RCA BRM350D Digital Mobile Two-Way Radio
Instruction Manual
Congratulations and Thank You
Congratulations and Thank You for selecting the BRM350D mobile two-way radio from RCA Communications Systems - The most trusted name in radio!
Our newest digital series professional communications products based on DMR technology establishes a benchmark in premium digital two-way radio equipment, made to perform flawlessly under the most demanding commercial conditions. Cutting edge design, high-end professional grade materials and components, simple operation and superior assembly quality: RCA Communications Systems has it all, including our exclusive no-nonsense, three-year "Warranty Protection Program," one of the most comprehensive warranties in the communications industry.
To ensure you achieve maximum performance from your BRM350D mobile radio, please be sure to carefully read this manual.
MODELS COVERED IN THIS MANUAL:
- BRM350D VHF Two-Way Radio
- BRM350D UHF Two-Way Radio
[Three-year Warranty Protection Program logo described]
Contents
This manual covers the following topics:
- Product Inspection
- RCA BRM350D Mobile Overview
- What's Included
- Transceiver Installation (Tools Needed, Mounting Bracket, DC Power Cable Connection, Mobile Operation)
- Fixed Station Operation
- Replacing Fuses
- Antenna Connection
- Accessory Connections (External Speaker)
- Microphone Jack
- Microphone Hanger
- Transceiver Features (Volume Control, LCD Display, LED Indicator, Operational Status Indicators, Display Icons)
- Call Icons
- Sent Item Icons
- Audio Tones
- Making and Receiving Calls (Receiving a Call, Transmitting a Call, Select A Channel, Setting Squelch Level, Switching Modes)
- Programmable Buttons
- Accessing Programmed Function/Menu (Keypad Mic, Using Menu/Programmed Functions, Selecting a Zone, Selecting Channel/ID, Receiving/Responding to Calls)
- Emergency Operation (Initiating/Responding, Exiting Mode)
- Advanced Features (Public Address, Radio Check, Remote Monitor, Contacts Settings)
- Call Indicator Settings / Call Tones
- Text Message Features (Navigating, Receiving, Reading, Managing Inbox, Writing/Sending, Quick Text, Fail-to-Send, Resending, Forwarding, Managing Sent Messages)
- Privacy
- Dual Tone Multi Frequency (DTMF) Analog
- Security (Radio Disable, Radio Enable)
- Scan Lists (Viewing, Instructions, Starting/Stopping, Responding, Deleting/Restoring Nuisance Channel)
- Utilities (Keypad Locked/Unlocked, Keypad Tones, Power Level, VOX, Backlight, Talkaround, Tones/Alerts, LED Indicator, Intro Screen)
- Accessing General Radio Information
- Care and Cleaning
- Customer Support Contact Info
- Troubleshooting
Product Inspection
Before unpacking the BRM350D mobile radio, inspect the packaging for signs of damage. Report any damage or missing components immediately to your RCA Communications System Sales and Service Center. The BRM350D mobile radio comes with the following items:
What's Included:
- BRM350D - Mobile Radio (1)
- MM301HD - Standard Mobile Mic (1)
- HGRMM300 - Mobile Mic Hanger and Screws (1)
- MB300 - Mobile Mounting Bracket and Hardware (1)
- PC300 - Mobile Power Supply Cable (1)
RCA BRM350D Mobile Overview
The front panel of the BRM350D features the following:
- 1. Volume Control Knob / Programmable Button: Adjusts radio volume.
- 2. LCD Display: Shows radio status, text entries, and menu entries.
- 3. Select A Channel / Programmable Buttons: Used to change channels or access programmed functions.
- 4. LED Indicator: Indicates radio status (e.g., transmitting, receiving).
- 5. Microphone Jack: For connecting the microphone.
- 6. Programmable Buttons P1-P4: Customizable buttons for quick access to functions.
- 7. On/Off Button: Powers the radio on or off.
