We raised over $8000 for the Earls family. Decatur CEO Jim Sanner was at the event to present the donations to the Earls family.

The bands Nowhere Fast, Reduced Speed Ahead and BrAcE played great shows.

Many thanks to everyone who donated their time, money and goods to help Officer Earls and his family.

Decatur is proud to be a part of such a vibrant law enforcement community.

 Kane County Assistant State’s Attorney Steven M. Sims on March 13, 2008, successfully argued in front of Associate Judge Allen M. Anderson that the PAS IV passive alcohol sensor can be used to establish probable cause, which subsequently allows a police officer to run a suspected drunken driver through a series of field sobriety tests.

Several Kane County law enforcement agencies use the PAS IV device.

Judge Anderson’s ruling that the PAS IV sensor can be used to establish probable cause is believed to be a first in Illinois.

The hearing was what the legal community calls a Frye Hearing, which is conducted by the court to determine whether the scientific principles behind certain technology are sufficiently established to have gained general acceptance in the scientific community.

The PAS IV device is a combination flashlight and alcohol detection device that uses fuel cell technology to determine the presence of alcohol on a suspect’s breath. For example, a police officer might be talking with a motorist he or she instinctively believes has been consuming alcoholic beverages, but the officer has not established probable cause.

The officer holds the PAS IV in close proximity to the vehicle, and by taking a sample of ambient air the PAS IV is able to detect the presence of alcohol either on the driver’s breath or within the vehicle with a 97 percent accuracy rate.

The device draws in air through a port and past a fuel cell, which will generate a small electric current if alcohol vapor is present. The current is amplified electronically and become visible on a display on the outside of the device.

The device does not require the active participation of a person and does not provide a blood-alcohol content reading.

During March 13 and prior arguments in front of Judge Anderson, Sims argued that:

• Fuel cell technology is not new and novel. The principal of the fuel cell was discovered in 1838, the first fuel cell was developed in 1843 and NASA used fuel cell technology in the 1960s.
• The U.S. Department of Transportation evaluated an earlier model of the PAS IV for alcohol detection and determined it to be reliable.
• An early use of fuel cell technology for the detection of alcohol, known at the time as a “drunkometer,” a breath-test device, relied an on alcohol-specific fuel cell, and was ruled in Illinois Appellate Court in 1951 to be allowed into evidence.
• Subsequent challenges to the fuel cell technology in Illinois appellate court have been rejected, in 1986 and 1990.
• The same type of fuel cell technology is presently used for alcohol detection in portable breath tests, ignition interlock devices and the SCRAM ankle bracelet.

In addition, Jarel R. Kelsey, the President, CEO and Director of PAS Systems international of Fredericksburg, Va., testified at the March 13 hearing as to the accuracy of the passive alcohol sensor.

“I commend the intelligent approach and hard work of my assistant, Steve Sims,” Kane County State’s Attorney John Barsanti said. “By this ruling we have established another tool for law enforcement to utilize in Kane County in our war against drunken driving."

Sponsors

Decatur Electronics would like to thank all of the listed sponsors for joining with us for this worthy event.

Through relationships, community spirit, and a caring heart, together we will make a difference in the lives of the Earles family.

Decatur Electronics, in partnership with multiple East Tennessee law enforcement agencies is sponsoring a benefit concert in Kingsport, Tennessee for the family of Officer Joe Earls of the Kingsport Police Department on April 12, 2008.

The Need

On Saturday March 08, 2008 at about 8:00 PM, the Kingsport Fire Department responded to a house fire in Ridgefield’s Community of Kingsport. Upon arrival they saw a house fully engulfed by fire. The house was a total loss and very little was saved due to the heat.

The house belonged to Sergeant Joe Earles of the Kingsport Police Department. Sergeant Earles, his wife, Markelene and two children, Kaitlin and Colton, were not at home when the fire started. Their dog Dakota did not survive the fire and perished.

Sgt. Earles and his family lost everything they owned, (furniture, clothing, 2 vehicles, personal items etc).

Help on The Way

In response to Sgt. Earles' need, the Kingsport Police Department opened an account for donations at the First Kingsport Credit Union, 408 Clay Street, Kingsport Tennessee 37660, 423-229-9463, in the name of Joe Earles.

Donations on the Earles' behalf are gladly accepted.

Members of the law enforcement community are also planning a large benefit concert for Officer Earls and his family in Kingsport, TN.

Several bands, mostly composed of current and former law enforcement officers will be playing and all proceeds will benefit the Earles family. There will plenty of food, live music, and fun. Bring the kids, your teenagers…your entire family! There will plenty of fun for everyone!

Concert Details

• Where: National Guard Amory, 4001 W Stone Dr, Kingsport, TN
• When: April 12, 2008, 3:00 pm - 8:30 pm
• Cost: $10 per plate, $7 for ages 16 and under
• Contact:
  • Officer Dale Farmer, Kingsport Police Department at 423.224.2750
    
  • Mark Hutchinson, National Sales Manager, Decatur Electronics at 217.855.7989
• Schedule:

  Brace	3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
  Reduced Speed Ahead	4:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
  Nowhere Fast	6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
  Presenation of Benefit	8:00 p.m.

The Bands

Nowhere Fast is a southern rock band comprised of several current and former law enforcement officers including:

• Mark Hutchinson
  (former Chief Deputy)
• Kelly Abercrombie
  (former MPO & Academy Instructor)
• Josh Nix
  (current Cleveland City Police Officer)
• Mark Faust
• Raz Roe
• Jerry Henry.

Three of the band members, Mark, Kelly, & Mark currently work for Decatur Electronics and live in Tennessee.

Reduced Speed Ahead is an unpredictable mix of rock ballad rhythm guitars,blues riffs, rockin' country drums, and thumpin bluegrass bass composed of several law officers.

• Aaron Ensor
  lead vocals, rhythm guitars
• Jason Abernathy
  vocals, lead and rhythm guitars
• David Holtsclaw
  vocals, bass guitars, harmonica
• Wayne Phillips
  vocals, drums
• Rob Coffee
  lead and rhythm guitars

BrAcE

BrAcE is a rock band based out of Cleveland, TN. Officer Josh Nix also plays in this group, as does Raz Roe, C.J. & Jaymz Lametterey. The band plays a mixture of rock music and is sure to light up the stage.

Other Events

The Mount Carmel Police Department, in conjunction with the Kingsport and Collegedale police departments will conduct a free child seat safety checkpoint from 4:00 - 6:00.

Parents can bring their car, child seat, and child to make sure it’s properly installed in the vehicle.

The Kingsport Fire Department will have displays on site of fire apparatuses.

Prizes

We are asking for $5.00 donations for the Earl family. Tickets will be distributed for a chance to win:

• Glock pistol: Your choice of a .40, 9mm, or .357 (from Craig's Firearms, Knoxville, TN)
• Glock Knife
• Glock Entrenching Tool
• Glock Tactical Light

Tickets will be drawn throughout the day. The knife, entrenching tool and tactical light will be given away at 4:00, 5:00, & 6:30. YOU MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN. Tickets are required for eligibility.

The drawing for the pistol will be at 8:00 p.m. Due to the amount of donations throughout the state, your presence IS NOT required to win.

One ticket will provide eligibility for all 4 prizes. Winners of the door prize WILL still be eligible for the pistol drawing.

