Tag Archives: DMR

Low Cost Digital Radios for Business – CP200d, CM200d, CM300d

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Motorola MOTOTRBO CP200d DMR Digital RadioMotorola Solutions Upgrades Popular Commercial Tier

The most popular two-way radios for business now support DMR digital voice communications with advanced features. The CP200d, CM200d, and CM300d can be ordered with both analog/digital operation or analog-only with future upgrade capability. They are compatible with other MOTOTRBO radios but are limited to conventional voice features. They will also support dual-capacity direct mode meaning you can have two simultaneous conversations on a single channel without a repeater.

CP200d batteries and chargers are backward compatible but2 Pin Audio Connector for CP200d audio accessories have been optimized for use with digital. Motorola’s new upgraded audio accessories are marked with a symbol on the 2 pin connector.

Improve Coverage with CM200d and CM300d with Display

MOTOTRBO CM200d Front ViewBase, mobile, and control station operation is now possible in VHF (136-174 MHz) with 25 and 45 watt versions. UHF band will be released later this year. Both the CM200d and the CM300d support 99 channels, repeater/talkaround, and MOTOTRBO CM300d Displayvoice announcement.

The CM300d has an alpha-numeric display and two additional programmable buttons.

DMR Digital Radio Choices Slow Analog-Only Sales

The CP200d, CM200d, and CM300d are included in the “Buy 6” August Promotion that ends this month. Receive $185 from Motorola when you purchase six radios on the same invoice.

CP200 analog-only sales slowed significantly since the introduction of the XPR 3300/3500 and Vertex Standard EVX-530 series. Now it appears there is an even easier migration for commercial customers requiring basic voice communications to migrate to DMR. The most rugged business radio for the past ten years just got a new life.

MOTOTRBO CP200d Specs and Data Sheet   MOTOTRBO CM200d CM300d Specs

Why Digital is Better    CP200d Accessory Catalog

MOTOTRBO Digital CP200d Banner

Earmuff and Temple Headsets Compared

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Radio Headset Comparison in High Noise

Bone Conduction vs.Traditional Earmuff Style in High Noise Areas

Motorola Solutions offers temple headsets for most two-way radio models and they continue to grow in popularity. Temple transducers use bone conduction technology and are more comfortable in hot weather as compared to traditional earmuff headsets.

Temple Headset Users TalkingTemple transducers keep the ears uncovered making it easier to communicate with the public. The speaker is muted so radio transmissions cannot be monitored and surrounding voices or other sounds can be heard normally. When used in high noise areas, earplugs can be worn for hearing protection.

Comparison Using MOTOTRBO Analog and Digital RadiosSpring and Associates HDD Driller

Spring & Associates, Inc an HDD (Horizontal Directional Drilling) contractor from Easton, Maryland relies on Motorola MOTOTRBO DMR digital radios on the jobsite.

Communications are challenging because noise levels can be 100db and often exceed 130dB close to where the drill operator sits. They compared the Motorola PMLN5275 heavy-duty, dual muff headset and the PMLN5101 temple transducer.

Tests were performed in digital and analog modes using their XPR 6550 UHF two-way radios. Digital mode audio quality was found to be superior to analog. Following are comments by Rodney Spring, President  of Spring and Associates:

Muff Style Preferred in Extreme Noise Approaching 130dBLoud Noise Chart (dB)

In extreme noise, I’m guessing over 130dB, the earmuff headset was slightly preferred over the temple transducer/hearing protection muffs combo by the operator. It seems that when you idle up the drill to full power/full noise the muff headset has ZERO distortion in the receive mode, while the temple transducer has a little.

Temple Headsets Preferred Below 100dB Noise Level

In noise levels under 100dB the temple transducer was preferred because of comfort and during temporary times of low area noise, being able to remove the auxiliary hearing protection, and still be in touch with other radios while having the ability to hear people around him.

New RLN6500 MOTOTRBO Bluetooth Kit Replaces HK200

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MOTOTRBO RLN6500 Bluetooth Accessory KitMotorola Solutions recently cancelled pending HK200 Bluetooth headset orders after running out of stock. The recommended replacement is the new RLN6500 MOTOTRBO Bluetooth Accessory Kit. The RLN6500 has a comfortable swivel earpiece connected to a pod with clothing clip.

The new design provides a more professional appearance and prevents others from thinking your employees are on their cell phones. Additional earpiece styles will be added in the future.

RLN6500 ChargerThe RLN6500 provides enough battery life for a full 8-10 hour shift unlike most cellular style Bluetooth headsets.

Included is a compact 120V AC charger with cradle for quick and easy charging for the next shift.

Designed for MOTOTRBO DMR Bluetooth Enabled Radios

The RLN6500 is designed to be used with MOTOTRBO Bluetooth enabled radios including the SL 7550, XPR 5350, 5550, XPR 7350, 7550. It is also compatible with XPR 6100, 6300, and 6500 series radios using the PMLN5712 adapter.PMLN6397 Replacement Swivel Earpiece and In-line Mic

It is easy to share among employees with extra PMLN6397 earpieces with in-line mic (pack of 3). The earpiece has a antimicrobial coating for healthcare applications.

