impair your view nor present a hazard in case of an accident.

Where to mount RX65
For optimum detection performance, we recommend the following:

• Using the Windshield QuickMount, mount your RX65 level, and high enough on your front windshield to provide a clear view of the road from the front and rear.
• Mount RX65 away from windshield wipers, other solid objects, and heavily tinted areas that might obstruct the radar antenna or laser lens.

Windshield QuickMount
RX65's QuickMount windshield bracket is designed for unobtrusive and hassle-free mounting.

1. Depress the QuickMount button on the top of RX65 (by the word BELTRONICS) and slide the QuickMount 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 QuickMount bracket can be bent. 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 RX65 on your windshield, use the QuickMount adjustment button located on the top of the RX65,and slide RX65 forward or backward to obtain a level horizontal position. When installed and adjusted properly, the back top edge of the RX65 should rest solidly against your windshield.

A few vehicles (including some Porsches) have windshields with a soft anti-lacerative coating on the inside surface. Use of suction cups will permanently mar this coating. Consult your dealership or the vehicle owner's manual to determine if your windshield has this coating.

User's Tip
You can leave the QuickMount bracket in place on your windshield, and easily remove the RX65 by pressing the adjustment button and sliding it 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.

Controls and Features

Power On/Off
To turn the RX65 on, press the PWR button on the left side of the top case. When you turn the RX65 on, it goes through a sequence of alerts. If you prefer, you may program your RX65 for a shorter power-on sequence. See the Programming section for details.

Voice
The RX65 has our Digital Voice feature, which provides a digital voice announcement of the band being detecting.
If you prefer, you can turn the Digital Voice feature off in programming. See Programming section for details.

Power-on indication
After RX65's start-up sequence is complete, the alphanumeric display will show Highway, City, or AutoScan to indicate which sensitivity mode is selected.
If you prefer, you can select alternate power-on displays. See the Programming section for details.

AutoMute
Your RX65 has our patented AutoMute feature. After RX65 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 Programming section for details.

Volume / Mute Button
To adjust the alert tone volume, press and hold the Volume/Mute bar located on the top case.
The Mute button, located on RX65's top case, allows you to silence the audio alert during a radar encounter.
To mute the audio for a single specific signal, briefly press the Volume/Mute button. After that radar encounter has passed, the mute will automatically reset and the audio will alert you to the next encounter.

Highway / AutoScan / City Switch
The City button selects RX65's sensitivity mode. We recommend the AutoScan mode for most driving. RX65's AutoScan mode provides long range warning, with minimum false alarms. In this mode, RX65's internal computer continuously analyzes all incoming signals and intelligently adjusts the sensitivity.

You can also select conventional Highway and City modes. When driving in urban areas where annoying X-band intrusion alarms and door openers are common, City mode can be engaged to lower X-band sensitivity and reduce X-band alerts. Full sensitivity is maintained on all other bands. You can customize RX65's City mode sensitivity. See the Programming section for details.

Brightness Button
RX65's BRT button selects the brightness of RX65's display. There are four settings: Maximum, Medium, Minimum, and Dark. Press the BRT button to select your preferred brightness.

Dark Mode
When you select the Dark mode with the BRT switch, RX65 changes to a very inconspicuous power-on indication: a very BRT AD,HD,or CD.(In this display, the A,H, or C indicates AutoScan, Highway, or City, and the D indicates Dark.)
When RX65 is in the Dark mode, the display will not show visual alerts when RX65 detects signals. Only the audible alert will tell you of detected signals.

Audible Alerts
For Radar signals:
RX65 uses a Geiger-counter-like sound to indicate the signal strength and type of radar signal being encountered. When you encounter radar, a distinct audible alert will sound and occur faster as the signal gets stronger. This allows you to judge the distance from the signal source without taking your eyes from the road. Each band has a distinct tone for easy identification.
X-band = chirping tone
K-band = buzzing tone
Ka-band = double-chirp tone

For Laser signals:
Since laser signals are a possible threat no matter how weak, RX65 alerts you to all laser signals with a full laser alert.

For Safety signals:
RX65 will alert you to these signals with a double-buzz tone (and digital voice if programmed) with a corresponding text message.

Power Connector
RX65's power jack uses a telephone-type connector. This new 6-pin connector only works with the included coiled SmartPlug, or the optional Direct-wire SmartPlug. The coiled SmartPlug is a special power cord that has a power-on indicator (which only lights up when the RX65 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 RX65 in the Dark mode, and use the SmartPlug for your visual alerts. Other drivers won't know you have a detector. An optional Direct-wire SmartPlug 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 RX65. For more information or to order, call us toll-free at 1-800-341-2288.