Officers’ mobile offices are already full. Consolidating the radar display into the rear-view mirror allows officers to remove something else from their dash.

At the same time, they stay safer—with one less place to look, the mirror’s heads-up display prevents officers from dividing their attention from the road.

It works with Genesis II Select and Directional radar. More information is available on the radar mirror page.

It works with any Decatur handheld and can be powered by batteries, a 12V car adapter, or even some radar models themselves.

Our engineers have designed the OS25 to mount in a variety of ways: on a tripod, with the included suction cups, table top mount or hanging from a fence.

The versatility and portability of a sign like this makes it a powerful tool for any situation where radar speeds need to be widely displayed.

The Shadow is a low-cost, modular system designed for departments who want the protection and evidence video provides without the hassle of overly complex systems.

Designing the Shadow with simplicity in mind has saved us money, saving we pass along to you. Moreover, the modular design allows you to easily upgrade as technology progresses.

More information is available on the in-car video page, as well as a video about the Shadow.

The new unit retails for nearly 50 percent less than most mobile one-camera systems and can be handheld by officers and others when a vehicle is stationary or mounted for independent operation.

The OSPRE 300, developed in partnership with INEX of Knoxville, TN, is an infra-red system that scans up to 60 plates a minute at distances up to 50 feet. The OSPRE 300 captures plates at speeds up to 100 mph.

Plates are collected by the unique OCR software system developed by INEX and loaded into a database that cross checks against their local, state and federal databases that track plate and tag information. The NCIC and other data checks can be used to determine a vehicle and/or driver status, including expired tags, parking ticket violations, warrants, AMBER ALERTS etc. The checks can be real-time or delayed depending on agency procedures with NCIC and state and local records, according to Kris Pearson, Director of Marketing and Product Development.

“Another important aspect to this technology is the data collection is stored,” he said. “If there is a terrorist or other type incident at some event like a sporting event, the police can review all vehicles that passed through their checkpoints.”

Greg Roberts, Director of Business Sales, said the community impact of the OSPRE 300 is immediate.

“Officers immediately know if there is a situation with a vehicle that needs further investigation or caution,” he said. “And the homeland security component is enhanced by the capability to review vehicles before and after certain situations where large crowds and important events are located.”

]]> Decatur Radar Wed, 28 Nov 2007 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.decaturradar.com/decatur/news_profile.php?id=41 http://www.decaturradar.com/decatur/news_profile.php?id=41 Decatur Electronics unveiled this month an on-site mobile installation and repair service van for Tennessee. Mark Faust, a Tennessee native, puts his twenty-two years of electronics experience to work as Decatur’s certified radar, video and trailer representative.

The unique and specially equipped Decatur mobile van allows for quick and responsive service to almost any need, whether of Decatur equipment or that of a competitor.

“Agencies may simply schedule a service call rather than shipping their units off, waiting for a quote and then repair,” said Michael Redlinger, Decatur’s head of Customer Service and Repair. “This saves agencies time and money.”

Decatur’s 50 years of continued improvements and methods for serving its customers leads the industry. The company initiated the first 2-day turn-around for radar repairs nearly a decade ago.

It continues to push the industry with its new mobile certification, repair and installation van.

When wildfires broke out in southern California last week, forcing hundreds of thousands of evacuations, the destruction of more than 1,100 homes and more than a billion dollars in damage, business slowed as many TW employees evacuated their homes.

However, TW immediately responded to a request by Jill Olen, Director of the Office of Emergency Services for the City of San Diego, to put into action one of TW’s trademark vehicles. In coordination with the Department of Homeland Security Board Patrol, a long-time client of TW, the BORSTAR Van was called to action.

“The vehicle set up in 15 minutes,” said Allen Johnston, TW’s Director of Business Development. “Immediately, recovery support teams were able to pull and print evacuation lists, resource and recovery contact lists, maps and other information to aid in disaster relief and situational analysis and coordination between agencies.”

The BORSTAR Van, originally built for Border Search Trauma And Rescue division of the Border Patrol, provides interoperable communications as well as computer connectivity and is a completely secure and independent mobile command, control and communications center.

Acting as the primary hub for information dissemination at the San Diego evacuation center, the BORSTAR Van enabled evacuees to send faxes and email as well as stay updated with the latest news via an external plasma display, Johnston said.

“Our thanks go out to James Robertson and Jeff Knowles of the San Diego BORSTAR team for their support,” said Johnston, “as well as Commander Mendoza of the El Centro Team and Chief Jason Carroll who organized and facilitated the CBP response to San Diego’s request.”

TW Mobile Engineering is a premiere vehicle outfitter in southern California with facilities just outside San Diego, in Santee. TW’s team of mobile engineers outfit more than 700 vehicles for law enforcement, fire departments and special uses, including Homeland Security, surveillance and military uses, every year.

Kris talks about a lot of new products including:

• Scout handheld radar
• Radar Mirror Display
• OnSite 25
• Shadow 800 in-car video
• Onsite 450
• PAS IV

]]> Decatur Radar Tue, 30 Oct 2007 01:00:00 -0500 http://www.decaturradar.com/decatur/news_profile.php?id=38 http://www.decaturradar.com/decatur/news_profile.php?id=38 William Mosher, Decatur's graphic artist, met R. Lee Ermey, the man who played the Gunny, in Full Metal Jacket.

The Gunny was signing autographs at the Glock booth.

There's been a long line each day so far--everybody wants to meet the man who, in a lot of ways, embodies the military way of life.

Also notice the piano in the foreground.

What you can't see is the trailers on each corner of the booth, including the new OnSite 450, the 4-line message sign.

There's been a steady stream of traffic through the booth, people stopping to rest their feet, either in the easy chairs or on the soft carept or just to listen to the music.

Jewell has 34 years law enforcement experience, having begun his career with the Walker County, GA, Sheriff’s Department in 1973. He wrote the law enforcement plan for the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games in Atlanta and was assigned to the Command Staff for planning and operation of the State of Georgia’s involvement in the Democratic Party National Convention in 1988.

Jewell said he looks forward to working with his peers in the state of Georgia and providing them with the service and products of another long-time law enforcement figure - Decatur Electronics.

"I’m excited about working for Decatur," he said. "I’ve been a Trooper and Assistant Post Commander in GSP posts, managed equipment, and seen the ways officers work. Decatur has been in the business for more than 50 years and is known for its quality, innovative products and its service. We are a good match."

Greg Roberts, National Sales Manager for Decatur, called Jewel’s decision to join Decatur’s team testimony to the company’s strengths.

"Major Jewel understands the people of law enforcement," he said. "He brings years of experience, contacts and customer needs and wants to our commitment to provide the best law enforcement tools to police."

FCC regulations require certification for intentional radiators, devices transmitting any sort of radio signal. Because radar jammers transmit a signal designed to interfere with police radar, the FCC called on Rocky Mountain Radar to cease manufacture of the units.

The FCC rejected RMR’s argument the jammers were not intentional radiators, but rather reflected a distorted version of the signal they received and fined RMR $25,000.

"This is a clear victory for traffic safety and law enforcement," said Kris Pearson, Marketing and Product Development Director for Decatur Electronics, the nation’s oldest manufacturer of traffic radar.

