Policy Text
Newport Beach Police Department
Laser/Lidar Operator
Course Number: 6830 -23320
8 Hour Course
Revised: November 6, 2020
Page 1 of 3
Purpose: The purpose of this course is to provide training on the legal and technical
use of electronic speed measuring devices using Light Amplification of Stimulated
Emission of Radiation (LASER) for speed and distance measuring, also referred to as
Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR). The course gives an overview of the
characteristics and functions of LASER components as well as the effects of LASER
use. It also includes techniques for the verification of the calibration of the LASER
device.
Course Objective s: The student will:
1. be introduced to the history of LASER (Light Amplification of Stimulated
Emission of Radiation);
2. examine and study the theory of LASER;
3. learn to recognize and classify the components of laser systems;
4. learn how to check the calibrat ion of the LASER device;
5. acquire knowledge to maximize the efficiency of LASER applications;
6. study case law dealing with LASER applications;
7. demonstrate the ability to visually estimate a target vehicle’s speed with
an average of + 5 mph; and
8. learn the skills necessary for successful testimony in legal proceedings
related to LASER applications.
9. set-up, test and successfully operate the LASER device.
A. Introduction
1. Instru ctor’s background and expertise
2. Course overview
B. Course Objectives
1. Review history and theory of radar
2. Discuss why radar is used
3. Provide tools and information for using radar confidentially and efficiently
4. Introduction to history and theory of laser
5. Discuss why laser is used
6. Compare and contrast the usage of ra dar vs. laser for traffic safety
7. Provide tools and information for using laser confidently and efficiently
C. Pre-test /Evaluation
1. Determine student’s knowledge of radar and its uses
2. Determine level of knowledge of laser applications
Newport Beach Police Department
Laser/Lidar Operator
Course Number: 6830 -23320
8 Hour Course
Revised: November 6, 2020
Page 2 of 3
D. Case Law
1. Landmark case decisions
2. Impact of cases on local law enforcement
3. Impact of 40802 (b) VC and why it is not case law or mandates specified
training.
E. Laser Devices
1. Scientific Principals
a. Use of light and laser
b. Formula of least squares
c. Scientific Principals of Light Amplific ation by Stimulated Emission of
Radiation
d. Judicial notice and Kelly -Frye acceptance of the scientific principles of
LASER.
2. Components
a. Counting unit
b. Gunn diode
c. Power Source
d. Lenses
3. Power supply
a. Types of plugs
1) Direct hook -up
2) Types of cables
3) Batteries
4. Low-voltage warnings
a. Flashing decimal
b. Dimming read -out
c. Low-volt read -out
5. Audio set
a. Doppler as an assistance to tracking
b. Volume control
6. Range Gates
a. Not to be used
Newport Beach Police Department
Laser/Lidar Operator
Course Number: 6830 -23320
8 Hour Course
Revised: November 6, 2020
Page 3 of 3
7. Vascar functions
a. Not to be used
8. Operation - Stationary
a. Beam configuration
b. Beam width
c. Manufacturers specifications statements
9. Cosine effect
10. Target identification
a. Target size
b. Laser sensitivity
c. Target speed
d. Error trapping software
e. Tracking history (VAR)
f. Doppler (audio tape)
g. Site selection for operation
11. Stationary Effects
a. Cosine error
12. Radar Effects
a. Review of Radar effects and why they are not applicable to Laser
F. Review
1. Core points of Course
2. Formula review
3. Question/answer period
G. Course closure
1. Final exam
2. Class critique