There are many proposals on the radio equipment market for providing communication on the ground with difficult conditions. Standard walkie - talkie models in the field mode of operation do not prove to be the best way, so experienced users initially turn to special modifications. Devices for use in mountains and forest trails have a lot of positive qualities that determine reliability and resistance to interference, but, as a rule, their functionality leaves much to be desired. Nevertheless, the creators of the Motorola walkie-talkie Motorola TLKR-T80 Extreme managed to combine the technological stuffing and the advantages of the protective case. The instruction, review and reviews about this model will help to make a more complete impression about it and, possibly, decide on the purchase of the device.
Model Overview
The radio module belongs to the segment of semi-functional devices. Intermediate positioning, on the one hand, saves users from registering equipment, on the other hand, it allows the use of modern radio options. The model covers a distance within a radius of 10 km, which is enough for using the headset in exploration expeditions, and on a spa holiday with your family. By the way, the device Motorola TLKR-T80 Extreme is well oriented to combine with other communication technology, so if you wish, you can configure it to perform the function of a baby monitor. However, the main field of operation of this model is extreme hiking conditions. Several protective coatings provide a reliable barrier against exposure to moisture, dust, dirt and the sun.
Model Features
Despite the entry into the group of fairly popular devices for operation in the wild, this model was able to distinguish itself by some features. So, the list of functional content included options such as channel monitoring mode, voice activation, vibration alarms, etc. It cannot be said that these capabilities are unique even for this type of device, but their combination is still not typical for all extreme models . Against the general background, Motorola TLKR-T80 Extreme is distinguished by its “off-road” qualities. Among them, one can note the independence of the radio module from the weather, the presence of an LED flashlight and a capacious case, designed for convenient placement of accessories.
Appearance of the device
Many criticize the model for the typical design of the case, which does not differ in design refinements. But it was a commitment to a given fashion that allowed the creators to make the device ergonomic. Although outwardly the device really resembles a templated state employees, in the hand it lies comfortably and pleasantly, without causing problems in handling. And this despite the weight of 140 grams (without battery). Also, to increase tenacity, the developers quite rightly ennobled the design with side corrugated inserts. It is also worth noting several color schemes in which the walkie-talkie is presented. The yellow version is considered to be the basic one, but there is also a black version of the Motorola TLKR-T80 Extreme, the photo of which is presented below.
As for the convenience of the arrangement of functional elements, then it is made according to the standard scheme. At the top is a small but informative screen. Under it are a panel with rubberized keys, a speaker and a microphone. At the very top there is an antenna, a flashlight, a volume control and connectors for connecting headset accessories. In general, the layout is comfortable and ergonomically friendly.
Equipment
Theoretically, restrictions on the use of walkie-talkies in one channel are not provided. The manufacturer offers two devices as a basic kit, but it’s more profitable to purchase the new Motorola TLKR-T80 Extreme Quad Pack, which includes four devices. The standard package also includes straps for fixing devices, a network adapter, nickel-metal hydride battery cells, a charger, headsets and straps. Actually, for the full operation of the radio modules this kit is enough, although as an additional accessory the manufacturer offers an equally wide range of various devices that expand the functionality of the equipment.
Specifications
If in the ability to cope with the negative effects of external conditions, this model is similar to the alternative offers of walkie-talkies, then in the indicators of its filling there are some advantages. In particular, Motorola TLKR-T80 Extreme has good reception parameters. The characteristics of the device in full are presented below:
- The case moisture protection standard is IPX4.
- The frequency spectrum is from 446 to 446.1 MHz.
- The power of the radio transmitter is 0.5 watts.
- The number of channels by frequency is 8.
- The reception radius is 10 km.
- The number of codes is 121.
- Type of antenna - non-removable.
- The number of batteries is 1.
- Battery Type - Ni-MH.
- The number of melodies to call is 10.
- Dimensions - 57 mm in width, 173 mm in height and 40 mm in thickness.
- Mass - 140 g.
Device management
What is important for extreme walkie-talkies, the control is implemented in two ways: using mechanical keys or through the voice. The traditional control circuitry almost copies the same configuration as the base model TLKR-T80. The user has four main keys at his disposal, through which he can choose between communication groups, make a call and receive, and also block the device. Separate controls in the Motorola TLKR-T80 Extreme are provided for a flashlight and volume control. In the first case, you should use the side key next to the rubberized insert, in the second - adjust the cylindrical corrugated element. Voice control is implemented by the VOX function, which provides different settings for sensitivity. In particular, with this option you can configure the signal transmission.
