FAQs
A series of diagnostic tests performed on police radar equipment to verify that the unit is functioning in accordance with the equipment manufacturer’s specifications.
Although the terms are often used interchangeably in the field, they have distinctly different meanings. Radar calibration involves physical or electronic adjustments to the unit’s circuitry and is typically performed by the manufacturer, whereas certification is a test to ensure the unit is functioning within its design specifications.
- Legal Implications: Numerous state and local governments require police departments to perform periodic, comprehensive certifications of radar. This certification guarantees equipment accuracy and court acceptance when cases involving speeding tickets are presented.
- Investment Protection: Periodic radar certifications can give police early warning that units may be in need of repair.
- Accuracy Assurance: Radar units that pass certification tests can be relied upon to provide accurate measurement of vehicle speed.
Yes, our equipment will work with any radar brand or model including all hand held and dash mounted units. It also handles all X-band, K-band and Ka-band radar transmitting frequencies.
This will vary depending on state requirements. Some states (FL) require testing every six months. In the absence of any statutory requirement, we recommend that units be tested at least annually.
The radar unit will need to be sent in for repair. dB Innovations does not repair radar but we do provide referrals upon request for reliable repair centers.
Using Doppler shift theory as a guide, the center frequency test is the optimal manner to verify that the known value of a radar’s center frequency (outgoing signal) is correct. If a radar unit’s outgoing signal is not measured, there can be no assurance that a radar unit is measuring correct speeds. To help in this area, dB Innovations offers PRO-TECT, VOCAR HR Enhanced and VOCAR HR Enhanced Plus equipment that will measure center frequency.
Within the United States different certification requirements exist, and can vary from state to state. To help determine which of our units will meet your local requirements, please call us at (866) 340-9512 or fax a review copy of one of your recent certification forms to us at (877) 906-7016. Contacting your local district attorney or judge can also help in this area.
dB Innovations ships all new units NIST certified for a period of 1 year with supporting documentation. This ensures our equipment meets national standards and can be relied upon for generating accurate results. dB Innovations also highly recommends each unit be sent back to us for optional annual NIST testing to ensure your equipment continues to yield accurate results. (NIST stands for National Institute of Standards and Technology.)
Yes. They can also be used in a laboratory environment.