Cobra Rad 380: Pros And Cons, Common Issues, And Best Places To Purchase
Cobra RAD 380 Information
The Cobra RAD 380 is a radar detector that offers long-range detection, laser eye front and rear detection, IVT filtering, updateable software, adjustable sensitivity, and digital signal processing. It is a great option for drivers who want to stay safe and avoid speeding tickets.
Introduction
The Cobra RAD 380 is a budget-friendly radar detector that offers a number of features that are typically found in more expensive models. It has long-range detection for X, K, and Ka radar bands, as well as laser eye front and rear detection. It also has IVT filtering to reduce false alerts from things like automatic door openers and motion sensors. The RAD 380 is updateable with new software, and it has adjustable sensitivity so you can customize the alerts to your liking.
Specifications
Here is a table of the full specifications for the Cobra RAD 380:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Radar Bands | X, K, Ka |
| Laser Detection | LaserEye front and rear |
| IVT Filtering | Yes |
| Updateable Software | Yes |
| Adjustable Sensitivity | Yes |
| Digital Signal Processing | Yes |
| Dimensions | 2.3 x 2.2 x 1.1 inches |
| Weight | 3.5 ounces |
| Power Source | 12V cigarette lighter |
Features
The Cobra RAD 380 has a number of features that make it a great choice for drivers who want to stay safe and avoid speeding tickets. These features include:
- Long-range detection: The RAD 380 can detect radar signals from a long distance, giving you plenty of time to adjust your speed and avoid a ticket.
- Laser eye front and rear detection: The RAD 380 can detect laser signals from both the front and rear of your vehicle, providing comprehensive protection.
- IVT filtering: The RAD 380 can filter out false alerts from things like automatic door openers and motion sensors, so you can be sure that you're only being alerted to real threats.
- Updateable software: The RAD 380 can be updated with new software, which can improve its detection capabilities and add new features.
- Adjustable sensitivity: You can adjust the sensitivity of the RAD 380 to customize the alerts to your liking. This is useful if you find that you're getting too many false alerts.
- Digital signal processing: The RAD 380 uses digital signal processing to improve its detection capabilities and reduce false alerts.
What's in the box?
The Cobra RAD 380 comes with the following items:
- Radar detector
- Suction cup mount
- Cigarette lighter adapter
- User manual
Conclusion
The Cobra RAD 380 is a great option for drivers who want to stay safe and avoid speeding tickets. It offers long-range detection, laser eye front and rear detection, IVT filtering, updateable software, adjustable sensitivity, and digital signal processing. It is a budget-friendly option that offers a lot of features for the price.
If you're looking for a radar detector that can help you stay safe on the road, the Cobra RAD 380 is a great choice.
Cobra RAD 380 Compare with Similar Item
a table comparison of the Cobra RAD 380 with two similar radar detectors:
| Feature | Cobra RAD 380 | Uniden R3 | Radenso XP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Radar bands | X, K, Ka | X, K, Ka | X, K, Ka, Ku |
| Laser detection | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| VG-2 detection | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Sensitivity modes | City, Highway | City, Highway, Auto | City, Highway, 3 Sensitivity Levels |
| False alert filtering | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Digital signal processing (DSP) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Display | Digital display | Digital display | Digital display |
| Audio alerts | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Visual alerts | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Mounting options | Windshield mount, suction cup mount | Windshield mount, suction cup mount | Windshield mount, suction cup mount |
| Price | $99.95 | $199.99 | $299.99 |
Comparison
The Cobra RAD 380 is a good budget-friendly radar detector that offers basic features such as X, K, Ka radar band detection, laser detection, and VG-2 detection. It also has two sensitivity modes and digital signal processing to help reduce false alerts.
The Uniden R3 is a more advanced radar detector that offers a wider range of features, including three sensitivity modes, auto sensitivity adjustment, and GPS lockouts. It also has a more intuitive user interface and a better display. However, it is also more expensive than the Cobra RAD 380.
The Radenso XP is the most advanced radar detector in this comparison. It offers all of the features of the Uniden R3, plus it has Ku band detection and a 3-level sensitivity adjustment. It is also the most expensive radar detector in this comparison.
Which one to buy?
The best radar detector for you will depend on your individual needs and budget. If you are looking for a basic radar detector with good value for money, then the Cobra RAD 380 is a good option. If you are looking for a more advanced radar detector with a wider range of features, then the Uniden R3 or Radenso XP are good options.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which radar detector to buy is to read reviews and compare the features of different models.
Cobra RAD 380 Pros/Cons and My Thought
The Cobra RAD 380 is an affordable radar detector that offers good performance and features. It can detect all major radar bands, as well as laser. It also has a number of features to help reduce false alerts, such as the IVT filter and Auto Mute.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Good performance
- Detects all major radar bands and laser
- Features to reduce false alerts
- Auto Mute
- Long battery life
Cons:
- Limited features
- Not as sensitive as some other radar detectors
- Can be a bit chatty in some areas
User reviews:
Positive:
- "I've had this radar detector for a few months now and I'm really happy with it. It's detected every radar gun I've come across and it's helped me avoid a few tickets."
- "The Auto Mute feature is great. It's nice not to have to hear the constant beeping when I'm driving through areas with a lot of false alerts."
- "The battery life is really good. I've gone weeks without having to charge it."
Negative:
- "I wish it had more features. I would like to be able to change the display and have more options for alerts."
