Radar Detectors

[bino]

In the current thread about radar speed traps, there is some talk about radar detectors. It has been almost a couple of decades since I last considered / looked at / needed one of these. If the BIB are going to start using radar, it seems like having one here might be beneficial.

So, what is the deal?

First off... are they legal here? I know that they are outlawed in several provinces and states in Canada and the US.

Are they sold anywhere in Thailand? I've never seen them...

Anybody have one? Does it work?

What are the better models, and compatible with the radar equpment / frequencies used here?

I have some friends coming to visit from home soon- I might get them to bring me one!

Edited May 5, 2008 by bino

[pigtail]

To the best of my knowledge the Highway Police have been using the radar/laser guns for quite sometimes already. They are moving about on major highways out of Bangkok. I have seen some "greeting letter" to the speeder, indicating date, time, whereabout and picture of his car and license plate and the speed he was doing. Pay up or else, otherwise when the registration renewal is coming up you are in deep water.

Is it legal ? I dont dare to ask as the answer will be in black or white. I am operating mine in the 'gray' area. I use my radar/laser detector to warn me to be a law abiding driver. Some people would use Radar/laser Jammer model and that I am sure it is illegal, obstruction to justice somewhat.

Yes, I own one, brought over from the U.S. a portable one which can be placed on the dashboard and plugged into the cigarette lighter. You can get one at Pantip Plaza, I have seen the ads. Or on a website, brought in by some shops.

Does it work? Yes, it does but I have never encountered with a laser beam on the highway, only at Suwannabhumi Airport. The standard frequencies for radar are the X band (ca. 10 GHz), K band (24 GHz), KA band (33-36 GHz), KU band (13 GHz). The laser is operated at 820-950 Nano Mt. Funnily the 7-11 stores, K Mart are using the X and K bands for their automatic doors so I get a 'beep' whenever I pass those stores. Ha ha ha.

Newest thing for Bangkok Traffic Police is the Red Light Cameras catching those who jump the red light. Thirty installations so far. A one week test, resulted over 2,000 offenders. D day is June 1. So beware.

There are several brands and of course different price ranges. I got mine under $100, an expensive piece of toy. www.radarbusters.com will give you a full coverage.

Happy Detecting !

[initiala4]

I guess my V1 will work here?

[bino]

Pigtail- kudos to you for the reply! Lots of good info there.

Good link too. I see many name brands that I remember from oh so many years ago. I remember that the Escort / Passport name was the top of the line back then, and it seems that it still is now.

Anyone else have one? What brand? Which one would people recommend as a good performer / reasonable value?

I do believe that my guests from home will be carrying one for me when they come to Thailand. I realize that it is an expensive toy, but I like gadgets and toys, and if it saves me from having to sponsor a BIB happy hour / karaoke night, I'll be well pleased!

[initiala4]

Pigtail- kudos to you for the reply! Lots of good info there.

Good link too. I see many name brands that I remember from oh so many years ago. I remember that the Escort / Passport name was the top of the line back then, and it seems that it still is now.

Anyone else have one? What brand? Which one would people recommend as a good performer / reasonable value?

I do believe that my guests from home will be carrying one for me when they come to Thailand. I realize that it is an expensive toy, but I like gadgets and toys, and if it saves me from having to sponsor a BIB happy hour / karaoke night, I'll be well pleased!

I would recommend Valentine 1 over passport. www.valentine1.com BUT if you want to go serious, you can get lidatek as well!

[pigtail]

Another link which would help you to make a decision. www.buyradardetectors.com

BTW I have the Whistler SE 1793.

P.S. That traffic cop was 'shooting' on the tollway beyond Don Muang Airport. His sidekick will get you when you pay toll to get out at Rangsit.