Cobra RAD 700i
Connected Radar & Laser Detector
Quick Start Guide
Introduction
Congratulations on your purchase of the Cobra RAD 700i radar/laser detector. This guide provides essential steps for mounting and setting up your detector, along with information on how radar and laser systems operate and how to interpret alerts.
The Cobra RAD 700i offers advanced detection capabilities and connects to the Drive Smarter® app for enhanced features and real-time alerts.
RAD 700i Features
- Premium Detection Range: Alerts earlier and faster with DSP technology.
- 3rd Generation IVT Filter™: Reduces false alerts from In-Vehicle Technology sources like collision avoidance systems and adaptive cruise control.
- AutoLearn™ Intelligence: Uses GPS to learn and silence false alert locations over time.
- LaserEye®: Detects laser signals from both front and rear.
- 5 Color OLED Display: Customizable display to match your vehicle's interior.
- Shared Radar & Laser Alerts: Receives alerts from other connected detectors.
- Defender Database: Provides updatable red light and speed camera locations.
- VoiceAlert: Digital voice announcements for alerts.
- Dual Language: Supports English and Spanish voice and text alerts.
- Quiet Drive: A muted driving mode for reduced audible feedback.
- Sensitivity Modes: Multiple modes to reduce false alerts based on driving conditions.
- Auto Mute: Automatically reduces audio volume for sustained alerts.
- User Updates: Micro-USB port for software and database updates.
- Included Accessories: Comes with a 6-foot power cord and EZ Mag Mount™.
What's in the Box
- Cobra RAD 700i Radar/Laser Detector
- 12V Power Cord
- E-Z Mag Mount™
- Quick Start Guide
Controls & Features
- On-Off Volume Control: Located on the top, adjusts audio volume.
- MARK Button: Used to mark and lock out false alert locations.
- DIM Button: Adjusts display brightness.
- MENU Button: Accesses detector settings.
- SEN Button: Changes sensitivity mode (e.g., Highway, City).
- MUTE Button: Silences audio alerts manually or automatically.
- EZ Mag Mount™ Area: Magnetic mounting point on the back of the unit.
- Power Jack: 12V power input port.
- Micro USB Jack: For connecting to a computer for updates.
- Display: Shows Radar Band, Signal Strength, and Frequency.
Installation
Your detector includes the EZ Mag Mount™ for easy windshield installation.
- Attach the Magnetic Mount to the RAD 700i. The unit magnetically connects to the mount.
- Mount the unit on the windshield. Ensure a clear view of the road and sky. Avoid areas with wipers or heavy tinting.
- To secure the mount, press it firmly onto the windshield and flip the locking clamp down.
- Tilt the detector display slightly upward and engage it with the mounting bracket. The magnetic mount holds the detector in place.
- Adjust the angle by loosening the thumb wheel on the bracket and retighten to secure.
- To remove the detector, lift it upwards from the mount.
- To remove the mount, release the locking clamp and pull the tab.
Operation
Connecting to Drive Smarter® App
- Power on the RAD 700i.
- Download and install the Drive Smarter® app on your smartphone.
- If this is your first time using the app, follow the prompts to create an account.
- Fill in your account information and register.
- Verify your account via the email sent to you.
- Ensure Bluetooth® is enabled on your smartphone. In the Drive Smarter® app, go to Account and select "Add devices".
- Follow the app's instructions to connect the RAD 700i.
Display and Menu
The display shows:
- Radar Band Indicator: Displays the type of radar detected (X, K, Ka) or Laser.
- Signal Strength Meter: Indicates proximity to the signal source with alert bars. More bars mean a stronger signal.
- GPS/Speed Limit Indicator: Shows speed limit information and an indicator for over-speed alerts. A Bluetooth icon appears when paired.
- Speed: Displays the vehicle's current speed. When Speed Display is off, it shows vehicle voltage.
Understanding Your Detector
How Radar Works: Traffic radar uses microwaves that travel in straight lines and reflect off vehicles. The detector uses the Doppler Principle to calculate your speed based on the reflected signal frequency. Radar typically targets one vehicle at a time and its range depends on equipment power and environmental factors.
How Laser (Lidar) Works: Laser speed detection uses infrared light pulses to measure distance and calculate speed. Laser is more accurate but less effective in poor visibility conditions (rain, fog, smoke) and requires a clear line of sight.
TSR Signal Ranking Software: This software helps filter out false alerts from sources like traffic flow monitoring systems.
Powering On and Adjusting Volume
Rotate the On-Off/Volume control clockwise to turn on the unit and adjust the audio volume. Note: Some vehicles supply power to the accessory port even when the ignition is off; unplug the detector when parked for extended periods.
Sensitivity Modes
Adjust sensitivity using the SEN button:
Icon | Sensitivity Mode | Description |
---|---|---|
[High] | High | No filtering for maximum sensitivity. |
[Medium] | Medium | Minimal filtering to reduce unwanted alerts. |
[Low] | Low | Maximum filtering to reduce unwanted alerts. |
[Auto] | Auto | Automatically adjusts sensitivity based on speed when connected to the Drive Smarter® app. |
Advanced Technology
- Adjustable Sensitivity: Tailor sensitivity to your driving environment.
- IVT Filter: Automatically reduces false alerts from vehicle systems.