- 8. Internal Speaker: Built-in speaker for audio output.
[Diagram of BRM350D Front Panel with numbered features described above]
[Diagrams of included accessories: BRM350D Mobile Radio, MM301HD Standard Mobile Mic, MB300 Mobile Mounting Bracket, PC300 Mobile Power Supply Cable, HGRMM300 Mic Hanger]
Transceiver Installation
Tools Needed:
- Electric Drill with 6mm bit or above
- Philips Head Screwdriver
- Hex Socket Sleeve (for 5mm X 16mm self-tapping screw)
Select a safe, convenient location for installation, minimizing danger to passengers and ensuring adequate ventilation, shielded from direct sunlight. Avoid locations where knees or legs might strike the unit during operation.
Mounting Bracket Installation:
Install the mounting bracket using the supplied self-tapping screws, flat washers, and spring washers. Position the bracket so that the three long screw hole positions are towards the rear. [Description of Figure 1 showing mounting bracket, self-tapping screw, spring washer, flat washer]
Use the three screw positions on the side of the mounting bracket to determine the appropriate angle of the transceiver. [Description of Figure 2 showing bracket angle adjustment]
Position the transceiver, then insert and tighten the supplied hexagon SEMS screws and flat washers. Ensure all hardware is securely fastened to prevent loosening from vehicle vibration. [Description of Figure 3 showing transceiver attachment with SEMS screws]
DC Power Cable Connection (Mobile Operation)
Your vehicle battery must be a 12V battery with sufficient current capacity. Never connect to a 24V battery.
- Route the DC power cable directly to the vehicle's battery terminals using the shortest path. Install any noise filter with an insulator to prevent contact with vehicle metal. Avoid using power outlet/cigarette lighter sockets due to potential voltage drop. Ensure the cable is isolated from heat, moisture, and high-voltage ignition systems.
- Wrap heat-resistant tape around fuse holders and secure the cable run.
- Disconnect other wiring from the negative (-) battery terminal before connecting the transceiver to prevent short circuits.
- Confirm correct polarity: red connects to the positive (+) terminal, black to the negative (-). Use the full cable length; do not cut excess. Never remove fuse holders. [Description of Figure 4 showing fuse holders and battery connection]
- Reconnect any wiring removed from the negative terminal.
- Connect the DC power cable to the transceiver's power supply connector, ensuring the locking tab clicks into place. [Description of Figure 5 showing cable connection]
Fixed Station Operation
For fixed station operation, a separate 13.8V DC power supply (not included) with a recommended capacity of 14A or more is required.
- Connect the DC power cable to the regulated DC power supply, ensuring correct polarity (Red: positive, Black: negative). Do not connect directly to an AC outlet. Use the supplied DC power cable; do not substitute with smaller gauge wires. [Description of Figure 6 showing power supply connection]
- Connect the transceiver's DC power connector to the DC power cable connector, ensuring the locking tab clicks. (Refer to Figure 5).
NOTE: For optimal performance, use a power supply with an output of more than 23A/25% duty cycle. Ensure the transceiver and power supply are switched OFF before connecting. Do not plug the power supply into an AC outlet until all connections are made.
Replacing Fuses
If a fuse blows, check the power source and cables for the cause. Replace the fuse with the correct type and rating. If new fuses blow repeatedly, disconnect the power cable and contact an authorized RCA Dealer.
Fuse Location | Fuse Current Rating |
---|---|
Transceiver | 15A |
Supplied Accessory DC Power Cable | 15A |
Antenna Connection
Install an efficient, well-tuned antenna for optimal radio performance. Use a 50 Ω impedance antenna and low-loss coaxial feed line with a 50 Ω characteristic impedance to match the transceiver. Using mismatched impedance can reduce efficiency and cause interference.
CAUTION: Transmitting without an antenna or matched load may damage the transceiver. Always connect the antenna before transmitting. Fixed stations should have a lightning arrester.
