Category Archives: Public Safety

Choosing Plantronics Headsets – Wired, Bluetooth, or DECT 6.0?

Posted on by
Reply

Unified communications, noisy work areas, and the need for collaboration has increased the need for headsets. There are many types available and we found “one style does not fit all” in most organizations. Wireless headsets have become popular and allow workers to maintain communications when not at their desk. Today’s headsets also provide powerful analytics and require firmware upgrades for best performance.

plantronics authorised-partner-badgePlantronics has been a leader in headset comfort for over 50 years and offers wired or wireless headsets for all market segments. Recently, eight of our employees earned sales and technical certifications at Plantronics University for improved customer support.

Magnum Electronics is approved for all Plantronics certifications including unified communications (UC), contact centers (CC), and small & medium business (SMB). We can help select the best headset solution and support large deployments with Plantronics Hub or Manager Pro cloud-based software.

Plantronics Wired Headsets Are Reliable in High RF AreasCorded Headband Binaural Headset

Direct-connect headsets are still the best solution for areas with high radio-frequency interference. They are powered by the connected device and don’t need a battery charger. Choose binaural (dual ear) or monaural (single ear) depending on noise environment and user preference.

The Plantronics Blackwire 5200 series have USB-A, USB-C, or 3.5mm connector plugs. The EncorePro series and SupraPlus models are also popular wired models and are used on many Motorola dispatch consoles.

Plantronics Wireless Bluetooth Headset Choices

Bluetooth Headset Case Smartphone LaptopWireless Bluetooth headsets are the most popular for mobile workers. They easily connect to smartphones, tablets, and desktop computers. The Plantronics Voyager 5200 UC has superior noise-cancellation and advanced sensor technology. Conference calls, webinars, and important conversations can be taken in the vehicle or on the move.

Bluetooth 4.1 Binaural HeadsetPlantronics offers headsets with a BT300 Class 2 Bluetooth adapter (up to 30 ft range) and a BT600 Class 1 adapter with up to 98 ft range. Other popular Bluetooth models include Legend UC, Legend CS, Focus UC, M70, and Marque 2.

Bluetooth frequencies share the same band as WiFi so interference could cause problems if operating close to an access point.

Wireless DECT 6.0 Headsets for Maximum Distance from DeskphoneWireless DECT 6.0 Headset

The recommended Plantronics wireless headsets for use in facilities with dense WiFi and strong interference are the Savi 700 series, Savi 440, or CS520. They utilize DECT 6.0 frequencies that don’t interfere with WiFi. DECT 6.0 also provides better range than Bluetooth by allowing you to roam up to 350 feet from the base/charger. The Savi 700 and 400 series also have Bluetooth for easy connectivity to a computer.

For a formal quote contact our Dover, Delaware office at 302-734-9250 M-F 8-5pm or use the form below.

Magnum Electronics Elevated to Premier Cradlepoint Partner

Posted on by
Reply

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Cradlepoint Premier Partner Badge
Recognition for Revenue Performance and Technical Certifications

DOVER, DE October 19,2017

Magnum Electronics, Inc., located in Dover, Delaware and a leader in mission-critical wireless communications technology has been named a Cradlepoint Premier Partner. Cradlepoint is the global leader in cloud-based network solutions for connecting people, places, and things over wired and wireless broadband.

“Achieving the Premier Partner Level proves Magnum Electronics’ technical competence and customer support capabilities” said Tony Puopolo, Cradlepoint VP NA Channel Sales. Their ability to focus on selling solutions, penetrate emerging verticals and drive our expansion portfolio has contributed to their success in being a trusted partner.”

“Cradlepoint products have contributed to our rapid growth in managed services”, said Bill Ridenour, president of Magnum Electronics. “Our customers are seeing the value of reliable, mission-critical network connectivity for their mobile and fixed assets. It is easy to cost justify as compared to off the shelf consumer grade equipment.”

About Magnum Electronics, Inc.

