Which feature on a RADAR instrument is not authorized for use in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, the use of automatic locking features on RADAR instruments is not authorized. Automatic locking refers to the ability of a RADAR unit to automatically capture and maintain a target's speed without any manual intervention by the operator. This feature could potentially lead to issues with accuracy and reliability, as the officer would not be actively assessing the conditions surrounding the speed measurement.

On the other hand, manual locking allows an operator to lock onto a specific target's speed after assessing the scenario, ensuring conscious and deliberate operator input. Automatic tracking assists in maintaining focus on a moving target, but it does not lock the speed in the same manner. Continuous wave mode is utilized for specific types of RADAR operations, but it does not pose the same concerns as automatic locking regarding accountability and accuracy in speed enforcement.

Understanding these distinctions is crucial for effective RADAR operation in North Carolina's enforcement context, as it highlights the emphasis on accuracy and accountability in speed detection methods used by law enforcement officers.