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New Radtel RT-950

EAFrizzle

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Be aware that programming for all new Radtels will be Bluetooth/proprietary app programming only. No cable programming or computer based CPS anymore, just a phone app.
 

dlwtrunked

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Be aware that programming for all new Radtels will be Bluetooth/proprietary app programming only. No cable programming or computer based CPS anymore, just a phone app.
Source of this? Radtel cannot be that stupid.
 

EAFrizzle

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RT Systems has discontinued all Radtel CPS development. They even D/C'd previous software sales. You may get a unit that works with cable and CPS, but the change to app only will just happen at some point. Previous thread.

If I were a company like Radtel, I'd want to be good friends with the RT folks.
 
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VK3RX

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Programming bulk frequencies e.g. multi State repeater listings via an app instead of via a PC running CPS??

I can't see how thats gonna work, unless the app has access to such listings worldwide and its kept up to date.

I had a VX6R and RT software and bought a Wouxun KG-Q10H, and again RT software. In all of about 5 minutes via the software I had the same dataset copied into the Wouxun and running.

Radtel needs to have a rethink.
 

AB5ID

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The RT-950 can be programmed with conventional CPS:
RT Systems just seems really petty about whatever the situation is. They also have their share of critics: But back to the radio itself. I am curious to see how it develops, especially when the Pro version is released.
 

PixelatedDad

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I have a 950, and while it’s a nice looking device, I think it still needs some software improvements. For example, channel names are shorter and often get cropped on the screen, even though there seems to be plenty of unused space.

Another limitation is that you can’t name the zone files. I like to organize my zones by category (e.g., Air Band, Marine Band, CB), but the current CPS for the 950 doesn’t allow it. The CPS itself also feels limited compared to the one for the 880, which is much better. On the 880, you can easily export and import CSV files, but the 950’s CPS doesn’t offer that functionality, reading above posts it maybe then they no longer do updates to the CPS and it is what it is...

I'll also point out I'm struggling with the Bluetooth app, same issues, i don't seem to be able to import or export to any external file i can mass edit, the app is quiet fiddly (and some parts not that intuitive) maybe i need to find and watch a YouTube how to video. :)
 

AB5ID

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I have a 950, and while it’s a nice looking device, I think it still needs some software improvements. For example, channel names are shorter and often get cropped on the screen, even though there seems to be plenty of unused space.

Another limitation is that you can’t name the zone files. I like to organize my zones by category (e.g., Air Band, Marine Band, CB), but the current CPS for the 950 doesn’t allow it. The CPS itself also feels limited compared to the one for the 880, which is much better. On the 880, you can easily export and import CSV files, but the 950’s CPS doesn’t offer that functionality, reading above posts it maybe then they no longer do updates to the CPS and it is what it is...

I'll also point out I'm struggling with the Bluetooth app, same issues, i don't seem to be able to import or export to any external file i can mass edit, the app is quiet fiddly (and some parts not that intuitive) maybe i need to find and watch a YouTube how to video. :)

Thanks for any and all feedback. Good or bad, hands-on information is appreciated! I am really considering getting this radio if they continue to improve it. I understand it is a budget radio, but I have been having fun with budget receivers lately.
 

wb4sqi

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Pulled the trigger today via Aliexpress, 950 Pro on the way. Between order entry and confirmation it appears I may get a Euro version instead of US version. Anyone know the difference other than 220V wall wart?
 

KE4ZNR

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I have a 950, and while it’s a nice looking device, I think it still needs some software improvements. For example, channel names are shorter and often get cropped on the screen, even though there seems to be plenty of unused space.

Another limitation is that you can’t name the zone files. I like to organize my zones by category (e.g., Air Band, Marine Band, CB), but the current CPS for the 950 doesn’t allow it. The CPS itself also feels limited compared to the one for the 880, which is much better. On the 880, you can easily export and import CSV files, but the 950’s CPS doesn’t offer that functionality, reading above posts it maybe then they no longer do updates to the CPS and it is what it is...

I'll also point out I'm struggling with the Bluetooth app, same issues, i don't seem to be able to import or export to any external file i can mass edit, the app is quiet fiddly (and some parts not that intuitive) maybe i need to find and watch a YouTube how to video. :)

How is VHF Aviation reception on it? I would pick one up if it handles aviation VHF well.
 

VK3RX

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I have a 950, and while it’s a nice looking device, I think it still needs some software improvements.
I pulled the trigger on one last night, now read your post ....

My philosophy with amateur radio gear has always been don't buy a newly released model until after manufacture serial #2000, at which they usually incorporate circuit changes, as well as by which they've sorted out many firmware bugs.

In the case of the RT-950 hopefully the fixes are firmware & software issues.

Thanks for the update, and keep us posted :)
 

cherubim

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The RT-950 PRO is not much different to the RT-880G with the exception of bluetooth app programming and a new case & firmware. I would avoid the RT-950 though as it has no 27MHz FM Tx and no SSB receive which is a serious omission imo.

I don't like bulky radios and prefer the compact size of the RT-880/880G.
 
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EAFrizzle

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Looks like the biggest difference between the 880 and the 950 is the single antenna connection with internal switching. I've seen several reports of this switching system not functioning. No idea if FW can fix it or not.
 

EAFrizzle

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Not surprised at the RX quality, nor the 6 meter TX. Good-looking radio; I'd be interested in one once they look stable. Big thumbs up for the sans-serif numerals!

Hopefully the antenna switching issues I've read about are a sporadic problem. Also, while the dual antenna configuration of the RT-860 and RT-880 is funky looking, it does solve the problem of having to physically switch antennas to monitor HF and V/UHF simultaneously.

So, full-band coverage would need two antennas, and a switch or a plexer. Does anyone make a log-periodic that covers from 12 meters to 70 cm for all-in-one coverage? 😉


It seems like several manufacturers and middlemen are just trying to jam more and more functionality into a radio and get it to market without enough testing. Santa Claus would have a hard time fulfilling the wish lists that some of these radios contain.
 
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