iQ1200 Radar Speed Signs

Introduction:

Thank you for choosing the iQ1200 Radar Speed Sign from TraffiCalm. Your commitment to enhancing road safety through advanced technology is greatly valued. This guide aims to ensure a smooth setup and optimal performance of your new speed sign.  

What’s in the Box?

For All iQ1200 Signs

• 1 iQ1200 Radar Speed Sign
• 1 Mounting Bracket
• 1 Instruction Manual

For iQ1200 Portable Variations

• 1 Pole/Post Side Bracket
• 1 20Ah Battery Integrated into the Sign
• 1 Indoor Rated AC Charger and Cord
• 2 Keys

Items Not Included

• Power Supply: Necessary for non-portable variations; please acquire separately.
• Mounting Hardware: Due to diverse mounting techniques, consult a local expert for the appropriate hardware required for installation.
• Note:  See attachments for printable Quick Start Guide

Device Overview

• Device Orientation: The iQ1200 is a compact 12-inch tall radar speed sign incorporating a driver feedback display, logic controller, and radar detection system designed for easy maintenance and reliable operation.

Radar Speed Sign Solar Kits

iQ1200 non-portable signs require a 12V power system:

• Solar Kit Options:
• AC Power Kits:

Powering Portable Signs

The portable variation of the iQ1200 features an integrated 20Ah battery:

• Charging: Use the provided AC charger designed to optimize battery life. It charges the battery for 6 hours and then automatically shuts off to prevent overcharging.

Mounting Options

• Primary Mounting Method: The mounting bracket is designed to be either banded or anchored/bolted to the mounting structure. For areas prone to high winds or requiring enhanced crash integrity, anchoring and bolting are recommended over banding.

Mounting Hardware

• Preferred Hardware: Pelco Systems
  • Pelco Bands: Part Number: US-8124-06
  • Pelco Banding Buckles: Part Number: US-8124-56

Note on Tool Usage: While standard tools can tension these bands, they are generally less secure because the same tools can also remove them. Consider this when choosing your installation method, especially in less secure or high-traffic areas.

Tools Required

1. Adjustable Wrench and Socket Set: For tightening bolts and nuts.
2. Screwdriver Set: For opening the panel and adjusting components inside the sign.
3. Power Drill: If drilling is necessary for mounting brackets.
4. Banding Tool: Essential for securing the sign to round poles.
5. Metal Bands: Used with the banding tool for mounting on round poles.
6. Mounting Hardware: Depending on your installation surface, acquire suitable mounting hardware.
7. Measuring Tape: To measure installation heights and distances for optimal positioning.
8. Level: To ensure the sign is mounted straight for accurate radar detection.
9. Safety Equipment: Including gloves and safety glasses to protect against potential hazards during installation.

Installation

Step 1: Select the Proper Pole

Choose a Suitable Pole: Opt for a pole that supports the weight, wind load, and additional equipment like solar panels. Consider a break-away pole for enhanced safety. Ensure the pole allows the sign to be mounted about 7 feet above ground level.

Step 2: Remove the Bottom Bolt

Access the Clamshell Bracket: Start by removing the bottom bolt from the clamshell bracket at the back of the sign to allow it to hinge outward and slide up for easy adjustment or removal.

Step 3: Attach and Secure the Mounting Bracket

Mount the Bracket: Secure the mounting bracket to the pole using appropriate hardware:For Banding: Use a minimum of 2 bands centered on the bracket.For Bolting: Use at least 3 each, 3/8” bolts with flat washers, arranging them in a 3-point structure for stability and crash worthiness.

Step 4: Connect the Sign to the Mounting Bracket

Install the Sign: Align and attach the sign (Component A) to the bracket (Component B) as illustrated in the image below.

Aiming the Sign

The iQ1200 features an internally mounted radar speed detector that requires proper alignment for accurate vehicle speed detection:

• The sign should face into oncoming traffic, nearly parallel to the traffic flow for optimal operation.
• The angle of incidence (the angle between the face of the sign and the direction of traffic) should ideally be 5 degrees or less.
• Angles greater than 10 degrees may result in displayed speeds that are slower than actual vehicle speeds.
• For maximum detection range, avoid positioning the sign such that lanes of receding traffic fall within the radar detection area.

Wiring Instructions

Follow these guidelines and adhere to the National Electrical Code (NEC) best practices. Only qualified technicians should perform these tasks.

Power Supply Connection

The iQ1200 may come with a TraffiCalm power supply that can be solar or AC line powered, typically ending in a DC Barrel connector (2.5mm x 5mm). If the sign is not provided with a TraffiCalm power supply, it will likely have 18 to 14 AWG insulated wires. Use at least 18 AWG wire for connections up to 6 feet; for longer distances, adjust the wire gauge accordingly to handle a 3 Amp load with less than ¼ volt drop over the length of the wire.

Steps for Connecting the Sign to Power

1. Safety First: Ensure all power sources (battery, solar, or AC) are disconnected before starting.
2. Conduit Installation: Use a liquid-tight conduit to run from the power supply to the sign's field wiring plate, entering through one of the designated knockouts.
3. Wiring Route: Through the conduit, run the 12VDC Positive, common, and Earth/chassis ground wires from the power supply to the sign.
4. Ground Connection: Attach the Earth ground using a ring lug (not provided) to the stud on the field wiring plate.
5. DC Connection: If using a barrel connector, cut the connector off, separate the wires, and strip ½ inch of insulation from each. Identify the positive wire by the white stripe.
6. Terminal Connections:
7. Reassemble: Secure the field wiring plate back onto the sign.
8. Power Reconnection: Reconnect the power source—battery, line power, or solar panel.
9. Testing: Once reconnected, test the sign to verify successful installation.

Wiring Diagrams

Radar Speed Sign Wiring GuideRadar Speed Sign with Beacons Wiring Guide

For more information about wiring TraffiCalm Radar Speed Signs, visit our wiring diagram guides. (coming soon)

Maintenance

To ensure your iQ1200 Radar Speed Sign remains in optimal condition:

• Battery Care: The integrated battery is proprietary and should only be replaced with genuine TraffiCalm components.
• Operational Duration: The battery typically lasts about 3 days; however, as it ages, the duration may decrease.
• Maintaining Battery Health:

Configuration

For initial configuration and ongoing management of your iQ1200 Radar Speed Sign, you will need to use the TC Speed Connect application. This software facilitates the setup and customization of your radar speed sign's operational parameters, ensuring optimal performance tailored to specific road conditions.

Getting Started with TC Speed Connect

• Download and Installation: Access the TC Speed Connect software by visiting TC Speed Connect Download. Download and run the installation file to get started.
• Configuration Setup: Once installed, the software will guide you through configuring your radar speed sign. You can set parameters such as display brightness, radar sensitivity, and the flash pattern according to your specific needs.

Utilizing the Software

• Create and Manage Profiles: Use the software to create detailed configuration profiles for your radar speed sign. These profiles include settings for speed limits, display messages, and operational modes.
• Device Connection and Setup: Connect to your radar speed sign via WiFi to upload the configuration profiles directly to the device. This step ensures that your sign operates according to the specifications you’ve set.

For detailed instructions on every feature and step, please refer to the TC Speed Connect User Guide.

Video

Below is the installation video for the iQ1200 Radar Speed Sign. This video provides visual guidance on the installation process as described above.

Please remember that any software references to SafetyCalm should now be associated with TC Speed Connect.

Conclusion

By following these setup and maintenance instructions, your iQ1200 Radar Speed Sign will provide effective speed monitoring and traffic calming. For additional assistance or detailed configuration instructions, refer to the provided instruction manual or contact our support team.