"Police use radar to enforce traffic safety laws. Devices that interfere with this tool have been ruled illegal by the FCC. We are happy to see traffic safety laws supported by the FCC."

The PAS IV offers passive alcohol sensor technology in a durable, industrial strength police-grade flashlight. The PAS IV flashlight provides a simple and effective way to determine probable cause. The partnership between PAS and Decatur elevates Decatur’s offerings to its more than 17,000 law enforcement, military and educational customers worldwide, said Jim Sanner, CEO for the 52-year-old company.

“The overwhelming majority of traffic stops happen at night, when officers are using their flashlights,” Sanner said. “It makes sense to provide more capability to that same tool. PAS IV gives officers awareness that alcohol may be involved in some fashion during the stop or incident.”

PAS IV draws in and analyzes air. It displays a calibrated reading of the alcohol level through color-coded LEDs in the light’s handle. It accurately reads alcohol levels from the suspected alcohol source up to 10 inches away and can be used in vehicle stops or event security, allowing officers to take a sample without active participation from the suspect.

It is certified and approved by:

• Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
• Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation
• National Safety Council
• NTSB
• MADD
• National Commission Against Drunk Driving
• International Council on Alcohol, Drugs and Traffic Safety.

Greg Roberts, Decatur’s National Sales Manager, called the PAS IV a natural product fit for Decatur. “We have worked for more than 50 years with law enforcement on public and traffic safety,” he said. “This is a logical tool for police in their efforts to protect and serve.”

The EZ Stat allows data to be exported to Excel and provides a variety of data analysis.

"Because it's inexpensive and easy to move," said Greg Roberts, Decatur’s National Sales Manager, "the SpeedSpy makes a great addition to any department wanting to better understand traffic problems. With the data, police can analyze areas of concern and determine where best to place officers for further control."

More information is available on the SpeedSpy page.

Decatur Electronics is proud to announce the release of the OnSite 450, featuring a 4-line LED sign that interfaces with an SI-3 unit to provide highly programmable graphics and messages.

Combined with an all-new weather-proof design, the OS 450 is the perfect solution for a wide variety of traffic problems, from notifications to traffic calming. The 199 pre-programmed messages combine with 50 user-set messages to provide a wide variety of display options.

More information is available on the OnSite 450 page.

]]> Decatur Radar Thu, 10 May 2007 01:00:00 -0500 http://www.decaturradar.com/decatur/news_profile.php?id=28 http://www.decaturradar.com/decatur/news_profile.php?id=28 In a decision swayed substantially by in-car video, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled Monday that police cannot be sued by suspects injured as a result of a high-speed chase in which they are involved.

The court ruled in favor of Deputy Timothy Scott of the Coweta County Sheriff’s Office.. The officer had rammed then 19-year old Victor Harris’ car, knocking his vehicle off the road to end a car chase that, at times, exceeded 100 mph. Harris was paralyzed as a result of the accident.

The Court based its decision in large part to the substantiating evidence provided by the officer’s in-car video. The chase careened over two counties, with video recording Harris accelerating several times over 100 mph and passing over thirty cars, often in no-passing zones.

Justice Antonin Scalia wrote the 8-1 majority opinion overturning a lower court ruling. “Far from being the cautious and controlled driver the lower court depicts, what we see on the video more closely resembles a Hollywood-style car chase of the most frightening sort, placing police officers and innocent bystanders alike at greater risk of serious injury."

Jim Sanner, CEO of Decatur, called the case an important validation of the value of video for law enforcement. Decatur Electronics, Inc. has more than 10,000 video units in officer vehicles worldwide.

“This kind of victory is why Decatur entered the video arena in the first place,” he said. “Video evidence has time and again proven officers make the right choices. It is used to corroborate their actions, defend their behavior and to justify their arrests with evidentiary documentation. As one of the leading manufacturers of digital video for police, we are glad the Court supported this law enforcement tool.”

The video evidence is available in RealVideo format on the Supreme Court website. Quality comparisons can be made to Decatur's Gemini Plus Digital video via our snapshots page.

• Police Squad Cars/SUVs

• Law Enforcement Motorcycles

• Electric Vehicles

• Motorized Vehicles

• Surveillance Vehicles

• Mobile Command Centers

• and Significant Work Supporting Military Special Forces, United States Marine Corps, Border Patrol, DEA, and Projects Focused on Homeland Security for Numerous Federal Agencies

ThunderWorks was founded in 1998 by two California businessmen, Allen Johnston and Don Fox. By providing "turn-key" communication systems for police vehicles, ThunderWorks established itself as a market leader by providing unique, specialized service and support. ThunderWorks also provides a variety of outfitted specialty vehicles including a KTM tactical motorcycle, mobile command centers, search and rescue, and fire fighting vehicles.

The acquisition of ThunderWorks positions Decatur Electronics, Inc. as one of the premier law enforcement equipment and integration providers in the nation, offering an array of products and services. Both Decatur Electronics and ThunderWorks share a common philosophy of providing superior customer service with a superior product. ThunderWorks facilities will remain in California and operate as a division of Decatur Electronics.

Allen Johnston has worked in the electronics field for approximately 25 years. Mr. Johnston will be the Director of Business Development for the new division, charged with responsibility for growth in markets and product innovations.

Don Fox has over 15 years of mobile electronics experience in a technical/engineering capacity. Mr. Fox will be the Director of Technical Services in the new division.

Founded in 1955, Decatur Electronics, Inc. is a company with product lines of an advanced electronic nature. Decatur markets its products in the United States and internationally. Decatur has the distinction of being the only police radar manufacturer to hold ISO 9001 Certification. In addition to radar speed measurement devices, radar/message trailers, and in-car video for law enforcement agencies, Decatur Electronics makes speed measurement equipment for sports, industrial applications, and OEM products for companies including Harley-Davidson, Polaris, and Jugs.

Based with its corporate headquarters in Decatur, Illinois, where the company maintains production and marketing facilities, its engineering technology facility is located in Fort Collins, Colorado. The company also maintains an in-car video research and development facility in Exeter, New Hampshire.

For more information on Decatur Electronics, Inc. or any of its products, visit our web site at www.decaturradar.com or call (800) 428-4315.

###

March 15, 2004- Decatur Electronics, Inc., an international manufacturer of radar speed measurement products, in-car video systems and traffic safety products, announces the new product launch of the Genesis Handheld Directional radar gun.

The new Genesis Handheld Directional is a state-of-the-art, affordable handheld directional radar gun that packs advanced direction sensing technology into a unit that fits into any budget. At an introductory price of $495* per unit (*U.S. price only), the GHD sets itself apart from any competitors’ radar gun — without sacrificing on quality. The corded radar gun utilizes a K-band directional antenna and weighs a mere two pounds.

“The GHD is a revolutionary radar gun,” says Greg DiRenzo, Sales Manager for Decatur Electronics, Inc. “At Decatur Electronics, we are taking advantage of technological advancements while continuing to provide an inexpensive radar solution. Now, with this hi-tech, low cost radar solution, agencies can afford to expand their radar coverage and increase their traffic safety program by increasing the number of radar guns available for officers.”

