Compare Motorola MOTOTRBO Radio Features By Model and Tier

Selecting the right MOTOTRBO DMR portable radio can be confusing with the additional model choices released in the past 18 months. The XPR 6000 platform has been discontinued and now there are five major model choices within 3 feature tiers.

Choose Commercial, Entry, or The Enhanced MOTOTRBO Feature Tier

Motorola DMR Radio Features Chart

MOTOTRBO Commercial Tier for Basic Voice Communication

If all you need is conventional voice communications with or without a repeater, the Commercial tier offers the lowest cost choices. The non-display CP200d uses the same batteries, chargers, and carrying cases as the CP200. A new choice in the Commercial tier is the SL300. It is thinner and has an optional display. MSRP ranges from $482 up to $633 per radio.

MOTOTRBO Entry Tier Includes XPR 3000 Series

The Entry tier XPR 3000 is for users who need a more rugged (IP55) radio that is capable of up to 128 channels. It offers text messaging capability and can be used on a trunking system (Capacity Plus). MSRP ranges from $575 to $675 per radio package.

Full Featured Enhanced Tier Includes Color Displays for Data Integration

The XPR 7000 series is the recommended replacement for the XPR 6350 and XPR 6550. It can be ordered with an intrinsically-safe certification, color display, and Bluetooth data. The IP57 submersible rating makes it the best choice for use outdoors and near the water. At this time the XPR 7580 does not support Smartnet operation so the XPR 6580 will be available for awhile.

The SL 7000 is not much bigger than a smartphone and can fit in your pocket. The color display, short antenna, and Micro-USB charger are features designed for hospitality, security and the service industries. Enhanced tier MSRP prices range from $1,040 up to $1,165.

Motorola Minitor VI – Buy the Intrinsically-safe Model or Not?

Motorola Minitor VI PagerWith the introduction of the Motorola Solutions Minitor VI fire pager, you now have the choice between a UL certified intrinsically-safe model or one that does not have the certification.

Intrinsically-safe electronic equipment can be used in hazardous atmospheres with dangerous concentrations of flammable gases or dust. Non-intrinsically-safe electronic devices could cause an explosion by creating a spark or excessive heat.

Minitor VI ANSI/ISA TIA 4950

Should I Order an Intrinsically-Safe Minitor VI?

Unless your fire department has a formal intrinsic safety program, you probably should save the $50 and buy the non-intrinsically-safe model. Another way to determine if you need IS is to check your radio for the FM Certification label. If your radio is not IS then your Minitor VI should not need the certification.

Motorola Retires CP/CM/PR/PM Analog-Only 2-Way Radios

Most Analog-only Models Cancelled As Digital Prices DropCP110, CP200, CM Mobile

All CP110 analog radio models including the MURS license-free version can no longer be ordered from Motorola. The CP110 joins the CP200, CP200 XLS, and PR400 analog–only portables that also ended production. Only a few Intrinsically-safe PR 400 portables will be available until June of 2015.

Analog-only CM200, CM300, and PM400 mobile models have also been retired.and are no longer available. Replacement accessories will continue to be available and depot repair support remains for now.

There have been no announcements about the future of the analog-only BPR40, CP185, and VL50 radios. We would not be surprised to see them retired next year.

Complete List of Motorola Analog Models Cancelled

Cancelled CP110, CP110m Portable Models

CP110

Cancelled CP200, CP200 XLS, PR400 Portable Models

Cancelled Analog only Radios

Cancelled CM200, CM300, PM400 Mobile Models

Cancelled Analog only Radios

New Digital Capable Models Provide Analog Operation

The MOTOTRBO CP200d, SL300, XPR 3000, CM200d, CM300d, and XPR 2500 are the best replacements when adding radios to your radio fleet. They can be programmed with analog for compatibility with your existing system but you wont have to replace them when you move to digital.

New Motorola SL300 2-Way Digital Radio Designed for Commercial Business

MOTOTRBO SL300 is Lightweight and Provides Long Battery Life

Motorola announced the SL300, a new low cost digital 2-way radio compatible withSL300 Front Side Views MOTOTRBO DMR conventional communications systems. Available in UHF soon, there is a 2 channel model and 99 channel version with display. Both can be programmed with digital or analog frequencies allowing for easier migration.

The radio provides 3 watts output in digital mode and 2 watts if using analog. The 2300 mAh battery life is rated for up to 15 hours when using digital and uses a Micro-USB charger. A new patented stubby antenna design and  “Range Max Technology” provide enough coverage for most facilities. The IP54 SL300 can also be used with a conventional repeater.