Signal Strength Meter
RX65's alphanumeric display consists of 280 individual LEDs, to provide an intuitive ultra-bright display of signal strength and text messages.
RX65's standard bar-graph signal strength meter only displays information on a single radar signal. If there are multiple signals present, RX65's internal computer determines which is the most important threat to show on the bar-graph meter. When RX65 detects radar, it displays the band (X,K,or Ka),and a precise bar graph of the signal strength. When RX65 detects a laser signal, the display will show "Laser."
NOTE:If you are operating RX65 in the Dark mode, the display will not light when a signal is detected – only the audio alert will be heard, and the flashing alert lamp on the SmartPlug.

Threat Display
RX65'sThreat Display option is an advanced display for experienced detector users. Please use RX65 for a few weeks to get familiar with its other features before usingThreat Display.
To use theThreat Display instead of the bar graph signal strength meter, you must selectThreat Display in RX65'sProgramming.
RX65'sThreat Display simultaneously tracks multiple radar signals and their relative signal strength.
Threat Display 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.
TheThreat Display is actually a miniature spectrum analyzer. It shows what band each signal is and its signal strength.

Above is the Threat Display if the RX65 was detecting a strong Ka-band, a weak K-band, and a weak X-band signal.
NOTE:If you useThreat Display, the brief signal shown in the power-on sequence when you turn on your RX65 will also be inThreat Display: an X with a decaying numeric signal.

A few more examples will help you better see how theThreat Display works.

Here Threat Display shows a strong K-band signal, and a weak X-band signal.

Here Threat Display shows a weak Ka-band signal, and a strong X-band signal.

An example
Here is how you would turn RX65's AutoMute feature off.

1. Enter the Program Mode by holding both the CITY and BRT buttons down for 2 seconds. The RX65 will beep twice and display .
2. Then hold the RVW button down. The RX65 will scroll through the categories, starting with Pilot (), then Voice (), then Power-on sequence (), then Signal strength meter (), and then AutoMute ().
3. Release the RVW button when RX65 shows the AutoMute item. Since the factory setting is for AutoMute to be on, RX65 will display . If you accidentally don't release the RVW button in time, and the RX65 goes to the next category, hold the RVW button down again, and after RX65 scrolls through all categories, it will begin again at the top of the list.
4. Press the CHG button to change from to .
5. To complete the Programming, simply wait 8 seconds without pressing any button. The RX65 will display , beep 4 times, and return to normal operation.

Overview of Programming

Voice
(Voice alerts on)
In this setting, all radar, laser, and SWS (if programmed on) alerts will be accompanied by a digital voice.

(Voice alerts off)
In this setting, only the audio tones will be heard during an alert or SWS message.

Power-on Sequence
(Standard)
In this setting, each time you turn on the RX65,it will display"BEL RX65,""Laser,""Ka band,""K-band,""X-band,""Safety,"and any changes to factory settings.(factory default)

(Fast power-on)
In this setting, the RX65 will only provide a brief audible tone, and will display any nonfactory settings.

City Mode Sensitivity
(Standard)
In this setting, when you put RX65 in the City mode, X-band sensitivity is significantly reduced, to reduce annoyance from X- band intrusion alarms and motion sensors. (factory default)

(Low X band sensitivity)
In this setting, when you put RX65 in the City mode, X-band sensitivity is reduced more than the standard setting. This will reduce X band alarms from other sources even further, but also significantly reduces range to X band traffic radar.

(No X band sensitivity)
In this setting, when you put RX65 in the City mode, it will not respond to any X band signals.

Only choose this setting if you are absolutely certain that there are no X band traffic radar units where you drive.
NOTE:These settings only apply when RX65 is operated in City mode. X-band sensitivity is not affected when used in "AutoScan,"or"Highway"modes.

Bands

In this setting all radar, laser, and SWS frequencies are monitored. This is the factory setting, and it is highly recommended that you use your RX65 in this mode.

In this setting, RX65 will warn you with an audible alert, and associated text message stating which band is turned off (i.e."SWS OFF").This warning is displayed during the start up sequence (standard or fast).

