Handcrafted Auto Marine & Offroad

Arizona's Premier Mobile Enhancement Destination

480-550-8944
39313 N Central Ave.,
Phoenix, AZ 85086
  • Find Your Solution
    • Avoid Collisions
    • Back Up Safely
    • Drive Ticket Free
    • Improve Your Sound
      • Get Some Bass
      • Get Better Sound
      • Have a concert in your car!
    • Improve Your Sound
      • Add Some Bass
      • Upgrade Your Speakers
      • Fine Tune Your Sound
    • Light Your Way
    • Upgrade Your Motorcycle Audio
    • Upgrade your radio
    • Remote Start Your Car
      • OEM and Upgraded Transmitters
      • Premium Transmitter Options
      • Elite Transmitter Options
      • Premium Security Upgrade Options
    • Restyle Your Truck
      • Truck And SUV Steps
      • Truck Bed Covers
    • Upgrade Your Boat Audio
    • Take it Off-Road
  • Read Reviews
  • Learn About Us
    • What We Do
    • Demo Car Audio Showcase 
    • Location & Hours
    • Media & Awards
  • View Gallery
  • Contact Us
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
You are here: Home / ARTICLES / The Benefits of Custom-installed Radar Detectors

July 16, 2017 By BestCarAudio.com Leave a Comment

The Benefits of Custom-installed Radar Detectors

Custom-installed RadarIf you are looking for the best defense against police laser and radar guns, speed cameras, and radar-based work zone speed detection systems, then a custom-installed radar detector and laser countermeasure system is the only choice. This article compares the features and performance benefits of a portable radar detection system to one that we integrate into your vehicle.

What is a Radar Detector?

Simply put, a radar detector is a device that includes one or more radio frequency receivers and a computer. The receiver is designed to focus on specific frequencies and report the presence of those signals to the vehicle operator. The goal of the system is to detect radar measurement signals used on vehicles in front of you and provide enough warning so you can slow down to a legal speed and avoid getting a ticket.

Law enforcement agencies in North America use three radar frequencies. X-band operates between 10.5 and 10.55 GHz, K-band operates between 24.05 and 24.25 GHz, and Ka-band operates between 33.4 and 36 GHz.

Why Custom-installed Radar Systems Offer Better Protection

Custom-installed Radar
This front-mount Escort radar receiver offers much higher sensitivity than portable units.

When comparing portable radar detectors to custom-installed systems, the biggest performance benefit comes from the ability to make the radar receiver larger. As with any antenna, more size means more sensitivity. The radar receiver included with a custom-installed detector is typically bigger than an entire portable radar detection device. In AM/FM antennae, a half-wave antenna offers more than twice the sensitivity of a quarter-wave antenna. The benefit to you is that a custom-installed radar detection system can detect weaker signals and provide an earlier warning so you can slow down sooner.

Some systems include separate receivers and amplifiers for the low-frequency X-band and the higher K- and Ka-bands. This configuration allows each antenna to be more sensitive within its specified operating range and requires less signal filtering and amplification.

Many radar systems that integrate with your vehicle include a second high-sensitivity detector for the rear of the car or truck. Many police forces use dash-mounted radar systems that function while the police vehicle is in motion. If an officer is following you, you will want to know if he or she is measuring your vehicle’s speed.

Police Laser and Lidar Systems

Custom-installed RadarMany law enforcement agencies now use laser-based measurement systems. These devices send out a very narrow beam of invisible “light” that pulses in a particular pattern. The laser gun measures how that beam is reflected to calculate the speed of the vehicle it is measuring. The laser works with incredible accuracy. High-quality laser speed detection systems have a beam width of only 30 inches at a range of 1,000 feet and can operate up to 6,000 feet away. They are accurate to within 1 mph and can acquire a reading in as little as 0.33 seconds.

Laser detection systems look for energy between 830 and 945 nanometers and report it to the driver. The problem with laser speed detection is that once the officer has pulled the trigger, he has an accurate reading of your speed. There isn’t any point in slowing down.