Other features of the Genesis Handheld Directional include:

• Direction Sensing Technology
• Simple-To-Use Stationary Format
• Display Approaching or Receding Traffic
• Display Traffic in Both Directions
• Isolate Traffic in One Direction
• Track and Lock the FASTER Target
• Easy-To-Read LCD Display
• Target and Lock Speeds Displayed
• 32-Bit DSP for Fast Target Acquisition
• Rugged Polycarbonate Housing
• Track-Through-Lock
• Communications Port
• Pure Audio Doppler (Not Synthesized)
• Software Upgradeable (Via Data Port)

Founded in the early 1950s, Decatur Electronics, Inc. is a company with product lines of an advanced electronic nature. Decatur markets its products in the United States and internationally. Decatur has the distinction of being the only police radar manufacturer to hold ISO 9001 Certification. In addition to radar speed measurement devices, radar/message trailers, and in-car video for law enforcement agencies, Decatur Electronics makes speed measurement equipment for sports, industrial applications, and OEM products for companies including Harley-Davidson, Polaris, and Jugs.

The corporate headquarters for Decatur Electronics, Inc. is based in Decatur, Illinois, where the company maintains administrative offices and a manufacturing plant. The company has engineering technology facilities for product research and development located in Colorado and New Hampshire. ThunderWorks, a division of Decatur Electronics, Inc. that specializes in high-tech installation of components in law enforcement vehicles, is located in Santee, California.

For more information on Decatur Electronics, Inc. or any of its products, visit our web site at www.decaturradar.com or call (800) 428-4315.

###

The new Gemini Digital In-Car Video System, a ruggedly constructed digital video recording system, is completely housed in the overhead area of the Ford Crown Victoria and is supported by the GEM software solution. The Gemini Digital system includes a robust hard drive, digital video recorder, 4.75” touch screen monitor, and Sony^® camera.

“Once again Decatur Electronics, Inc. is revolutionizing the law enforcement in-car video market with the Gemini Digital,” says Greg DiRenzo, Sales Manager for Decatur Electronics, Inc. “This system is the most user and feature friendly law enforcement in-car digital video system on the market today. We have done extensive technology evaluations and listened and studied customer issues. This product is truly designed for the user.”

The new Gemini Digital In-Car Video System includes:

• Overhead console with 4.75” touch screen

• High resolution digital video recording

• Turn-key data management solution

• Automatic deletion settings that operators control

• Top-notch equipment and software components

• PreVu recording for capturing data before the officer knows it’s needed

Separate from the in-car equipment component, the Gemini Evidence Manager (GEM) is a high-tech solution for efficient archiving and fast searching. It includes a user-friendly software package and dedicated hardware components.

The Gemini Evidence Manager (GEM):

• Eliminates issues associated with tape storage
  -GEM stores evidence electronically
  -GEM has automatic deletion of expired video
  -GEM has advanced search capabilities

• Automatically updates your in-car software with each download of evidence

• Allows users to e-mail video evidence for fast information sharing

Founded in the early 1950s, Decatur Electronics, Inc. is a company with product lines of an advanced electronic nature. Decatur markets its products in the United States and internationally. Decatur has the distinction of being the only police radar manufacturer to hold ISO 9001 Certification. In addition to radar speed measurement devices, radar/message trailers, and in-car video for law enforcement agencies, Decatur Electronics makes speed measurement equipment for sports, industrial applications, and OEM products for companies including Harley-Davidson, Polaris, and Jugs.

The corporate headquarters for Decatur Electronics, Inc. is based in Decatur, Illinois, where the company maintains administrative offices and a manufacturing plant. The company has engineering technology facilities for product research and development located in Colorado and New Hampshire. ThunderWorks, a division of Decatur Electronics, Inc. that specializes in high-tech installation of components in law enforcement vehicles, is located in Santee, California.

For more information on Decatur Electronics, Inc. or any of its products, visit our web site at www.decaturradar.com or call (800) 428-4315.

###

The OnSite 200 radar sign unit mounts on a portable dolly system for quick and easy deployment. It features 18" high full matrix LED characters legible up to 1,000 feet and provides options for speed and safety monitoring of traffic flow.

Manufactured in the company's Decatur, Illinois factory facility, the OnSite 200 features a robust durable tubular construction and offers a see-through design for safety. The unit includes a K-band approach-only radar antenna that detects vehicles up to 1,500 feet away.

For various applications, the unit includes interchangeable speed limit signs in addition to a "Your Speed" or "School" sign. It offers a portable solution for School Zones, Cross Walks, Parking Lots, Public Events, Neighborhood Watch Organizations and Short-Term Construction Sites.

In addition to traffic and speed enforcement, the OnSite 200 may be combined with the optional EZ Stat traffic package. The EZ Stat traffic statistics software package allows for the collection and analysis of traffic data.

Decatur Electronics, Inc. produces radar speed measurement devices, radar message trailers and in-car video monitoring systems for law enforcement and other customers in the United States and internationally. It is the only police radar manufacturer to hold ISO 9001 Certification.

Decatur Electronics also produces speed measurement equipment for sports, industrial applications, and OEM products for companies including Harley-Davidson, Polaris, and Jugs.

The company was founded in the 1950s and maintains its corporate headquarters, production and marketing facilities in Decatur, Illinois. It also maintains an engineering technology facility in Fort Collins, Colorado, and operates a vehicle outfitting division, ThunderWorks Mobile Engineering Technologies, in Santee, California.

For more information on the OnSite 200 radar dolly sign, Decatur Electronics, Inc. or more company products and services, visit www.decaturradar.com or call (800) 428-4315.

###

The company’s Gemini Plus II™ in-car video system uses the SONY Digital8™ tape recorder to produce from 90 to 135 minutes of high-resolution recordings. The Gemini Plus II combines this improved tape clarity with enhanced audio quality for an industry benchmark in evidentiary documenting recordings. The system can be mounted in vehicles either overhead or in a two-piece console mounting and is easily installed in less than 45 minutes.

Decatur introduced the Gemini Plus™ line of in-car video tape record systems in 2002 and has placed more than 7,500 units in small and large police departments across the United States . In addition to its newest Gemini Plus II system, the company offers true hard drive digital with its Gemini Digital line of in-car video.

“Our Gemini Plus II meets the needs of departments wanting high quality video without the expense of moving to the next tier of true digital,” said Greg Roberts, Decatur ’s sales manager. “This allows departments to easily upgrade and improve their Gemini Plus systems or to move to a cost effective but high-quality system.”

Decatur Electronics has served the public safety sector for more than 50 years and was the first manufacturer of law enforcement radars. It also carries a full line of speed measurement, message trailers and a complete line of in-car video systems.

In addition to the trusted quality and service programs of Decatur Electronics, the Gemini Plus II™ system features:

• Light Indicator – initiates recording when emergency lights are engaged
• Brake Indicator – records BRK on video, offering brake history
• Radar Overlay – allows the Gemini Plus II to interface seamlessly with the Genesis I™ or Genesis II Select™ radar units to display speeds.
• Active Matrix Color Monitor – easy event viewing
• Wireless Audio – convenient wireless mounting options
• Record Over Protect – “bulletproof” previous recording protection

Founded in the early 1950s, Decatur Electronics is headquartered in Decatur, IL . The company operates an engineering technology facility in Ft. Collins, Colorado and a high tech vehicle outfitting division, ThunderWorks Mobile Engineering, in Santee, CA . The company manufactures equipment for use primarily in law enforcement, but also makes speed measurement equipment for sports, industrial applications and OEM products for companies, including Harley-Davidson, Polaris and Jugs.

