Futurecom P25 Installation & Programming Manual

Futurecom Systems Group, ULC

DVR
APX Series P25 Interface
Installation & Programming Guide

8M083X25 R14

APX Series P25 Interface

DVRS Installation & Programming Guide – PART I

January 2019
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NOTES

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DVRS Installation & Programming Guide – PART I

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Related Publications

Publication

Number

Description

8A083X30

DVRS User’s Manual, APX Series Interface

8A083X20

DVRS User’s Manual, XTL2500 / XTL5000 Interface

8A083X21

Tactical DVR User’s Manual

8M083X02

Tactical DVR Installation and Programming Guide

8F083X03

DVRS - Product & RF Safety Booklet

8F083X14

Indoor Fixed Mount DVRS – Installation Guide, APX Interface

8F083X15

Outdoor Fixed Mount DVRS – Installation Guide, APX Interface

8F083X16

Transportable DVRS – Installation Guide, APX Interface

Manual Revisions

Rev #

Date

ECN

Notes & References

0

July 5 2013

na

Original Release

1

August 7, 2013

13031

Encryption restrictions update

2

November 22, 2013

13041

Firmware R1.01 / Tweaker 1.02 update

3

December 8, 2014

14062

Firmware R1.10 Update

4

July 22, 2015

15026

Firmware R1.20 / SR7.15.5 Update

5

September 3, 2015

15042

Removed APX2500/APX4500

6

October 15, 2015

15053

Firmware R1.21 / Q4 2015 SER Update

7

February 10, 2016

16002

Firmware R1.22 / R14.50.00 Group Services

8

September 27,2016

16003

Firmware R1.30/SR7.17 Update

9

April 3, 2017

16004

Firmware R1.40/SR 7.17.5 Update

10

May 1,2017

16005

Updated APX8500 Firmware version

11

Aug 23,2017

16006

Updated TDMA Trunking system Portable
requirement.

12

Jan 11,2018

16007

Firmware R1.41/SR 7.18 Update
FCC/ISED Updates

13

June 12, 2018

16008

Firmware R1.42/SR 7.18.5 Update

14

Jan 28,2019

16009

Firmware R1.43/SR 7.18.8 Update

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Foreword

The P25 Digital Vehicular Repeater (DVR) is designed to be seamlessly interfaced to:

• Remote Mount APX Series MSU with or without control head

This manual provides Installation and Programming guidelines for the Futurecom
DVR that is interfaced to the following remote mount APX Series Mobile radios:

Mobile Radio Model

Firmware Requirements

Notes

APX2500

R19.00.00 or later

Requires option GA00631

APX4500

R19.00.00 or later

Requires option GA00631

APX6500

R19.00.00 or later

Requires option GA00631

APX7500

R19.00.00 or later

Requires option GA00631

APX8500

R19.00.00 or later

Requires option GA00631

NOTE:

Mobile Radio must be configured as Remote Mount in order to be compatible with the
DVRS.

When the DVR is interfaced to a Remote Mount Motorola APX Mobile Radio, the complete
equipment package is referred to as Digital Vehicular Repeater System (DVRS).

The DVR may also be used as a stand alone (Tactical) repeater. The operation of the
Tactical DVR is described in publication 8A083X21. The Installation & Programming
Guidelines referring to the Tactical DVR Model are described in document 8M083X02.
The Installation & Programming Guidelines referring to the Tactical DVR with Backpack
option is described in document 8M083X51

For details on the DVRS Operation, please refer to the DVRS User’s Guides 8A083X20
or 8A083X30 (APX interface).

For details on the APX series Mobile Radios operation, please refer to the applicable
Manuals available from Motorola.

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The DVRS Operation described in this Document requires the following Firmware:

APX Series Mobile Radios - firmware release: Host R19.0.00 or later.
APX Mobile Radios operating as the host mobile for the DVR require subscriber option
GA00631 for operation.

APX2000 / APX4000 / APX6000 / APX7000 /APX8000– firmware release R19.00.00 or

later.