[Description of Figure 8 showing antenna connection]
Accessory Connections
External Speaker
For an external speaker, use one with an 8 Ω impedance. The external speaker jack accepts a 1/8" (3.5 mm) mono plug. [Description of Figure 9 showing external speaker connection]
Microphone Jack
Connect a 600 Ω microphone with an 8-pin modular plug into the modular socket on the front of the main unit. Press firmly until the locking tab clicks. [Description of Figure 10 showing microphone connection]
Microphone Hanger
Attach the supplied microphone hanger using included screws in an accessible location that does not interfere with vehicle operation. [Description of Figure 11 showing microphone hanger screws]
Transceiver Features
The transceiver has several features accessible via buttons and the display:
- 1. Volume Control Knob/Programmable Button: Controls volume; can be programmed for other functions. Note: Signaling squelch may prevent audio if programmed.
- 2. LCD Display: Shows status, text, and menu information.
- 3. Select A Channel/Programmable Buttons: For channel selection and programmed functions.
- 4. LED Indicator: Provides visual status cues (e.g., Blinking Orange for scanning/emergency, Solid Red for transmitting, Solid Green for receiving/busy, Rapidly Blinking Green for privacy-enabled calls).
Operational Status Indicators
The radio uses various indicators:
- Display Icons
- Call Icons
- Sent Item Icons
- LED Indicator
- Audio Tones
Display Icons:
The LCD display shows various icons:
- Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI): Number of bars indicates signal strength while receiving.
- Monitor: Indicates the selected channel is being monitored.
- Power Level: Indicates High (H) or Low (L) transmit power.
- Tones Disable: Indicates tones are turned off.
- Scan: Indicates the scan feature is enabled.
- Priority Scan: Indicates detection of activity on a priority channel (Priority 1 blinking, Priority 2 steady).
- Unread Message: Indicates unread messages in the Inbox.
- Inbox Full: Indicates the Inbox is full.
- Emergency: Indicates the radio is in Emergency mode.
- Privacy: Indicates the Privacy feature is enabled.
- Talkaround: Indicates the radio is in direct radio-to-radio communication mode.
Call Icons
Icons indicating call types:
- Private Call: Indicates a Private Call in progress or a subscriber alias/ID in the Contacts list.
- Group Call/All Call: Indicates a Group Call or All Call in progress or a group alias/ID in the Contacts list.
Sent Item Icons:
Icons in the Sent Items folder:
- Sent Successfully: Text message sent successfully.
- Send Failed: Text message failed to send.
- In-Progress: Text message pending transmission.
Audio Tones:
Audible alerts for radio status or data reception:
- Continuous Tone: Monotone sound, continuous until termination.
- Periodic Tone: Sounds periodically based on radio settings.
- Repetitive Tone: Repeats a single tone until terminated.
- Momentary Tone: Sounds once for a short, defined period.
Making and Receiving Calls
Receiving a Call:
If CTCSS/CDCSS, 2-Tone, or MDC1200 signaling is set by your dealer, you will only receive calls with matched signaling. Otherwise, all users on the selected channel can be heard.
Transmitting a Call:
- Hold the microphone about 2 inches from your mouth.
- Press the [PTT] (Push-to-Talk) button. The red LED lights up during transmission. [Description of Figure 12 showing PTT button]
- Release [PTT] to return to receive mode.
Note on PTT: If Talk Permit Tone is enabled, wait for the tone before speaking.
If Channel Free Indication is enabled, an alert tone signals when the target radio releases the PTT button, indicating the channel is free. This tone also sounds if your call is interrupted (e.g., by an Emergency Call).
Select A Channel:
Use the [Up/Down Arrow] buttons to switch between channels. Channels can be analog or digital. Minor feature differences between modes do not affect performance.
Setting the Squelch Level (Analog):
Adjust squelch to filter unwanted calls with low signal strength or background noise. Settings include 'Normal' (default) and 'Tight' (filters more, potentially blocking remote calls). Use the programmed Squelch button or navigate via the menu:
- Press [Volume Knob] to access the menu.