Magnum Electronics is a wireless communications integrator, technical service center, GPS fleet management, and managed services provider supporting mobile workers in government and enterprise. The company has distribution agreements with Motorola Solutions, Cradlepoint, Panasonic, 3M Peltor, Federal Signal, and many other high quality suppliers. Magnum Electronics is a Delaware state contract holder for upfit installation services, communications devices, and emergency vehicle lighting. Learn more at magnumelectronics.com, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

About Cradlepoint, Inc.Cradlepoint Corporate Logo

Cradlepoint is the global leader in cloud-managed 4G LTE networking solutions. Cradlepoint NetCloud is a network management platform that extends the company’s 4G LTE-enabled multi-function routers and ruggedized M2M/IoT gateways with centralized management and software-defined network services. With Cradlepoint, customers leverage the speed and economics of combining wired and wireless Internet broadband for branch, mobile, and IoT networks while maintaining end-to-end visibility, security, and control. More than 17,000 enterprise and government organizations around the world — including 75 percent of the world’s top retailers, 50 percent of the Fortune 100, and 25 of the largest U.S. cities — rely on Cradlepoint to keep critical sites, workforces, vehicles, and devices always connected and protected. Major service providers use Cradlepoint network solutions as the foundation for innovative managed service offerings. Founded in 2006, Cradlepoint is a privately held company headquartered in Boise, Idaho, with development centers in Silicon Valley and Kelowna, Canada, and offices in the UK, Australia, and Japan. Learn more at cradlepoint.com or follow us on Twitter @cradlepoint.

Contact Information

Magnum Electronics, Inc 302-734-9250 [email protected]

END

###

New OTTO 500 High-Temperature IP68 Speaker-Mic for Firefighters

Posted on by
Reply

2-way Radio Accessories - Expect ExcellenceOTTO, a high-quality 2-way radio accessory manufacturer from Carpentersville, IL recently introduced a high-temperature purpose-built shoulder microphone for the fire service. The OTTO 500 is designed to function in 500 degree heat for 5 minutes and also fully-submerged underwater for a half hour. High-Temp, IP68 Firefighter Microphone

The OTTO 500 is available for most radio models including Motorola, Harris, Kenwood, Icom, and EFJ. A removable grill makes it easy to clean and has a replaceable debris screen. The PTT is easy to use when wearing gloves and most models have an emergency button. The OTTO 500 has a 3 year warranty and is a good choice for extreme fireground operations.

Emergency Vehicle Equipment Contract Awarded to Magnum Electronics

Posted on by
Reply

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Magnum Electronics Logo

For State Agencies, School Districts, Municipalities, Fire Companies

Emergency Vehicle Warning Systems and Equipment

DOVER, DE May 1, 2017

The State of Delaware Government Support Services, Office of Management and Budget has published an award notice to Magnum Electronics for a statewide contract renewable up to five years. Delaware State Contract # GSS17626-ERVEH_WARN was a multiple source award after competitive sealed proposals were evaluated and best and final offers were submitted.

The contract is intended to cover the State’s requirements for vehicle emergency and exterior lighting, sirens, prisoner cages, laptop mounts, consoles, gun racks, tool boxes, and any related equipment for supplying and equipping state agency vehicles. Types of agency vehicles include; police cars, ambulances, fire department vehicles, pickup trucks, utility vehicles, bucket trucks, dump trucks, construction equipment, ATVs, trailers, boats, buses, motorcycles, and bicycles.

Magnum Electronics has been awarded the maximum allowable 20 contract catalogs including Acari No-Drill Mounts, Cradlepoint Vehicle Routers, David Clark Intercoms, Federal Signal Warning Lighting, Gamber Johnson Mounts, Globalstar Satellite Communications, GOLIGHT, J.R. Setina, Jotto Desk Consoles, Kussmaul Electronics, Lind, Magnetic Mic, Mobile Mark Antennas, Motorola Solutions, Panorama Antennas, Power Products, Rockland Custom Cabinets, Signal Vehicle Products, and Truck Vault.

This segment of our business is growing rapidly and now our customers can purchase both fleet safety equipment and our installation upfit services using the GSS15735A-VEH_UPFIT state contract said Bill Ridenour, President of Magnum Electronics. Our Dover service facility is convenient and our experienced, ETA certified staff is proud of each installation.

The Magnum Electronics contract code is GSS17626-ERVEH_WARNV08 using FSF# 0000004196. For more information visit the State of Delaware awarded contracts webpage.