APX Portable Radios operating through a DVR, utilizing the enhanced DVR digital feature
set require subscriber option QA00631.

DVR must be loaded with firmware release:
Application 4C083X11 R1.43 or later.
Tweaker Programming software 6A083X05 – Version 1.18 or later.

Computer Software Copyrights

The products described in this manual include copyrighted Futurecom computer programs
stored in semiconductor memories or other media. Laws in the United States, Canada and
other countries preserve for Futurecom certain exclusive rights for copyrighted computer
programs, including but not limited to, the exclusive right to copy or reproduce in any form
the copyrighted computer programs. Any copyrighted computer program contained in the
Futurecom products described in this manual may not be copied, reproduced, modified,
reverse-engineered, or distributed in any manner without the express written permission
of Futurecom. The purchase of Futurecom products shall not be deemed to grant either
directly or by implication, estoppels, or otherwise, any license under the copyrights,
patents or patent applications of Futurecom, except for the normal non-exclusive license
to use that arises by operation of law in the sale of a product.

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The Tweaker Programming Software provided by Futurecom Systems Group ULC includes
the following Publicly Available Software.

Publicly Available Software List

Name: MFC Grid Control

Version: 2.24

Modified: Yes

Software Site: http://www.codeproject.com/KB/miscctrl/gridctrl.aspx

Source Code: No Source Code Distribution Obligations. The Source Code may be obtained from the

original Software Site.

License: The Article associated with the Source Code is licensed under the Code Project Open License
(CPOL), version 1.02. Reference the Common Licenses Section for the terms of the CPOL. The Source Code
licensed is under Custom Freeware / Open Source Software License, see below:

Written by Chris Maunder <[e-mail]>

Copyright (c) 1998-2002. All Rights Reserved.

This code may be used in compiled form in any way you desire. This file may be redistributed unmodified by
any means PROVIDING it is not sold for profit without the authors written consent, and providing that this
notice and the authors name and all copyright notices remains intact.

An email letting me know how you are using it would be nice as well.

This file is provided "as is" with no expressed or implied warranty.

The author accepts no liability for any damage/loss of business that this product may cause.

Additional Notices:

CInPlaceEdit, http://www.codeguru.com/listview/edit_subitems.shtml, licensed under the CodeGuru License.

Refer to the Common Licenses Section for the terms of the CodeGuru License.

Credits:

Zafir Anjum
Eric Woodruff
Ken Bertelson
Joe Willcoxson

8M083X25 R14

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Publicly Available Software – Common Licenses

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http://www.codeguru.com/submission-guidelines.php#permission

As you know, this site is a valuable resource for the developer community. Please note, however,
that to avoid legal complications, we need to obtain your permission to use any computer code and
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THE PUBLIC WITHOUT FIRST OBTAINING THE COPYRIGHT OWNER'S PERMISSION.

Document Copyrights

No part of this manual may be reproduced, distributed or transmitted in any form or by any
means, for any purpose without written permission of Futurecom.

Disclaimer

The information in this document is carefully examined and is believed to be entirely
reliable. However, no responsibility is assumed for inaccuracies.
Futurecom Systems Group, ULC reserves the right to make changes to any products
herein to improve readability, function or design. Futurecom does not assume any liability
arising out of the application or use of any product or circuit described herein.

Trademarks

MOTOROLA, ASTRO, APXTM4000, APXTM6000, APXTM7000, APXTM2500 APXTM4500,
APXTM6500, APXTM7500 APXTM8500, MDC1200 are trademarks of Motorola Solutions Inc.

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Commercial Warranty

Futurecom Systems Group, ULC. warrants to the original purchaser all standard

products sold by Futurecom Systems Group, ULC to be free of defects in material and
workmanship for 18 months from the date of shipment from Futurecom Systems Group,
ULC.
Futurecom’s warranty hereunder DOES NOT cover the following:

(i) Defects or damage resulting from use of the product in other than its normal

and customary manner.

