Midland X-Tra Talk GXT881

Questions and Answers

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Shannon MoyerAug 7, 2025
How to fix Midland Two-Way Radio when it has no power?
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  Stacy GomezAug 7, 2025
  If your Midland Two-Way Radio has no power, check the battery installation and/or replace the batteries.
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Lisa DiazAug 14, 2025
Why can't I receive messages on my Midland Two-Way Radio?
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  Benjamin GuerraAug 14, 2025
  If you cannot receive messages on your Midland Two-Way Radio, confirm that the radios have the same channel and that you are within range of the other transceivers. Note that buildings and other structures may interfere with your communication.
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Melissa SullivanAug 21, 2025
Why is the display dim on my Midland Two-Way Radio?
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  Dennis ManningAug 21, 2025
  If your Midland Two-Way Radio display is dim, try recharging or replacing the batteries.
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Ryan HoffmanAug 29, 2025
What to do if Midland Two-Way Radio is not responding?
- L
  laranicholeAug 30, 2025
  If your Midland Two-Way Radio is not responding to button presses, try turning the radio off and then on again to reset it. Also, ensure that the accessory microphone is set properly.

Summary

IMPORTANT NOTICE, FCC LICENSE REQUIRED FOR GMRS OPERATION

Exposure To Radio Frequency Energy

LCD Display Features

Key Display Indicators

Details battery level, channel number, icons for receive/transmit, and power status.

Radio Controls and Functions

Primary Controls

Covers power, volume, PTT, channel/power selection, and VOX activation.

Connectivity Port

Details the external speaker/microphone jack for enhanced audio options.

Charging the Optional Battery Pack

Operating Your Radio

Power On;Off and Volume Control

Instructions for powering the radio on/off and adjusting the volume level.

Transmitting and Receiving Calls

Guidance on how to communicate with other radios in your group.

Understanding Radio Range

Factors affecting radio range and tips for maximizing communication distance.

GXT881 Quick Reference

Display Illumination

Information on how the display illumination activates and can be controlled.

Channel Selection

Steps to select one of the 22 GMRS/FRS channels for communication.

Transmit Power Level Selection

How to choose between High and Low transmit power settings.

External Speaker;Microphone Jack

Specifications

Frequency Chart

Lists the channel numbers and their corresponding frequencies in MHz.

The Midland GXT881 X-TRA TALK is a GMRS/FRS two-way radio designed for reliable and trouble-free performance. This compact yet powerful device is engineered for General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) operation, offering a robust communication solution for various environments. The radio features a solid-state circuitry mounted on a rugged printed circuit board, ensuring durability and consistent performance.

Function Description

The primary function of the GXT881 is two-way radio communication over GMRS/FRS channels. It allows users to transmit and receive voice communications, making it suitable for group coordination in outdoor activities, work environments, or general personal use. The radio operates on 22 GMRS/FRS channels, providing a range of options for clear communication.

Usage Features

The GXT881 is packed with features designed to enhance user experience and communication efficiency:

22 GMRS/FRS Channels: The radio offers a comprehensive selection of 22 channels, allowing users to find clear frequencies for communication. Channels 1-7 and 15-22 are GMRS channels, while channels 8-14 are low-power FRS license-free channels.
VOX (Hands-free Transmission): This feature enables hands-free communication, which is particularly useful when the user's hands are occupied. When VOX mode is active, the radio automatically transmits when it detects the user's voice. The "VOX" icon on the LCD display indicates when this mode is active. To activate or deactivate VOX, simply press the dedicated VOX button.
Auto Squelch: The auto squelch feature automatically mutes weak signals and background noise, ensuring clearer reception and reducing interference.
Battery Life Extender: This function helps to prolong the battery life of the radio, allowing for extended periods of use between charges.
Silent Operation: The GXT881 includes a silent operation mode, which disables all "beeps" and "tones" emitted by the radio. This is useful in situations where discretion is required, such as hunting or surveillance. To activate silent operation, press the MENU button twice, then use the UP/DOWN buttons to select "bF" (silent operation on) or "bo" (silent operation off), and confirm with the PTT or MENU button.
Power HI/LO Settings: Users can adjust the transmit power level between High (H) and Low (L) settings on GMRS channels (1-7 and 15-22). This allows for optimization of range and battery consumption. The TRANSMIT POWER LEVEL ICON on the LCD indicates the current setting. FRS channels (8-14) are restricted to Low power per FCC regulations and cannot be adjusted.
Speaker / Microphone Jacks: The radio is equipped with external speaker/microphone jacks, allowing for the connection of optional accessories like headsets or speaker microphones. This frees up the user's hands for other tasks and can improve audio clarity in noisy environments.
Battery Meter / Battery Low Indicator: The LCD display features a BATTERY LEVEL METER, which visually indicates the remaining battery power with a series of bars. When the battery level is low, the Battery Shell icon and "Lo bt" will flash, alerting the user that the batteries need to be replaced or recharged.
LCD Display: The clear LCD display provides essential information at a glance, including the battery meter, VOX status, channel number, receive (RX) icon, transmit (TX) icon, and transmit power level icon.
Display Illumination: The display illuminates for approximately 7 seconds during power-on or when the MENU button is pressed, making it easy to read in low-light conditions.
Power On/Off and Volume Control: A single POWER/VOLUME knob controls both the radio's power and the audio volume. Turning it clockwise powers on the radio and increases volume, while turning it counter-clockwise decreases volume and powers off the unit.
PTT Button: The Push-To-Talk (PTT) button is the primary control for transmitting voice communication. Users press and hold it to speak and release it to listen.
TX POWER HI/LO Button: This button allows users to toggle between High and Low transmit power settings on applicable channels.
MENU Button: The MENU button provides access to various radio settings and features, allowing users to navigate through different modes and make adjustments.
UP and DOWN Buttons: These buttons are used to make adjustments within the MENU mode, such as changing channels or selecting silent operation settings.
Belt Clip: The radio comes with a removable belt clip for convenient carrying.