Laser Detection versus Laser Defense Systems

A premium portable radar and laser detector that mounts to your windshield can alert you to the use of laser speed measurement. As we mentioned, though, once the officer has a reading, it is too late. Your only hope of avoiding a ticket is to detect beam scatter from another vehicle, then slow down before the police measure your speed.

Custom-installed Radar
Automods mounted these laser shifters close to the license plate for maximum effectiveness.

The number one benefit of a remote mounted detection system is its ability to combat laser or lidar systems. In a laser countermeasure system, there are several compact transceivers mounted near your license plate and headlights – the most frequent target for police radar. When these sensors detect a laser measurement signal, they instantly start to transmit a signal to confuse the radar gun.

The second issue with portable radar and laser detection systems is location. As we mentioned, police target your license plate and headlights because these are reflective, in hopes of getting an accurate reading at long distances. Your portable detector, mounted up high on your windshield, may offer excellent radar detection range, but can miss laser signals altogether due to that height.

Some custom installed radar detectors include laser functionality, and some provide it as an option. Talk to your retailer to ensure you are getting the protection you want.

How to Use a Laser Defense System

If a police officer targets your vehicle with his laser gun and pulls the trigger, he will be expecting a result almost instantly. If your laser defense system prevents him from getting a reading, the officer will quickly realize you are using a countermeasure system. To prevent him from following you for the next 10 miles or until you do something wrong, there is a suggested etiquette to using laser defense.

Custom-installed RadarAs soon as your laser detection system alerts you to the use of a radar gun, slow down quickly. Obviously, slamming on the brakes will attract attention. Smooth and steady deceleration is the ideal. As soon as you are at a legal speed, cancel the laser countermeasure system and let the officer take a reading. If that is executed smoothly, the officer will leave you alone and move on to measuring the vehicle behind you.

The only defense against police laser/lidar is a custom-installed laser countermeasure system.

Reduce the Clutter

Custom-installed Radar
The two small LED lights between the gauges alert the driver of threats.

If you are like us, then you hate clutter in your vehicle. There are some nice mounting brackets for portable radar detections, but they still detract from the appearance of your vehicle. Depending on the brand of custom-installed radar detection systems, there may be a small control panel that we can mold into your dash or center console, or no visible control panel at all. In these “invisible” systems, all of the alerts are handled with audible warnings and a pair of small LEDs. Eliminating connections to your cigarette lighter plug and suction cup marks on your windshield keeps your vehicle looking organized and tidy.

From a safety perspective, having a radar detector on your windshield will block some of your vision. The percentage of windshield area that a portable radar detector takes up is small, but every square inch counts when it comes to safe driving.

Protection against Theft

Dash and windshield mounted radar detectors are prime targets for thieves. The complexity and distributed design of custom-installed radar detectors make them too much hassle to steal. Even if thieves were to break into your vehicle, they would only be able to get a few parts of the system. The result is that there is no resale value, so they leave these systems alone.

Complete Vehicle Integration

Custom-installed Radar
Automods uses best-practices in their radar and laser installations.

Depending on the features and complexity of a remote-mount radar detector system, there could be as few as three components, or more than a dozen modules and sensors. We mount each component in a location that ensures reliable operation and protection against damage. We route the system wiring with factory harnesses and protect it with split loom or cloth tape – whichever best matches the OEM style of your vehicle. We make the electrical connections mechanically and electrically secure so they will function flawlessly for years.

When we install a radar detector and laser defense system in your vehicle, it becomes an integral part of your car or truck. You will never forget to bring it with you. You will never forget to turn it on. It is always ready to protect you.

