Speed camera locators are one of the ‘must have’ pieces of driving technology. Devices promote safer driving by warning the driver if they exceed the speed limit, and alerting them to upcoming speed cameras.
There are several types of speed monitoring methods used up and down the UK, so if you’re considering buying a speed camera locator, it’s important that you understand the differences.
We’ve compiled this overview of speed monitoring and detection methods to help you make an informed decision.
Speed monitoring technologies
There are around 14 different types of speed monitoring devices used nationwide, from the popular fixed yellow Gatso cameras to the more recent variable speed cameras.
Despite the variety in the look and purpose of these cameras, the vast majority are operated using one of three methods - laser, radar, or automatic number plate reading technology (ANPR).
- Radar - these cameras direct a radio signal at the road and when a vehicle drives through that stretch, the change in frequency tells the camera what speed the vehicle is moving at.
- Laser - laser pulses measure a vehicle’s position on the road to calculate the speed at which it’s moving at - this is is the most popular method as the range is the strongest, making it more reliable.
- ANPR - automatic number plate reading technology takes photos and records the time of a vehicle at different positions in the road to calculate the speed it was going to get from one position to the next - this is most popular on motorways.
Location devices
Speed camera detection devices work using one (or a combination) of three technologies - laser, radar and GPS.
Devices that incorporate laser or radar technology pick up signals from upcoming speed cameras and alert the driver to their presence, whereas devices that use GPS only rely on a database of known speed cameras - so it’s important that this software is kept up to date.
To ensure the highest level of safety, it is recommended that you use a location device that incorporates all detection technologies, such as the 4ZERO Elite BT, to ensure that no speed camera is missed.
Alternatively, if your existing sat nav has in-built GPS technology, you can boost performance with a speed detection device, such as the My Speed XL.
Another option is to use a dash camera that has in-built speed camera locations, while providing an extra layer of protection should you be involved in a road traffic accident. As well as recording the road ahead and behind, the DVR-5HD dash camera alerts drivers to upcoming speed camera locations.
Driver responsibility
Speed camera location devices should never be used to encourage ‘safe speeding’.
It is not always easy to determine what the speed limit is while driving, especially on dual carriageways and country roads, but speed warning technology enables drivers to be aware of their speed and ensure they do not exceed the speed limit, ensuring the safety of pedestrians and other road users.
To find out more about Snooper’s range of speed camera locators, click here.
