New Motorola CP100d Entry Level Digital Radio Will Replace the EVX-261 After October

Digital DMR Handheld PortableMotorola Solutions announced the cancellation of the Vertex EVX-261 DMR digital radio and no orders will not be accepted after 10/31/2020. The result will be EVX-261 users will not be able to add a digital radio with compatible batteries, chargers, audio accessories, antennas, or belt clips. It may be a good time to refresh your radio communications and take advantage of the technology improvements.

The recommended replacement is a new MOTOTRBO offering in the commercial products product tier. The new CP100d uses the same batteries and charger as the CP185 analog-only radio. CP185 users now have an easy path to upgrade to digital communications.

VHF or UHF Digital DMRThe CP100d uses the popular 2-pin audio connector that is used with the CP200d, CP185, and BPR40. The radio will have improved battery life and there is an option to add a display.

The non-display radio has 16 channel capability and the display can handle a maximum of 160 frequencies. For more info download the CP100d Data Sheet.

If you would like to discuss radio communications for your facility, feel free to call our Dover, Delaware office at 302-734-9250 during normal business hours or use the form below.

JPS NXU-2A RoIP Network Extension Unit Improved and Upgraded to NXU-2B

IP 2-way Radio Gateway

The popular JPS NXU-2A network extension unit has been improved and will begin shipping next month as the NXU-2B. It uses the same cabinet and is fully functional in systems with the older NXU-2A. The new model no longer uses potentiometers so level setting can be accomplished remotely using a browser. This eliminates a costly service call to the transmitter site.

Improve handheld radio coverage using internet

Another big change is the 15-pin audio interface connector has been redesigned to allow any of the standard JPS radio cables to be connected directly to the unit. The NXU-2A required the included crossover adapter to work but half the time it was left in the box.

In addition to solid state keying, the NXU-2B will have a PTT relay and the ability to interface to transmitters via 600 ohm balanced audio.

Below is a video showing the capabilities of the NXU network extension unit.

Magnum Electronics has been an authorized JPS Interoperability reseller since 2005 and support the entire JPS product line. Contact us at our Dover, Delaware office during normal business hours. The phone number is (302) 734-9250 or use the form below.

Motorola Ends Flat Rate Repair Service for XTS and XTL Radio Models

XTS 5000, XTS 2500, XTS 1500, XTL 5000, XTL 2500

Motorola BatwingsMotorola Solutions has ended flat rate repair service in the US and Canada for XTS portable and XTL mobile series radios due to component shortages. Portable radios affected are XTS 5000, XTS 4000, XTS 2500, and XTS 1500 portable radios.

Mobile radios include the XTL 5000, XTL 2500, and XTL 1500. The XTS 3000 and Astro Spectra flat rate support was cancelled back in 2012.

Customers with existing service maintenance agreements will continue to receive repair support until the contract ends. Magnum Electronics will continue to provide T&M technical support and perform repairs if possible. We will also continue to carry Motorola batteries and accessories for all models. As original items are cancelled we will offer high quality aftermarket substitutions.

Magnum Electronics Continues Operations During State of DE COVID-19 Emergency

Magnum Electronics Logo Dover, DE

Earlier today our Governor ordered non-essential businesses in Delaware to close effective Tuesday, 3/24 in order to curb the spread of  COVID-19. The order will remain in effect until May 15th or until the public health threat is eliminated.

Magnum Electronics Classified As Essential Business and Will Remain Open

Magnum Electronics is considered an essential business as shown in the list of essential and non-essential business classification codes. Our intent is to continue to provide technical services and product fulfillment while keeping our employees safe. Precautions are being taken to minimize the risks associated with COVID-19 and we will continue to support public-safety, healthcare, and essential service providers with their communications needs.

We have also implemented several internal policies to help protect our employees and limit the spread of the virus:

  • Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations are followed
  • Sanitation efforts in our office and service bays have been increased to help protect our employees
  • Employees exhibiting respiratory illness symptoms will be asked to stay home
  • Office visits are by appointment only
  • For equipment pickup: stay in your vehicle and we will bring it to you
  • We will be using digital methods of communication both internally and externally
  • Customers meetings are to be conducted via phone or video conference whenever possible
  • Work-related travel, equipment pickup, and deliveries have been suspended. Repaired equipment will be shipped
  • Social distancing is being practiced wherever possible

Total Customer Satisfaction is our fundamental corporate goal and will continue to do everything we can to provide the best possible service to all of our customers during these exceptionally challenging times.