Visit Your Local Mobile Enhancement Retailer Today

If you are looking for the best defense against police laser/lidar and radar guns, the only choice is a custom-installed radar detector system. Most systems are nearly invisible once installed, and the laser shifter/defuser modules can be integrated into your vehicle cosmetics beautifully. Visit your local mobile enhancement retailer today to discuss the options for your vehicle.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Share this with your friends

  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook
  • Click to share on X (Opens in new window) X
  • Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window) LinkedIn
  • Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window) Pinterest
  • Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window) Reddit
  • Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window) Email
  • Click to print (Opens in new window) Print

Related

Filed Under: ARTICLES, Motorcycle Audio, RESOURCE LIBRARY

About BestCarAudio.com

BestCarAudio.com is a showcase for the very best mobile electronics retailers in the world and a place to educate and inform interested consumers about existing and emerging technologies.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

What We Do

Car Audio and so much more! Handcrafted Car Audio is the Valley's premier destination for mobile electronics.  We sell and install everything you … » Read More

Testimonials

Top Notch Professional Installation After looking around for a few weeks I came across Handcrafted Car Audio. They installed a Sony in dash gps unit along with their top remote care starter and alarm. The Installation was well done and everything was done quickly and very professional. Jon took the time on a Sat right before Christmas knowing that I was leaving town soon and showed me how to navigate... » Read More
Aaron Bree
Jon and his staff are simply the very best… bar none! I have a 2007 S550 Mercedes that I prize very much…as in “I’m a Jewish mother” when it comes to my wonderful automobile. I had Jon install a super set of DVD players for the rear seats and he’s going to be putting in a remote starter, (really necessary for the Arizona 116 degree days). Jon’s prices are very... » Read More
Dave
Jon and staff upgraded my 2998 Infiniti hard top convertible with a new Pioneer head unit, and replaced the existing Bose Amp and some speakers with Audison products. The sound quality/improvement is outstanding. The job was particularly challenging since Infiniti/Bose did a "special" fabrication for some of their vehicles that model year, and wiring diagrams did not match what was supposed to be in the vehicle during fabrication. These folks... » Read More
Christopher Mucha
2004 Porsche C4S I knew where I wanted to go with my system, but didn’t completely know how to get there. What I needed was this: a stealth install that upgraded the speakers and amplifiers, retained the oem head unit, possibly added a sub, and minimized any weight increase. After some internet research, I came across Handcrafted Car Audio in Chandler, AZ. I appreciated their stated approach to mobile audio... » Read More
Rodger N. Rogers
flawless Handcrafted installed a mobile eye system on our 2014 Mercedes GLK. Perfect job, looks likes it came from the factory that way, thanks again » Read More
alan castello
Backup Camera Mike did an excellent job of installing the backup camera system in our Tahoe. The installation is spotless and the rear view mirror display is very clear; even at nighttime. Also, the job was completed in a very timely manner. Thank you » Read More
Don Monteath
These guys did an excellent job replacing the factory stereo in my BMW. I initially met with Jon to share my concerns and explain what I was looking for. We quickly arrived at a package that addressed my needs. Jon didn't try to push any products that I didn't need. He simply answered my questions and explained my options. The installation was clean, and afterward they showed me how to... » Read More
pete
Jon is the effing man! Just finished rebuilding a 65 mustang and my system was the finishing touch, Jon installed custom kick panels, sub box and amp rack in a day at an awesome price. Not to mention great service, later on I screwed up some wiring to my fan, Jon saw me in a parking lot trying to fix it, he took time to pull over and help me... » Read More
JD
This guy is the best car audio installer in the valley. Did a very complex audio/video installation in my BMW 745. Now I have my ipod connected in a jack in my ashtray with video in my navigation unit. If u have audio work that needs to be done this is the guy to have it done. » Read More
sharpiesignature
