SI-3C ™

System Interface 3
Compact Low Profile

User’s Manual
Rev: 5-14-19
 Table of Contents

Welcome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
About This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

1 Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

2 Receiving Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

3 Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
3.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
3.2 Connecting The Serial Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
3.3 Optional Programming Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
3.4 Mounting Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

4 Configuring the SI-3C™ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

4.1 Equipment Needed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
4.2 Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
4.3 Configuration Program Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
4.4 Configuration Items Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
4.4.1 Serial Number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
4.4.2 Unit ID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
4.4.3 Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
4.4.4 Target Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
4.4.5 Target Select . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
4.4.6 Cosine Horizontal and Cosine Vertical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
4.4.7 Hold Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
4.4.8 Update Rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
4.4.9 Sensitivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
4.4.10 Baud Rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
4.4.11 Serial Protocol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
4.5 Loading New Firmware & Configuring the SI-3C™ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
4.6 Configurtion Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
4.7 SI-3C™ Command Set . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

5 Performance Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
5.1 How Radar Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
5.2 Interference Sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
5.2.1 Angular Interference (Cosine Effect) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
5.2.2 Fan Interference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
5.2.3 Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
 5.2.4 Feedback Interference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
5.2.5 Multi-Path Beam Cancellation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
5.2.6 Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
5.2.7 Scanning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
5.2.8 Environmental Factors: Wind, Rain, Snow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

6 Testing The Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

6.1 Tuning Fork Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

7 Care, Cleaning, and Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

8 Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
8.1 Antenna Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
8.2 Environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
8.3 Speed Range Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
8.4 Power Consumption . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

9 Legal Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
9.1 Documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
9.2 FCC Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
9.3 Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
9.4 Installer Note . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
9.5 End User Note . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
9.6 Industry Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

11 Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

12 Service Return Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

13 How To Order Additional Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

SI-3C™
User’s Manual

Welcome To Decatur Electronics, Inc.!

Thank you for choosing this Decatur Electronics product—the

System Interface 3 Compact (SI-3C)™, a highly advanced, low profile
directional radar unit that will reward your department with years of
dependable service. The SI-3C™ incorporates high performance and
long range with many leading features. We urge you to study this
manual before using the SI-3C™ so you can maximize the benefits
of this sophisticated radar device. We believe you will be pleasantly
surprised by the features and advantages.

If you are as pleased with its performance as we think you will be,
ask your Decatur sales representative about other Decatur products
including the Genesis™ line of radars, the Onsite™ line of speed
trailers, dollies, pole signs and the Responder™ line of in-car video
systems.

Try any one of our products and see if you don't agree that it is the
best-in-class!

—The Management and Staff at Decatur Electronics

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About This Manual

SI-3C
This manual contains valuable information to help you set up, use
and maintain your radar so you can optimize its life and keep it at

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User’s Manual
peak performance. Please take a moment to read through it, and
keep it handy for future reference.

Note the following symbols in this manual:

Indicates a warning message about safety

precautions. Please read it carefully.
Indicates a helpful tip or precaution to note.

1. Safety Information
All service needs should be referred back to the manufacturer.

WARNINGS
• Do not over voltage the radar - it can damage the unit!
• The SI-3C™ is designed to operate off of conventional
+12 VDC (+9 VDC to +24 VDC) from the serial cable.

Important Warnings

• Disassembly of the SI-3C™ automatically voids any

warranty still in effect. There are no user serviceable
parts inside.
• Do not expose the SI-3C™ to excessive moisture. Never
submerge the device.
• Do not drop the SI-3C™ on hard surfaces since damage
could occur. Units damaged by dropping or abuse are
not covered for warranty repair.
Violation of these guidelines may void the warranty.

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 2. Receiving Inspection
SI-3C

When you receive your SI-3C™:

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• Inspect it for any freight damage that might have happened

User’s Manual

during shipping or unloading. Take pictures to document any

damage.

• Notify the freight company immediately of any damage,

preferably while the driver is present.

• Record the damage on the bill of lading and keep a record of the
problems or damage.

• The package should include the following pictured items along

with this User’s Manual.