- Navigate to Utilities, then Radio Settings, then Squelch using [Up/Down Arrow] and [Volume Knob] to select.
- Choose 'Tight' or 'Normal' and press [Volume Knob].
Switching Between Analog/Digital Mode:
Use the Channel Selector Knob to switch between analog and digital channels. Some features may be unavailable when switching from digital to analog.
Programmable Buttons:
Buttons (P1-P4, Up/Down Arrows, Volume Knob) can be programmed by your RCA Communications Systems Dealer as shortcuts for functions or preset channels/groups. Functions can be assigned to short or long presses.
Programmable Functions include:
- All Alert Tones On/Off
- Channel Up/Down
- Emergency On/Off
- High/Low Transmit Power
- Lone Worker On/Off
- Manual Dial For Private
- Monitor On/Off
- Nuisance Delete
- One Touch Access
- Privacy On/Off
- Public Address
- Repeater/Talkaround
- RF Power Switch
- Scan On/Off
- Squelch Level
- Squelch Switch
- Surveillance/Covert Mode
- Tight/Normal Squelch
- Volume Up/Down
- VOX On/Off
- Zone Up/Down
Accessing the Programmed Functions and Radio Menu
Radio functions can be accessed via programmable buttons or menu options:
- Menu Access: Press [Volume Knob] to enter the menu and confirm selections. Use [Up/Down Arrow] buttons to navigate menu options. Press [P4 Button] to go back one menu level or return to the previous screen. The menu exits after a period of inactivity.
Keypad/Mic (Optional MM301HDK):
The optional keypad microphone allows access to radio features, subscriber numbers, IDs, and text messages. Button presses for characters are detailed in a table:
Key | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | . , ? | 1 | . | , | ? | ! | @ | & | ` | % | - | : | * | # |
2 | abc | A B C | 2 | |||||||||||
3 | def | D E F | 3 | |||||||||||
4 | ghi | G H I | 4 | |||||||||||
5 | jkl | J K L | 5 | |||||||||||
6 | mno | M N O | 6 | |||||||||||
7 | pqrs | P Q R S | 7 | |||||||||||
8 | tuv | T U V | 8 | |||||||||||
9 | wxyz | W X Y Z | 9 | |||||||||||
0 | 0 | CAPS | ||||||||||||
* or DEL | DEL | |||||||||||||
# or Space | Space |
Note: Press '0' for '0', long press for CAPS Lock. Another long press turns CAPS Lock off. Use '*' or 'DEL' to delete characters. Use '#' or 'Space' to insert a space.
USING MENU/PROGRAMMED FUNCTIONS
Selecting a Zone:
A zone is a group of channels (up to 250 zones, 16 channels per zone). Select a zone via a programmed button or the menu:
- Press [Volume Knob] to enter the menu, navigate to 'Zone', and select.
- The current zone is displayed.
- Use [Up/Down Arrow] to find the desired zone and select.
Selecting a Radio Channel, Subscriber ID, or Group ID:
Once a zone is displayed, use [Up/Down Arrow] to select the channel, subscriber alias/ID, or group alias/ID.
Receiving and Responding to a Radio Call:
To unscramble a privacy-enabled call, your radio must have the same Privacy Key or ID as the transmitting radio.
Receiving and Responding to a Group Call:
Your radio must be configured to be part of the group. When a Group Call is received:
- The LED blinks green.
- The display shows the caller alias/ID and RSSI icon, followed by the group alias/ID and Group Call icon.
- Press [PTT] to respond (LED turns red). Wait for Talk Permit Tone if enabled.
- Release [PTT] to listen.
- The call ends after a period of inactivity.
Receiving and Responding to a Private Call
A Private Call is between two individual radios. When a Private Call is received:
- The LED blinks green.
