What frequency does a police RADAR typically operate on?

Police RADAR systems commonly operate in the microwave region of the electromagnetic spectrum, typically utilizing frequencies in the range of around 10 billion Hertz, which corresponds to a frequency of 10 gigahertz (GHz). This frequency is ideal for detecting the speed of moving vehicles because it strikes a balance between range and accuracy, allowing for effective measurement of speed through the Doppler effect.

The RADAR works by emitting microwave signals that bounce off moving objects, such as vehicles. The frequency that the RADAR system uses determines its ability to measure speed accurately; it needs to be sufficiently high to discern small differences in frequency that occur when the object is moving toward or away from the RADAR unit. At around 10 GHz, the system can accurately assess these changes.

Frequencies that are significantly higher or lower than this range, such as those in the options of 5 billion Hertz, 15 billion Hertz, or 20 billion Hertz, are either less practical for the application of speed detection or can present other issues, such as reduced signal clarity or increased susceptibility to atmospheric interference.