SI-3C™ Programming Software

S900-34 S769-78613-0
Tuning Fork Serial cable

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3. Getting Started

SI-3C
3.1 Introduction
The SI-3C™ is a low profile radar specifically designed to measure

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User’s Manual
speeds and export that speed information as RS232 data via the
special serial cable. This allows the SI-3C™ to be used for a wide
range of applications such as Radar Speed Trailers, traffic speed
data collection (when used with the Decatur EZ Stat™ data logger)
or other uses where speed monitoring is desired. The SI-3C™ comes
with a Programming disk that allows the user to configure certain
parameters of the SI-3C™ for specific applications. Refer to Chapter 4
for configuration information. Additionally, a Radar Monitor program
is also available that allows you to display speed information on your
computer and record that information to a text file for analysis.

3.2 Connecting the Serial Cable

The SI-3C™ operates off of +12VDC and comes with a cable that
has two connectors. The circular connector plugs into the SI-3C™
and the DB-9 serial connector (shown in Figure 3.2) is used for
powering and communicating with the SI-3C. When connecting
the cable it is important to understand that unlike standard RS232
serial connectors that have no +12VDC provisions, the SI-3C's™ serial
connector has two pins dedicated to B+ and ground for the purpose
of powering the unit. Figure 3.2 shows the pin arrangement.

Figure 3.2
Front view SI-3™ Serial Connector

Top Row Bottom Row

Pin 1 = +12VDC (power) Pin 6 = N/C
Pin 2 = RS232 TX Pin 7 = N/C
Pin 3 = RS232 RX Pin 8 = Remote On
Pin 4 = N/C Pin 9 = Ground (power)
Pin 5 = RS232 Ground
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 3.3 Optional Programming Cable
SI-3C

For configuring and testing purposes a programming cable is

available. The cable is designed with two DB-9 connectors and
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User’s Manual

a black and red wire for supplying B+ and ground to the SI-3C™.
One end of the cable plugs into the serial port of a computer and
the other end into the SI-3C™. The same end that plugs into the
SI-3C™ has a red wire that is connected to +12 VDC and a black
wire that is connected to ground. A regulated power supply can
be used to supply the +12 VDC. Once the programming software
is installed on the computer then the SI-3C™ can be accessed and
parameters changed to meet your application. Refer to Chapter 4 for
programming information.

Figure 3.3
S769-127-0
Optional Programming Cable

3.4 Mounting Configuration

The SI-3C™ comes equipped with mounting holes. There are two
holes on each side of the mounting plate (See Figure 3.4). Use these
holes only to mount the SI-3C™ .

Figure 3.4
Mounting hole locations
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4. Configuring the SI-3C™

SI-3C
Before proceeding make sure your computer has Microsoft® Net
Framework Version 4.0™ installed. If not, you can install it by going to:

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User’s Manual
http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/netframework/aa569263.aspx.

4.1 Equipment Needed

• SI-3C™ radar device

• SI-3C™ Programming cable (S769-127-0)

• PC with either a usable RS232 serial port or a USB-to-RS232

adapter.

• RS232 cable to connect between the Power and

Communications adapter and the PC (if needed). This cable is a
9-pin RS232 cable with a male connector on one end and female
connector on the other.

• SI-3C™ configuration flash drive(S785-1-0)

• 12V power supply

4.2 Setup
1. Connect the SI-3C™ to the programming cable using the end of
the cable that has the red and black wire coming out of it.

2. Connect the red wire to the positive (+12 VDC) of the power
supply and connect the black wire to the negative (ground) side
of the power supply. Do not turn the power supply on.

3. Connect the other end of the programming cable to the serial

port of your computer. If you do not have a serial port and are
using a USB to Serial adapter make sure you have installed
the USB to serial adapter software (driver) first. Then connect
the adapter to the programming cable. Plug the USB to serial
adapter into your computer's USB port.

4.3 Configuration Program Screen

1. Open and run the Configure4 (configuration) program; which is
shown in Figure 4.3a.

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SI-3C™
User’s Manual

Figure 4.3a
Configuration Program screen

2. The SI-3C™ Configuration Program is designed to automatically

recognize the assigned USB port. However, if for some reason
it does not recognize the port you can find what port has
been assigned by checking "Device Manager/ Ports" on your
computer. The port assignment will appear as "USB Serial Port".
Note the port assignment. The example in Figure 4.3b shows that
Port 4 has been assigned. Your port assignment may be different
and the port assignment can change the next time the USB to
Serial adapter is plugged in to the computer.

