RadarExpress FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions

General
Speed Cameras

General

What is GPS?
GPS (Global Positioning System) is a worldwide radio navigation system that uses 24 satellites that orbit the earth. GPS receivers, like the Road Angel, use these satellite signals to calculate it's position to a couple of metres.

Why use Global Positioning System (GPS)?
Using the satellites to locate your position is more reliable than a standalone speed camera detector. Knowing your position it is then a simple task of calculating your approach to a given camera site.

How does a GPS speed camera locator work?
The device already knows your position using the information attained from the satellites. Using the database stored in the device's memory, the distance to the nearest camera is calculated thereby giving you sufficient warning of any cameras in your path of travel.

Will GPS Detector be banned under the proposed new legislation?
The proposed changes in legislation with regards to the banning of speed camera detectors will not affect any of the GPS Detectors available on Radar Express.
Any GPS Detector with an inbuilt laser detector will have the facility to be able to switch the laser alert off if required.

Do GPS Detectors warn you of the enforcement vans that are being used more frequently on the roads?
Some models have a laser detector facility which if targetted (and they generally have to pull the trigger), can alert you to their presence.

How do I update the speed camera database?
You can update the database via the internet using software that will be provided when you register your device with the manufacturer. If you do not have a PC with internet access you can purchase a modem accessory for some of the different models that will allow you to update via an analogue telephone line. Please note that none of the GPS detectors software is not compatible with Apple-Mac computers.

How often should I update my database to receive the new locations?
As a guide we recommend that you update your GPS Detector approximately every 10 days but this is entirely your choice — no extra charges are incurred for any further more frequent use.

What is the best position in the vehicle for a GPS Detector?
For best satellite reception locate the unit as close to the middle of the dashboard and windscreen as possible. Purchasing an optional antenna allows you to locate the device at your convenience but be aware, the laser facility will not work unless it can 'see' out the vehicle.

How do I power my device? -
Every GPS detector sold is supplied with at least two different leads that plug into the 12V power supply in your vehicle. 

Can I hard wire the power cable into my vehicle?
If you are unsure we recommend using our professional install service. In conjuction with Hyde Park Corner PLC — the UK's largest mobile installation service, we have negotiated special rates for customers of Radar Express (Networx Automotive).

Why is a UV tinted and/or a Heated front windscreen a problem?
The material used to coat the glass hampers the reception of the GPS signal and prevents any detector from acquiring it's GPS location. In a heated screen the metal elements disperse the GPS signal and again prevent the detector from acquiring it's position. An optional antenna is recommended for these vehicles. In the case of Peugoets, Citreons, Mercedes (all brand new models), BMW (Comfort windscreen optional extra) and Landrovers we recommend  the use of an GPS Antenna

Back to top

Speed Cameras

How many motorists are caught speeding each year?
The number of fixed penalty fines issued in England and Wales has risen seven-fold from around 260,000 in 2000-2001 to 1.8 million in 2003-2004. Speed cameras are reportedly currently netting more than £20m a year profit for the Treasury.

How many speed cameras are on UK roads?
The number of speed cameras has now reached about 7,000 across the country, 2,700 of them being mobile speed cameras including 'safety' vans.

How many different types of speed cameras are currently in use in the UK?
Currently there are nine different types speed cameras in use by the Police and local government to enforce speed limits. Speed cameras in use are Gatso, Truvelo, SPECS, Peek, Speedcurb, Watchman, Traffic Light, DS2 and Mobile.

How do the different UK speed cameras work?
There are three main methods that UK speed cameras use to detect a speeding motorist. The first method used by Gatso and mobile cameras is to send a Laser or Radar beam at the passing vehicle. This beam is then returned back to the speed enforcement equipment, providing an exact speed reading. The second method used by Truvelo and DS2 is too use induction tubes inserted into the road surface, if the passing vehicle drives too fast over the tubes the speed camera is triggered. The third method used by SPECS is to take a photograph of all passing vehicles at the first camera, then several hundred metres along the road at the point of a second camera, another photograph is taken. The speed camera equipment then calculates your average speed over the set distance.

What are the benefits of using a speed camera detector?
More and more motorists are discovering the benefits of driving with a speed camera detectors. The main benefits are being warned in advance of speed cameras ahead and speeding penalty points, fines, increased insurance premiums and potential loss of a driving licence.

Are speed camera detectors legal to use in the UK?
Yes, it is 100% legal to use a speed camera detector in the UK, changes in legislation implemented in 1998 made the ownership of speedtrap detection a lawful activity.

Back to top