In 1955, Bryce Brown, a university professor with a background in the Manhattan Project, founded Muniquip, an abbreviation for Municipal Equipment. Initially, Brown’s innovative approach involved creating speed timers using two hoses stretched across a road. His work soon evolved, leading to the development of the first law enforcement radar systems. By 1964, Brown decided to leave his position at Millikin University to devote his efforts entirely to his radar company. Two years later, a Toronto-based firm expressed interest in acquiring his other products and the Muniquip name. Brown retained the radar division and rebranded it as Decatur Electronics, Inc.

In Manitoba, the regulation of speed timing devices are used to maintain road safety and ensure accurate enforcement of traffic laws. Regulation 65/88, also known as the Speed Timing Devices Regulation, establishes the standards for speed measurement equipment deemed acceptable for use by law enforcement agencies. This regulation is designed to ensure that the devices employed for measuring vehicle speeds are both reliable and meet specific quality standards.

The recent amendments revise the list of approved speed timing devices, reflecting advancements in technology and industry practices. The amendment introduces changes to Clause 1(1)(a) of the regulation. This clause, which originally enumerated the approved devices from Decatur Electronics, now includes two updates.

The preamble to subclause (i) has been revised to accurately reflect Decatur Electronics’ current product offerings. This update acknowledges the company’s rebranding from Decatur Electronics, Inc. to Decatur Electronics.

The amendment incorporates two new devices into the approved list:

• • • Decatur G3 (G3 Advanced Traffic Radar): Renowned for its advanced features, the G3 provides enhanced accuracy and functionality compared to earlier models. This device is designed to offer more precise speed measurements, thereby improving traffic enforcement capabilities.
    • Decatur Scout 2: This device is also added to the approved list and is noted for its user-friendliness and reliability. The Scout 2 serves as a valuable tool for law enforcement officers due to its ease of operation and dependable performance.

These amendments to Manitoba Regulation 65/88 marks a significant step in modernizing traffic enforcement practices. By incorporating the Decatur G3 and Scout 2 into the list of approved speed timing devices, the regulation aligns with technological progress and high standards for traffic measurement equipment. 

Source: Manitoba (32/2023) April 20, 2023