Figure 4.3b
10 Device Manager screen
3. From the Configuration Program/Com Serial Port Settings screen

SI-3C
(Figure 4.3c) click on the down arrow and select the COM port
that your PC has assigned. If you are connecting through the

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computer's serial port, it will normally be "Com 1" or "Com 2".
If you are using the USB to Serial adapter, use the port shown
in Device Manager/Ports. Once the correct port is known, the
Device Manager/Computer Management screens can be closed.

Figure 4.3c
Comm port selection

4. Once the COM port has been selected, left click on the "Open
Port" button. A "COM port OPEN" message will be displayed
indicating that the COM port is now active. (See Figure 4.3d)

Figure 4.3d
Press the Open Port button

5. Press the CONFIGURE button. (Figure 4.3e)

Figure 4.3e
Press the CONFIGURE button
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 6. Within 3 seconds of pressing the CONFIGURE button, apply
SI-3C

power to the SI-3C™ unit.

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7. The Configure program will bring up the "SI-3C Configuration

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Items" dialog box. (Figure 4.3f )

Figure 4.3f
Configuration Items screen

8. Select new options for programming as desired. An explanation

of the settings is described in Section 4.4.

9. Once new options have been selected, press the OK button. The
Configure program will upload the new settings and the SI-3C™
will start.

12
4.4 Configuration Items Screen

SI-3C
The "SI-3C Configuration Items" screen allows for the setting of
several different parameters so that you can tailor the SI-3C™ to your

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User’s Manual
application. An explanation of each setting starting at the top of the
configuration screen follows:

4.4.1 Serial Number

Pre-Set at the factory.

4.4.2 Version & Unit ID

Pre-set at the factory.

4.4.3 Measurement
Select the speed format that the SI-3C™ is to use.
• Miles-per-hour - Select "mph"

• Kilometers-per-hour - Select "km/h"

• Meters-per-second - Select "m/s"

• Feet-per-second - Select "fps"

The maximum and minimum speed range for each of the speed
formats will be displayed in the "Max speed for this unit is:" and
the "Min speed for this unit is" windows. The speed ranges for the
various selections are:
• For"mph" the speed range is 1-330 mph (pre-set at 5-99)

• For "km/h" the speed range is 2-480 km/h (pre-set at 5-99)

• For "m/s" the speed range is 1-133 m/s (pre-set at 5-99)

• For "fps" the speed range is 1-440 fps (pre-set at 5-99)

As an example, Figure 4.4.3a shows the speed range when the

"mph" speed format is selected.

Figure 4.4.3a
Speed range for mph
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 The speed range can be adjusted within those ranges by changing
SI-3C

the speed readings that appear in the "MAX Speed" and "MIN Speed"
windows (See Figure 4.4.3b). No vehicles will be reported outside
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User’s Manual

the minimum and maximum configured speeds

Figure 4.4.3b
Set the speed range you want to use

As an example, when "mph" is selected the minimum and

maximum speeds that can be processed are 1 to 301 mph
respectively. However, if the SI-3C™ is going to be used in an
application where any speed above 90 mph is to be ignored, then
the "MAX Speed" window can be changed to 90 and no speed
above 90 will then be processed. Likewise, if the SI-3C™ is to be
used where no speeds below 30 mph need to be considered then
setting the "MIN Speed" to 30 will cause the SI-3C™ to not report
any speeds below 30 mph.

4.4.4 Target Report

The "Target Report" has four selections and allows you to set the
direction reporting of the SI-3C™. It is recommended that the user
start with the "All" selection when first setting up the SI-3C™.
All - Tracks the strongest overall target signal regardless of
direction.

• Approach and Recede - Tracks the strongest true directional

target coming towards or going away from the SI-3C™. This
mode contains directional filtering that will filter out any signal
that doesn't have a good directional signal.

• Approach - Tracks the strongest true directional target coming

towards the SI-3C™. This mode contains directional filtering
that will filter out any signal that does not have a good
directional signal.

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 • Recede - Tracks the strongest true directional target going

SI-3C
away from the SI-3C™. This mode contains directional filtering
that will filter out any signal that does not have a good

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User’s Manual
directional signal.