Contact Information

Magnum Electronics, Inc 302-734-9250 [email protected]

END

###

Motorola WAVE OnCloud PTT Service Now Available

Posted on by
Reply

Smartphone 2-Way Radio App With Location and Low Monthly Fee

Motorola Solutions introduced WAVE OnCloud, a monthly subscription SaaS at last month’s IWCE. It is designed to work with or without your existing 2-way radio system and provide voice group/private calls, group text messaging, and real-time location.

IOS & Android Screen ShotsThe WAVE Mobile Communicator app is easily downloaded to your Android or iOS device. Your mobile workforce will have instant and secure group communications anywhere with Wi-Fi, 4G, or 3G broadband connectivity. The phone app has a large PTT (push-to-talk) button on the display. We have a variety of WAVE certified Motorola accessories, the Pryme BT-PTT-U wireless PTT pod, BTH-300-KU lapel microphone, and the BTH-500-KU remote speaker-mic located in our online store.

Motorola TLK 100 4G LTE Wi-Fi Nationwide Two-Way RadioLTE Wi-Fi Two-Way Hand-held Two-Way Radio

Motorola recently introduced the rugged TLK 100 hand-held radio for users who need a louder, IP54 device that is FMCSA compliant. It satisfies the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations for driver distraction.

The TLK 100 uses the Verizon 4G LTE wireless network or any Wi-Fi access point. It requires a WAVE OnCloud $35 monthly service plan (no contract required) billed by Motorola that includes up to 8 talkgroups, GPS location, group and individual calls, with encryption. The TLK 100 is FREE with a 24 month subscription and can be used with a mixed fleet of on-site radios and smartphones.

Download WAVE TLK 100 Brochure .pdf   WAVE TLK 100 Spec Sheet .pdf

Motorola TLK 150 Mobile Radio for Vehicles or Base Station Use

4G LTE base mobile 2-way radioThe HKN2131A TLK 150 is Motorola’s new rugged IP54 two-way radio for fixed mount applications. Designed for fleet installations, it features GPS location, 96 talkgroups, and is Bluetooth capable for wireless audio accessories. All programming and software upgrades are performed remotely over the network eliminating service calls.

There is an optional AC000240A01 wideband external speaker, WM500 wireless mic, PMLN4098 desktop mic, and GMMN4065 visor mic.

Download TLK 150 Data Sheet    TLK150 User Guide

Motorola WAVE Dispatch Application For Centralized Control

Cloud based dispatcher application for two-radios and mobile workersWAVE Dispatch is a cloud-based desktop application for your dispatcher. The interface includes mapping, GPS location tracking history, call logging, group/individual calling, alerts, and supervisory override. The dispatcher can manage up to 300 users and 20 talkgroups from anywhere that has an internet connection. The subscription fee is $32 per month.

Download WAVE Dispatch Data Sheet .pdf    WAVE TLK 100 Spec Sheet .pdf

Magnum Electronics is WAVE Certified for Sales and Support

Motorola MOTOTRBO Capacity Plus trunking system integration is available with a gateway for seamless smartphone-to-radio communications. Conventional non-trunking MOTOTRBO users can use a donor radio with an internet gateway.

Contact our WAVE certified sales and support staff if you need wide area or on-site communications for your work team. We can provide a 30 day demonstration for up to 10 users. After the trial period, the broadband-only service for smartphones is $5 per month per user when pre-paid annually.

Download our Motorola WAVE wireless accessories .pdf

Signup for a Motorola WAVE OnCloud 30 Day Trial

Call our Dover, Delaware office at 302-734-9250 M-F 8-5pm EST or complete the form below and we will setup a 30 day free trial for up to 10 users.

 

Motorola APX XE Extreme Remote Speaker-Mics Compared

Posted on by
Reply

APX XE vs APX XE-500 Features

Motorola APX XE vs. APX XE500 RSM Feature Comparison

Motorola’s IMPRES XE rugged remote speaker-microphone (RSM) choices for extreme environments are designed for firefighters with APX 6000XE, APX 7000XE, and APX 8000XE P25 radios. Available in black or high visibility green, they have a strobe light, orange emergency button, and clip with D-ring.

Motorola APX XE and APX XE500 Shared Features

Both the XE and XE-500 are rated IP68 for submersibility and carry an intrinsically-safe rating to match the APX radio certification. Both have a large volume toggle switch and are 50% louder than a XTS RSM. There is a reflective label on both styles for increased visibility. The APX XE was introduced about 5 years ago and is available in green (NNTN8575A) and black (NNTN8575ABLK).