- "It's not as sensitive as some other radar detectors. I've had a few close calls where I think I would have been better off with a more sensitive detector."
- "It can be a bit chatty in some areas. I wish there was a way to silence the alerts in certain areas."
My thoughts:
Overall, I think the Cobra RAD 380 is a good value for the price. It offers good performance and features, and it's affordable. If you're looking for a radar detector that won't break the bank, the Cobra RAD 380 is a good option.
However, if you're looking for a radar detector with the most advanced features and sensitivity, the Cobra RAD 380 may not be the best choice. There are other radar detectors on the market that offer more features and sensitivity, but they will also cost more.
Ultimately, the best radar detector for you will depend on your individual needs and budget. If you're looking for an affordable radar detector with good performance and features, the Cobra RAD 380 is a good option. If you're looking for the most advanced radar detector with the highest sensitivity, you may want to consider a different model.
Cobra RAD 380 Where To Buy
some places where you can buy the Cobra RAD 380 and spare parts:
- Direct from Cobra: You can buy the Cobra RAD 380 directly from Cobra's website. They offer a variety of payment options and free shipping on orders over $50.
- Walmart: Walmart is a great place to find radar detectors at a variety of price points. You can find the Cobra RAD 380 at most Walmart stores, or you can order it online.
- Amazon: Amazon is another great option for buying radar detectors. They have a wide selection of models to choose from, and you can often find good deals on Amazon.
- Best Buy: Best Buy is a good option if you're looking for a brick-and-mortar store to buy a radar detector. They carry a variety of models from different brands, and they offer a price match guarantee.
- Lowes: Lowes is another good option for buying a radar detector in person. They carry a limited selection of models, but they often have good deals.
- eBay: eBay is a great place to find used radar detectors and spare parts. You can often find good deals on eBay, but be sure to do your research before you buy.
I hope this helps!
Cobra RAD 380 Problems and Solutions
some common issues with the Cobra RAD 380 and their solutions:
- The radar detector is not turning on.
- Solution: Check the power cord to make sure it is plugged in securely. If the power cord is plugged in properly, try a different power cord. If the radar detector still does not turn on, you may need to replace it.
- The radar detector is not detecting radar signals.
- Solution: Make sure the radar detector is in the correct mode for the type of radar signal you are trying to detect. For example, if you are trying to detect laser signals, you need to switch the radar detector to the "Laser" mode.
- Also, make sure the radar detector is not in mute mode. To check this, press the "Mute" button on the radar detector. If the radar detector is in mute mode, the mute indicator will be displayed on the screen.
- If the radar detector is still not detecting radar signals, you may need to reset it to factory defaults. To do this, press and hold the "Program/Mute" button for two seconds. The radar detector will emit three beeps and the word "PROGRAM" will appear on the screen. Then, brief programming instructions will scroll through the display three times. Choose "Restore Factory Settings" from the programming menu.
- The radar detector is picking up false alerts.
- Solution: There are a few things you can do to reduce false alerts:
- Adjust the sensitivity of the radar detector. The higher the sensitivity, the more likely the radar detector is to pick up false alerts.
- Use the "City" mode on the radar detector. This mode is designed to reduce false alerts from traffic signals and other sources of radar.
- Update the firmware of the radar detector. Newer firmware versions often include fixes for false alert problems.
- Solution: There are a few things you can do to reduce false alerts:
I hope this helps!
Cobra RAD 380 Manual
Safety Information
- The Cobra RAD 380 is a radar and laser detector designed to warn you of approaching speed traps. It is not a foolproof way to avoid tickets, and you should always obey the speed limit.
- The RAD 380 can emit loud audio alerts, so be sure to mount it in a location where you will not be startled by them.
- The RAD 380 can also detect laser signals from some police radar guns. These signals are invisible to the naked eye, so be aware that you may not see the laser beam before you are alerted by the detector.
- The RAD 380 is not a toy. Do not allow children to play with it.
Before Use
- Read the entire manual before using the RAD 380.
- Choose a mounting location for the detector that is out of the way of air vents, defroster vents, and other moving parts.
- Mount the detector securely so that it does not move while you are driving.
- Connect the power cord to the detector and the cigarette lighter adapter.
- Turn on the detector and adjust the settings to your preferences.
Troubleshooting
- If the RAD 380 is not detecting radar or laser signals, check the power cord and make sure that the detector is turned on.
- If you are still having problems, try resetting the detector to factory defaults.
- If you are still having problems, contact Cobra customer support for assistance.
Maintenance
- The RAD 380 is a maintenance-free device. However, you should clean the detector regularly with a soft cloth.
- Do not use harsh chemicals or solvents to clean the detector.
Warranty
The Cobra RAD 380 is covered by a one-year warranty. If the detector malfunctions within one year of purchase, Cobra will repair or replace it free of charge.
Contact Information
- Cobra Electronics Corporation
- 6500 West Cortland Street
- Chicago, IL 60707
- Phone: 1-800-543-1300
- Website: www.cobra.com
Additional Information
- The RAD 380 is a valuable tool for staying safe on the road. However, it is important to remember that it is not a foolproof way to avoid tickets. Always obey the speed limit and drive safely.
- The RAD 380 is not legal to use in all jurisdictions. Please check your local laws before using the detector.
I hope this manual has been helpful. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact Cobra customer support.
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