Stay healthy,

Bill Ridenour, President

Motorola Technical Bulletin: Recommended Cleaning and Disinfecting Guidelines

Radio Solutions Channel PartnerIn response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, Motorola Solutions is providing recommended cleaning and disinfecting guidelines for 2-way radios, body-worn cameras, and accessories based on current and best understanding of radio hygiene.

Per global health authorities, removing germs, dirt and impurities from surfaces lowers the risk of spreading infection. Using chemical disinfectants may kill germs that remain on surfaces after cleaning, which further lowers the risk of spreading infection.

General Cleaning Recommendations

  • Apply 0.5% detergent-water solution with a cloth, then use a stiff, non-metallic, short-bristled brush to work all loose dirt away from the device. Use a soft, absorbent, lintless cloth or tissue to remove the solution and dry the device.
  • Make sure that no solution remains entrapped near any connectors, cracks or crevices.

Disinfecting Guidelines

  • Devices may be disinfected by wiping them down with over-the-counter isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) with at least 70% alcohol concentration.
  • When cleaning with isopropyl alcohol, the alcohol should never be applied directly to the device. It should be applied to a cloth, which is then used to wipe down the device.
  • The effects of certain chemicals and their vapors can have detrimental effects on plastics and the metal platings.

Do not use bleach, solvents or cleaning sprays to cleanse or disinfect your device.

Motorola does not certify the above cleaning will remove COVID-19 or other foreign substances, however, the cleaning methods are approved for their products.

Download the Motorola Cleaning and Disinfecting Bulletin

Information from the WHO website: Getting your workplace ready for COVID-19

Information from the US CDC website: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)

3M Peltor ComTac VI NIB Tactical Communications Headset Offers New Features

Next generation ComTac VI NIB and SWAT-TAC VI NIB tactical headsets from 3M offer MT20H682FB-47N GN Single Comm Greenadvanced features and improvements that justify the upgrade of your existing hearing protection.

Natural Interaction Behavior or “NIB” is a new feature allowing up to four team members to speak simultaneously (full duplex) within approximately 30 feet of each other and 60 others can listen. It automatically starts when high noise level prevents normal voice communications. The video below illustrates how NIB works.

New Mission Audio Profiles (MAP), Advanced VOX, and Telescope Boom Mic

Past headset users only had the volume control adjustment when the noise level changed. MAP provides five different audio profiles for environmental listening designed for typical missions as defined below:

  • Observation – highest volume and widest frequency response for max hearing
  • Patrol – High volume, reduced high frequencies to limit footsteps, close sounds
  • Conversation – Maximizes face-to-face communications
  • Comfort – High noise for long periods of time (tactical vehicle, air transport)
  • Off/Disabled – Capability to turn OFF environmental listening

Advanced VOX (voice operated transmit) is adaptive, meaning the threshold to activate will adjust automatically depending on the noise environment. The ComTac VI also has a button on the left earcup so you can easily switch from VOX to PTT.

The MT73 boom microphone has also been redesigned with improved noise-cancelling technology and IP68 submersibility rating. The new design accommodates both left and right handed shooters without moving the mic to opposite side of the headset. The boom can telescope to adjust its length too.

Download 3M Peltor ComTac VI Spec Sheet. pdf

Magnum Electronics is an authorized 3M Peltor Distributor and supports all headsets including ComTac, SWAT-TAC, LiteCom, and 3M PTT headset adapters for all radio manufactures.

JPS RSP-Z2 Gateway Provides Simple Patch for Radio System Interoperability

The RSP-Z2 dual-channel gateway from JPS Interoperability Solutions located inJPS Interoperability Solutions Raleigh, NC allows a pair of 2-way radios, IP connections, or a radio and IP connection to be patched together. There are no recurring costs and the RSP-Z2 supports 2/4-wire interfaces, SIP, RTP, and RoIP protocols. JPS offers factory-built cables with connectors for almost every analog and digital radio model ever manufactured.