Figure 4.4.4
Target Report

4.3.5 Target Select

Currently not selectable. A Target Select value of “Strong” is the
standard SI-3C™ configuration.

Figure 4.4.5
Target Select

4.4.6 Cosine Horizontal and Cosine Vertical

For bridge-type installations where the SI-3C™ is over the traffic
and pointing slightly down, the vertical angle can be entered here
to ensure that the SI-3C™ calculates the correct vehicle speeds.
For installations where the SI-3C™ is at a significant angle from the
road, the horizontal angle can also be configured. These two may
be used together. Keep the angles between 0 and 45 degrees for
maximum accuracy. Default is "0".

Figure 4.4.6
Cosine settings

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 4.4.7 Hold Time
SI-3C

The "Hold Time" value indicates the length of time in milliseconds

the vehicle speed is displayed after the vehicle moves out of range.
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User’s Manual

The default "Hold Time" is 1000 milliseconds.

Figure 4.4.7
Hold Time

4.4.8 Update Rate

The selected speed format will be sent in whatever time interval (in
seconds) that you set. The "Update Rate" can be as low as 1 second.
or as high as 10 seconds. The "Update Rate" and the amount of
serial port activity do not affect the measurement accuracy of the
SI-3C™. The default rate is 1 Second.

Figure 4.4.8
Update Rate

4.4.9 Sensitivity
The SI-3C™ has a sensitivity range of 1-10 and is shipped with the
range setting at the (10) maximum (See Figure 4.4.9). The sensitivity
can be decreased for closer range if needed. When changing the
"Sensitivity" remember that if the setting is too low the SI-3C™ may
take too long to lock onto and display a speed and if too high it
may lock onto distant targets that are undesired.

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 Typical ranges for an on-coming mid-sized sedan are:

SI-3C™
Setting Range (feet)

User’s Manual
1 350
2 575
3 800
4 950
5 1300
6 1700
7 1875
8 2400
9 2800
10 >3000
Figure 4.4.9
The distances will vary based on location, body of the car and
alignment of the antenna. It is normal for the range to vary by 10%
on identical cars.

Figure 4.4.9
Sensitivity Setting

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 4.4.10 Baud Rate
SI-3C

The "Baud Rate" can be 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600, 19200, 38400,
57600, or 115200 bits per second. The SI-3C™ always uses 8 bits, no
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User’s Manual

parity, and one stop bit for its serial port configuration. The default
baud rate is 1200.

Figure 4.4.10
Baud Rate

4.4.11 Serial Protocol

Currently there is only one protocol available. <D> is a direction
character that is “+” for vehicles coming towards the sign, “-“ for
vehicles moving away, and “?” when the direction cannot be
determined. [S] represents the displayed speed. If a period is within
the square brackets it is the decimal point. Any zeros are sent as
described and do not change with a vehicle’s speed. The <cr>
signifies the end of the outgoing message.

Figure 4.4.11
Serial Protocol

Once new options have been selected, press the OK button. The
Configure program will save the new settings into memory and
the SI-3C™ will start each time with these new settings until you
change them again.

4.5 Loading New Firmware & Configuring the SI-3C™

From time to time Decatur Electronics will release new firmware for
the SI-3C™. If you have received new firmware then save the firmware
to a file on your hard drive remembering the path to where the file is
saved. Connect the SI-3C™ to your computer as described in Section
4.2.
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1. Open and run the Config 4 (configuration) program; which is

SI-3C
shown in Figure 4.5a.

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User’s Manual
Figure 4.5a
Configuration Program screen
2. The SI-3C™ Configuration Program is designed automatically
recognize the USB port. However, if it does not you can select the
port yourself. For instructions on determining the correct port
assignment refer to Section 4.3, point 2.

Figure 4.5b
Communications Port Selection

3. Once the correct port has been selected, Press "OPEN PORT".

Figure 4.5c
Press the Open Port button 19
 4. Choose SELECT UNIT from Menu.
SI-3C™
User’s Manual

Figure 4.5d
Press the Select Unit button

5. Choose "SI-3C" from drop down menu.

Figure 4.5e
Press the Select Unit button

6. The SI-3C Configure Items screen will appear. Select new options
as desired. Refer to Section 4.3, point 6 for additional information
on configuring items. Once changes have been made, or if no
changes are needed, press the "OK" button.