For more information on Decatur Electronics, Inc. or any of its products, visit our web site at www.decaturradar.com or call:

– 30 –

The new EZ Stat Pak™ and its companion product, Speed Spy™, provide low cost alternatives for targeting speed and traffic information and then analyzing it for safety purposes with easy to read and understand reports.

The EZ Stat is a serial module flash memory system that works with Decatur Electronics radars. Application uses include normal traffic areas, neighborhood watch programs, closed-gate communities, school zones and construction zones. The Windows based technology can be used to analyze traffic needs for determining when to assign police officers. It provides complete data logging and converts the data to easily interpreted traffic, speed and flow pattern reports.

The SpeedSpy packages the EZ Stat with Decatur radars as a covert process for monitoring radar speed trailers or enforcement measures. The watertight device is discretely mounted in targeted areas and monitors traffic, speed and flow patterns. Reports generated aid police agencies in determining whether LED displays of vehicle speeds or regular police enforcement efforts have been effective in reducing speeds in certain areas.

Decatur Electronics has served the public safety sector for more than 50 years and was the first manufacturer of law enforcement radars. It also carries a full line of speed measurement, message trailers and a complete line of in-car video systems.

Founded in the early 1950s, Decatur Electronics is headquartered in Decatur, IL. The company operates an engineering technology facility in Ft. Collins, CO and a high-tech vehicle outfitting division, ThunderWorks Mobile Engineering, in Santee, CA. The company manufactures equipment for use primarily in law enforcement, but also makes speed measurement equipment for sports, industrial applications and OEM products for companies including Harley-Davidson, Polaris, and Jugs.

For more information on Decatur Electronics, Inc. or any of its products, visit our web site at www.decaturradar.com .

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These durable and high-quality trailers offer economical traffic speed monitoring and control measures. They may be equipped with various options depending on traffic and budget needs of small, medium and large-sized police departments.

“The OnSite™ line offers a tiered approach for law enforcement or municipalities wanting to slow traffic in school zones, work zones, high accident areas, in neighborhoods, near sharp curves and along city streets.” said Greg Roberts , National Sales Manager for Decatur Electronics. “Our full line also eliminates pedestrian and vehicle blind spots at intersections and on roadways and uses a large LED display to send a clear message to drivers.”

The portable Onsite 350s and 400s may be moved easily to one or more locations and are supported by Decatur ’s latest radar technology – the new and upgraded SI3, system interface. The SI3 is a more compact directional antenna for measuring traffic approaching the trailer. It interfaces with the flashing display to alert drivers when they have exceeded the speed limit. OnSite trailer options include solar panels, anti-theft alarms, EZ Stat™ traffic analysis software, red LED violations flashers and a safety strobe that mimics photo capture of speeding vehicles. The OnSite 400 unit also features a standard scrolling message board that can be used to communicate messages to drivers.

The OnSite 350 and 400 units are two of the OnSite trailer line offering. Decatur also manufactures the OnSite 200 radar dolly, which is a smaller unit that can be moved by hand. The company plans to unveil other models over the next 30 days that complement the line. And Decatur ’s EZ Stat speed data logger package, which can be used to collect and analyze traffic speed patterns and flow, connects seamlessly to each OnSite unit.

“Our goal is to offer our partners in law enforcement and public safety a complete selection of speed measurement and message trailers,” Roberts said. “The OnSite will accommodate any budget and any speed measurement and enforcement need. And each trailer comes backed by Decatur ’s industry-leading standards for quality and service.”

Decatur has served the public safety sector for more than 50 years and was the first manufacturer of law enforcement radars. It also manufactures speed measurement equipment for sports, industrial applications and OEM products for companies including Harley-Davidson™, Polaris™ and Jugs™ as well as the Gemini™ line of in-car digital and digital tape video systems and the OnSite™ line of radar and message trailers.

The company is headquartered in Decatur , IL . It also operates an engineering technology facility in Ft. Collins , CO , and a high-tech vehicle outfitting division, ThunderWorks Mobile Engineering in Santee , CA .

For more information, see Decatur Electronic’s website at www.decaturradar.com or call 800.428.4315.

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The vans will be topped with Decatur Electronic’s radar and speed message signs to indicate the speed drivers are traveling. Troopers in the vans will be able to take pictures of drivers exceeding posted speed limits in IDOT construction zones. The ISP is sending a clear signal to drivers: Slow Down; we’re serious about speeding in work zones.

“Worker safety in construction zones is a clear priority for the Governor, the ISP, the IDOT and also for Decatur Electronics.” Said Greg Roberts , National Sales Manager for the company. “We are pleased to be able to provide the equipment that will be used in achieving the goal of reducing fatalities in work zones. This project meets our own company initiative for improving safety in school and work zones.”

According to 2004 data, 39 people were killed in Illinois work zones, two of them workers. Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich has set a goal of reducing total traffic deaths to fewer than 1,000 on Illinois Highways by 2008.

New speeding penalties signed into law last year will hit first time work zone speeders, including those caught on camera, with a fine of $375. Two-time offenders are subject to a $1000 fine, and a 90 day license suspension. In addition, drivers hitting a worker are subject to a fine of up to $10,000 and 14 years in prison.

Decatur has served the public safety sector for more than 50 years and was the first manufacturer of law enforcement radars. It also manufactures in-car digital and digital tape video systems as well as speed measurement equipment for sports, industrial applications and OEM products for companies including Harley-Davidson, Polaris and Jugs.

The company is headquartered in Decatur , IL . It also operates an engineering technology facility in Ft. Collins , CO , and a high-tech vehicle outfitting division, ThunderWorks Mobile Engineering in Santee , CA .

Learn more about Decatur Electronics at www.decaturradar.com.

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For More Information, contact: Kris Pearson , Marketing Manager kpearson@decaturelectronics.com

DECATUR , IL – Decatur Electronics and Sanner Safety Initiatives have teamed up to improve child pedestrian safety and adherence to school speed zones in the creation of the Speed Stopper safety package. The package was unveiled at the National School Board Association Expo in Chicago April 8-11, 2006 .

Sanner Safety Initiatives developed the Speed Stopper, a safety package for collecting speed data and monitoring and influencing traffic in school zones. The unit consists of a SpeedSpy™, an OnSite 200™ Dolly and the EZ Stat Pak™ software.

SpeedSpy is a covert tool that can be mounted on roadside poles, allowing school districts to collect data on traffic speed and flow. After monitoring data, the SpeedSpy may be replaced with the OnSite 200. The portable dolly’s large LED display flashes speed alerts to influence driver activity. Both systems are compatible with the EZ Stat data software, which can be used to collect data and to produce easy-to-read reports in a Windows format.

“We are proud to bring this combination of speed safety products to educators around the country,” said Greg Roberts , national sales manager for Decatur Electronics. “Our young people are the future in America and too many of them are in danger due to speeding motorists.”

The Safe Kids USA study showed more than two-thirds of all vehicles monitored in school speed zones traveled faster than the posted speed limit. Almost one quarter (23%) of those vehicles were 10 mph over, while nearly 33% traveled 30 mph or more above the limit and another 6.6% traveled at 40 mph or more over the limit.