Once paired, the headset will reconnect with the radio the next time it is turned on. It is not compatible with the PMLN5993 Bluetooth adapter with touch pairing so you will need to keep it paired with the same radio. The RLN6500 is not compatible with cell phones so you are less likely to lose them due to theft.

Lower Cost Alternative for MOTOTRBO Bluetooth Audio Accessories

The RLN6500 is priced lower than the Operations Critical NNTN8295 wireless earbud with pod and the NNTN8125, NNTN8126 earpieces.

Plantronics-85550-01 M50For those who need a HK200 replacement with long battery life that will also pair with a cell phone, we recommend the Plantronics M50 85550-01.

It has standard Bluetooth 3.0, provides 9-11 hours of typical use, and uses a micro-USB charger connector.

For more Motorola Bluetooth accessories download the Operations Critical MOTOTRBO Wireless Accessory Catalog.

New MOTOTRBO INC Microphones Designed for Use in Extreme Noise

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NNTN8382 and NNTN8383 INC MicsMotorola is now shipping their Industrial Noise-Cancelling (INC) remote speaker microphones for MOTOTRBO XPR 6000 and 7000 series DMR radios. The new mic speaker is 25% louder and uses dual microphone noise-cancellation technology found in high tier public-safety audio accessories.

There are two styles available: NNTN8383 includes a 3.5mm threaded jack located on the 6 foot coiled cord and the NNTN8382 IP57 submersible model without the jack.

Both RSM’s use IMPRES technology to communicate with XPR MOTOTRBO series including the 6100, 6300, 6350, 6550, 6850, 7350 and 7550 models. The mics have a 4 digit date code under the clip and carry a 12 month warranty.

Easy to Clean When Working in Dirty EnvironmentsMOTOTRBO INC Mic Being Cleaned

Dirt and debris that clog other mics can prevent the user from being heard and cause repeat transmissions. The INC remote microphones can be cleaned with soapy water and a scrub brush.

Use a High-Capacity Battery When Using INC Microphones

Battery Life when using NNTN8383, NNTN8382The INC microphones use the radio battery to power the extra-loud, one watt speaker and microprocessors that cancel the background noise.

We recommend using the larger 2,150 mAh IMPRES radio battery if you work long shifts, use scan to listen to multiple channels, or transmit more than normal.

NNTN8383 Requires 3.5mm Threaded Receive-only Audio Accessories

If using the NNTN8383 with the audio jack, make sure you use a 3.5mm threaded accessory plug. Some of the popular threaded receive-only accessories that are compatible include the RLN5313, BDB6726, and the BDN6781. The unthreaded receive-only RSM accessories with the short cords will not work. 

Download Motorola MOTOTRBO INC NNTN8383 NNTN8382 Product Spec Sheet

Rehoboth Beach Patrol Upgrades Lifeguard Communications

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Rehoboth Beach, DE

Thousands of visitors pack the narrow strip of sand at Rehoboth Beach each summer resulting in hundreds of urgent events including lost children, water rescues, and medical emergencies. Rehoboth Beach Patrol, led by Captain Kent Buckson, has been the first responder team for the resort since 1921.

Rehoboth Beach Patrol LogoNot that long ago, most beach patrols relied on semaphore flags for mission-critical communications. The visual messages took several minutes to “transmit” vital information along the entire beach. Analog 2-way radios improved communications but still lacked features required for public-safety.

Starting Memorial Day Weekend, Rehoboth Beach Patrol will improve their Motorola MOTOTRBO DMR XPR 6550 digital radio coverage by adding  a XPR 8400 repeater located on top of the City’s water tank. This will provide better radio-to-radio communications especially during emergencies.

Submersible MOTOTRBO Digital 2-Way Radios Improve Beach Safety

Motorola XPR 6550Motorola MOTOTRBO digital XPR 6550 hand-held radios are rugged enough to provide reliable communications from each lifeguard stand along the crowded shoreline. The XPR 6550 carries a IP57 submersible rating that protects the internal electronics from the harmful effects of sand and salt water. A bright orange silicone grip case provides additional protection and makes it easier to locate if dropped in the sand or surf.

Internal text based information from Headquarters is received on the XPR 6550’s rugged screen reducing the need for voice communications. A press of the orange button alerts the team when an emergency occurs. The radio is programmed with an identifier that provides precise location information when backup is needed.

Our Magnum Electronics team is proud to have been given the opportunity to design, install, and provide ongoing support for their next generation communications system that enhances public-safety on the beach.

Motorola XPR 6100, 6350, 6550 Battery Choices Explained

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MOTOTRBO Radio Battery Choices

Motorola Batteries for XPR 6000 Series Radios Use IMPRES Technology

Motorola introduced the MOTOTRBO DMR digital XPR 6300 (non-display) and XPR 6500 (display) series radios in 2007. Surprisingly, we still see some of the batteries with date codes five years old and still in use. It is probably due to the IMPRES automatic conditioning feature that Motorola patented about 10 years ago.

