Motorola Radios

Also see Batlabs for a good Motorola radio resource! Please be aware that these radios require special programming software that is legally only obtainable from Motorola. Most of them up to the early 2000s also require a RIB (Radio Interface Box) with a radio specific cable; most later models have a radio-specific cable but require no RIB. Back to Motorola page.

The Motorola Direct Talk article has additional information.

Many of you know just how much people enjoy and love Motorola radios. So, I wanted to put together a guide on how to find exactly what you need for your radio setup.

Step 1: Decode the Flashcode Understanding the flashcode of your radio is essential. This code tells you about the features and capabilities of your radio. You can decode the flashcode using Akardam’s Flashcode Decoder. Simply enter the flashcode, and it will break down all the included features for you.

akardam.net Flashcode Decoder

Make sure to enter the flash in the proper configuration, e.g., (1a1200-000492-2).

Step 2: Understand Band Splits Band splits refer to the frequency ranges that a radio can operate on. It's important to choose the right band split to ensure compatibility with your desired frequencies. Here are the common band splits for Motorola radios:

K: VHF (136-174 MHz)

Q: UHF1 (380-470 MHz)

S: UHF2 (450-527 MHz)

U: 700/800 MHz

W: 900 MHz

AN vs. BN Radios Another important aspect to consider is the difference between AN and BN radios. These designations refer to different generations of the same model, with BN radios generally being the newer version. Here are some key differences:

AN Radios: Typically the older generation. May have different firmware and hardware specifications. Often lack some of the newer features found in BN models. Such as Wi-Fi on APX models if applicable. (QA09001) Has less memory compared to BN radios. BN Radios:

Newer generation with updated hardware. Enhanced features and better performance. Increased memory capacity.

Model Packages (XTS Series) Motorola radios come in various model packages, which can be confusing for beginners. Here's a brief explanation of the different model packages:

• Model 1: Basic model without a display.
• Model 1.5: Basic model with a limited display.
• Model 2: Features a full display with a limited keypad of buttons.
• Model 3: Full-feature model with a complete keypad and full display.

Model Packages (APX Series)

• Model 1.5: Basic model with a limited top display.
• Model 2.5: Features a front display, and top display with a limited keypad of buttons.
• Model 3.5: Full-feature model with a complete keypad and front display, and top display.

Specific Models and Variants Here are specific models and variants of Motorola radios:

APX8000

• Model 1.5: H91TGD9PW5AN (VHF, UHF-R1 & R2, and 7/800 MHz) Unless the original purchaser removed bands to save money.
• Model 2.5: H91TGD9PW6AN (VHF, UHF-R1 & R2, and 7/800 MHz) Unless the original purchaser removed bands to save money.
• Model 3.5: H91TGD9PW7AN (VHF, UHF-R1 & R2, and 7/800 MHz) Unless the original purchaser removed bands to save money.

APX7000

• Model 1.5 / 3.5: H97TGD9PW1AN (Check individual flashcode numbers for specific configurations)

APX6000

• Model 1.5: H98UCD9PW5AN, H98KGD9PW5AN, H98QDD9PW5AN, H98SDD9PW5AN
• Model 2.5: H98UCF9PW6AN, H98KGF9PW6AN, H98QDF9PW6AN, H98SDF9PW6AN
• Model 3.5: H98UCH9PW7AN, H98KGH9PW7AN, H98QDH9PW7AN, H98SDH9PW7AN

XTS5000

• Model 1: H18UCC9PW5AN, H18KEC9PW5AN, H18QDC9PW5AN, H18SDC9PW5AN
• Model 2: H18UCF9PW6AN, H18KEF9PW6AN, H18QDF9PW6AN, H18SDF9PW6AN
• Model 3: H18UCH9PW7AN, H18KEH9PW7AN, H18QDH9PW7AN, H18SDH9PW7AN

XTS2500

• Model 1: H46UCC9PW5AN, H46QDC9PW5AN, H46KDC9PW5AN, H46SDC9PW5AN
• Model 1.5: H46UCD9PW5AN, H46QDD9PW5AN, H46KDD9PW5AN, H46SDD9PW5AN
• Model 2: H46UCF9PW6AN, H46QDF9PW6AN, H46KDF9PW6AN, H46SDF9PW6AN
• Model 3: H46UCH9PW7AN, H46QDH9PW7AN, H46KDH9PW7AN, H46SDH9PW7AN

Additional Information:

• XTS5000 were never offered in 900MHz.
• APX4000 HazLoc (Orange case) is 800/900MHz, no 700MHz.
• XPR7x50 UHF band split is full range 403-520MHz.
• XPR-4/5/6/7 VHF: J.
• XPX4/5/6/7x80 are 800/900MHz, the XPR6580IS is a 800/900MHz radio you want nothing to do with because they use their own IS rated battery that is very expensive. They are NOT compatible with other XPR6xx0 batteries.
• XPR7x80e radios will not function in the 900MHz ham band.
• XPR Generation 1 (4000 series, 6000 series) came in two different UHF splits. Either UHF 1 (403-470) or UHF 2 (450-520).
• XPR5000 series are either UHF 1 or UHF 2.
• Generation 1 of XPR7000 series and XPR3000 series are the entire UHF split 403-520.

Shout out to K2NEC and kayn1n32008 for the additional info!

Understanding these differences is crucial, especially when purchasing used equipment or upgrading your current setup. Always check the model designation to ensure you're getting the features you need.

Using the Radio Reference Database The Radio Reference Database is an excellent resource for finding frequency information. Here, you can look up specific frequencies used in your area and ensure your radio's band split matches those frequencies. For instance, if your local public safety communications are on 155.250 MHz, you'll need a VHF radio that covers that frequency.

Final Tips

Always double-check the specifications before purchasing a radio. Make sure your radio's band split matches the frequencies you plan to use. Use the provided websites to decode flashcodes for accurate information. (Unless modified using DEPOT software) Note: These units are not designed to listen to trunked systems passively. Yes, you can, but there are risks that are legitimately not worth it. See units such as Unication if you don't have experience doing such.

Dispatch Equipment

Model Number	Type
MC1000	Deskset Controller
MC2000	Deskset Controller
MC2500	Deskset Controller
MC3000	Deskset Controller
MCC 5500	Dispatch Console
MCC 7500	IP Dispatch Console
MIP 5000	VoIP Radio Console
CENTRACOM Elite	Dispatch Control Center
CommandStar Lite	Console
XTL 5000	ASTRO Digital Consolette