Verifying Before Buying

[krazybob]

I am interested in buying an Astro Spectra, clean, from eBay. Gotta be careful here... too many gotchas. At any rate I already have CPS R05.03.00. and the rib, 386 laptop, etc and just need to know if I have the current compatible radio. I'd like to start hitting some of the P25 ham repeaters and such.

MPN: T04KLH9PW9AN

Thanks in advance. I appreciate you.

I sincerely hope that my question is clear that I am not asking for software even though Motorola has placed this model on the unsupported list. If I have missed something in the users TOS it is not deliberate.

[escomm]

What do you mean "current compatible radio" ?

The Astro Spectra was discontinued 7 years ago

[krazybob]

I just need to know if I have current programming software for the Astro Spectra. I love the radio and as a ham that uses distant repeaters they are great. I apologize for my typo. I was multi-tasking. I just need to know that my software will work.

Blessings...

[Will]

Looks like you have the stuff to pgm your Astro Spectra. Are you aware that Astro Spectras do not do P25 below 146?

[krazybob]

No I wasn't but thank you. I just need 146-148. I am installing a Quantar on the ham bands and I will be doing it in dual mode. In another thread I mentioned that I have a couple of 2017B's that I'd like to recrystal in the ham band and use with the Astro.

I am a Motorola rookie and I sound like I don't know what I am talking about chances are I don't know what I am talking about I gladly accept advice and properly worded criticism just don't hold my hand in public

[uman18]

An Astro Spectra "J" split is out there if you really want to use the ham bands. I run a "J" split on 144.xxxx P25 and works like a champ. They are harder to find but they are out there. "J" split covers 136-162mhz. Keep us posted with the install of your Quantar if you plan on it being an open repeater! thanks.

[tvsjr]

You also need the proper version of RF deck and recent firmware if you want to operate on splinter channels. Not really an issue for hammy service, but if you want to program interops, etc. in, you'll have issues.

[krazybob]

Although I know what the terms you mention mean I don't know if I have the current stuff. I have:

R117000
N080303
CNTLHD24
T04KLH9PW9AN
412ACL3281
1 MEG
2.5KHz

Does this help you break the bad news to me? The unit is supposed to cover 136-174 and I verified when I ordered a second unit today that it is narrowband capable, thus the 2.5KHz.

[KG4INW]

It will not cover the entire 136-174 split, just 146-174.

[krazybob]

I understand. Fortunately there's nothing below 146MHz. Is there a software app. that will take from the top and give to the bottom?

[uman18]

Look for a radio with a "J" instead of the "K" in the 4th spot of the model number like these: T04JLH9PW9AN you can go lower on the 146-174 radio but P25 wont work as you start going lower. /\

I'm looking to upgrade my VHF Astro Spectra in my truck to a XTL5000 once I come across the right deal.

[Will]

Bob,

If you do not need P25 below 146 then you do not need to worry. The CPS will still program down to 144 conventional.
The only thing that runs up a red flag is the model number was hacked/changed and the alignment and calibration probably do not match your radio.

Seen this way to many times in the Spectras that come thru my shop.

[N4DES]

Look for a radio with a "J" instead of the "K" in the 4th spot of the model number like these: T04JLH9PW9AN you can go lower on the 146-174 radio but P25 wont work as you start going lower. /\

I'm looking to upgrade my VHF Astro Spectra in my truck to a XTL5000 once I come across the right deal.

Not true. Just a slight tweak of the deviation and it works fine below 146 I P25. I have one in service and tuned another one for a friend of mine and works like a champ once you get used to the CPS warning.