- The display shows the subscriber alias/ID and RSSI icon, followed by 'Private Call' and the Private Call icon.
- Press [PTT] to respond (LED turns red). Wait for Talk Permit Tone if enabled.
- Release [PTT] to listen.
- The call ends after a period of inactivity.
Receiving an All Call
An All Call is for announcements to all radio users on a channel. When an All Call is received:
- The LED blinks green.
- The display shows the subscriber alias/ID and RSSI icon, followed by 'All Call' and the All Call icon.
- The radio returns to the previous screen after the call ends.
Note: You cannot respond to an All Call. Receiving stops if you switch channels.
Monitoring A Channel (Analog)
Use the Monitor feature to check channel activity before transmitting:
- Press the programmed Monitor button and listen. The monitor icon appears.
- Activity indicates a busy channel; white noise indicates a free channel.
Making a Radio Call
Calls can be made by selecting a channel, subscriber ID, or group using programmable buttons or the contacts list. Manual Dial is for Private Calls only.
Note: Privacy feature must be enabled on the channel for privacy-enabled transmissions. Target radios must have matching Privacy Key/Value/ID.
Making A Call With Channel Selector Buttons
Making a Group Call:
Your radio must be configured for the group. Select the channel with the active group alias/ID and press [PTT]. The LED lights red. The display shows the Group icon and alias/ID. When a user responds, the LED blinks green.
Making a Private Call:
- Select the channel with the active subscriber alias/ID.
- Press [PTT] to make the call (LED lights red). Wait for Talk Permit Tone if enabled.
- The display shows the subscriber alias/ID and 'Private Call' with the Private Call icon.
- Release [PTT] to listen. When the target radio responds, the LED blinks green.
- The call ends after a period of inactivity.
Making an All Call:
Transmit to all users on a channel (requires programming). Select the channel with the active All Call group alias/ID and press [PTT]. The LED lights red, and the display shows the All Call icon and alias/ID. Users cannot respond.
Making a Group or Private Call with the One Touch Call Button:
Assign a Group or Private Call to a programmable button for easy access. Press the programmed One Touch Call button to initiate the call. Press [PTT] to transmit.
Emergency Operation
The radio supports three types of Emergency Alarms: Emergency Alarm, Emergency Alarm with Call, and Emergency Alarm with Voice to Follow. These can be Regular (audio/visual), Silent (no audio/visual), or Silent with Voice (transmits alarm, allows incoming call without indicators).
Initiating & Responding to Emergency Alarm
To initiate an Emergency Alarm, press the programmed Emergency button. The LED lights solid red. The display shows 'Sending Alarm'. An acknowledgment triggers an alert tone and 'Emergency Alarm Successful'. Depending on settings, you may press [PTT] or the microphone may activate automatically.
To respond to an Emergency Alarm, press any button to stop indications, then press [PTT] to initiate a call with the emergency sender.
Exiting Emergency Mode:
Emergency mode exits automatically upon receiving an acknowledgment, exhausting retries, pressing the Emergency Off button, pressing [PTT], or powering off the radio.
ADVANCED FEATURES
Public Address:
The Public Address (PA) feature amplifies audio through an external speaker. Press the programmed PA button to activate (LCD shows 'PA'). Speak into the microphone while holding [PTT]. Release [PTT] to end broadcast. Press PA again to disable. Note: In PA mode, the radio cannot transmit or receive. PA accessories and external speakers must be installed by an RCA dealer.
Radio Check:
This feature checks if another radio is active without notification to the target radio. It's applicable for digital mode subscriber aliases/IDs only.
Sending a Radio Check: Use the programmed Radio Check button. Navigate via menu to Contacts, select the subscriber alias/ID or Manual Dial, then select 'Radio Check'. Wait for acknowledgment. The display shows 'Radio Check:
Remote Monitor:
Allows remote activation of a target radio's microphone for monitoring without audible or visual indication on the target radio. This feature requires dealer programming.
