Portable radio Motorola TLKR-T80 Extreme: review and reviews

In the market of radio equipment, there are many proposals for providing communication on the terrain with difficult conditions. Standard radios in the marching mode of operation do not prove to be the best, so experienced users initially turn to special modifications. Devices for use in mountains and forest trails have a lot of positive qualities, which cause reliability and resistance to interference, but, as a rule, their functionality leaves much to be desired. Nevertheless, the developers of the Motorola TLKR-T80 Extreme radio transmitter succeeded in combining the technological filling and the dignity of the protective case. Instruction, review and feedback about this model will help make it more complete impression and, perhaps, determine the purchase of the device.

General information about the model

The radio module belongs to the segment of semi-functional devices. Intermediate positioning, on the one hand, eliminates users from registering hardware, on the other hand - allows the use of modern radio communication options. The model covers a distance within a radius of 10 km, which is sufficient for both use of the headset in geological exploration expeditions, and on resort rest with the family. By the way, the device of the Motorola TLKR-T80 Extreme is not badly aimed at combining with other communication techniques, so if desired, it can be configured to perform the function of a baby monitor. However, the main sphere of exploitation of this model is extreme marching conditions. Several protective coatings provide a reliable barrier before exposure to moisture, dust, dirt and sun.

Features of the model

Despite joining the group quite popular devices for exploitation in the wild, this model was able to distinguish itself by some features. So, the list of functional content includes such options as channel monitoring mode, activation of voice transmission, vibration signaling, etc. It can not be said that these are unique even for this type of device capabilities, but their combination is still not typical for all extreme models . On the general background Motorola TLKR-T80 Extreme differs just in its "off-road" qualities. Among them we 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 performance of the case, which is not distinguished by designer delights. But it was the adherence to the given fashion that allowed the creators to make the device ergonomic. Although outwardly the device really resembles a patterned budget, in the hand it lies comfortably and pleasantly, without causing problems in circulation. And this despite the mass of 140 grams (no battery). Also, to increase the tenacity of the developers are reasonably ennobled the design of lateral corrugated inserts. Also worth noting are several color solutions in which the radio is presented. The base version is the yellow version, but there is a black version of the Motorola TLKR-T80 Extreme, the photo of which is presented below.

With regard to the convenience of the location of functional elements, then it is performed according to the standard scheme. In the upper part is a small, but informative screen. Under it there is 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 headset accessories. In general, the layout is comfortable and ergonomically friendly.

Equipment

Theoretically, there are no restrictions on the use of radios in one channel. The manufacturer offers two devices as a base kit, but it's more profitable to buy a new set of Motorola TLKR-T80 Extreme Quad Pack, which includes four devices. In the standard package, straps for fixing devices, a network adapter, nickel-metal hydride battery cells, a charger, headsets and straps are provided. Actually, for the full operation of the radio modules of this set is enough, although as additional accessories the manufacturer offers no less a wide range of all kinds of 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 alternative proposals for walkie-talkies, then in terms of its filling there are some advantages. In particular, there are good reception parameters for the Motorola TLKR-T80 Extreme. The characteristics of the device in full form are presented below:

• The standard of waterproof enclosure is IPX4.
• The frequency spectrum is from 446 to 446.1 MHz.
• The radio transmitter power is 0.5W.
• Number of channels by frequencies - 8.
• The radius of the reception is 10 km.
• The number of codes is 121.
• Antenna type is non-removable.
• Number of batteries - 1.
• Battery type - Ni-MH.
• Number of melodies for a call is 10.
• Dimensions - 57 mm in width, 173 mm in height and 40 mm in thickness.
• Weight - 140 g.

Device management

What is important for extreme walkie-talkies, control is realized in two ways: by means of mechanical keys or through voice. The traditional control scheme practically copies a similar configuration for the base model TLKR-T80. The user has four main keys through which he can select between communication groups, make a call and receive, and also lock the device. Individual controls in the Motorola TLKR-T80 Extreme are provided for the flashlight and volume adjustment. In the first case, use the side key next to the rubberized insert, in the second - to adjust the cylindrical corrugated element. Voice control is implemented by the VOX function, which provides different sensitivity settings. In particular, this option allows you to configure the transmission of a signal.