New APX XE500 Feature ImprovementsXE500 Features and Controls

The XE500 started shipping last year with additional features. It has a channel knob and larger emergency button with embedded orange lighting. Noise suppression is improved and can pickup your voice when you can’t hear yourself talking. The heat resistant cable can withstand 500 degrees for 5 minutes without harm.

The XE500 is intrinsically safe rated for UL-TIA4950 but does not have a FM certification. If your department uses intrinsically-safe APX radios, check to determine if you need FM or UL certified accessories. They are not interchangeable.

The XE500 with channel knob is available in green (PMMN4106A) or black (PMMN4106ABLK). The XE500 is now available without a channel knob in high impact green (PMMN4107) and black (PMMN4107_BLK).

Extreme temperature High Impact Green and Black RSM's

Link to Motorola APX XE500 Datasheet   Link to APX XE Datasheet

Motorola Certified 3M Peltor Headsets for APX, MOTOTRBO

Posted on by
Reply

Motorola BatwingsMotorola APX P25 and MOTOTRBO DMR radio users working in high noise environments can now use 3M Peltor hearing protection. There are 14 headsets certified in a variety of styles with up to 26dB NRR. All are optimized for digital and carry a 12 month warranty.

Direct Connect Headsets

APX XPR Headband HeadsetDirect connect headsets do not require an adapter and include the push-to-talk button on the earcup. The RMN5137 over-the-head style provides a 25dB noise reduction rating. RMN5138 behind-the-head version offers 24dB and can be worn with headgear. There is also the RMN5139 with clips for hardhat attachments. All have noise-cancelling boom microphones.

Headsets Using Nexus PTT Radio Adapter

Standard headsets with Nexus plugs use the PMLN6095 APX/MOTOTRBO adapter. This PTT cable is not compatible with the ComTac III or SWAT-Tac models that require NATO wiring. Specs are identical with the direct connect models and the same style choices are available – PMLN6088, RLN6477, or the RMN4051.

Listen Only Headsets With 3.5mm Connectors3.5mm Non-threaded Neckband Listen only Headset

Motorola offers listen only headsets with both threaded and non-threaded plugs for use with remote speaker-microphones. Most RSM’s with a 3.5mm jack require a non-threaded accessory plug. The RMN4055 (headband), RMN5132 (Neckband), and RMN5133 (hardhat) are the most popular.

3.5mm Threaded Hardhat Attachment Headset

The exception is the NNTN8383 RSM with an industrial noise-cancelling (INC) microphone. The 3.5mm threaded jack is located on the the cord.

The RMN4057 with hardhat attachment and threaded plug is the correct choice. For headband style and 3.5mm threaded connector choose the RMN4056.

TacticalPro Headsets with Ambient Listening

3M Peltor TacticalPro electronic headsets include small microphones on the ear cups to pickup surrounding sounds for increased awareness and safety. The TacticalPro works great in environments with harmful impulse noise because it instantly block harmful sounds. It also will amplify low sounds to a comfortable level when needed. These headsets also use the PMLN6095 Nexus radio adapter and are available in all 3 styles – RMN4052, RMN5135, and RMN4053.

Motorola and 3M Peltor Part Number Cross Reference

The Motorola 3M Peltor Cross Reference Chart shows all of the Motorola certified headsets and the associated 3M Peltor part numbers. The headsets are optimized to work with APX 8000, APX 7000, APX 6000, APX 4000, APX 3000, and APX 1000. MOTOTRBO radios include the XPR 7000 and XPR 6000 series.

Nexus adapters are also available for Motorola XTS 5000, XTS 2500, XTS 1500, PR1500, PR860, HT1550, HT1250, HT750, CP200, and CP185.

Choose The Correct Motorola Intrinsically-Safe Battery

Posted on by
Reply

New Motorola IS Radios Are Now UL Certified

Workers using communications devices in refineries, grain elevators, and fuel storage facilities need an intrinsically-safe certified 2-way radio. Hazardous locations, called HAZLOC, certified radios have a label to identify the NFPA 70 certifications for classifications and groups. Starting 2016, Motorola stopped shipping FM (Factory Mutual) certified radios and transitioned to UL (Underwriters Laboratories). It is important to know FM and UL TIA-4950 intrinsically-safe batteries are NOT interchangeable.

