The Cobra RAD 480i issues a specific alert tone for each type of radar band it detects. If you receive a VG-2 alert after switching it on, it will be of a similar intensity to that of a laser threat. We only received one VG-2 notification during our three-week drive, and we could never visibly see the source. However, the RAD 480i does not give off this signal, making it “invisible” to radar detector detectors (which likely explains why the default factory setting for VG-2 is off). The RAD 480i is also VG-2 capable, meaning it can identify the infamous “radar detector detector.” Typically, radar detectors themselves emit a low-level signal that VG-2 can sniff out. The LaserEye should have a clear view out of your rear window to ensure maximum coverage. Ensure the unit is as low as possible but not obstructing its view, either to the front or rear.

It will perform best if you mount it in the center of your vehicle (approximately) on your front windshield. Cobra’s proprietary LaserEye technology (located on the top left-hand side of the unit) means the RAD 480i can detect signals from both the front and rear. The Cobra RAD 480i will alert you to X, K, and Ka radar bands and laser (LiDAR) guns.

Unfortunately, the RAD 480i does not come with a carrying case, so I grabbed this one on Amazon. I prefer the windshield mount as the hook-and-loop fastener makes it impossible to adjust the angle of the RAD 480i. The Cobra RAD 480i comes with a 12V power cord, suction cup windshield mount, a hook-and-loop fastener for dashboard mounting, and a quick reference guide. It’s definitely a step above any base model radar detector, but beyond the iRadar app, there may not be much else to chew on if you are a “bells and whistles” type of person. It’s best to think of the RAD 480i as a “middle ground” unit. And with a retail price of $149.95, it’s easy to justify the cost of the Cobra RAD 480i.ĭepending on your preferences and what you want in a radar detector, the Cobra RAD 480i is either amazing or lackluster. If you consider the average cost of a speeding ticket in the United States (around $150, not counting the increased insurance premium), then yes, a radar detector makes sense. The most obvious reason is to avoid a speeding ticket. The Cobra RAD 480i is also lightweight, which is beneficial when mounting the unit to your windshield. Multiple sensitivity modes, location marking, and compatibility with Cobra’s iRadar app help make the RAD 480i a well-rounded radar detector for something in this price range. It works in a similar manner to the VG2 gun.The Cobra RAD 480i detects all radar bands and laser guns and alerts you via an easy-to-read OLED display. Spectre is a newer model, made by a different manufacturer.

Most false alerts occur when another radar detector is nearby, within about 5 car lengths. Most modern radar detectors incorporate circuitry to be invisible to the VG2 gun, and are therefore 'undetectable'. If the above does not apply to you, then you need not worry about VG2. Radar detectors are also illegal for commercial drivers in all 50 states. Radar detectors are illegal in Virginia, The District of Columbia, and most parts of Canada. The VG2 gun looks for the radio wave leakage from radar detectors, and can thereby identify if a vehicle is using a radar detector. The same is true of radar detectors, as they too are a radio receiver (microwave receiver). This property is inherent with radio receivers. It detects radar detectors.Īll radio receivers emit a small amount of radio waves. It looks like a radar gun, but it does not detect speed. Modified on: Mon, 30 Aug, 2021 at 11:09 AMĪ VG2 gun is a special device that police can use to identify the presence of a radar detector.

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