Figure 4.5f
Configuration Items screen
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7. Click on the "File" tab and then click on the "Open" button.

SI-3C™
User’s Manual
Figure 4.5g
Press the Open button

8. The "Please select a file" screen will appear. From the screen
select the firmware file from where you have saved it on your
hard drive.

9. Press the "OPEN" button.

10. Press the "Program and Configure" button if you want the SI-
3C™ to accept the changes that have been made to the "SI-3C
Configuration Items" screen and to program the SI-3C™ with new
firmware.

Figure 4.5h
Program and Configure button

11. Within 3 seconds of pressing the CONFIGURE button, apply

power to the SI-3C™ unit.

12. The Configure program will update the SI-3C with new firmware
and any configuration changes made and start.

4.6 Configuration Notes

All changes occur immediately and do not require a reboot of the
SI-3C™ to become operational.

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 4.7 SI-3C™ Command Set
SI-3C

Commands transmitted to the SI-3C unit will be variable length

messages in ASCII followed by a carriage return <CR> or <decimal
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User’s Manual

13>. Messages received by the unit will be followed by an

acknowledgment ASCII “OK”. To save new settings into permanent
flash memory, an ASCII “F” followed by a <CR> must be sent to the
unit (otherwise, new settings will get lost on power-down

Get unit ID
Send ASCII i <CR>
Radar responds back with ASCII unit ID (0 – 255) <LF> <CR>

Get serial number

Send ASCII s <CR>
Radar responds back with ASCII unit serial number (0 – 65535)
<LF> <CR>

Set speed units/conversion

Send ASCII C units <CR>
Where units =
0 -> mph,
1 -> kph,
2 -> fps,
3 -> m/s
Radar responds back with ASCII “OK” <LF> <CR>

Set Max speed

Send ASCII M XXX <CR>
Where XXX = max speed in ASCII format
Radar responds back with ASCII “OK” <LF> <CR>

Set min speed

Send ASCII m XXX <CR>
Where XXX = min speed in ASCII format
Radar responds back with ASCII “OK” <LF> <CR>

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Set target report

SI-3C
Send ASCII T X <CR>
Where ASCII value

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User’s Manual
X = 0 -> All targets,
X = 1 -> All directional,
X = 2 -> Towards,
X = 3 -> Away
Radar responds back with ASCII “OK” <LF> <CR>

Set horizontal Cosine Angle

Send ASCII H XX <CR>
Where XX = angle degrees in ASCII format
Radar responds back with ASCII “OK” <LF> <CR>

Set vertical Cosine Angle

Send ASCII V XX <CR>
Where XX = angle degrees in ASCII format
Radar responds back with ASCII “OK” <LF> <CR>

Set hold time

Send ASCII h XXXX <CR>
Where XXXX = milliseconds in ASCII format
Radar responds back with ASCII “OK” <LF> <CR>

Set update rate

(note: radar requires a power cycle for new values to be used)
Send ASCII U X <CR>
Where X = 0 -> 1*sec, X = 1 -> 2*sec, X = 2->5*sec, X=3->8*sec,X=4-
>change only, X=5->poll
Radar responds back with ASCII “OK” <LF> <CR>

Set sensitivity
Send ASCII S X <CR>
Where X = Sensitivity in ASCII format (0 to 9 allowed) 9 is
maximum value.
Radar responds back with ASCII “OK” <LF> <CR>

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 Set protocol
SI-3C

Send ASCII P XX <CR>

Where XX = serial port protocol 00 to 99
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User’s Manual

XX = 00 -> none
XX = 01 -> standard output for that model
XX = 02 -> FFT output
XX = 03 -> debug
Radar responds back with ASCII “OK” <LF> <CR>

Set baud rate

Send ASCII B X <CR>
Where X = baud rate selector number in ASCII format
X = 0 -> Baud rate set to 1200
X = 1 -> Baud rate set to 2400
X = 2 -> Baud rate set to 4800
X = 3 -> Baud rate set to 9600
X = 4 -> Baud rate set to 19200
X = 5 -> Baud rate set to 34800
X = 6 -> Baud rate set to 57600
X = 7 -> Baud rate set to 115200
Radar responds back with ASCII “OK” <LF> <CR>
Note: Settings will not be used until next power-on cycle.

