In recent months we have repeatedly encountered a malicious reputation stating that Motorola digital two-way radios are not compatible with any standard. Several organisations have (wrongfully) been told that you will be confined to Motorola Solutions equipment if you acquire their MOTOTRBO radios.
This could not be more untrue.
Motorola Solutions is in fact a strong supporter of industry standards and are involved in the development of several technical standards. They are for instance a leading player in the network of manufacturers behind the two-way radio standard Digital Mobile Radio, the DMR association *.
The organisation actively works to define and develop the standard as well as manage tests and certifications of equipment, to ensure effective competition and freedom of choice.
The standard is divided into three technical Tiers. All MOTOTRBO radios are compliant with DMR Tier II, that defines how licensed conventional two-way radio shall interact. This means they can communicate with other DMR compatible devices, regardless of brand. Like an iPhone communicating with an Android phone. But just as with the smartphone example Motorola offers added value beyond the standard, that increase usability, functionality and competitiveness.
Motorola have also launched Capacity Max, an addition within the MOTOTRBO architecture. The option makes both infrastructure and radios compliant with DMR Tier III, that defines how trunked communications is handled within the DMR framework.
However the core features of Tier 3, as with Tier 2, are limited, resulting in Capacity Max also offering features beyond the standard to better satisfy users.
See the table below for an overview/explanation.
|
Added Values |
DMR |
DMR |
MOTOTRBO™ |
MOTOTRBO™ |
MOTOTRBO™ |
|
Core features |
Additional features |
Radio features |
Infrastructure features |
System features |
|
|
Mode of Operation |
Defined in the standard and included in the IOP tests. |
Defined in the standard but not included in the IOP tests. |
Features specific for MOTOTRBO radios. |
Features specific for MOTOTRBO infrastructure. |
Features specific for complete MOTOTRBO system. |
|
ADVANTAGE MODE ₁ |
• |
• |
• |
• |
• |
|
OPEN SYSTEM MODE ₂ |
• |
• |
Varies |
• |
|
|
OPEN RADIO MODE ₃ |
• |
• |
Varies |
|
|
₁ MOTOTRBO™ Advantage Mode = MOTOTRBO infrastructure and MOTOTRBO radios only.
₂ Open System Mode = MOTOTRBO infrastructure and mix of MOTOTRBO and third party radios.
₃ Open Radio Mode = No infrastructure or infrastructure from third party and radios from different manufacturers.