“These alarming statistics indicate our children at risk in what should be a safe area, a school speed zone,” Roberts said. “The Speed Stopper gives schools the resources they need to influence drivers and slow traffic down.”

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, speeding is a factor in one-tenth of all pedestrian-related traffic fatalities among children. Studies find children are eight times more likely to die if hit by a vehicle traveling only 30 mph. The National SafeKids Campaign recommends enforcement speed limits can be a significant factor in reducing accidents and fatalities. Increasing driver awareness of speed enforcement and putting greater emphasis on child pedestrian safety will reduce this problem and create more walkable communities.

Decatur has served the public safety sector for more than 50 years and was the first manufacturer of law enforcement radars. It also manufactures speed measurement equipment for sports, industrial applications and OEM products for ompanies including Harley-Davidson™, Polaris™ and Jugs™ as well as the Gemini™ line of in-car digital and digital tape video systems and the OnSite™ line of radar and message trailers.

The company is headquartered in Decatur , IL . It also operates an engineering technology facility in Ft. Collins , CO , and a high-tech vehicle outfitting division, ThunderWorks Mobile Engineering in Santee , CA .

For more information, see Decatur Electronic’s website at www.decaturradar.com or call 800.428.4315.

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DECATUR , IL – Decatur Electronics, Inc. unveils a new addition to its comprehensive radar product line this month with the new Decatur SpeedTrak™ radar package.

The SpeedTrak radar includes VIP plug-n-play technology and easy-to-read multi-color LED speed display, as well as the computer controller unit, the display unit, a remote hand controller, Decatur ’s SI3 antenna system and all of the mounting, power and calibrating hardware to complete the package.

Decatur Electronics VIP cures shadowing and batching. The SpeedTrak also features real Doppler audio, Ka, K-directional or K-band antennas, a detachable backlit remote control and a two year warranty. The unit is fully field upgradeable for convenience and includes a sun shade to shield the display from glare.

“Law officers will find this to be one of the most user-friendly and highest performing units ever manufactured,” said Greg Roberts , National Sales Manager for Decatur Electronics. “ The SpeedTrak offers unparalleled versatility and technology advantages while allowing for future upgrades at low cost.”

Decatur has served the public safety sector for more than 50 years and was the first manufacturer of law enforcement radars. It also manufactures speed measurement equipment for sports, industrial applications and OEM products for companies including Harley-Davidson™, Polaris™ and Jugs™ as well as the Gemini™ line of in-car digital and digital tape video systems and the OnSite™ line of radar and message trailers.

The company is headquartered in Decatur , IL . It also operates an engineering technology acility in Ft. Collins , CO , and a high-tech vehicle outfitting division, Thunderworks Mobile Engineering in Santee , CA .

For more information, see Decatur Electronic’s website at www.decaturradar.com or call 800.428.4315.

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The durable and high quality speed trailer offers economical traffic and speed control measures. When equipped with the EZ Stat™ monitoring system to track traffic patterns and generate easy-to-analyze reports, the department can use the trailer to effectively deploy personnel for speed enforcement. The trailer is equipped with a radar antenna that measures a vehicle’s speed and flashes the information on a large LED display. These automatic alerts create awareness of the posted speed limit and are shown to influence driver speed.

According to Deputy James Derico of the Montgomery County Sheriff, the speed trailer has more than lived up to expectations. “It’s a lot harder to find speeders since we began using the trailer,” he said. “The volume of traffic remains the same, but speeding has been lessened and fatalities have gone down.”

Decatur Electronics, the first manufacturer of radar for law enforcement 50 years ago, developed its OnSite line of radar and message trailers to help departments, said Mark Hutchinson, Regional Sales Manager for the company.

“Any time we can work with law enforcement officials to help them achieve their goals, the general public wins through improved safety,” Hutchinson said. “By lending one of our speed trailers to different agencies, we were able to demonstrate an effective and cost effective way to enforce speed limits. The Montgomery Sheriff’s test demonstration was so convincing that they purchased one of the units.”

Decatur has served the public safety sector for more than 50 years. In addition to radar, the company also manufactures digital and digital tape in-car video systems as well as speed measurement equipment for sports, industrial applications and OEM products for companies including Harley-Davidson, Polaris and Jugs.

The company is headquartered in Decatur, IL . It also operates an engineering technology facility in Ft. Collins, CO , and a high-tech vehicle outfitting division, Thunderworks Mobile Engineering in Santee, CA .

Learn more about Decatur ’s radar, trailer or video products at www.decaturradar.com.

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Contact: Kris Pearson, Marketing Manager
kpearson@decaturelectronics.com

“At any given time, there are over 12,000 people at the shipyard, and they all arrive in vehicles, creating city-like traffic problems,” said Greg Roberts , National Sales Manager for Decatur Electronics. “We have dealt with law enforcement agencies for many year, but this is the first time a private Security force has contacted us to try a novel approach to address their problem.”

The full-featured trailers are equipped with the EZ Stat™ traffic software, a monitoring and analytical tool that can be used to determine traffic patterns and speeds. They also have scrolling LED message boards and solar panels. The trailers’ large flashing LED signs indicate to drivers the speed at which they are traveling.

“Speed and message trailers are known to influence driver behavior,” Roberts said. “Measures that influence driver behavior also are shown to reduce pedestrian related accidents by 60 percent. This is a win-win for Northrop and their thousands of drivers and pedestrians.”

Northrop Grumman will use two of the trailers at its Pascagoula facility and will locate two of the trailers at its Avondale facility, where workers undertake a wide variety of naval and commercial shipbuilding programs.

Decatur Electronics has served the public safety sector for more than 50 years and was the first manufacturer of law enforcement radars. It also manufactures in-car digital and digital tape video systems as well as speed measurement equipment for sports, industrial applications and OEM products for companies including Harley-Davidson, Polaris and Jugs.

The company is headquartered in Decatur , IL . It also operates an engineering technology facility in Ft. Collins , CO , and a high-tech vehicle outfitting division, Thunderworks Mobile Engineering in Santee , CA .

For more information on radar, speed and message trailers or in-car video, visit www.decaturradar.com.

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Contact: Kris Pearson, Marketing Manager
kpearson@decaturelectronics.com

The 100 is a dolly unit companion to Decatur ’s best-selling OnSite 200™. It features 14-inch LEDs and weighs 20 percent less than the 200. Despite smaller dimensions, it features the quality engineering designs and technical innovations that make the OnSite trailer line an industry leader. The portable dolly is specifically designed for easy placement and portability. It may be placed in a vehicle and rolled into position at almost any location.

The OnSite 300 is Decatur ’s economical solution for speed enforcement that requires a larger, stronger platform. Not as large as Decatur’s 350 and 400 deluxe trailers, the 300 still packs high visual benefits with durability on a medium-sized platform.

The 100 and 300 complete a line of trailers that offer any department or agency and school or municipality speed awareness and enforcement options for any budget, according to Greg Roberts, National Sales Manager.

“The OnSite™ 100 and 300 are effective tools for slowing traffic in school zones, work zones, high accident areas, in neighborhoods, near sharp curves and along city streets.” said Roberts. “These trailers eliminate pedestrian and vehicle blind spots at intersections and on roadways and they use large LEDs to send a clear message to drivers.”