UHF models are now in stock and VHF is expected to start shipping at the end of November.

New Active View LED Matrix Display Technology

The optional display radio includes 99 channels and a LED matrix behind the case. The LED’s turn on automatically and off to conserve battery life. Glare is minimized and displays will no longer scratch or crack. The radio will display channel number or alias, battery status, and other functions as shown below.

MOTOTRBO SL300 Display Dunctions

Compatible With MOTOTRBO Digital Voice Features

SL300 is designed for commercial applications needing basic digital and analog voice features. It supports emergency using the one available programmable side button. With standard MOTOTRBO CPS, you can program channel announcement, lone worker, radio inhibit and remote monitor (decode), MDC1200, VOX, and scan.

Download Motorola Datasheet SL300

 

New Motorola APX XP Remote Microphone for Law Enforcement

Compatible with APX 7000, 6000, 4000, 3000, 1000, SRX 2200

Motorola Solutions introduced a new thin remote speaker microphone designed for law enforcement, transit police, and ems personnel. The new IMPRES XP RSM uses dual microphone noise suppression technology like the XE RSM designed for firefighters. It is expected to start shipping in September.

Two Styles – IP68 Submersible or IP55 with 3.5mm Threaded JackNMN6271, NMN6274 XP RSM

The NMN6271 model has a Delta T submersible IP68 rating allowing it to survive under 2 meters of water for two hours. This microphone can be scrubbed with soap and water if needed.

Or…choose the NMN6274 with a IP55 rating that can handle a heavy rain storm and includes a 3.5mm threaded jack.

Both models include an orange emergency button, volume toggle, and one programmable button.

There are also 2 models on the roadmap for the Motorola XTS 5000, XTS 2500, and XTS 1500 due for release later this year.

Motorola Cancels ASTRO XTS 2500 and XTS 1500 Models

No More XTS Radio Orders After October 31, 2014XTS Model Cancellation

Motorola Solutions has published an intent-to-cancel notice for ASTRO 25 XTS 2500 and XTS 1500 radio models. The last day to order is 10/31/14 and requested ship dates are not permitted after November 30, 2014. No accessories are being cancelled and depot repair support will continue for 5 more years.

Popular APX Platform is the Recommended Replacement for XTS

APX P25 TDMA RadiosThe recommended replacements for the XTS 2500/1500 models include the APX 6000, 4000, and the new 1000 series.The P25 APX 4000 has a rugged XE version available and a new “2 knob” option will be available in the next few months. The APX 1000 also has P25 TDMA capability in a smaller form factor at a lower cost. For the largest selection of accessories please visit our APX online store for batteries, chargers, carrying cases, and audio enhancements.

New Long Range Wireless Speaker Microphone for APX and MOTOTRBO Mobile Radios

Works Up to 100 Meters from Your APX or XPR 4000/5000 Series Base/Mobile

Motorola RLN6544 Wireless RSMMotorola Solutions introduced a new wireless remote speaker-microphone that will allow you to transmit and receive from your MOTOTRBO or APX mobile radio from up to 100 meters away.

The new RSM has a 3.5mm jack for receive-only audio accessories, a bright LED task light, and an 11 hour rechargeable battery. It can also transmit an emergency using the orange button on the top of the microphone.

Now you can use your high power APX, XPR 4000, or XPR 5000 series mobile radio when away from the vehicle or base.

Plug and Play Setup for Existing Vehicle or Base InstallationsWireless Gateway and Corded Mic

Adding to your existing MOTOTRBO or APX radio is easy. You will have to replace your existing mic with the Motorola PMMN4097 corded palm microphone with Bluetooth gateway. The RLN6544 wireless RSM uses touch pair to connect with the gateway and provides an audible announcement to confirm. The third component of the system is a charger. Choose the PMLN6716 12V DC charger with holder for a vehicle or the PMLN7120 AC desktop charger.

Wireless RSM Bundle Kits Available for Mobile or Base UseLong Range Wireless Speaker Mic

The RLN6551 long range wireless kit includes the RSM, gateway microphone and 12V DC charger for a vehicle. Our base bundle includes the RSM, gateway mic, and AC desktop charger. The RLN6552 kit includes the RSM and gateway without a charger.

For more info download the Motorola Long Range Wireless User Manual

The long range wireless solutions are compatible with the Mission Critical Wireless Pod software version R01.05.00 or later. APX mobiles must use R13.01 firmware or later that was released in April 2015.