(ii) Defects or damage from improper installation, testing, operation, or

maintenance.

(iii) Defects or damage due to alterations, modifications or adjustments carried out

by the Buyer without Futurecom’s explicit approval.
(iv) Defects or damage from misuse, accident, water or neglect.
(v) Freight costs to the repair depot.
(vi) Scratches or other cosmetic damage to the product surfaces that does not

affect the operation of the product.
(vii) Normal wear and tear.

The warranty set forth herein is conditioned upon proper storage, installation, use and
maintenance in accordance with applicable written recommendation of Futurecom. The
warranty furnished hereunder does not extend to damage to items purchased hereunder
resulting in whole or in part from the use of components, accessories, parts of supplies
not furnished by Futurecom Systems Group, ULC.

Futurecom’s sole obligation shall be to repair or replace, at Futurecom’s option, any

defective component or item and pay transportation expenses for such replacement at no
charge to Buyer who shall provide labor for the removal of the defective component or
item and installation of its replacement at no charge to Futurecom. Buyer shall bear all
risk of loss or damage to returned goods while in transit. In the event no defect or breach
of warranty is discovered by Futurecom upon receipt of any returned item, the item will be

returned to Buyer at Buyer’s expense and Buyer will reimburse Futurecom for the

transportation charges, labor and associated charges incurred in testing the allegedly
defective item.
Except as expressly provided herein, Futurecom makes no warranty of any kind,
expressed or implied, with respect to any goods, parts and service provided by Futurecom
including, but not limited to, the implied warranties or merchantability and fitness for a
particular purpose. The sole and exclusive remedy for breach of any warranty is limited
to the remedies provided in the paragraph above. Futurecom shall not in any event be
liable for any other damages arising out of or in connection with furnishing of goods, parts
or service hereunder, or the performance, use of, or inability to use any goods, parts or
service, or otherwise, whether based on contract, tort or any other legal theory.

To exercise this warranty, please contact Futurecom’s Administration Department in

Concord, Ontario, Canada at 1-800 701 9180 to obtain a return material authorization
(RMA) and shipping instructions. No product will be accepted for return without an RMA.
The repair of a product by Futurecom pursuant to this warranty is warranted for the
balance of the original warranty period, or at least 90 days from date of shipment to Buyer
of the repaired product.

If Extended Warranty is required, it must be purchased either at the time of original

purchase or while the unit is under the standard first year warranty coverage.

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Part I – DVRS INSTALLATION

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Part I - Installation

Commercial Warranty ................................................................................................. 11

RF Energy Exposure Compliance, Awareness and Control Information and

Operational Instructions ............................................................................................. 20

Introduction ................................................................................................................. 21

Identifying Your DVRS Model ................................ .................................................... 23

Frequency Band of Operation ............................................................................................... 23

Cross-Band ........................................................................................................................... 23

In-Band.................................................................................................................................. 26

DVR Dimensions ................................................................................................................... 33

Cross-Band DVR Dimensions ........................................................................................................33

In-Band DVR Dimensions ..............................................................................................................34

DVRS Installation Basics ............................................................................................ 35

Planning the Installation ............................................................................................ 35

Installation Tools Required ........................................................................................ 35

Mounting the DVR ..................................................................................................... 36

Cross-Band DVRS Mounting ................................................................................................ 36

In-Band DVRS Mounting....................................................................................................... 38

Mounting the Mobile Radio ........................................................................................ 39

Connecting the DVRS Cables ................................................................................... 39

Power Cable ......................................................................................................................... 39

RF Cables ............................................................................................................................. 40

Control Cables ...................................................................................................................... 40

Option Cables ....................................................................................................................... 42

In-Band DVRS Option Cables ........................................................................................................42

Cross-Band DVRS Option Cables ..................................................................................................42

DVR Options ............................................................................................................. 48

DVR Auxiliary Cable ............................................................................................................. 48

AVRA .................................................................................................................................... 49

