The Motorola Talkabout FRS/Recreational Two-Way Radios, specifically models T5025 and T5525, are designed for two-way communication in recreational settings. These radios offer a range of features aimed at enhancing user experience, communication clarity, and durability.
Function Description:
These devices are FRS (Family Radio Service) two-way radios, allowing users to communicate with each other over short distances. They operate on 14 channels and incorporate Interference Eliminator Codes to minimize interference from other radio users. The radios support both Push-to-Talk (PTT) communication and, for the T5525 model, Voice Activation (VOX) for hands-free operation when used with optional accessories. Key functions include transmitting and receiving voice messages, sending call tones to alert other users, and scanning channels to find active conversations or locate group members. The QT Noise Filtering feature helps to ensure uninterrupted communication by filtering out unwanted transmissions, particularly useful in areas with heavy radio traffic.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Channels: 14 FRS channels.
- Interference Eliminator Codes: 38 codes, providing a choice of code combinations to minimize interference. The T5025 model has 5 call tones, while the T5525 model offers 10 call tones.
- Power Source: Operates on 3 AA Alkaline batteries. A NiCd rechargeable battery pack is also available as an upgrade kit for both models.
- Charging: Can be charged using an optional desk stand charger for NiCd batteries. Initial charge for NiCd batteries is 16 hours, subsequent charges take 14 hours.
- Talk Range: Designed to maximize performance and transmission range. Users are advised not to use radios closer than 5 feet apart.
- Durability: Features a durable, fixed antenna for maximized talk range and is weather-resistant to protect against elements. Motorola quality testing includes shock, drop, and temperature tests.
- Display: Illuminated display for easy readability in dark conditions.
- Safety Standards: Complies with United States Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulations (47CFR part 2 sub-part J), American National Standards Institute (ANSI) / Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) C95.1-1992 and C95.1-1999 Edition, International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) 1998, Ministry of Health (Canada) Safety Code 6, Australian Communications Authority Radiocommunications (Electromagnetic Radiation – Human Exposure) Standard, 2003, and ANATEL ANNEX to Resolution No. 303 of July 2, 2002.
Usage Features:
- Power On/Off and Volume Control: A rotary knob controls both power and volume.
- Push-to-Talk (PTT) Button: Used for transmitting voice. Releasing the PTT button allows the user to receive calls.
- Menu Button (MENU): Selects menu options, exits menus, and locks/unlocks the keypad.
- Scan Button (mon/Z): Initiates channel scanning to monitor activity. For the T5525, this button is labeled 'mon' with a 'Z' icon.
- Up/Down Buttons ( and ): Used to scroll through menus and adjust settings like channels and codes.
- Call Tone Button ( ): Transmits a selected call tone to alert other radios.
- Keypad Lock: Prevents accidental changes to radio settings. Activated by holding the MENU button for 3 seconds.
- Channel Busy Indicator: An LED flashes twice per second when a channel is busy.
- Talk Confirmation Tone: An optional feature that transmits a unique tone when the user finishes transmitting, signaling to others that they are done speaking.
- Voice Activation (VOX) (T5525 only): Allows hands-free communication when an optional VOX accessory is connected. The sensitivity level of VOX can be adjusted (High, Medium, Low) to minimize unintended transmissions and pick up soft voices.
- Advanced Scan: Allows users to skip channels they do not wish to listen to during scanning (Nuisance Delete Feature). The "home channel" (the channel the radio was set to when scanning started) cannot be removed.
- Accessory Jack: For connecting audio accessories like headsets or microphones.
Maintenance Features:
- Battery Meter: Displays the current battery charge level. An audible chirp and eventual power-off indicate a low battery.
- Battery Care: Users are advised to remove batteries before storing the radio for extended periods to prevent corrosion. NiCd batteries should be charged overnight initially and then for 14 hours for subsequent full charges. Do not store the radio in the charger for more than 16 hours for optimal battery life.
- Belt Clip: Includes a quick-release swivel belt clip for easy attachment and removal.
- Removable Front Cover (T5525 only): Allows for customization or maintenance access.
- Charger Safety Instructions: Detailed instructions are provided for safe use of the battery charger, including warnings against exposure to rain/snow, disassembly, altering cords, and using unapproved attachments. Users are advised to unplug the charger before maintenance or cleaning.
- FCC Compliance: The manual emphasizes that unauthorized changes or modifications to the radio may void the user's authority to operate the device and violate FCC rules. Transmitter adjustments should only be performed by certified technicians.