A fresh battery can improve your radio performance and eliminate intermittent problems when voltage fluctuates. Due to the new enhancements with MOTOTRBO (i.e. Bluetooth, LTR, GPS, lone worker, etc) you should make sure you choose the best battery for your needs. Replacement batteries do not include a belt clip so be sure to remove it from the old battery.

All Batteries Carry a Submersible IP57 Rating

All Motorola XPR 6000 series MOTOTRBO batteries are built tough with a IP57 submersibility rating meaning it can withstand being under three feet of water for 30 minutes. IMPRES smart charging is also standard on all four battery choices.

PMNN4077C is the Most Popular MOTOTRBO Battery with Highest CapacityMOTOTRBO PMNN4077 High capacity battery

The Motorola PMNN4077C is the most popular battery because it provides the highest capacity at 2,200 mAh. The extra capacity is needed if you use a Bluetooth adapter, optional LTR trunking board, or if you require maximum battery life for long shifts. It uses Li-ion chemistry and is only slightly thicker than the PMNN4066A.

PMNN4066A Battery is Standard with XPR6100 and Original XPR 6300MOTOTRBO PMNN4066 battery

The Motorola PMNN4066A uses Li-ion chemistry with a 1,500 mAh capacity. It was included with the original XPR6300 non-display, non-GPS radio back in 2007. It is recommended if you use digital mode only and no power consuming options like GPS, Bluetooth, etc. It is slightly thinner but we normally recommend the higher capacity PMNN4077.

PMNN4069A Battery is FM Approved Intrinsically-Safe for Hazardous AtmospheresFM Intrinsically Safe battery

The PMNN4069A is the only FM battery that is intrinsically-safe rated. It has a green dot on the bottom of the battery and a FM label. It must be used with a XPR radio that includes the factory installed FM option. Look for the label on the radio and a green dot on the bottom of the radio. The battery capacity is 1,400 mAh and it uses Li-ion cells.

There is no benefit in purchasing a FM battery and using it with non-FM radios. It will work but there are no advantages.

Motorola PMNN4065A is the only NiMH Chemistry MOTOTRBO BatteryMOTOTRBO NiMH battery for cold weather

For anyone using their XPR 6000 series MOTOTRBO radios in extremely cold environments the PMNN4065A is the best choice. Li-ion batteries should be avoided because they do not perform well at low temperatures. The Motorola PMNN4065A NiMH battery has 1,300 mAh capacity and is a little heavier. It also is the most economical with the lowest price.

All of the above batteries are compatible with the XPR6100, XPR6300, XPR6350, XPR6380, XPR6500, XPR6550, and XPR6580 MOTOTRBO radios..

Not sure of the condition of your batteries? First, check the date codes and then consider investing in the Motorola NNTN7392 IMPRES battery reader if you have a large quantity.

Advantages of New Motorola DMR MOTOTRBO XPR 5550

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New Motorola XPR 5000 Series Supports Analog and Digital DMR

Motorola MOTOTRBO XPR 5350 & XPR 5550 Motorola’s newest base/mobile offering to the MOTOTRBO DMR platform is the XPR 5000 series. Introduced in the VHF and UHF bands, the radios can be programmed with up to 1,000 analog and digital channels providing easier migration and interoperability. 

The flagship XPR 5550 includes a color display with day and night modes for easier viewing. The XPR 5350 has a numeric channel display and 32 channel capability.

An internal GPS receiver and text messaging is standard on both models.

New XPR 5000 Series Includes Embedded Wireless Bluetooth for Voice and Data

Workers can monitor and respond to voice radio traffic when not in the vehicle using any standard Bluetooth headset. This can enhance productivity by giving your workforce the ability to stay in touch when away from the mobile radio.

Bluetooth is also an easy way to connect hand-held scanners, bar code readers, and other data collection devices. You will need to purchase the HKVN4088 optional software license at a cost of $50 to enable the data transfer feature. MOTOTRBO already supports many independent software applications that enhance mobile worker productivity.

XPR 5550 5 Line Color Display Provides Day and Night Modes for Easier Viewing

Motorola XPR 55550 Display in Night Mode

Motorola XPR 5550 Display in Night Mode

Text messaging, mobile workforce productivity applications, and large channel lists are easily managed with the XPR 5550 5 line color display. The bright display can be viewed easily in broad daylight or in low light environments with night mode. Four programmable buttons can be labeled for your operational needs and a home button provides an easy user interface.

Dual Function Channel/Volume Knob Eliminates Rocker Switches

The XPR 5000 series incorporates a single knob for both volume and channel control. With a short press of the knob you can change your volume and channel easily. The XPR 5000 platform also has a nice feature called “intelligent audio” that increases or decreases the volume automatically if surrounding noise conditions change.

One Minute Video Summary of the XPR 5000 Series