Astro and MOTOTRBO IS Radios

How to Identify FM and UL Certified RadiosGreen dots on battery and radio

Radios with a FM certification have a label with GREEN text and GREEN dot usually on the bottom of the radio. FM certified batteries have the same GREEN label and GREEN dot. In order to be certified, you need two dots with the same color.

UL certified radios have a label with WHITE text and a WHITE dot. APX and XPR 7000 series intrinsically-safe radio fleets delivered before and after 1/1/16 need to make sure the batteries are correct. FM certified replacement batteries will continue to be available for a long time and are safe. Purchasing managers will need to know if FM or a UL replacement battery is required.

APX and XPR 7000/6000/3000 FM and UL Battery Choices

APX FM (green dot) batteries include NNTN7033, NNTN7035, NNTN7036, NNTN8092, and NNTN8129.

APX UL TIA4950 HAZLOC (white dot) batteries are NNTN8921, NNTN8930, PMNN4504, PMNN4505, and NNTN8560.

XPR 7000 FM (green dot) battery is the NNTN8129. The XPR 6000 series uses the PMNN4069.

XPR 7000 UL TIA-4950 HAZLOC (white dot) battery is the NNTN8560. The XPR 7000e/3000e UL TIA-4950 HAZLOC battery is the PMNN4489.

Update: Motorola Cancels All FM Certified Batteries Effective 12/18/2020

The following batteries are no longer available to order after 12/18/2020: NNTN8092, NNTN7033, NNTN7035, NNTN8129, NNTN4437, NNTN4436, NNTN7453, RNN4007, NNTN9857, NNTN6263, PMNN4069, NNTN4852, HNN9010, and HNN4002.

Fact Sheet – Motorola FM to UL Transition

Motorola FAQ FM to UL TIA Document – MOTOTRBO

Panasonic Toughbook 20 Tablet, Keyboard, and Handle

Posted on by
Reply

Fully-Rugged All-in-One Mobile Computer Now Shipping

Rugged Tablet with keyboard handlePanasonic’s latest Toughbook 20 for mobile workers offers the flexibility of a tablet but includes a detachable keyboard with handle. For users who need a tablet but want a comfortable keyboard this is the solution.

The Toughbook CF-20 handle makes it easy to carry on the job. At only 3.9 lbs, it has a sunlight readable display and can be used with gloves. It can be ordered with 4G LTE that supports multiple cell carriers. The Panasonic rotating hand strap is a recommended accessory for use in tablet mode. We found the Boston LeaToughbook Tablet with Handlether shoulder strap easily attaches to the tablet and can be used to carry the emissive backlit keyboard too.

There is also a rugged dock available designed for public-safety and utility vehicles. The Toughbook 20 ships with Windows 10 Pro installed but can support Windows 7 or 8 for older CAD systems.

Download Panasonic Toughbook 20 Data Sheet

For a price quote or additional information call our Dover, Delaware office at 302-734-9250 during normal business hours or use the form below.

Magnetic Palm Mic Holder Improves Driver Safety

Posted on by
1

Compatible With All 2-Way Mobile Radio BrandsInnovative MMSU-1 Single

One of the new mobile radio accessories that got our attention at IWCE this year was a magnetic palm microphone holder. It replaces the standard clip used by Motorola, Vertex Standard, Harris, Kenwood, Icom, and others. The powerful magnet pulls the palm microphone toward the base and supports scan, DPL, tone coded squelch, etc.

Magnetic Palm Mic Holder The MMSU-1 Magnetic Mic Holder from Innovative Products in Knoxville, TN comes individually boxed. Everything you need is in the box including stainless steel screws, stainless lock nuts, grounding screw, instructions, and hex wrench.

There is also a discounted MMBP-25 bulk pack for fleet upgrades.

Perfect for Public Safety Personnel and Public Works Drivers

Police, fire, and ems drivers will keep their eyes on the road responding to emergencies. All fleet owners will benefit from decreased driver distraction and improved safety. The magnetic mic holder is a nice addition for the Astron integrated base station power supplies too.