Initiating Remote Monitor: Use the programmed Remote Monitor button. Access via menu to Contacts, select the subscriber alias/ID or Manual Dial, then select 'Remote Monitor'. The display shows 'Remote Monitor:
Contacts Settings:
Contacts provide an address book for initiating calls. Each entry includes Call Type, Call Alias, and Call ID. Contacts can be added, deleted, or edited.
- Group Call from Contacts: Navigate to Contacts, select the group alias/ID, and press [PTT] to make the call.
- Private Call from Contacts: Navigate to Contacts, select the subscriber alias/ID or Manual Dial, and press [PTT] to make the call.
Call Indicator Settings - Activating And Deactivating Call Alert Tones for Private Calls
Turn call alert tones on or off for Private Calls. Navigate via menu: Utilities -> Radio Settings -> Tone/Alerts -> Call Alert -> Private Call. Select 'Turn On' or 'Turn Off'.
Activating and Deactivating Call Alert Tones for Text Messages:
Turn call alert tones on or off for Text Messages. Navigate via menu: Utilities -> Radio Settings -> Tone/Alerts -> Call Alert Tones -> Text Message. Select preferred tone or 'Turn Off'.
Assigning Alert Tones:
Program specific ring tones for Call Alerts or Text Messages from contacts. Navigate via menu: Contacts, select alias/ID, then 'Ring Style'. Choose a tone or 'Turn Off'.
Call Log Features:
The radio tracks recent outgoing, answered, and missed Private Calls. Call logs can be viewed and managed (Store to Contacts, Delete).
Accessing the Call Log:
Use the programmed Remote Monitor button (or navigate via menu: Call Log). Select the desired list (Missed, Answered, Outgoing) and scroll through entries.
Storing an Alias or ID from the Missed Call List:
While viewing a missed call entry, select 'Store', input a name, and confirm.
Deleting a Call from a Call List:
While viewing an entry, select 'Delete' and confirm.
Call Alert Operation:
Call Alert pages a radio user to call back. It's applicable for subscriber aliases/IDs only. When a Call Alert is received, the display shows 'Call Alert' alternating with the alias/ID. A repetitive tone sounds. Press [PTT] to confirm or select 'Ignore?' to exit.
Making a Call Alert from the Contact List:
Navigate via menu: Contacts, select alias/ID or Manual Dial, find 'Call Alert', and select. The display shows 'Call Alert:
Text Message Features
The radio can send and receive text messages (max 138 characters).
Navigating to Messages:
Press [Volume Knob] to access the menu, then navigate to 'Messages'. Press [P4 Button] to return to the previous screen.
Receiving a Text Message:
When a message is received, the display shows the sender's alias/ID and a Message icon. Options include 'Read?', 'Read Later', or 'Delete'.
Reading a Text Message:
Navigate to '[Read?]' and select. The message opens. Press [Volume Knob] to return to the home screen, or use [Up/Down Arrow] for 'Read Later' or 'Delete' options.
Managing Received Text Messages:
The Inbox stores up to 50 messages. Options include Reply, Forward, Delete, or Delete All. Messages are sorted by date received. Unread messages are marked with an exclamation mark (!).
Viewing a Text Message from the Inbox:
Navigate via menu: Messages -> Inbox. Select a message to view, reply, forward, or delete.
Writing and Sending Text Message:
- Navigate via menu: Messages -> Write.
- Type the message using the keypad. Use [Up/Down Arrow] to move cursor, [*] to delete characters.
- Press [Volume Knob] when composed.
- Select recipient alias/ID or use Manual Dial.
- The display shows 'Text Message:
'. A tone confirms sending.
Sending a Quick Text Message:
Your radio stores up to 10 pre-programmed Quick Text messages. Navigate via menu: Messages -> Quick Text. Select a message, edit if needed, and send.
Managing Fail-to-Send Text Messages:
From the 'Resend option screen', you can Resend, Forward, or Edit a failed message.
