Why must operators be cautious about the angle of the radar beam?

The accuracy of speed measurements in radar technology is highly dependent on the angle at which the radar beam is directed towards the moving vehicle. When the angle of the radar beam is incorrect, it can create a condition known as cosine error, where the speed measured is not the actual speed of the vehicle. This happens because the radar calculates speed based on the distance and time of travel; if the angle is off, the readings can lead to underestimating or overestimating the speed.

By ensuring the radar is positioned at the correct angle, operators can obtain a true representation of the vehicle's speed, which is crucial for effective enforcement and safety on the roads. Hence, maintaining the correct angle is vital for delivering reliable and accurate speed assessments.