Both units feature Decatur ’s patent-pending SI-3 radar. This compact directional antenna measures traffic approaching the trailer and interfaces with the flashing display to alert drivers when they have exceeded the speed limit. OnSite trailer options include solar panels, anti-theft alarms, EZ Stat™ traffic analysis software, red LED violations flashers and a safety strobe that mimics photo capture of speeding vehicles.

“Add Decatur ’s EZ Stat data logger package to collect and analyze traffic speed patterns, and you have the perfect solution for speed analysis,” Roberts said. “The EZ Stat data combined with an OnSite allows police and others to monitor and plan their speed enforcement strategies.”

The OnSite trailer line offers units for a variety of speed enforcement budgets. Decatur also backs each trailer with its industry-leading standards for quality, service and one year guarantee.

Decatur has served the public safety sector for more than 50 years and was the first manufacturer of law enforcement radars. It also manufactures in-car digital and digital tape video systems as well as speed measurement equipment for sports, industrial applications and OEM products for companies including Harley-Davidson, Polaris and JUGS. The company is headquartered in Decatur, IL . It also operates an engineering technology facility in Ft. Collins, CO, and a high-tech vehicle outfitting division, Thunderworks Mobile Engineering, in Santee, CA .

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ISO establishes consistently high quality standards for global industry and establishes benchmarks recognized around the world for industry. Companies meeting ISO standards must pass certification for state-of-the-art products, services, processes, materials and systems, as well as managerial and organizational practices that support quality.

“We choose to comply with ISO guidelines because it helps us take our product quality to the next level,” says Jim Sanner, chief executive officer of Decatur Electronics. “We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of quality and producing products that meet the unique needs of our customers.”

Decatur was originally certified ISO 9001 in March 2000. To retain its certification, the company is assessed by an external auditing firm, Intertek Testing Services, twice a year and conducts an internal audit program once a year. “Ultimately, all of these efforts are aimed at continuous improvement and keeping our customers happy,” Sanner said. For more information about Decatur and its products, visit the website www.decaturradar.com.

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The Illinois Traffic Safety Challenge recognizes law enforcement agencies for their efforts to reduce traffic-related fatalities. Every year, some 40,000 Americans lose their lives as the result of largely preventable traffic accidents. The Challenge focuses on policies, training, tactics and public education efforts related to three key areas: seat belt use, impaired driving, and speeding.

The OnSite, donated by Decatur Electronics, is the company’s way of supporting law enforcement efforts to reduce that number, according to Jim Sanner, CEO. The grand prize award was presented during a recognition breakfast Aug. 3 hosted by the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police. Hoffman Estates’ 97 officers serve a community of 50,000 residents located about 25 miles west of Chicago.

“Decatur Electronics has a partnership with law enforcement that stretches back more than 50 years, when we became the first manufacturer of radar for law enforcement,” says Greg Roberts, National Sales Manager for Decatur Electronics. “We hope the OnSite 300 helps the Hoffman Estates police force make further strides in traffic safety, and we commend all the winners of the Illinois Traffic Safety Challenge.”

Decatur has long been a supporter of law enforcement traffic safety challenges. The company presented dozens of radar units and speed trailers as awards for winning agencies in Illinois, California, Tennessee, New York, Connecticut, Georgia, South Carolina and Virginia this year. The National Sheriff’s Association also awarded six Decatur radars to sheriff’s departments nationwide, and the International Association of Chief’s of Police is awarding 75 Genesis Handheld radars to police departments nationwide as part of their national chief’s challenge.

“Sponsoring these events is one way we can show we care about traffic safety and about the countless officers who work to keep people safe every day,” says Roberts. “Supporting the Illinois Traffic Safety Challenge is a great opportunity for us to give back to agencies that have helped make our company a success.”

Decatur, which has served the public safety sector for more than 50 years, manufactures speed measurement equipment for sports, industrial applications and OEM products for companies including Harley-Davidson™, Polaris™ and Jugs.™ The company also manufactures Gemini™ in-car digital video systems and OnSite™ radar and message trailers. In addition to its Illinois facilities, the company operates an engineering technology facility in Ft. Collins, CO, and a high-tech vehicle outfitting division, ThunderWorks Mobile Engineering, in Santee, CA.

For more information about Decatur and its products, visit the website www.decaturradar.com.

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DECATUR, IL – Decatur Electronics has been named a Platinum sponsor for the IACP National Chiefs’ Challenge Awards, to take place at the upcoming International Association of Chiefs of Police conference in Boston Oct. 14-18.

Decatur, the nation’s first company to manufacture radar for law enforcement, has donated 75 handheld radar units for the Chief’s Challenge. The IACP will award a Decatur Genesis Handheld Directional radar to the top three winners in all 25 competitive classes of the national Chiefs’ Challenge.

The IACP Chiefs' Challenge focuses on law enforcement programs that reduce traffic-related fatalities. The program challenges local agencies to reach targeted goals related to increasing seat belt use and decreasing impaired driving and speeding. Winners at the state level then compete nationally. The Piatt County, Illinois Sheriff’s Department, took top honors last year.

“Decatur Electronics has a partnership with law enforcement that stretches back more than 50 years, when we became the first manufacturer of radar for law enforcement,” says Greg Roberts, National Sales Manager for Decatur Electronics.

The company has long been a supporter of the Chief’s Challenge at both the state and national levels. In the past year, Decatur Electronics has donated dozens of radar units to award winning agencies in Chiefs’ Challenges in many areas, including Illinois, California, Tennessee, New York, Connecticut, Georgia, South Carolina and Virginia.

“Sponsoring these events is one way we can show we care about traffic safety and about the countless officers who work to keep people safe every day,” says Roberts. “Supporting the Chiefs’ Challenge is a great opportunity for us to give back to the law enforcement agencies that have made our company a success.”

Decatur Electronics has been located in Decatur, IL, for more than 50 years, and manufactures speed measurement equipment for sports, industrial applications and OEM products for companies including Harley-Davidson™, Polaris™ and Jugs.™ The company also manufactures Gemini™ in-car digital video systems and OnSite™ radar and message trailers. In addition to its Illinois facilities, the company operates an engineering technology facility in Ft. Collins, CO, and a high-tech vehicle outfitting division, ThunderWorks Mobile Engineering, in Santee, CA.

For more information about Decatur and its products, visit the website www.decaturradar.com.

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Also, Greg Pollock was named to International Sales Manager. Pollock will oversee all international sales. He previously worked for Alamo Group, IL, as the Agricultural Division Sales Manager.

Learn more about Decatur ’s radar, trailer or video products at www.decaturradar.com.

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Contact: Kris Pearson, Marketing Manager
kpearson@decaturelectronics.com

]]> Decatur Radar Wed, 13 Dec 2006 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.decaturradar.com/decatur/news_profile.php?id=9 http://www.decaturradar.com/decatur/news_profile.php?id=9 DECATUR, IL – Director Bob Dallas of the Georgia Governor's Office of Highway Safety presented a Onsite 300 speed-trailer to Adel Police Chief Chad Castelberry at the recent Governor’s Challenge Awards Program in Atlanta for winning the Speed Awareness Award. The award is presented to an agency “making notable efforts in addressing the problem of aggressive, excessive, and unlawful speed.”

The Governor’s Challenge is a statewide incentive program designed to award outstanding achievements in traffic safety enforcement and education.