Status Lights ......................................................................................................................... 49

External Alarm ...................................................................................................................... 49

DVRS Antenna Installation ........................................................................................ 50

Index ............................................................................................................................ 51

DVR Programming Basics .......................................................................................... 53

Installing and Uninstalling the Tweaker Programming Software ................................ 53

Using the Tweaker Programming Software Off-Line .................................................. 53

Viewing DVR Personality Files Off-Line ............................................................................... 53

Modifying DVR Personality Files Off-Line ............................................................................. 53

Saving DVR Personality Files Off-Line ................................................................................. 53

Using the Tweaker Programming Software On-Line .................................................. 54

Setting up Communications with the DVR ............................................................................ 54

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Ports ...................................................................................................................................... 54

Reading the DVR Electronic Label ....................................................................................... 54

Reading from the DVR (Uploading Data) ............................................................................. 55

Writing to the DVR (Downloading Data) ............................................................................... 55

Applying dpd File (‘Cloning’) ........................................................................................................55

Writing Selected Changes to the DVR ............................................................................................55

DVRS Programming Guidelines ................................................................................. 56

Programming Steps Overview ................................................................................... 56

Programming the APX MSU for DVRS Operation ...................................................... 57

Enabling the DVR in the APX MSU ...................................................................................... 57

DVRS Button Assignment ..................................................................................................... 57

Automated VR Activation (AVRA) Programming in the APX MSU ....................................... 57

In Car Monitor (ICM) Programming of the APX MSU ........................................................... 57

DVRS Profile Settings Programmable in the APX MSU ....................................................... 58

P25 Trunking OTAR via DVRS ............................................................................................. 60

MSU Scan Programming Requirements ............................................................................... 60

MSU Group Services Programming Requirements .............................................................. 61

Exporting MSU data (.xml file) ................................................................................ 61

Programming the PSUs for DVRS Operation ............................................................ 61

Programming the P25 ‘DVRS Enabled’ PSU........................................................................ 62

XTS Series ‘DVRS Enabled’ PSUs ................................................................................................62

APX Series ‘DVRS Enabled’ PSUs ................................................................................................62

Programming of Generic P25 PSU for Digital DVRS Mode ................................................. 63

Programming of the P25 PSU (Generic P25 or DVRS enabled) for operation on

Conventional P25 MSU System ........................................................................................... 63

Programming of the P25 XTS PSU (Generic P25 or DVRS enabled) for Inbound Digital

Takeover ............................................................................................................................... 64

Programming of Analog Conventional PSU for Analog DVRS Mode ................................... 64

DVR Programming ................................................................ .................................... 65

Repeater Setup ..................................................................................................................... 65

RF/Analog Setup .............................................................................................................................65

Frequency Band Setup ....................................................................................................................65

User Text .........................................................................................................................................65

DVR Info.........................................................................................................................................65

Personality Data Setup ......................................................................................................... 66

Repeater Channel Setup Menu ........................................................................................................66

Mobile Radio Channel Setup ..........................................................................................................70

Hardware Setup Menu .....................................................................................................................73

MSU Data .......................................................................................................................................76

PSU IDs Allowed ............................................................................................................................76

DVR Remote Activation IDs ..........................................................................................................76

Talkgroup Translation Table ...........................................................................................................76

Analog Setup ...................................................................................................................................77

DVR Common Setup ......................................................................................................................80

Tone Setup Menu ............................................................................................................................85

Morse Code Menu ...........................................................................................................................85

Digital System Setup Menu.............................................................................................................86

Primary / Secondary Setup ..............................................................................................................90

MSU Interface Setup .......................................................................................................................91

DVR System Topologies ........................................................................................... 92

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Global DVRS Features .............................................................................................. 92

Automated VR Activation (AVRA) ......................................................................................... 92

Band Locking ........................................................................................................................ 94

In Car Monitor (ICM) ............................................................................................................. 94

Primary / Secondary - Operation and Programming Overview ............................................ 96

