Archived Expert Review


This review is from our archive. The manufacturer has informed us that this model has been discontinued. However, it might still be available for sale. The MSRP and warranty were valid at the time the model was discontinued. We hope you'll find our other Radar Detectors reviews and pricing useful.



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Expert Review
Escort Passport 8500

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CG Award:  (what's this?)



Stores Selling: 6
$260.00 - $345.00


Expert Rating:  4  (what's this?)

Expert Review

Escort Passport 8500

Date Published: 5/19/08

Radar detectors have come a long way since their introduction, and the Passport 8500 is a good example of just how far they have come. It provides an arsenal of detection technology, lets you customize its operation to suit your personal taste, and adds useful features such as full LED text display of Safety Warning System (SWS) signals (over 60 specific safety text messages warn of hazards in areas using safety radar).

The unit operates in the X-band, K-band, Ka-band, and at the Laser Bandwidth (lidar) with multiple sensors. Its display modes include a 280-LED matrix/text, bar graph, ExpertMeter, and SpecDisplay. The ExpertMeter display identifies band and relative signal strength on up to eight radar signals simultaneously; multiple columns of LEDs each represent a separate signal.

The SpecDisplay shows the numerical frequency of the radar signal. Customizable audible warnings increase as the incoming signal grows stronger. Its sensitivity controls include highway, highly-filtered city, and AutoSensitivity; the latter uses signal rejection circuitry to separates real signals from background noise to help reduce false alarms.

The unit's features can be reprogrammed and customized. Options include selection of individual bands (on/off), three meter display options, mute and automute, and two levels of audio tones. The unit is immune to the VG2. The unit's onboard microprocessor can be upgraded to account for newer technologies.

The unit has a built-in earphone jack, and is accompanied by a quick-release windshield mount with extra suction cups, a travel case, and a SmartCord, a power cord with an alert lamp, pilot light and mute button. The Passport 8500's powerful array of features will help keep you safe on the road.



Warranty
2 years extended plan available



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Magic Debugger

release: 8.4.3-qa1
content_id: 254729
type: review
category: l4-cp-radar-detectors

brws title: Escort Passport 8500 Review: Powered by ConsumerGuide and HowStuffWorks

meta d: The Escort Passport 8500 radar detector has a full LED text display of Safety Warning System (SWS) signals. Learn more in Consumer Guide's review.

url: http://shopproducts.howstuffworks.com/Cobra-ESD-7000-Radar-Detector/SF-1/PID-22149028