THIS IS THE PLACE Hey, if you're looking for a "TOP NOTCH" audio adviser/installer in the Phoenix Valley, stop. This is it. Handcrafted Car Audio has the best shop in town and perhaps the South West. You Vegas guys, pay attention too. I have been in this industry.. we call it "12volts" - for most of my life. That's 30+ years, you don't need to know more detail than that.... » Read More
PARVIN
Great service and very clean shop. They did a radio installation on my moms accord and she couldn't be happier. She loves the bluetooth capability and the price of it all. No surprises at the register. Definitely will be bringing my Tahoe to then soon. Customers for life. Thank you James for helping her make the right decision and not pressuring her into a more expensive radio. Nick thank you... » Read More
Dave Lozada
Cream of the Crop! As a vendor of Handcrafted Car Audio, Jon has, on more than one occasion, repaired/handled an installation for us directly. He is the premier shop in his area, and always has been 100% professional and honest in all aspects. We have asked him on multiple occasions to repair another shop/installers work and every single issue was completed in a timely manner and resulted in very happy... » Read More
Jason Ewing
I consider myself a very, very picky consumer, especially when it comes to my vehicle. Out of the many choices in the PHX area, I chose this shop because they carried the brand I needed (number one), but number two his youtube videos online of how professional and organized his shop was is what really sold me. Jon is a pro and knows what he is doing. After meeting him,... » Read More
Agent409
True Professionals TRUE PROFESSIONALS - need I say more? » Read More
Glen
Refreshing change As pretty much everyone before me has said, the unparalleled professionalism of Jon and his shop are above and beyond what can be said in a simple online review. From the moment I first walked into the shop, I knew that this was the only place I would feel completely at ease with leaving my baby (2012 Evo X) in their hands. Jon took the time to listen... » Read More
Scott
Jon and his team are consummate professionals. I have had three vehicles worked on at handcrafted (audio, parking sensors, window tint). The completed work at Handcrafted always exceeds my expectations. The Handcrafted folks understand and work to your requirements and provide solutions that meet and exceed those requirements. They are very skilled at installation and provide you with options for you to make informed decisions. They have recently made my... » Read More
Greg
Very pleased with the service! I went in to check on a remote started but didn't think I would be able to get it done because I was leaving the state the following week, but Jon got me in the next day and it was done in just a few hours. He made sure I knew how everything worked and told me to call him if I had any problems.... » Read More
Kelli
QUALITY! I was looking for a shop to install an audison full DA system in my new truck. I wanted to make sure that whoever did the install was familiar with this type of setup. After months of calling around,visiting shops and online research I wasn't having any luck. I happened to be on audison's web site and found an audison preferred dealers list. Unfortunatley there wasn't any here in... » Read More
Esteban Martinez
THE MAN in phoenix I am a custom car audio installer in San Jose, CA 🙂 www.simplicityinsound.com...and I have to say, having met Jon and seen his work, if I lived in the greater PHX area, i would rather pay him to work my own car than do it myself...and i think thats the highest compliment someone in my field can pay to a peer. Don't hesitate to go here,... » Read More
simplicityinsound
I first became acquainted with Jon Kowanetz and Handcrafted Car Audio in July 2009. I was in the process of developing a high-end audio system in one of my vehicles and had sought out the services of a quality-oriented professional installer.From our first meeting, I realized Jon was different from most other car audio pros I had previously dealt with. He listened to my desires, asked appropriate questions, and made... » Read More
Todd B.
Jon is the most stand up car audio guy that I’ve ever met. He is very customer oriented with a high level of integrity. He is very knowledgeable about all aspects of car audio and is willing to work with you to reach your goals. His level of craftsmanship is phenomenal and the work he did for me far exceeded my expectations.I HIGHLY recommend Handcrafted Car Audio. » Read More
Scott S.
After having some work done by another installer. I went to see Jon at Handcrafted Car Audio. He did not try to placate me and he was very factual about what he would do. The end result is that I am completely satisfied with the work done. He went the extra mile for me when I thought I had a problem with the system (turned out to be a loose... » Read More
Max O.