The portable signage equipment trailer runs on a rechargeable battery and electronically measures and displays the speed of oncoming traffic. With this high visibility speed-trailer, drivers are encouraged to slow down even when no police patrols are around, making motorists aware of their own speed while reminding them about the posted speed limit.

The unit presented to Adel Police is even programmed to count cars and conduct an ongoing survey of unsafe speeds for traffic enforcement planning purposes. The Onsite-300 speed-trailer is valued at six thousand dollars and was donated by the Decatur Electronics Company, one of the sponsoring partners of the Annual Governor’s Challenge Awards program.

“Participation in speed campaigns such as the 100 Days of Summer H.E.A.T. has proven that high-visibility enforcement of Georgia’s traffic laws is the key to saving lives and reducing injuries on Georgia’s highways,” said GOHS Director Bob Dallas. “We are proud of the life-saving efforts of the Adel Police Department. Through these ongoing GOHS initiatives, Georgia law enforcement agencies are accustomed to working together daily to promote traffic safety. I know that once again this year, Adel PD is motivated and qualified to meet the Governor’s Challenge.”

Learn more about Decatur ’s radar, trailer or video products at www.decaturradar.com.

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Contact: Kris Pearson, Marketing Manager
kpearson@decaturelectronics.com

]]> Decatur Radar Fri, 3 Nov 2006 01:00:00 -0600 http://www.decaturradar.com/decatur/news_profile.php?id=8 http://www.decaturradar.com/decatur/news_profile.php?id=8

DECATUR, IL--The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials has put out a call for governors nationwide to address the “extreme loss of life and the staggering costs associated with disabling injuries on our nation’s roadways”.

According to the World Heath Organization’s, traffic fatalities will be the second leading cause of productive work days lost by 2015. That number is second only to heart disease. The AASTO has recommended every state take action to reduce traffic fatalities and support highway safety plans.

“This is an important call to action,” said Greg Roberts, Sales Manager for Decatur Electronics, a company with 50 years of experience in the traffic safety industry. “We’ve seen state government playing an integral role in highway safety. We’re hoping to partner with the agencies who are taking safety seriously.”

Decatur Electronics has more than 1,000 speed and message trailers in use around the United States and internationally. The company’s speed warning devices are used by schools, municipalities and law enforcement agencies to get motorists to slow down.

Decatur Electronics has created innovative products for law enforcement over 50 years, including the first radar specifically designed to meet the needs of police officers in the 1950s.

“Safety studies show that speed and message trailers can slow more than 60 percent of speeding motorists’ vehicle speeds,” Roberts said. “When people slow down, lives are saved.”

RIGA, LATVIA – The State Police of the Republic of Latvia purchased and installed more than 100 Decatur Electronics Genesis II Select radars in selected Latvian law enforcement vehicles in preparation for the recent NATO summit in Riga.

The small, easy to use radar was selected over many competitors for use in the agency’s Volvo and Hyundai cars, integrating with the cars’ computer enforcement system.

“We’re proud to partner with Latvia,” said Greg Pollock, Decatur Electronic’s International Sales Manager. “We did everything we could to get the units delivered in time for the NATO summit. They were so impressed with our product’s performance and Decatur’s service that they have committed to placing radar in more of their vehicles.”The Latvija Policia, in their efforts to ensure the safety of NATO representatives, rolled out their new line of Genesis-equipped vehicles before the summit started on November 28th.

The Latvian State Police added the Genesis II Select to their speed enforcement efforts to ensure the safety of NATO representatives during the Nov. 28 summit that brought many world leaders, including U.S. President George W. Bush, to the northeastern European country.

The cooperative effort between Decatur and Latvia is a natural match, according to Juhana Erelä, Decatur Europe’s Sales Manager.

“The computer system used in these new cars is very innovative,” he said. “The Latvian government found the Genesis II to be the best fit for a system of this caliber.”

DECATUR, IL – A new high-resolution DVR digital video system hits the market this month. Decatur Electronics, Inc. unveiled their new in-car video system at the IACP conference, and released it for sale at the beginning of November.

The Gemini Plus Digital system can record up to 13 hours of high quality images that can then be quickly downloaded via a docking system to any designated computer. Unique to Decatur’s system is ease-of-use design both in the car and in the back office and its high resolution display.

“We developed the DVR digital specifically with the end user in mind,” said Greg Roberts, national sales manager. “This is video system is very easy to use and maintain. It offers secure and fast data transfers. It also offers pre-event record of 30 seconds.”

The Sony camera takes high quality video which is displayed on the 3.5” color monitor and the video is integrated with wireless audio and other feature options such as light activation.

Recording units may be mounted overhead in a single piece as well as installed as a two-piece configuration in a variety of police vehicles. The video also interfaces with radar units for data overlays.

Learn more about Decatur ’s radar, trailer or video products at www.decaturradar.com.

Image posted 100% untouched from Gemini Plus Digital video. Snapshot taken with the included software.

More untouched snapshots are also available.

Decatur Electronics, Inc, initiated the new service hours to better serve more than 15,000 of its customers, according to Michael Redlinger, Customer Service Manager for Decatur. It previously provided an industry-leading 2-day turnaround on radar repairs.

“Making this move allows us to provide service to our customers from coast to coast,” Michael said. “We’ll be available from 8 a.m. on the east coast to 5 p.m. on the west coast.”

Decatur manufactures radar for law enforcement, in-car video systems and radar speed and message trailers. The company elevated the partnership of manufacturers with law enforcement by driving customer service and pioneering a 2-day return policy 13 years ago. DEI representatives help more than 1,000 customers a month with their new and previously purchased products.

Jim Sanner, Decatur Electronics’ CEO, said commitment to customers is paramount to Decatur.

“When you’ve been in business for 50 years, you learn your customers’ needs and how you can meet them,” he said. “Our No. 1 priority is our customers’ service. Providing in-house customer service to all the officers nationwide is a great complement to that policy.”

Decatur Electronics operates in Decatur, IL, where founder Boyce Brown created the first radar specifically designed to meet the needs of police officers in the 1950s. The company also manufactures radar for OEM products for companies including Harley-Davidson™, Polaris™, and Jugs™.

The company also operates an engineering facility in Ft. Collins, CO, and a high-tech vehicle outfitting division, ThunderWorks Mobile Engineering in Santee, CA. More information about Decatur Electronics can be found at www.decaturradar.com.

Learn more about Decatur ’s radar, trailer or video products at www.decaturradar.com.

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Contact: Kris Pearson, Marketing Manager
kpearson@decaturelectronics.com

"We've taken the technology we used in our popular SI-2 and made several important changes," said Smith. "We reduced the form factor and added more options so it's even more versatile."

Decatur's SI series is an all-in-one radar package, unlike traditional dash-mounted radar. The entire processing unit is housed in an antenna just larger than a can of soda. Information outputs in a wide variety of formats. SI radar units are widely used by radar speed trailers manufacturers as well as other industries, even seeing time on the 2005 DARPA Grand Challenge race track as part of a self-driving vehicle's navigation system. More than 5,000 of the durable units are sold each year, with that number increasing worldwide.

Decatur Electronics' SI-3 is innovation law enforcement has sought, said Greg Roberts, sales manager for the company.

"The SI-3 takes radar to a new level," he explained. "Our customers wanted more features in a smaller package, so we met those demands. We're proud to now have a patent pending on that technology."