Motorola APX XTS Completely Discreet Wireless Covert Surveillance Accessories

Wireless Covert Radio EarbudThe Motorola RLN4922 completely discreet earpiece is a covert wireless audio accessory inserted in the ear compatible with most two-way radios using a 2 or 3 wire surveillance kit. The earbud connector on the surveillance kit connects to the included RLN4920 wireless neckloop worn under your clothing. The push-to-talk switch and microphone on the wired surveillance accessory is still used. Recently, the RLN4922 was redesigned for more comfort, made smaller, and improved technically.

New Completely Discreet Mission Critical Wireless Covert Kit

Wireless enhanced Bluetooth Covert EarpieceUsers with the Motorola APX and enhanced Bluetooth option or XTS radios with the external PMLN5792 adapter have new options for covert surveillance. Motorola’s new NNTN8434 Wireless Covert Kit includes the RLN4922 wireless earbud, NNTN8385 Y-adapter, and NTN2571 PTT pod.

Now the radio can be placed in a backpack, briefcase, or purse up to 30 feet away. The NTN2571 PTT pod uses easy touch pairing. All you need to do is place the pod within an inch or two from the radio and it will automatically connect. Now a user can select any radio available and be ready for covert two-way communications immediately. The enhanced Bluetooth is encrypted and cannot be monitored like standard Bluetooth devices.

Basic Wireless Covert Kit Uses 2 Wire Earbud Headphones

Person listening to music or using smartphoneAlso available is the NNTN8296 Basic Wireless Covert Kit that includes 3 sets of earbuds and a 3.5mm adapter for connecting any off-the-shelf commercial earphone accessory. Radio users appear to be using a smartphone or listening to music. 

The NTN2571 must be ordered separately. There is also an optional carrying case (RLN6485).

Typical battery life for the NTN2571 PTT pod is 8 hours but carrying a second pod will provide remote PTT and a spare power source for up to 16 hours of use. The pod uses a standard micro-USB charger.

For more information see the Motorola brochure APX and XTS Mission Critical Wireless Covert Solutions

The RLN4922 Completely Discreet Earpiece and wireless covert accessories are also available for MOTOTRBO Operations Critical Bluetooth. The NNTN8127 PTT pod is the operations critical wireless (OCW) version used with the NNTN8385 Y-adapter. You will also need to use the PMLN5712 or the PMLN5993 Bluetooth adapter with touch pairing for XPR 6000 series radios.

 

Motorola Releases Minitor VI Fire Pager and Cancels Minitor V

Motorola Minitor VI PagerNew Minitor VI Designed for Firefighters, EMS, and On-Call First Responders

Motorola Solutions released their sixth Minitor fire pager since first introduced back in 1975. The new Minitor VI has a sleeker form factor with programmable buttons, 1 or 5 channel capability, and improved IP56 water resistance. It can also be ordered without Intrinsically-safe operation and alkaline batteries.

All models have 16 minutes of voice storage capability and the standard warranty is now 2 years. The charger has a USB connector so it can be charged from the wall or computer port.

Motorola Minitor VI vs. Minitor V Comparison

Minitor V and VI Comparison Chart

The new design requires new programming software, chargers, and accessories.

Minitor VI Accessories

Minitor VI Begins Shipping 2/17/14 and Minitor V Cancellation Next Month

Download Motorola Minitor VI Spec Sheet  Link to web pricing

Motorola APX Mobile Control Head Choices Explained

Configure Your APX With The Best Controls For Your InstallationMotorola APX 6500 O5 Head with Keypad Mic

Until last year, only the O3, O5, and O9 heads were available for Motorola APX mission critical P25 mobile radios. The APX 4500 was introduced with the new O2 head for dash or remote mount configurations. There are now five control head choices available for the APX 6500 and APX 7500 radios including the O2, O3, O5, O7, and O9.

The O2 and O7 heads should be considered before you order your next APX 6500 or 7500.

APX O2, O3, O5, O7, O9 Control Head ChoicesChoose the APX O2 Head Option for Outdoor Installations 

The O2 head is rated IP55 for extreme environments and is designed for motorcycle, marine, and fire truck pump panel installations. We used this configuration for the South Bowers airboat. This rugged, XE style head has a color display, large knobs, and an integrated speaker.

Choose APX O7 Control Head for Integrated KeypadMotorola APX O7 Control Head

The O7 control head has a flush-mount design with integrated keypad, siren, lights, public address (PA) and gun-lock controls. It features a color display with enlarged multi-function rotary knob for easier control of talk-group and volume settings.

APX O5 and Specialized O3, O9 Control Heads Are Still Available

The O5 head is still the most popular option for most applications but the new choices make it a tougher decision. The O3 hand-held control head is perfect for covert and other special installations. The O9 head is packed with features but requires a bigger footprint.