2012 IS350C F-Sport Prior to coming to Handcrafted Car Audio, I did my due diligence and researched the company along with many others. Just purchased a new, top of the line, rare car and needed the best care and products installed (I'm kinda anal about my ride). After meeting with Jon, he took the time to explain the best set- up for me and walked me through the entire process... » Read More
Tony
First Class I found Handcrafted after being disappointed with another store in the Mesa area. I did some other searches online and found Handcrafted. I set up an appointment to meet with Jon. When I met Jon, I knew that I had found the shop for which I had been looking. He really cares about getting the best sound for you and listens to your opinion on what you want.... » Read More
Jason
I have been to many stereo shops over the years, this place is different from the rest. Now if you don’t care who works on your car and do your shopping based on price alone this place is not for you. If you care about your car and want it worked on by a true professional who has real talent and passion about what he does. Check this place out! » Read More
Joe H.
Flawless Service, Flawless Drone After doing some online research, I called Jon to discuss the remote starter and security system that I wanted to have installed in my brand new 2013 Nissan Titan Pro 4x. I was looking to keep this vehicle for a decade or more, and I wanted to install a top of the line system. During our phone conversation, I decided to make an appointment with Jon... » Read More
Tommy
These guys rock!! If you want it done right, go here! They take the time to understand your listening desires and customize to exceed expectations!! Well worth your time!!! John knows his stuff…has received several awards as a result! » Read More
Nicko
I'm not a pro. I haven't kept up with car audio in so long I still call it car stereo. So it was my wife's birthday and the head end in her 2004 Avalon ate a CD and wouldn't let go. I understand that happens. So time for a new system. And, I thought, why not beef up the sound a bit while we're at it. Not sure quite how... » Read More
Michael
Best car audio place in the valley. You will not find better brands any were else. I am currently working 75 hours a week and don’t have time to go in to audio shops and try to find an amp that is worth buying. I was sending text to Jon on breaks or between customers and he ended up finding me amp that I didn’t think I had the money... » Read More
Richard D.
Jon has done 2 installs for me in the past. Each time, I have walked away very satisfied. His work exceeded my expectations on both occasions. I recently had a head unit installed, and the kit was designed to eliminate my stock lcd screen which displayed the A/C controlls. Instead of eliminating the lcd screen, he studied the components and figured out a way to keep the screen there. I... » Read More
Josh
Excellent customer service! Over the pastt 20 years I've been to several so called car audio and alarm shops in the valley. I have never been as pleased with the installation of my truck alarm and the customer service that I received at Handcrafted. Additionally, none of these other shops gave me a tour or took the time to explain why they recommend the products that they sell. Handcrafted's ownership... » Read More
Karl Carroll
My wife and I had just purchased a brand new Toyota Prius...a big change for us in all aspects...especially now being without her remote start here in the desert. After a lot of research and great discussions with Nik Edmonds...he convinced me to bring the car in and let them add remote start for us. I was thoroughly impressed by the attention to detail and that they went above and... » Read More
JD Downes
Evolution golf cart

2022 Evolution Golf Cart gets a major audio upgrade!

Not just for the golf course anymore! Once used only to carry players and their clubs around the golf course, carts like this one from Evolution that … [Read More...]

Remote Start System

How to Buy a Remote Start System For Your Vehicle

Mobile electronics require a much different purchasing process than something you are buying for home use. A piece of furniture, a new toaster or a … [» Read More]

Polaris Stereo

Custom Polaris Ranger Side-by-Side Stereo for Mesa Detailing Facility

The team at Ridin’ Shiny Luxury Auto Detailing in Mesa recently contacted Handcrafted Auto Marine and Off-Road to inquire about adding a stereo system … [» Read More]


Get Directions to Handcrafted Auto Marine & Offroad

Contact Us

Handcrafted Auto Marine & Offroad
39313 N Central Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85086
Phone: 480-550-8944

Our Hours

Monday9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
SaturdayClosed
SundayClosed
  • Find Your Solution
  • Read Reviews
  • Learn About Us
  • View Gallery
  • Contact Us
  • Facebook
  • Instagram

Copyright © 2025 · Handcrafted Car Audio · 2775 N Arizona Ave. #5 · Chandler, Az 85225 · 480.550.8944 · Privacy Policy · Support by 1sixty8 media, inc.