Set hi/low speed

(only applies to SVR versions – other radars may respond with “?” or
ignore)
Send ASCII L X <CR>
Where X =
X = 0 -> Low speed range = (0.1 to 20 fps)
X = 1 -> High speed range = (0.2 to 70 fps)
Radar responds back with ASCII “OK” <LF> <CR>

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Set Average time

SI-3C
(only applies to SVR type radars – the time measurement speeds are
averaged)

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User’s Manual
Send ASCII a XXX <CR>
Where XXX value =
000 -> instantaneous speed
001 -> 100 secs of averaging,
NOTE: Radar measurement time is 0.0625 secs (16 times per second)
Radar responds back with ASCII “OK” <LF> <CR>

Poll speed
(only available if Radar is configured for polled mode)
Send ASCII *P<CR> or *<CR>
Radar responds with speed update

Reset to factory defaults

Send ASCII X <CR> or ASCII x <CR>

Radar will reset all configure items back to factory defaults and
save to flash.

Radar responds back with ASCII “FACTORY DEFAULTS” <LF> <CR> if

successful.

Save configure items to FLASH

Send ASCII F <CR>
Radar responds back with ASCII “OK FLASH SAVED” <LF> <CR> on
success or ASCII “FLASH FAILURE” <LF> <CR> on failure.

• Please wait 2 seconds after the last configuration

command before disconnecting the power to allow the
SI-3C™ to record the setting in flash memory.

Get configure data <not implemented – future release>

Send ASCII c <CR>
Radar responds back with list of configurable items and values.
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 5. Performance Tips
SI-3C

Understanding potential radar interference and what to do when it

occurs can greatly increase the radar’s performance.
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User’s Manual

5.1 How Radar Works

Determining an object’s speed begins with the radar transmitting
a beam of microwave energy (radio waves) at an approaching or
departing target. When energy from this beam strikes a target, a
small amount of the beam is reflected back to the antenna. The
reflected signal frequency shifts by an amount proportional to the
speed of the target. This is known as the Doppler effect. The radar
device then determines the target speed from the difference in
frequency between the reflected and transmitted signal.

5.2 Interference Sources

When properly installed and operated, Doppler radar technology
is extremely accurate and reliable. However, variations in the
environment can cause situations and circumstances which can
cause spurious (erratic and unusually low or high) speeds to
display. Signs that a speed is spurious can include the following
characteristics:

• A reading appears when no target is in the operational range of

the antenna.

• A target entering the operational range overrides the

interference signal, causing the display speed to change
suddenly to the target’s speed.

• Speeds are irregular.

5.2.1 Angular Interference (Cosine Effect)

The cosine effect causes the system to display a speed which is
lower than the actual target speed. This condition occurs when
the target’s path is not parallel to the antenna such as the target
vehicle traveling on a curve or hill.

As the angle between the beam of the antenna and the target
increases, the displayed speed decreases. Ideally, an angle of zero
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(0) degrees is preferable, because the displayed speed is the actual

SI-3C
target speed. However, in all uses of police radar, the radar device is
always at a slight angle to the target vehicle to avoid collisions.

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User’s Manual
Velocity
Vector

Angle

Radar

Figure 5.2.1
An angle between the antenna and the
target causes the cosine effect

The following table shows the effect that an increasing angle has
on a displayed speed.

Horizontal Angle Degrees

Actual 0° 1° 3° 5° 10° 15° 20° 30° 45° 60° 90°

Speed
Displayed speed:
30 mph 30 29 29 29 29 28 28 26 21 15 0
40 mph 40 39 39 39 39 38 37 34 28 20 0
50 mph 50 49 49 49 49 48 46 43 35 25 0
60 mph 60 59 59 59 59 57 56 51 31 30 0
70 mph 70 69 69 69 68 67 65 60 49 35 0
80 mph 80 79 79 79 78 77 75 69 57 40 0
Table 5.2.1
Actual and displayed speeds at antenna-to-target angles

Small angles (less than 10°) have little effect on accuracy. As the
angle increases, the displayed speed decreases. At 90°, the target
speed is 0—grossly incorrect.
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 5.2.2 Fan Interference
SI-3C

Fan interference is one of the most common forms of interference

that you are likely to experience. It is caused when the radar
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User’s Manual

measures the speed of a blower fan that is within the beam path
of the radar. If the SI-3C™ is used inside of a building keep in mind
that furnace and air conditioner fans can cause interference. To
correct this, relocate the radar so it does not display spurious
speeds or turn off the fan motor.