Resending A Text Message:
Select 'Resend' to send the same message again. A tone confirms success or failure.
Forwarding a Text Message:
Navigate via menu: Messages -> Inbox. Select a message, choose 'Forward', select recipient, and send.
Managing Sent Text Message:
Sent messages are saved in 'Sent Items' (up to 30 messages). The oldest message is replaced when the folder is full.
Viewing Sent Text Messages
Navigate via menu: Messages -> Sent Items. Select a message to view options like Resend, Forward, Edit, or Delete.
Deleting All Sent Text Messages from Sent Items:
Navigate via menu: Messages -> Sent Items -> 'Delete All'. Confirm deletion.
Replying to a Text Message from the Inbox:
Navigate via menu: Messages -> Inbox. Select a message, choose 'Reply', then 'Write' or 'Quick Text', compose, and send.
Deleting a Text Message from the Inbox:
Navigate via menu: Messages -> Inbox. Select a message, choose 'Delete', and confirm.
Privacy
Privacy features prevent eavesdropping using software-based scrambling. Two types are supported: Basic Privacy and Enhanced Privacy. To unscramble calls, your radio must have matching Privacy Key/Value/ID. The LED is solid green when transmitting and blinks green rapidly when receiving privacy-enabled transmissions.
Dual Tone Multi Frequency (DTMF) Analog:
DTMF allows interface with telephone or other DTMF systems. DTMF codes can be programmed by your RCA dealer. Access codes may be required. To initiate a DTMF call, press and hold [PTT] and enter the number. DTMF tones can be disabled.
Security
The Security Feature allows enabling or disabling radios within your system (e.g., for stolen radios). This requires dealer programming.
Radio Disable:
Disables radio receive/transmit functions after receiving a 'Disable' code. Navigate via menu: Contacts, select alias/ID or Manual Dial, select 'Radio Disable'. The display shows 'Radio Disable:
Radio Enable:
Enables radio functions after receiving an 'Active' code or via menu. Navigate via menu: Contacts, select alias/ID or Manual Dial, select 'Radio Enable'. The display shows 'Radio Active:
Scan Lists:
Scan lists are assigned to channels/groups to scan for voice activity. Your radio supports 250 scan lists with 16 members each, mixable analog/digital entries. Lists can be edited to add, delete, or prioritize channels.
Viewing an Entry in the Scan List:
Select a channel with a scan list. Navigate via menu: Scan -> View List. Use [Up/Down Arrow] to view members. Priority channels are indicated by a priority icon.
Scan Instructions and Methods:
When scanning, the radio cycles through the scan list for voice activity. The LED blinks red, and the Scan icon appears.
- Manual Scan: Initiate via a programmed side button or menu. Scans all channels/groups in the list.
- Auto Scan: Automatically starts scanning when a channel/group with Auto Scan enabled is selected.
Starting and Stopping Scan:
Use the programmed Scan ON/OFF button or navigate via menu: Scan -> select 'Turn On'/'Turn Off'. The LED blinks red when scanning is enabled.
Responding to a Scan:
When activity is detected, scanning stops. The radio remains on the active channel for a programmed 'hang time'. Press [PTT] during hang time to respond. If no response, scanning resumes.
Deleting a Nuisance Channel:
To temporarily remove a noisy or unwanted channel from a scan list, press the programmed Nuisance Channel Delete button when the radio stops on that channel. This does not apply to the Selected Channel.
Restoring a Nuisance Channel:
Power the radio off and on, or restart scanning.
Utilities
Keypad Locked or Unlocked (Optional MM301HD Keypad/Mic):
Lock the keypad to prevent accidental key presses. Navigate via menu: Utilities -> Radio Settings -> Keypad Lock. Select 'Lock' or 'Unlock'. To unlock, press [Volume Knob] then [*].
Keypad Tones On or Off
Enable or disable keypad tones. Navigate via menu: Utilities -> Radio Settings -> Tone/Alerts -> Keypad Tones. Select 'Turn On' or 'Turn Off'.