Easy Solution to Connect Your Existing Radios with WAVE TLK 100 LTE Devices

LTE Wi-Fi Two-Way Hand-held Two-Way RadioUsers with a large number of existing on-site radios can easily interface with Motorola WAVE OnCloud TLK 100 LTE devices that provide nationwide coverage. All you need is the RSP-Z2 and interface cables for the TLK 100 and your on-site radio.

The TLK 100 and your radio would be dedicated and can not be used for dispatch. Interoperability is automatic on the channels selected on each dedicated radio. Coverage for the on-site donor radio would be limited by the antenna system or repeater.

JPS RSP-Z2 Interoperability Gateway Data Sheet

JPS RSPZ2 Installation and Operation Guide

JPS RSPZ2 Field Optimization and Troubleshooting Guide

Visit our website for JPS ACU series interoperability gateways, SNV-12 voters, NXU-2A network extension unit, and interface cables. Magnum Electronics has been an authorized JPS Dealer since 2006 and provides technical support services if needed.

New Features Available for Motorola DTR700 With 7.02 Firmware Release

License Free 900 MHz Radio for On-site UseMotorola’s DTR700 900 MHz license-free radio has another firmware update available that allows users to receive new features at no charge. The Phase 2 release can be downloaded and includes new firmware, a new updater tool, and new programming software.

DTR700 radios use 902-928 MHz ISM spread spectrum and provide digital features. They are designed for on-site communications and perform well in buildings.

Group, individual, and call alert is standard. The DTR700 has a color display, radio ID, IP54 rating, and up to 16 hour battery life on a single charge. A two year warranty from Motorola is included.

Motorola DTR700 Phase 2 Features Included with 7.02 Firmware UpgradeRadio Solutions Channel Partner

1. Text Message – radio able to receive text messages and send text messages to other radios with pre-programmed text messages.

2. Remote Monitor (DTR700 & DTR720 only) – radio configured as Manager Mode is able to remotely monitor and listen to the environment of the other radio for 30 seconds provided the target radio is in the range.

3. Remote Disable (DTR700 & DTR720 only) – radio configured as Manager Mode is able to remotely enable or disable other radio provided the target radio is in the range.

4. Call Alert – radio able to pre-alert a specific radio in range to call back.

5. Rental Timer (DTR600 & DTR720 only) – radio rental company able to set rental period to radios and radio will be disabled when rental period expired.

6. Ringer Tone and Volume – radio able to set specific Ringer Tone and configure the loudness of the Ringer Tone that sound while receiving text message or call alert.

7. Over-The-Air Contact Cloning – radio able to add or delete contacts to or from another radio wirelessly without connecting the radios by cable.

8. Fixed issue with call failed after back and forth private calls to a radio

DTR700 software downloads, updater tool, and instructions at this link.

Updated Motorola APX XE500 RSM Best Practices Training Video for Firefighters

Firefighter Mic for APX 6000, APX 8000Below is an updated training video from Motorola Solutions for firefighters using APX series 2-way radios and remote speaker-microphones. The original video “Say It Loud and Clear” was developed with help from the IAFC.

The new version includes the XE500 extreme temperature remote speaker-mics designed for firefighters in addition to the standard RSM’s with Windporting.

Best Practices Video for Clear Audio Using Motorola APX Series

New Motorola RM250 Wired Speaker-Mic for TLK 100, SL300, SL3500e, SL 7550e Now Available

SL300,SL3500e,SL7550e, and RM250 Wired RSM

SL300, SL3500e, and SL7550e MOTOTRBO radios need a battery-powered remote speaker-microphone not available from Motorola Solutions until now. The new IP67 RM250 is Motorola’s first rechargeable wired RSM. It has a Kevlar reinforced coiled cord, ultra-thin head with swivel clip, 3.5mm audio jack, and Micro USB charging port. Battery life is up to 22 hours after a 2 hour charge. The PMLN7560 earpiece with acoustic tube can be used for discreet communications and surveillance.

The RM250 is now compatible with the WAVE PTT TLK 100 LTE network radio and the SLN 1000 CBRS device. The “B” version (PMLN7560B) that started shipping in November is required.

Download the RM250 Powered RSM Data Sheet .pdf