Escort Cobra Official Direct Wire SmartCord Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This instruction manual provides detailed information on the installation, operation, and maintenance of your Escort Cobra Official Direct Wire SmartCord. This accessory is designed to seamlessly integrate your Escort radar detector with your vehicle's electrical system, offering a clean and efficient power solution.

2. Product Overview

The Escort Cobra Official Direct Wire SmartCord eliminates the need for a cigarette lighter power outlet, providing a discreet and permanent power connection for your radar detector. It features a compact control module with visual alerts and a convenient mute button.

Figure 2.1: Escort Cobra Official Direct Wire SmartCord components.

What's in the Box:

• SmartCord (Direct Wire)

3. Features

• Ultimate Convenience: Powers your Escort radar detector without occupying your vehicle's 12-volt power outlet, resulting in a clean and uncluttered interior.
• SmartCord MuteDisplay Module: Provides visual alerts and allows for muting audible signals directly from the module, enhancing driving focus.


Figure 3.1: SmartCord MuteDisplay module for power and control.

• Stealth Mode Capability: Activate dark mode for discreet night driving, relying on the SmartCord MuteDisplay for visual alerts to maintain awareness without drawing attention.
• Wide Compatibility: Compatible with various current generation Escort windshield-mounted radar detector models, including MAX 360, MAX 360c, IX, IXc, 9500 IX, MAX II, MAX 3, MAX 4, MAX 360c MKII, MAX 360 MKII, MAXcam 360c, Redline 360c, and additional models.

Figure 3.2: SmartCord compatibility details.
• Optimized Cord Lengths: The direct wire SmartCord measures 9 ft. from the control box to the radar detector and 4 ft. from the control box to the fuse box, providing ample length for various vehicle installations.
• Eliminate Clutter: Designed to remove cord clutter from your dashboard, offering a streamlined and organized appearance.


Figure 3.3: Clutter-free installation with the direct wire SmartCord.

4. Setup

The SmartCord is designed for direct wiring into your vehicle's electrical system, typically via the fuse box. Electrical installation knowledge is required.

1. Identify Power Source: Locate an appropriate fuse in your vehicle's fuse box that provides switched 12V power (power that turns on and off with the ignition). A fuse tap (not included) is highly recommended for a safe and non-invasive connection.
2. Connect to Fuse Box: Connect the red wire of the SmartCord to the chosen fuse using a fuse tap. Ensure the fuse tap is correctly oriented; if the device does not power on, try flipping the fuse tap.
3. Connect Ground: Securely connect the black wire (ground) to a suitable metal chassis point within the vehicle. This can often be a non-structural metal screw or bolt. Verify the ground connection using a multimeter if unsure.
4. Route the Cord: Carefully route the flat cord from the fuse box to the desired mounting location of your radar detector. The flat design allows for easy concealment along trim panels and the windshield.
5. Position Control Module: Mount the SmartCord MuteDisplay module in an easily accessible location, such as near the steering wheel or center console, where visual alerts are visible and the mute button can be reached.
6. Connect to Detector: Plug the RJ11 connector from the SmartCord into your compatible Escort radar detector.

5. Operating Instructions

Once installed, the SmartCord provides convenient control and visual feedback for your radar detector.

• Power On/Off: The SmartCord powers on and off with your vehicle's ignition, as it is wired directly to a switched power source.
• Visual Alerts: The LED indicators on the SmartCord MuteDisplay module will illuminate to show active alerts (red LED) and confirm the device is powered on (green LED).
• Mute Function: Press the MUTE button once to silence audible alerts from your radar detector.


Figure 5.1: Muting alerts with the SmartCord.

• Lock Out Repeated Alerts: For frequently encountered false alerts (e.g., automatic door openers), press the MUTE button three times to store the alert location and prevent future alerts from that specific source.
• Dark Mode: If your radar detector supports a dark mode, you can activate it to turn off the detector's display, relying solely on the SmartCord's visual alerts for maximum discretion.

6. Maintenance

The Escort Cobra Official Direct Wire SmartCord requires minimal maintenance.

• Cleaning: Periodically wipe the SmartCord module with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and grime. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
• Connection Check: Occasionally inspect the connections at the fuse box and to the radar detector to ensure they remain secure.

7. Troubleshooting

If you experience issues with your SmartCord, consider the following:

• No Power to Detector:
  • Check the fuse in the fuse box that the SmartCord is connected to. Replace if blown.
  • Ensure the fuse tap (if used) is correctly inserted and making proper contact. Some fuse taps only work in one orientation; try flipping it.
  • Verify the ground connection is secure and making good contact with the vehicle chassis.
  • Ensure the RJ11 connector is fully seated in the radar detector.
• LEDs Not Illuminating:
  • Confirm the vehicle's ignition is on and power is being supplied to the fuse.
  • Check all connections as described above.
• Mute Button Not Responding:
  • Ensure the SmartCord module is receiving power.
  • Verify the radar detector is functioning correctly independently of the SmartCord.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For information regarding product warranty, please refer to the documentation included with your original radar detector or visit the official Escort website. For technical support or further assistance, please contact Escort customer service directly.