Frequently Asked Questions

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How does TrafficGauge work?
How often is TrafficGauge information updated?
How long do the batteries last?
Why aren't there more roads on TrafficGauge?
Does TrafficGauge emit signals?
What if I buy TrafficGauge and it doesn't meet my needs?
Why isn't TrafficGauge's screen scrollable?
What areas does the map cover?
How do I activate my new device and start service?
Is service required?
What is “DEMO MODE”?
How do I get my FREE two months service?
What if my Lifetime Service device is lost, broken, stolen?
What if TrafficGauge introduces a new version of my TrafficGauge?
What does the Canadian Flag and PTS stand for?

Don't see your question here? Please email: support@trafficgauge.com.

How does TrafficGauge work?
Traffic data is collected from wire loops under selected roadways, which enable calculating the speed of traffic. Other sources of speed data may also be used, but the in-road sensors are the most accurate and preferred source of speed data. In partnership with the local Department of Transportation (DOT) TrafficGauge Inc. accesses this data through custom servers, formats the data, and broadcasts it to your TrafficGauge. Updates occur throughout the day, as often as every four minutes.

How often is TrafficGauge information updated?
TrafficGauge data is updated around the clock—7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Each update is as often as every four minutes. The frequency of updates depends in part on how frequently data is supplied by our source, as well as the time of day (updates slow down slightly overnight during light traffic periods).

How long do the batteries last?
About two months. TrafficGauge uses two standard alkaline AA batteries (supplied). Lithium batteries do not work with the device and should not be used. Rechargeable batteries we have tested work fine, as long as they are not Lithium rechargeables.

Why aren't there more roads on TrafficGauge?
TrafficGauge includes the major “wired” (roads with sensors that enable computing traffic flow) freeways in the greater metro areas. The product is designed to be quickly viewed at-a-glance, and so does not include some less-traveled wired roads. Also, some roads are yet to be wired—TrafficGauge Inc. is actively working with state and local officials to increase reliability and coverage of the freeway sensor network. Although no product upgrades are planned at present, as additional roads become wired TrafficGauge expects to offer attractive upgrade programs to existing users.

Does TrafficGauge emit signals?
No. TrafficGauge is a one-way receiver (like a radio) that complies with FCC regulations. The device does not transmit wireless signals.

What if I buy TrafficGauge and it doesn't meet my needs?
We certainly expect that you will be fully satisfied with TrafficGauge and that's why we can confidently offer a 30-Day, No-Risk, Money Back Guarantee. If for any reason you're not fully satisfied with TrafficGauge, call 1.866.872.3345 for return instructions and a refund of your purchase price. Shipping charges are not refunded.

Why isn't TrafficGauge's screen scrollable?
TrafficGauge's fixed display enables the highest possible resolution (much more so than dot matrix screens) and at a much more affordable price. In addition, not having to fuss with buttons and scrolling minimizes distraction while driving.

What areas does map cover?
The device easily fits into the palm of a hand, and displays an “easy to read” fixed map of each city's freeway system. In addition, the device screen highlights home game day icons, including professional and major college teams in football, baseball, and basketball. Click here to see the device details.

How do I activate my device and start service?
New devices are activated by pressing and holding the backlight button until the "DEMO MODE" message disappears. Once the "DEMO MODE" message disappears the device will go blank and will remain blank until it receives the next available traffic update. You will notice the antenna icon will flash until a traffic update is received. Allow 5 - 20 minutes. Traffic will begin to display automatically.

Is service required?
Yes, service is required to continue to receive traffic updates beyond the introductory service period. Each device comes with one free month of service plus any service purchased at the time of order. The device will display the message "SERVICE TO EXPIRE IN 4 WEEKS" when the device enters its last month of service and update each week until service expires.

What is “DEMO MODE”?
This is the "Demonstration Mode" that shows a test pattern of traffic. To activate (or re-activate) your device, press and hold the backlight button until the "DEMO MODE" message disappears. Once the "DEMO MODE" message disappears the device will go blank and will remain blank until it receives the next available traffic update. You will notice the antenna icon will flash until a traffic update is received. Allow 5 - 20 minutes. Traffic will begin to display automatically. Note: Take care not to store or carry the TrafficGauge in such a way that the backlight button remains pressed. This will waste battery life and may result in the DEMO MODE.

How do I get my FREE two months service?
Each device comes with one free month of service, in addition to any service purchased at time of order. Once the device is activated by the final owner of the product and is displaying traffic, it can be registered at www.trafficgauge.com/register at which time an additional free month is added to the device.

What if my Lifetime Service device is lost, broken, stolen?
Once we are notified, the lifetime service is canceled from the device. Once the device is replaced, the lifetime service is transferred at no cost to the replacement device.

What if TrafficGauge introduces a new version of my TrafficGauge?
Should a new version become available, you have the option of purchasing the new version. The service remaining on your current device can be transferred to the new device with the exception of lifetime service customers. Lifetime service customers MAY need to pay an upgrade fee depending on the cost of the new device lifetime plan.

What does the Canadian Flag and PTS stand for?
The Canadian Flag refers to the status of the US-to-Canada border crossing wait times.
P = Peace Arch
T = Truck Crossing
S = Sumas

No arrow means normal waits times;
Solid arrow means medium wait; 20 - 40 minutes longer than usual.
Blinking arrow means long wait; 40+ minutes longer than usual.