Radio module functionality
The list of basic functions includes channel scanning, silent mode activation, sound monitoring, locking and backlighting. In this case, the device is distinguished by the ability to simultaneously monitor several channels at once. The device’s ability to listen indoors is also noteworthy. In this mode, the Motorola TLKR-T80 Extreme captures and transmits all the noises and voices in the observed object to a receiver pre-connected to the walkie-talkie with one channel. It is in this format that the device can operate as a baby monitor. But it is important to consider that after each minute of listening, the device pauses for 5 seconds, after which it resumes operation in the specified mode. Additional features include the presence of an LED flashlight and a timer. In the process of the latter, the user can receive and transmit a signal with basic parameters.
Service instruction
The radio module is unpretentious in content, but the owner still has to follow some measures for its maintenance. First of all, this concerns charging the battery. The battery indicator can be monitored through the Motorola TLKR-T80 Extreme display. The manual recommends charging for 14 hours. All manipulations with the battery should be done only after turning off the radio. You should also keep the cabinet clean, as excessive pollution causes interference. Although the coatings of the structure have a sufficiently high degree of protection, in order to extend the service life of the model, it is desirable to timely clean the external surfaces of the radio. This is especially true for sections with connectors - they are protected with special plugs, but in close contact with water should take care of their additional safety.
User's manual
To ensure communication with other walkie-talkies, you should first transfer the device to a single channel with them. If there is strong interference in normal operation, you should scan or monitor. In the first case, the device will allow you to find the free frequency, and in the second - to perform general listening. Once you find the right channel, you can start a conversation through the Motorola TLKR-T80 Extreme module. The instruction notes that in order to maintain the stability of voice data transmission, you should keep the area with the microphone at a distance of 5-8 cm relative to the mouth. As in the case of the listening mode, during the conversation, the signal will stop every 60 seconds. To ensure communication security, the user can configure the device to use the identifier. It will also be received by all participants of the organized radio network - the corresponding icon will be reflected on the device displays.
Connection quality
The manufacturer's 10 km radius of coverage, of course, gives great hope for the operational capabilities of the device. However, the practice of use demonstrates slightly different indicators in a corrected form. So, in urban conditions, you can count on confident reception within 6 km, but in the forest, this figure increases to 8 km. As for full-fledged reception, it operates only in open areas, but the purpose of the Motorola TLKR-T80 Extreme Quad is not oriented to operation in such conditions. One way or another, the quality of communication itself remains at a fairly high level. Noise reduction systems ensure clear signal transmission without serious interference. And this despite the fact that as many as 8 channels are provided for the radio. You won’t surprise anyone in standard radio modules today, but modifications for extreme use rarely indulge in such functionality, coupled with decent technical characteristics.
Positive feedback about the model
Many users note that the device is convenient to use, reliably holds the signal and, on the whole, adequately copes with loads in different application conditions. Separately, owners praise the battery, which not only withstands the prescribed charge, but also does not lose its qualities during long-term operation. In terms of communication range, there are also positive impressions of the Motorola TLKR-T80 Extreme. The feedback of some owners of the radio indicates that even in the forest under certain conditions, reception is possible at a distance of 12 km. Another thing is that the landscape and favorable weather could contribute to this. Attention is paid to the reviews and protective qualities of the device. The case reliably protects the filling from moisture, which allows you to use the model in the rain. The cost of the radio should also be included in the list of pluses. The device costs 6-7 thousand rubles. in the Russian market, which cannot be called a competitive price. Budget radios of this type can be purchased at half the price. However, this option is good in that it will last much longer, despite the stringent conditions of use.
Negative reviews
There are many criticisms that mention the lack of metal elements that could increase the durability of the radio. In particular, many competitors are actively using steel clips in their designs, and in the same way they design sections of their mount sockets. However, in the current form, the model does not cause special complaints about the strength of these places. Otherwise, there is no criticism on the basis of materials, but there are complaints about the assembly of the Motorola TLKR-T80 Extreme Quad. Reviews indicate that in some places of plastic mounting there are backlash. The disadvantage is also emphasized in the form of a weak sound, even the maximum control setting does not help to get rid of it. But this is more likely due to external interference - for example, in a strong wind, audibility disappears altogether.
Conclusion
As a practical means of communication for traveling conditions, this option can be considered as the optimal solution. Although the model has absorbed many functional trifles, its main advantages lie in the basic qualities. Among them, one can distinguish confident reception, strength and endurance. Nevertheless, the Motorola TLKR-T80 Extreme Quad walkie-talkie is hardly suitable for the role of a universal device, since in other operating conditions characteristics that this model does not have may come to the fore. In this context, it is worth noting a rather modest and not always convenient menu. It is clear that the interface is designed in the general style of a utilitarian and reliable device, but this nuance limits other possibilities of using the radio. But then again, if you purchase an apparatus for use on expeditions, camping trips, and picnics in forest areas, then such shortcomings go to the background.