Motorola Spectra Digital CPS Version Needed?

[RadioCheckk]

I recently bought a Motorola Spectra W3 40 watt that is digital. I ran around and bought the programming cable (with ignition sensor) and the RIB (box). The radio powered up and tested properly. I am using Windows XP and am running the Astro Saber & XTS3000 CPS. When I tried to read the radio, it says "unsupported model." I am sure I am using the wrong CPS. My questions is what CPS do I need to program this radio?

 

[mikewazowski]

You need Astro Spectra CPS.

 

[BryanTheRed]

You need Astro Spectra CPS.

What Mike said, you're tryinng to use portable software on a mobile radio...

 

[RadioCheckk]

I figured that was the case after a Google search. Now to hunt for the software. If anyone knows where I can purchase, I would appreciate it. Thanks.

 

[MTS2000des]

It's no longer for sale from MSI. Keep looking. Ahem.

 

[RadioCheckk]

Thanks all who helped. I was able to get ASTRO Spectra CPS R05.00.02, R06.50.00, and R60.00.05, all three say I need the newest version for the radio. The Spectra is an "upgraded" Spectra that can run P25. I am not sure if that means its using a newer CPS like the XTL CPS or a newer Spectra CPS. Thanks!

 

[MTS2000des]

Astro Spectra CPS R05.03 is what you need, as it was the last version released, back in 2008. Unless it's an Astro Spectra Plus (which actually has an XTL based VOCON), R5.03 should work. From your screen shots of the HOST/DSP you showed (presumably from the seller), it looks like a standard Astro Spectra.

 

[ElroyJetson]

5 is the highest version I have. I even have older versions that are still shrink wrapped with uncut original pink "opening this label constitutes acceptance of the license agreement" stickers. Which is useful....how?

 

[RadioCheckk]

Astro Spectra CPS R05.03 is what you need, as it was the last version released, back in 2008. Unless it's an Astro Spectra Plus (which actually has an XTL based VOCON), R5.03 should work. From your screen shots of the HOST/DSP you showed (presumably from the seller), it looks like a standard Astro Spectra.

I don't think it's a plus. They only said it's "upgraded" which I think means P25 capable? When I read the device, it says I needed a newer version. Let me see it I can attach the photos.

 

[RadioCheckk]

I don't think it's a plus. They only said it's "upgraded" which I think means P25 capable? When I read the device, it says I needed a newer version. Let me see it I can attach the photos.

 

[Echo4Thirty]

Astro Spectra CPS R05.03 is what you need, as it was the last version released, back in 2008. Unless it's an Astro Spectra Plus (which actually has an XTL based VOCON), R5.03 should work. From your screen shots of the HOST/DSP you showed (presumably from the seller), it looks like a standard Astro Spectra.

This is correct and will get you up and running. its a 1MEG radio, not a PLUS.

 

[Mubtennob]

Silly question, do I plug the RIB serial into the control (mic) connector on the radio or leave that and use the 25 pin connector next to it?

 

[nokones]

If I remember correctly, and it is high possible that I may be wrong, you connect the programming cable to the radio. It's been decades for me since I played around with Spectra radios.

 

[Mubtennob]

If I remember correctly, and it is high possible that I may be wrong, you connect the programming cable to the radio. It's been decades for me since I played around with Spectra radios.

That's

Yes I know the programming cable plus into the radio, my question is do I use the spare 25 pin connector on the front next to where the control mic plugs in, or the 15pin accessory port on the back of the radio.

It's a W3 Astro Spectra.

 

[mikewazowski]

Typically on a low or mid power model, you would use the DB15 on the back.

 

[nokones]

As the answer to your question has been posted, and for the future, the clue would be the end of the programming cable as to the type (15 or 25 pin) and gender, that mates up with a connector on the radio. There is a reason why certain type connectors will only mate up with the appropriate connector.