Setting the Power Level
Customize transmit power to high or low for each channel. Use the programmed Power Level button or navigate via menu: Utilities -> Radio Settings -> Power. Select desired level.
Voice Operating Transmission (VOX) Feature On / Off:
Initiate hands-free calls. The radio transmits automatically when the microphone detects voice. This feature requires dealer programming. Use the programmed VOX button or navigate via menu: Utilities -> Radio Settings -> VOX. Select 'On' or 'Off'. Pressing [PTT] during operation disables VOX.
Controlling the Display Backlight:
Enable or disable the display and keypad backlight. Navigate via menu: Utilities -> Radio Settings -> Backlight. Select 'Auto On' or 'Turn Off'. Backlight and keypad backlight turn off automatically if the LED indicator is disabled.
Talkaround:
Toggles between repeater and talkaround (direct) mode. Use the programmed Repeater/Talkaround button or navigate via menu: Utilities -> Radio Settings -> Talkaround. Select 'On' or 'Off'. The setting is retained after powering down.
Radio Tones/Alerts On or Off:
Enable or disable all radio tones and alerts (except Emergency alert). Use the programmed All Tones/Alerts button or navigate via menu: Utilities -> Radio Settings -> Tones/Alerts -> All Tones. Select 'Turn On' or 'Turn Off'.
LED Indicator On or Off:
Enable or disable the LED Indicator. Navigate via menu: Utilities -> Radio Settings -> LED Indicator. Select 'Turn On' or 'Turn Off'. Disabling the LED indicator also turns off display and keypad backlight.
Turning the Introduction Screen On/Off:
Enable or disable the introduction screen. Navigate via menu: Utilities -> Radio Settings -> Intro Screen. Select 'Turn On' or 'Turn Off'.
Accessing General Radio Information:
View Radio ID, Software version, and Codeplug Version. Navigate via menu: Utilities -> Radio Info -> My Number / Firmware Vr. / CP Vr.
Checking the Radio ID:
Navigate via menu: Utilities -> Radio Info. Select 'My Number', 'Firmware Vr.', or 'CP Vr.' to view details.
CARE AND CLEANING
- Do not place items on the radio that obstruct heat dissipation.
- Ensure the radio is powered off before cleaning.
- Avoid dusty or dirty environments.
- Clean with a lint-free/non-woven fabric moistened with water or mild dishwashing liquid.
- Avoid corrosives, solvents, or spirits.
- Ensure the radio is completely dry before use.
Customer Support Contact Info:
www.rcacommunicationssystems.com
products@rcacommunicationssystems.com
877.822.2915
TROUBLESHOOTING
Symptom | Solution |
---|---|
Radio will not power on | 1. Check power connections for a solid connection. 2. Check for blown fuse(s). |
Radio is on, but you cannot hear voice transmissions or they are not very loud | 1. Turn the volume control knob to maximum volume. 2. Ensure you are within communication range. |
You cannot log on to the system | Check the antenna connection for a solid connection. |
Cannot talk to or hear from group members | 1. Ensure you are within communication range. 2. Check the squelch level. 3. Digital: Verify CC, ID, and Time Slot settings. 4. Analog: Ensure channel and CTCSS/CDCSS settings match your group members. |
Transmissions from non-group members are heard | Analog: Change CTCSS/DCS tone to match your group members. |
Communication range is small | 1. Ensure the antenna is not damaged and has a solid connection. 2. Check the squelch level. |
Unable to transmit | 1. Ensure the PTT button is pressed completely. 2. Verify the transmitting frequency is set correctly. 3. Check if the radio has been remotely killed. |
Noise is too loud | 1. Check the squelch level. 2. Ensure you are within efficient communication range. |
Buttons will not work | Restart the radio. |
Radio cannot lock out | Restart the radio. |
No display | Restart the radio. |