5.2.3 Electromagnetic Interference (EMI)

Operating electric motors can produce EMI. EMI from power seats
or windshield wipers can also produce spurious target speeds. To
correct the interference, simply turn off its source.

5.2.4 Feedback Interference

When the radar beam is directed at computer screens, streetlights,
and other electronic devices it can display spurious speeds.
Relocate the SI-3C™ to avoid the interference.

5.2.5 Multi-Path Beam Cancellation

If multi-path beam cancellation occurs, the target vehicle speed
sporadically blinks and reappears at semi-random intervals. This
type of interference occurs when the radar loses track of a target
because the target is reflecting two or more signals which are
interfering with each other. The SI-3C™ is immune from multi-path
cancellation.

5.2.6 Radio Frequency Interference (RFI)

The system can inadvertently process radio energy as Doppler
speeds including that from 2-way radios, airport radar, microwave
transmission towers, CB radio transmitters, and AM/FM
transmission towers. For this type of interference to occur, the SI-
3C™ must be operating very close to the radio transmitter.

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5.2.7 Scanning

SI-3C
The SI-3C™ is designed to be used while attached to a solid mount
position. Moving or “scanning” the antenna past stationary objects

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User’s Manual
can cause the system to detect motion. Obtaining a speed reading
from scanning will not happen as long as the antenna is held in
one position and is not moved.

5.2.8 Environmental Factors: Rain & Snow

Environmental factors such as rain or snow can reduce the distance
at which a target can be detected; however, these factors will not
affect accuracy.

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 6. Testing the Device
SI-3C

6.1 Tuning Fork Test

If you have configured the SI-3C™ to display speeds in mph or km/h
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User’s Manual

then you can verify signal processing accuracy by using a tuning fork.
There is a one minute time window from when the SI-3C™ is first
powered on in which you can test the unit using a tuning fork. After
one minute the SI-3C™ switches to directional mode and the fork will
no longer be read.

To begin the test, tap the tines of the fork on a firm, non-metallic
surface. The tuning fork will ring audibly. Place the tuning fork that
you tapped with the narrow side facing about 18 -24 inches directly
in front of the antenna. Compare the speed in the display window to
the speed stamped on the fork. If the difference is within ±1 display
unit, the SI-3C™ is working properly.

Figure 6.1
Place the vibrating tuning fork about 3 inches in front of the antenna

If the device does not display the expected speed, contact Decatur
Electronics Customer Service at 888.428.4315 to arrange for service.

• Only tap the tuning fork against hard plastic, wood,

and materials that are softer than metal. Repeatedly
tapping the tines on hard surfaces, such as metal and
concrete, can damage the tines and invalidate the fork
for future tests.
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7. Care, Cleaning, and Storage

SI-3C
• Avoid spilling food, beverages, and other liquids and substances
on the radar device

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User’s Manual
• To clean use a soft clean cloth which is free of cleaning solutions

8. Specifications
(Specifications are subject to change without notice.)
8.1 Antenna Parameters
K-Band
FCC ID: VECDF6
Transmission frequency 24.120 - 24.130 GHz
24.125 nominal
Beamwidth 12° (Hor.) x 24º (Vert.)
Polarization Linear
Output power (EIRP) +20 dBm
Sidelobe Rejection 19 dB typical
Range (Distance) 3,000 feet
Physical Size 2.5" square, 1" deep
Weight 8 oz.