AutoLearn™ Intelligence
This feature analyzes radar signal sources by location and frequency to distinguish between real threats and false alarms (like automatic door openers). It automatically locks out identified false alert locations after multiple encounters. The system can also unlearn signals if they are no longer present.
GPS Filter (TrueLock)
Stores and locks out fixed location false alerts (e.g., storefront sensors) using GPS. It does not lock out moving false alerts from vehicle systems.
Mute
Press the MUTE button to silence an alert. Pressing again reactivates the audio. The display shows a mute icon when active.
Quiet Drive
This mode reduces audible feedback, allowing only the first few seconds of an alert to be heard. It can be accessed via the User Settings menu or by pressing and holding the MUTE button for two seconds.
Battery Voltage
Press the MUTE button when no signal is detected to display the vehicle's battery voltage.
Auto Mute
Automatically reduces alert volume after four seconds for the duration of the signal. Factory setting is On.
Display Brightness
Cycle through four brightness settings by pressing the DIM button.
Menu Navigation
Access settings via the MENU button. Options are divided into User Settings and Alert Settings.
User Settings:
- Detail: Choose between "More" (band, strength, frequency) or "Less" (threat level) detail.
- Quiet Drive: On/Off toggle.
- Auto Mute: On/Off toggle.
- Voice: Select English or Spanish.
- Language: Select English or Spanish for text and voice.
- Screen Saver: Activates a dark display after a set interval (e.g., 1 or 3 minutes). Alerts will re-activate the display.
- Smart Power: Puts the unit in low power mode after the engine is off.
- Display Car Voltage: On/Off toggle.
- System Info: Displays firmware version.
- Restore Defaults: Resets all settings to factory defaults.
Alert Settings:
- X Band: On/Off.
- K Low Band: On/Off.
- K Band: On/Off.
- Ka Band: On/Off.
- Laser: On/Off.
- Low V. Warning: On/Off.
Press the MENU button to exit the menu.
Detection
The detector uses distinct alert tones for different signal types. Alert tone repetition speed indicates proximity.
Radar Alerts:
More Detail Mode: Displays radar band, signal strength, and frequency.
Less Detail Mode: Displays threat level (Low, Medium, High) using bars, based on band, strength, and frequency.
Level | Display | Threat |
---|---|---|
1 | LOW | Low |
2 | MED | Medium |
3 | HIGH | High |
Laser Alerts:
Laser signals always provide a full-strength alert. Display shows "Laser" and pulse rate in More Detail mode, or three signal strength bars in Less Detail mode.
Instant-On Detection
The detector is designed to detect sudden "Instant-On" speed monitoring signals.
Responding to Alerts
Alert interpretations and recommended responses:
Description | Interpretation | Recommended Response |
---|---|---|
Tone repeats slowly, then speeds up rapidly. | Probably police radar. | FULL ALERT |
Tone sounds one time only. | Probably a false alarm, but possibly pulsed radar nearby. | Exercise caution |
Tone instantly begins repeating rapidly. | Radar nearby has been activated suddenly. | FULL ALERT |
Tone repeats slowly as you approach a hill or bridge, then speeds up sharply. | Probably police radar beyond the hill or bridge. | FULL ALERT |
Tone repeats slowly for a short period. Any type of laser alert. | Probably a false alarm. Laser alerts are never false alarms. | Exercise caution. FULL ALERT |
Locking Out False Alerts
To manually lock out a fixed location false alert (X, K, or Laser band): Press MUTE three times during the alert. The first press silences audio. The second press prompts "Lockout?". The third press confirms and displays "Stored".
To unlock a stored alert: Press MUTE twice during the alert. The display will prompt "Unlock?". Press MUTE again to confirm.
Note: GPS features like Defender Database alerts and location marking require the GPS Filter to be ON.
Drive Smarter® Alerts
When connected to the Drive Smarter® app, these alerts are displayed on the detector, with distance countdowns.
Using the Mark Button
Press and hold the MARK button for 2 seconds to report active police speed enforcement to the Drive Smarter® Community.
Maintenance
The detector requires no routine maintenance. If issues arise, check power cord connections, ensure the cigarette lighter socket is clean and free of corrosion, and verify the adapter is firmly seated.
Bands and Frequencies
Band | Frequencies |
---|---|
X Band | 10.525 ± 0.050 GHz |
K Band | 24.125 ± 0.125 GHz |
Ka Band | 34.700 ± 1.300 GHz |
Laser | 910 ± 50 nm, 100 PPS |
FCC Statement
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) it may not cause harmful interference, and (2) it must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Warning: Modifications not expressly approved by Cobra Electronics Corporation may violate FCC Rules and void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. If interference occurs, users are encouraged to reorient the antenna, increase separation, or connect to a different circuit. Consult a dealer or technician for assistance.
Trademarks and Warranty
Cobra, the snake design, Drive HD™, and other trademarks are proprietary to Cobra Electronics Corporation, USA. Other trademarks belong to their respective owners.
Limited 1-Year Warranty: Cobra warrants the product against defects in materials and workmanship for one year from the date of purchase. This warranty covers repair or replacement at Cobra's discretion. Exclusions apply, including damage from misuse, modification, or unauthorized resale channels. Limitations on liability for consequential damages are stated.
For service, warranty, and support, contact Cobra directly at www.cobra.com or 800-543-1608.
Product Registration
Register your product today at www.cobra.com for important updates and information.