I figured I would add some info for the potential new ix owners.
Other than the added and very cool features of the ix below, the I & ix radar performance is the same.
What the new 9500ix features add over the 9500I: USB DataPort & Safety Camera Database:
This allows you to update your database, (red light and fixed position speed cameras) and other software from Escorts website. All marked locations in the database will be reported as you approach them. Or you can set it to Selectable Markers (on/off) this allow you to customize which Markers are monitored and you are alerted to.
AutoLearn-TrueLock:
AutoLearn works just like the 9500I’s TrueLock with the addition of the AutoLearn feature analyzing (over time) the source of radar signals by location and frequency. The ix automatically locks out this source at this particular location after ~3 passes. AutoLearn will also UnLearn signals if a particular signal is no longer present at a location that was previously locked out.
NOTE: AutoLearn typically needs to see the exact frequency in the same location approximately three times to lock it out. Since some door openers are turned on and off routinely, some variations may occur.
A few improvements for mark locations:
Once marked and assigned a label, the ix provides the following alert distances:
• Red Light Cameras = 250’ or 10 seconds
• Speed Cameras = 250’ or 10 seconds
• Speed Traps = 1/3 mile
• Other = 1/3 mile
AutoPower:
This feature automatically turns PASSPORT off if the vehicle has not moved for 4 hours. This is especially useful if your vehicle has a hot plug (12 volts all the time). See the Preferences section for details.
Auto mode No X setting:
In addition to adjusting sensitivity according to speed like the 9500I, the ix can be set to turn off X band in auto mode.
NOTE: If your vehicle is moving less than 20 mph and you encounter a radar or laser signal, only a doubletone is used. However, the display meter will keep you informed of the signal strength until it has passed or until you reach a speed above 20 mph.
The 9500I & ix work off exactly the same platform so there radar performance should be exactly the same other than variance from RD to RD. The added features certainly can have advantages for some areas, especially for areas that have a lot of red light and fixed position speed cameras. Pus the AutoLock is an awesome advantage for the RD user that doesn't want to do all the thinking for the RD.
FYI UPDATE! Updates via USB are now available from Escort for the 9500I!
https://secure.escortradar.com/9500iregister.asp
First update 9/1/08 for the 9500I consisted of:
1. Improved Laser lock out logic.
2. Increased speed pilot limit to 255 mph
3. Improved meter ramping
4. Improved calibration of voltage circuit
5. Fixed power on/off when turned off by the power button
6. Added mark location capability during an alert
7. Changed ZR3 to SHFT when a shifter is attached.