Operating Your Radio

To operate the GXT881, ensure all radios in your group are set to the same channel. For optimal clarity during transmission, hold the radio 2 to 3 inches from your mouth and speak in a normal voice while pressing the PTT button. The TX icon will appear on the LCD. To receive a call, release the PTT button, and the RX icon will appear when a transmission is being received.

The GXT881 is designed for maximum range under optimum conditions, such as over water, in open rural areas without obstructions, or in flat areas where you have a clear line of sight to the other person. To maximize range, always use fresh or fully charged batteries, ensure you are on a GMRS channel (as FRS channels are low power), and set your radio to use High power when permitted.

Battery Installation and Charging

The GXT881 can operate on either 4 AA alkaline batteries or an optional NiMH rechargeable battery pack. To install batteries, first remove the belt clip and then the battery cover. Insert the 4 AA batteries, observing the correct polarity, or place the NiMH battery pack into the compartment. Incorrect battery installation can prevent the radio from operating or cause damage. After installation, replace the battery cover and secure the belt clip.

For the optional NiMH battery pack, charging is done via a desktop charger (not included). Initial charge time is 24 hours, with subsequent charges taking 12 hours. For maximum battery life, it's recommended to charge the battery pack when the low battery icon appears. Always remove the radios from the charger once the charge time expires. It is crucial to only use Midland's NiMH battery pack and avoid attempting to charge alkaline batteries or other non-specified battery packs, as this can lead to leakage and damage. For long-term storage, turn the radio off and remove the batteries.

Maintenance Features

Proper care and maintenance will ensure the longevity of your GXT881 radio:

Cleaning: Use a soft, damp cloth to clean the radio. Avoid using alcohol or harsh cleaning solutions, as these can damage the device.
Water Exposure: Do not immerse the radio in water. If the radio gets wet, dry it immediately with a dry, lint-free cloth.
Storage: For long-term storage, always turn off the radio and remove the batteries to prevent potential leakage and damage.
Troubleshooting: The manual provides a troubleshooting guide for common issues such as no power, inability to receive messages, unresponsive buttons, or a dim display. Many problems can be resolved over the phone with a service technician, eliminating the need to return the unit for service.
FCC Compliance: The device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules and FCC RF exposure guidelines. Users are advised to transmit no more than 50% of the time to maintain compliance with exposure limits. Any modifications to the unit not expressly approved by Midland Radio Corp. could void the user's right to operate the unit. The radio is set to transmit a regulated signal, and altering internal settings to exceed limitations is against the law. Any adjustments must be made by qualified technicians.

The Midland GXT881 is a user-friendly and robust communication device, designed to provide clear and reliable two-way radio functionality with a focus on convenience and durability.

Midland X-Tra Talk GXT881 Specifications

General

Channels	22
Privacy Codes	121
Range	up to 36 miles
Power Output	5 Watts
NOAA Weather Alert	Yes
Weather Channels	10
Hands-Free Operation (VOX)	Yes
Call Alert	Yes
Scan	Yes
Weight	0.5 lbs
Frequency Range	462.5500 - 467.7125 MHz