8.2 Environment
Ambient operating temperatures -22ºF to +158ºF
(-30ºC to +70ºC)
Maximum humidity 100% relative humidity
(Unit is weather proof,
not water proof )

8.3 Speed Range Parameters

Speed Display Ranges Minimum Maximum
mph option 1 330
km/h option 2 480
fps option 10 440
m/s 1 133

8.4 Power Consumption Parameters

Supply voltage range +8VDC to +24VDC
Nominal Current Draw 90 mA at +12VDC
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 9. Legal Requirements
SI-3C

9.1 Documents
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9.2 FCC Statement

SI-3C
This device complies with FCC part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is
subject to the following two conditions:

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User’s Manual
1. This device may not cause harmful interference, and

2. This device must accept any interference received, including

interference that may cause undesired operation.

9.3 Conditions
Changes or modifications to Decatur Electronics equipment not
expressively approved by Decatur Electronics could void the user's
authority to operate the equipment.

9.4 Installer Note

This device must be installed in a manner that ensures 20 cm
separation is maintained between this device's antenna and
all persons in order to comply with the FCC and IC RF exposure
requirements.

9.5 End User Note

Maintain a 20 cm separation between this device's antenna and all
persons during operation in order to comply with the FCC and IC RF
exposure requirements.

9.6 Industry Canada

This device complies with Industry Canada’s RSS-310. Operation is
subject to the condition that this device must not cause harmful
interference and must accept any interference, including interference
that may cause undesired operation of the device.

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 10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
SI-3C

Q. My SI-3C™ has poor range. How can I remedy this?

A. Verify that the antenna has no obstructions in front of it. If the
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User’s Manual

unit still has poor range, increase the sensitivity level. If you still
have this problem, contact Decatur Electronics.

Q. What if I drop my SI-3C™?

A. The unit is extremely durable. Simply power up and perform
tuning fork test. If the unit doesn’t appear to work properly,
contact Decatur Electronics.

11. Warranty

ONE-YEAR RADAR WARRANTY

Decatur Electronics, Inc. guarantees the SI-3C™ to be free from

defects in workmanship and material and to operate within
specifications for a period of one year. During this period, Decatur
Electronics will repair or replace, at its option, any component found
to be defective, without cost to the owner, providing you return the
part to a Decatur authorized Service Provider.

The full warranty on parts and workmanship does not include normal
wear and tear, crushing, dropping, fire, impact, immersion, misuse,
vandalism, or damage from attempted repair or modifications by
unauthorized service agents or improper voltage.

Refer to the instructions in the Service Return Procedure.

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12. Service Return Procedure

SI-3C
If you have questions, want a quick problem diagnosis, or need to
return your unit or a component from your unit:

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User’s Manual
• Call Decatur Electronics by phoning 800.428.4315 and ask to
speak with a Customer Service Representative.

• Explain to the Customer Service Representative the problem you

are experiencing.

• Based on the information that you provide, the Customer Service

Representative may be able to assist you or you may need to be
referred to one of our Service Providers.

On warranty items Decatur Electronics will pay the freight (up to

$10 U.S.) for shipping the system from the Service Provider to the
customer. Please note that for any shipping charges above the initial
$10 (if you want the package shipped express or next day air) there
will be an additional charge.

If you are referred to a Service Provider and your product is under

warranty then once your product has been received, the Service
Provider will investigate the problem. Once they have diagnosed the
problem they will repair the product and return it to you.

If you are referred to a Service Provider and your unit is not under
warranty then we recommend that you discuss the problem you are
experiencing with the Service Provider and determine if an estimate
is needed. Once your product has been received, the Service Provider
will investigate the problem and you will be sent an estimate of
cost, prior to any repair work being performed. After receiving the
estimate, you can choose from the following options:

1. Approve the estimate and proceed with repair.

2. Decline the estimate, and pay an estimate fee and return

shipping.

3. Discuss other options with the Service Provider.

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 If your product is under warranty it will automatically be repaired and
SI-3C

sent back to you.

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User’s Manual

13. How to Order Additional Products

You can order upgrades and additional products for the SI-3C™
(when available). To see product descriptions or order products, see
the Decatur Electronics Web site at www.DecaturElectronics.com or
call the sales office at 888.428.4315.

Radar Monitor
The optional Radar Monitor program is designed to display speed
information on a computer and record that information to a text file
for analysis. The program has been design to work specifically with
the SI-3C™. For more information on the Radar Monitor contact the
sales offices at Decatur Electronics.

Figure 13
Radar Monitor Screen

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www.DecaturElectronics.com
800.428.4315