Functionality of radio module

The list of basic functions includes scanning the channel, activating the silent mode, sound monitoring, locking and backlighting. In this case, the device is allocated the possibility of simultaneous monitoring of several channels at the same time. Remarkable and the ability of the device to perform listening in the room. In this mode, the Motorola TLKR-T80 Extreme captures and transmits all the noises and voices in the monitored object to a receiver pre-connected to the radio by one channel. It is in this format that the device can be operated as a baby monitor. But it is important to take into account that after every minute of listening the device makes a 5-second pause, after which it resumes operation in the specified mode. Additional features include the presence of a LED flashlight and a timer. During the operation of the latter, the user can receive and transmit a signal with basic parameters.

Instruction manual

The radio module is unpretentious in its content, but some measures to maintain it must be followed by the owner. First of all it concerns charging the battery. The battery indicator can be monitored via the Motorola TLKR-T80 Extreme display. The instruction recommends charging within 14 hours. All manipulations with the battery should be made only after turning off the radio. Also, keep the cabinet clean, because excessive pollution causes interference. Although the coatings of the structure have a sufficiently high degree of protection, in order to prolong the life of the model, it is desirable to clean the outer surfaces of the walkie-talkie in a timely manner. Especially this applies to the sections with connectors - they are protected by special plugs, but in close contact with water, care should be taken also for additional safety.

User's manual

To ensure communication with other walkie-talkies, it is first of all necessary to transfer the device to a single channel with them. If there is strong interference in normal mode, scan or monitor. In the first case, the device will find a free frequency, and in the second - perform a general audition. After finding the right channel, you can start talking through the Motorola TLKR-T80 Extreme module. The instruction notes that in order to maintain the stability of voice data transmission it is necessary to keep the zone with the microphone at a distance of 5-8 cm relative to the mouth. As in the case of listening mode, during a conversation every 60 seconds, the signal stops. To ensure communication security, the user can configure the device to use the identifier. It will also be received by all participants in the organized radio network - the corresponding icon will be reflected on the device displays.

Connection quality

Declared by the manufacturer of 10 km radius of coverage, of course, give huge hopes for the operational capabilities of the device. However, the practice of using demonstrates several other indicators in an adjusted form. So, in urban conditions, you can count on a confident reception within 6 km, but in the forest, this figure increases to 8 km. As for the full-fledged reception, it operates only in open terrain, but the very purpose of the Motorola TLKR-T80 Extreme Quad is not oriented to operation in such conditions. Anyway, the very quality of communication remains at a fairly high level. Noise reduction systems ensure the transmission of a clean signal without serious interference. And this despite the fact that for the radio are provided as many as 8 channels. In standard radio modules, this is not surprising to anyone today, but modifications for extreme use are rarely pampered with such functionality, coupled with decent technical characteristics.

Positive feedback about the model

Many users note that the device is easy to use, reliably holds the signal and generally copes with the loads in different conditions of use. Separately, the owners praise the battery, which not only withstands the charge, but also does not lose its qualities during long-term operation. In terms of communication range, too, there is a positive impression of the Motorola TLKR-T80 Extreme. Reviews of some radio owners indicate 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 feedback and protective qualities of the device. The case reliably protects the filling from moisture, which allows the model to be used in the rain. The cost of a walkie-talkie should also be included in the list of pluses. The device costs 6-7 thousand rubles. On the Russian market, which can not be called a competitive price. Budget walkie-talkies of this type can be purchased at half the cost. However, this option is good because it will last much longer, despite the stringent conditions of use.

Negative feedback

There are many critical remarks in which mention is made of the lack of metal elements that could increase the durability of the radio. In particular, many competitors actively use steel clips in designs and in the same way make out sections of the nests of fasteners. However, the model does not cause any particular complaints about the strength of these places in the current form. In the rest, there is no criticism, but there are claims to the assembly of the Motorola TLKR-T80 Extreme Quad. Reviews indicate that in some places of fixing plastic there are backlashes. The lack of a weak sound is emphasized, which even the maximum adjustment of the regulator does not help to get rid of. But this is more likely due to external interference - for example, in strong winds, audibility is completely lost.

Conclusion

As a practical means of communication for marching conditions, this option can be considered as the optimal solution. Although the model has absorbed a lot of functional trifles, its main advantages are in the basic qualities. Among them, you can identify a confident reception, strength and endurance. Nevertheless, the Motorola TLKR-T80 Extreme Quad is unlikely to be suitable for a universal device, as in other operating conditions the characteristics that this model does not possess 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 sustained in the overall stylistics of a utilitarian and reliable device, but this nuance also limits other possibilities for using a walkie-talkie. But then again, if you purchase the device for use in expeditions, hikes and picnics in the woodland, then such shortcomings go to the distant future.