DMR/MotoTRBO Radio Comparison

[wuzafuzz]

My area has a lot of TRBO repeaters in the ham bands and I'm eager to join in on the fun. Before pulling the trigger on a radio I'm curious as to the feature differences or limitations between various brands,

I've read that all DMR client radios are 100% compatible. However I've also heard that some radios have great features or capabilities not present in others. For instance, I've heard the Motorolas can roam between sites on a linked system, while others requires changing the channel. While I'm perfectly capable of changing the channel I'm left wondering what other features might be missing in a Vertex Standard DMR versus a MotoTRBO rig.

Also, I know Vertex programming software is free while Motorola CPS is expensive. Question though, does the CPS for TRBO portables also work on TRBO mobiles? I could lean on other users nearby for programming, but I won't buy a radio I can't program myself.

I want to make an informed decision so all facts are welcome. OK DMR/MotoTRBO gurus, have at it!

 

[mikewazowski]

For instance, I've heard the Motorolas can roam between sites on a linked system, while others requires changing the channel

That would be IP Site Connect. It's not a necessity to have to use the various amateur DMR networks. If you have multiple DMR repeaters on the same network in the same area and they're broadcasting an IP Site Connect beacon, than it picks the strongest repeater. If you only have one DMR repeater close by, than it won't work. Not a lot of the repeaters are broadcasting the beacon. The DMR-MARC programming guide for repeater owners state that the beacon should not be turned on. In our area they are using it but the repeaters are spread far enough apart that its easier just to change the channel manually.

The other gotcha is that you must use Roaming Scan. While in Roaming scan, you cannot scan other channels easily. Basically you are scanning sites not channels.

Also, I know Vertex programming software is free while Motorola CPS is expensive. Question though, does the CPS for TRBO portables also work on TRBO mobiles? I could lean on other users nearby for programming, but I won't buy a radio I can't program myself.

Yes, TRBO CPS works on mobiles, repeaters and portables. Keep in mind that the latest CPS and firmware restricts you to narrowband operation unless you've bought the CPS and have the free entitlement.

 

[wuzafuzz]

Thanks for the quick and informed reply.

Your reply, combined with others from the local user community, helped me decide to go with Motorola. Almost all the hams here are using the Motorola radios, plus they mentioned the texting feature on Vertex radios isn't compatible with the Motorola radios. That's interesting since they are made by the same people, but those things happen.

Initially I will depend on local users to help me with programming, but will eventually buy my own copy of CPS and obtain the wide band entitlement as well. Not quite yet though, I just bought a new license for Astro Portable CPS on Friday. My radio budget is already smarting!

 

[wuzafuzz]

A brand new Motorola XPR6550 arrived the mail yesterday. After the unveiling, an event accompanied by golden rays of sunlight, harps playing, and angels singing...I need to program this bad boy and get on the air. Woohoo!

You can never have too many radios and modes.