What does the radar unit primarily measure during speed enforcement?

The primary function of a radar unit during speed enforcement is to measure the speed of the target vehicle. Radar technology utilizes the Doppler effect, where the frequency of the radar signals is altered by the movement of the vehicle. When a radar beam strikes a moving vehicle, the frequency of the reflected signals changes based on the vehicle's speed. The radar unit calculates this change in frequency to determine how fast the vehicle is traveling.

This measurement is essential for law enforcement when enforcing speed limits, as it provides an objective and quantifiable way to assess whether a vehicle is exceeding the speed threshold. The accuracy and real-time performance of radar systems are critical for effective speed enforcement and ensuring traffic safety.