I am considering adding the above mentioned radio to my monitoring
arsenal, for some analog 800 freq. in our area. Found one really cheap (
under $100), but cannot find much info about it. The RadioReference
Wiki has limited information and one of the links is invalid. Before I
decide yes or no, I need an answer to these questions:
Is the radio programmed via Windows CPS through a USB port or is this a DOS/RIB required radio?
Any known issues with this line of radio?
Answer ::
If you are looking to monitor just 800MHz analog/conventional, the radio
should work fine. If you are expecting to monitor trunked systems, you
need to make sure the flash code is the correct one.
Windows based CPS is available. The Motorola RIB is the best way to go.
After market cables can be a crap shoot. USB is possible with the
aftermarket cables, but again, it can add a level of confusion and
frustration that can really give you a headache.
Before you purchase, make sure you know if the radio has been "rebanded"
or not. Might not affect what you want to do, but if you want to
listen to trunked systems, you will need it.
Answer ::
Also remember that the scan lists are limited to 15 channels for
conventional and 10 talkgroups for trunking. The trunking scan list can
be stretched to 15-20 talkgroups by a hex editing the cps. I'm
uncertain if you can stretch the conventional list also. I know if you
try to take it past 20 talkgroups cps craps out. I use an OEM rib and
cables and haven't had any issues with the MCS2000. Good radio.
More information and discussion anout the MCS2000 here.
https://www.p25.ca/forums/68-MTS2000...e-Jedi)-Radios
rib with the correct cable using CPS
ReplyDeletea couple of things, make sure it has not been programmed with an advanced system key (ASK) or you won't even be able to WRITE to it with CPS without the key.
ReplyDeleteRebanding firmware won't benefit you much for conventional (not trunked) operation.
The MCS2000 is a wonderful radio, scores of them from analog 800MHz users are showing up everywhere. I remember about 10 years ago they would easily fetch $500-800 used.
$100 is about the going price for a used 800MHz one.