HADECS3 Speed Camera
Highway Agency Digital Enforcement Camera System. Used on smart motorways to enforce variable speed limits.
Manufacturer
Redflex (Australia)
Detection Method
Multi-lane radar + rear photograph
Flash
Yes (rear flash)
Enforcement Threshold
No guaranteed tolerance
How HADECS3 Cameras Work
Monitors up to 5 lanes simultaneously. Detects speed using radar and photographs vehicles exceeding the displayed variable speed limit. Integrated with smart motorway gantry systems.
Key Facts
Does It Flash?
Yes (rear flash)
Typical Locations
Smart motorway sections, mounted on gantries or verge-side
Detection Method
Multi-lane radar + rear photograph
How to Identify a HADECS3
- Small grey box, sometimes hard to spot
- Mounted on motorway gantries or small posts
- Often alongside variable speed limit signs
- Can be painted grey to blend in
Frequently Asked Questions
Do HADECS3 cameras flash?
Yes, HADECS3 cameras produce a bright rear-facing flash when triggered.
How accurate are HADECS3 speed cameras?
Equipment used as evidence must meet the applicable type-approval and operating requirements. There is no legal tolerance: any speed above the posted limit can be enforced, although operational guidance and police discretion affect how individual cases are handled.
How do HADECS3 cameras detect speed?
Monitors up to 5 lanes simultaneously. Detects speed using radar and photographs vehicles exceeding the displayed variable speed limit. Integrated with smart motorway gantry systems.
Where are HADECS3 cameras typically found?
Smart motorway sections, mounted on gantries or verge-side
Other Camera Types
Gatso
The most common fixed speed camera in the UK, named after inventor Maurice Gatsonides.
Read the guide →
Truvelo
A forward-facing fixed speed camera that photographs the driver. Unlike Gatso, it uses infrared flash invisible to drivers.
Read the guide →
SPECS (Average Speed)
Average speed camera system using ANPR to calculate speed over a distance. Cannot be beaten by braking at camera locations.
Read the guide →