MTS2000 Question

[N1SQB]

I was led to believe that the MTS2000 did NOT require a RIB to program. Now I see this on ebay: Motorola MTS-2000 Programming Kit (with manuals) - eBay (item 120638542307 end time Oct-31-10 17:21:48 PDT) The confusion started when I read this ad from a reputable program cable seller:
Programming cable for Motorola HT1000 MTS2000 MTX8000 - eBay (item 120631524725 end time Nov-07-10 07:55:39 PST)
SO is this a rip off or does the radio really require a RIB? Help me out here guys.! Can a RIB box cirquit really be built into the program cable?

Manny

 

[davidgcet]

yes it requires a rib, and yes you can get a non-motorola ribless cable.

 

[N1SQB]

Thanks for the quick reply! Looks like I have a choice. I think I will go with the aftermarket cable with the built in cirquit!

Manny

 

[davidgcet]

a lot of private owners do just that, no need to have the rib if you are only programming 1-2 radios. we actually use a lot of ribless cables for in the field programming because you don't have to worry about dead batteries in the rib while trying to program a traactor/truck/etc in a parking lot! they work just fine as long as they are built properly. if ordering off ebay, just make sure to check the seller's reviews to make sure.

 

[b7spectra]

I use a rib-less cable for the MTS2000 as well as CPS to program mine with. No problems.

 

[N1SQB]

a lot of private owners do just that, no need to have the rib if you are only programming 1-2 radios. we actually use a lot of ribless cables for in the field programming because you don't have to worry about dead batteries in the rib while trying to program a traactor/truck/etc in a parking lot! they work just fine as long as they are built properly. if ordering off ebay, just make sure to check the seller's reviews to make sure.

That was my thinking! I HATE dealing with RIBs. I used to have one for my Saber 3 radios. Great when it worked and if you were just doing a few channels. Once you get into different zones and alpha-tags, you can't afford to have any problems. We have about 6-8 radios that need programming in our Emergency Management Dept.and not all need to be done at once either. The ribless cable should be fine, I can do like 2 or 3 at a time, no big deal.

I use a rib-less cable for the MTS2000 as well as CPS to program mine with. No problems.

I have the CPS, now I just need the cable. Thanks for the replies, both of you. With commercial radios and software, it is ALWAYS best to ask questions first.


Manny

 

[K8TEK]

That was my thinking! I HATE dealing with RIBs. I used to have one for my Saber 3 radios. Great when it worked and if you were just doing a few channels. Once you get into different zones and alpha-tags, you can't afford to have any problems. We have about 6-8 radios that need programming in our Emergency Management Dept.and not all need to be done at once either. The ribless cable should be fine, I can do like 2 or 3 at a time, no big deal.


I have the CPS, now I just need the cable. Thanks for the replies, both of you. With commercial radios and software, it is ALWAYS best to ask questions first.


Manny

Buy a RIB and quit wasting your money buying programming cables containing them. It is so much cheaper buying one RIB as opposed to buying $30 cables every time you acquire a different type of radio. If you really want to save headaches, program it correctly with a RIB.
RadioStew's RIBs

 

[N1SQB]

If you read my post, I have had experience in the past with a RIB. I tend to stay with commercial gear for a long period. I average about 3-4 years with the same radio. I am commercial radio-less at the moment. I will be getting an MTS2000 soon. I will probably keep it for a few years before moving on. I don't have the finacial ability like some on here to have multiple commercial radios at one time. So, the cable idea works for me! Plus, it makes for a good selling tool when I want to get rid of the radio.

Manny