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  1. #1

    Default Dissassembling V1 = Loss of Range?

    I have heard that disassembling the V1 for a custom installation (i.e a custom etched V1 mirror) will cause a loss in performance, and also potentially lose Laser detection altogether.

    Is there any validity to this? Is there anyone from Valentine that can chime in?

  2. #2
    Old Timer
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    Most people who do the etched mirror etc. will sacrifice a concealed display, not the V1 itself. In this case, performance won't be affected at all.

    Now if you do conceal mount the V1 itself, performance could be affected if anything metal is blocking the radar antennas. And if anything is blocking the laser lenses, say sayonara to your laser detection.
    If I'm passing you on the right, YOU are in the wrong lane!

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  3. #3
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    Generally, I would think not. Usually a custom installation involves mounting the remote display in an unconventional place like in your RVM.

    As long as you don't compromise the mechanical/electrical integrity of the main unit, and your power cords are not ridiculous lengths, performance should not be affected.

    IIRC, VR told me that the power cord length should be kept under 12 ft.

    Those were excellent points by kpatz regarding obstruction of antennas and laser sensors.

    GTO_04

  4. #4

    Default

    Ok, i understand that only the remote display is sacrificed, which will then allow the main unit to be concealed. The problem now becomes, where to conceal the main unit? I have a 997 Targa, which has an entirely glass roof.

    I think the most ideal setup for me would involve putting the main casing in the trunk, and having the antennas run back into the car. Think this would work (range-wise) well??

  5. #5
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    Quote Originally Posted by MJS NYC
    Ok, i understand that only the remote display is sacrificed, which will then allow the main unit to be concealed. The problem now becomes, where to conceal the main unit? I have a 997 Targa, which has an entirely glass roof.

    I think the most ideal setup for me would involve putting the main casing in the trunk, and having the antennas run back into the car. Think this would work (range-wise) well??
    You can't separate the main unit from the antenna and still have it function, I'm not quite sure I understand your line of thinking here. Just use the main unit to receive, and have the alerts on the remote display.

  6. #6
    Lead Foot
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    :?

    Hello,

    The 'main' unit has all the 'antennas' in it and MUST see the road to detect radar / laser. No blockage permitted. Radar signals are reflected by metal so if you would put it below the window line it would decrease the range a lot. Putting it in a enclosed metal box (like a trunk) it would see nothing at all. Same goes for laser protection, cover the front and rear plastic covers and blocked it from 'seeing' the road, you'll get no laser protection and no warnings.

    So you must put it someplace so it can 'see' the signals. If you are worried about getting it stolen. Just remove it each time you leave the car like I do. I wouldn't leave any money on the dash. So my detector goes with me when I leave the car. Removing the detector takes a second or two, I leave my mount on the window. Put the detector in the case and walk away or goes into the lock box in the rear of the vehicle.

    Take care,

    Spin

  7. #7

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    *****

  8. #8

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    Thank you for the detailed explanation. Assuming that my installer tells me that it will not be possible to perform this installation without opening up the case - what do you guys think my second best option would be?

    Keep in mind that i am a very big Valentine advocate, but I just refuse to have a unit mounted in plain view on this vehicle. I must have a 100% stealth/mirror/etc.. solution.

    <REMOVED>

  9. #9

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  10. #10
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    Quote Originally Posted by MEM-TEK
    Its okay for your installer to open up the case (although it voids your warranty), since the case screws are not used to secure the microwave horn to the circuit board. Just be sure that your installer has full knowledge of ESD precautions and is competent at desoldering the various display connections and doing all of the remote display modifications. If he isn't, then instead get an electronics repair technician to do the disassembly job, remove the display, install the appropriate length shielded cable as I described and with quick disconnects near the radar detector and near the remote display, and then have your installer do the installation to your liking. Better yet, get both an installer and an electronics repair technician to work together on this job. Maybe you can get them to try their ideas on a cheap radar detector first before they touch your Valentine1. If they are successful on the cheap detector and subsequently successful on a Valentine1, then I suspect that they will get some business from other customers who own expensive vehicles. Just my thoughts for what they are worth...
    There is no reason to open the unit or unsolder the display period. FYI, Valentine Research sells a remote display designed to work with their detector:



    Also there's no need to install this with shielded cable, ferrite beads etc. Just use the supplied accessories.

 

 

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