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

Technical Details

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, GaAs FET VCO
• Scanning Frequency Discriminator
• Digital Signal Processing (DSP)

Laser Detection

• Quantum Limited Video Receiver
• Multiple Laser Diodes

Display

• 280 LED Alphanumeric
• Bar Graph, Threat Display, orTech Display
• 3 Levels of Brightness, plus Dark Mode

Power Requirement

• 12VDC,Negative Ground
• SmartPlug (included)

Programmable Features

• Power-On Indication
• Voice Alerts
• Power-On Sequence
• Signal Strength Meter
• AutoMute
• City Mode Sensitivity
• Radar / Laser Bands

Sensitivity Control

• Highway, AutoScan and City

Auto Calibration Circuitry VG2 Immunity
Dimensions (Inches)

• 1.25 H x 2.75 W x 4.75 L

Interpreting Alerts
Although the RX65 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 RX65 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 the RX65's warning system for radar, laser and safety alerts.

Alert	Explanation
The RX65 begins to sound slowly, then the rate of alert increases. The Signal Meter ramps accordingly.	You are approaching a continuous radar source aimed in your direction.
RX65 emits short alerts for a few seconds and then falls silent only to briefly alert and fall silent again.	An instant-on radar source is being used ahead of you and out of your view.
RX65 suddenly sounds a continuous tone for the appropriate band received. All segments in the Signal Strength Meter are lit.	An instant-on radar source or laser source is being used nearby. This kind of alert requires immediate attention!
A brief laser alert.	Laser is being used in the area. Because laser is inherently difficult to detect, any laser alert may indicate a source very close by.
RX65 receives weak signals. These signals may be a little stronger as you pass large, roadside objects. The signals increase in frequency.	A moving patrol car with continuous radar is overtaking you from behind. Because these signals are reflected (reflections are increased by large objects),they may or may not eventually melt into a solid point even when the patrol car is directly behind you.
RX65 alerts slowly for a while and then abruptly jumps to a strong alert.	You are approaching a radar unit concealed by a hill or an obstructed curve.
RX65 alerts intermittently. Rate and strength of alerts may be consistent or vary wildly.	A patrol car is traveling in front of you with a radar source aimed forward. Because signals are sometimes reflected off of large objects and sometimes not, the alerts may seem inconsistent.
RX65 alerts intermittently. Rate and strength of signal increases with each alert.	A patrol car is approaching from the other direction, sampling traffic with instant-on radar. Such alerts should be taken seriously.
RX65 gives an X-band, or K-band alert intermittently.	You are driving through an area populated with radar motion sensors (door openers, burglar alarms, etc.).Since these transmitters are usually contained inside buildings or aimed toward OR away from you, they are typically not as strong or lasting as a real radar encounter.
	Since the characteristics of these alerts may be similar to some of the preceding examples, overconfidence 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 "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).

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 countries, 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.
TheTSR 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.

How Safety Radar 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 RX65 can display are listed on the facing page.
From the factory, your RX65 is programmed with SWS decoding OFF.If SWS is used in your area, your RX65 will display the safety messages associated with the signal. If you wish to detect this system, use the Programming feature to turn RX65's SWS decoding ON.
NOTE:Some of the safety messages have been condensed, so that each message can be displayed on one or two screens on RX65'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. For more information and details about SWS safety radar, visit their web site at www.safetyradar.com.

SWS Text Messages

Highway Construction or Maintenance

Highway Hazard Zone Advisory

Weather Related Hazards

Travel Information/Convenience

Fast/Slow Moving Vehicles

Troubleshooting

Explanation of Displays

	Sensitivity control is in Auto mode, display is in Dark mode
	Sensitivity control is in Highway mode, display is in Dark mode
	Sensitivity control is in City mode, display is in Dark mode
No display	RX65 is in the Dark mode, and is programmed for Dark All
	One of the many programming messages
	One of the many Safety Radar messages
	RX65 has detected a Safety Radar Signal, but the signal isn't yet strong enough to decode the specific safety message
	RX65 has been programmed in theThreat Display mode
	RX65 has detected a VG2 unit (radar detector detector)

Service

Service Procedure
If your RX65 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 1-800-341-2288.We may be able to solve your problem over the phone. If the problem requires that you send your RX65 to the factory for repair, we will provide you with a Service Order Number, which must be included on the outside of your shipping box.

Enclose the following information with your RX65:

• Your Service Order Number
• Your name and return address
• Your daytime telephone number
• A description of the problem you are experiencing.

Accessories

The following accessories and replacement parts are available for BEL Pro RX65:
Standard Coiled SmartPlug $29.95
Direct-wire SmartPlug $29.95
Detector Accessory Kit $14.95
Zippered Travel Case $14.95
Windshield Single Cup Mount $14.95
Windshield Suction Cups Mount $9.95
Visor Clip Mount $7.95
See all of our products and accessories at www.beltronicspro.com
Features, specifications and prices are subject to change without notice.