Remote Mode change of DVRS by FNE / Dispatcher .......................................................... 98

MSU Scan ............................................................................................................................. 99

Supported MSU Scan Types ................................................................................................ 99

DVRS Enabled / Disabled Rules while MSU Scan is enabled ........................................................99

Outbound Calls (received by MSU from the FNE) with MSU Scan Enabled.................................99

Inbound Calls (received by DVR from PSU) with MSU Scan Enabled .........................................99

MSU ISSI Roaming ............................................................................................................. 100

Unsupported PSU Features ................................................................................................ 100

Digital DVR Mode - Operation and Programming Overview..................................... 101

PSU Affiliation ..................................................................................................................... 101

Group Calls ......................................................................................................................... 102

PSU Proxy Request Priorities ............................................................................................. 102

Signaling Request Interactions with Voice and Signaling Proxy ........................................ 103

Voice Request Interaction with Signaling and Voice Proxy ................................................ 104

MSU Voice and Signaling Proxy Interactions ..................................................................... 105

Talk Group Proxying ........................................................................................................... 106

Talk Group Translation ....................................................................................................... 106

Private Calls ........................................................................................................................ 106

PSU Talk Permit Tones ...................................................................................................... 107

Status Broadcast ................................................................................................................. 107

Local Mode Indication ......................................................................................................... 107

Radio Check / Inhibit ........................................................................................................... 107

P25 Trunking OTAR ............................................................................................................ 107

Patch ................................................................................................................................... 108

Dynamic Regrouping .......................................................................................................... 108

Phone Interconnect ............................................................................................................. 108

Adaptive Power Control ...................................................................................................... 108

Digital Audio Buffering ........................................................................................................ 109

P25 Encryption .................................................................................................................... 109

Emergency in Digital Mode ................................................................................................. 112

Emergency Alarm .........................................................................................................................112

Emergency Call .............................................................................................................................113

Emergency Revert through DVR ..................................................................................................113

Emergency Revert through PSU ...................................................................................................114

Emergency operation during TG Translation ................................................................................ 114

Fireground (FG) Signaling .................................................................................................. 114

PSU Call Alert ..................................................................................................................... 115

PSU Message ..................................................................................................................... 115

PSU Status Update and Status Request ............................................................................ 115

PSU IV&D ........................................................................................................................... 115

PSU Location Reporting ..................................................................................................... 115

Automatic PSU Revert to Talk Around (TA) ....................................................................... 115

PSU Group Services ........................................................................................................... 115

Forced Analog DVR Mode - Operation and Programming Overview ....................... 117

Forced Analog All DVR Mode- Operation and Programming Overview ................... 117

Analog DVR Mode - Operation and Programming Overview ................................... 118

DVR Channel Setup for Analog Mode ..................................................................... 118

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Group Calls ......................................................................................................................... 118

PSU Affiliation ..................................................................................................................... 118

Emergency in Analog Mode ................................................................................................ 118

Emergency Alarm .........................................................................................................................119

Emergency Call .............................................................................................................................119

Emergency Revert through DVR ..................................................................................................119

Analog Audio Buffering ....................................................................................................... 120

Tactical Public Safety (TPS) ............................................................................................... 120

Fireground (FG) Signaling .................................................................................................. 120

Remote DVRS Activation via DTMF ................................................................................... 120

P25 Encryption in Analog Mode ......................................................................................... 121

Leading & Trailing Tones .................................................................................................... 121

Mobile Mode Steering via PL/DPL ...................................................................................... 121

Steering and Emergency................................................................................................................122

MSU Operating on TDMA (P25, Phase 2) .......................................................................... 122

Mixed DVR Mode .................................................................................................... 123

Using the Tweaker’s RSSI Setup Application .......................................................... 124

Setting up the RSSI ON range ............................................................................................ 124

Setting up the Voting Parameters (Primary / Secondary Range) ....................................... 125

Using the Tweaker Monitoring Screen ..................................................................... 126

BER Test Setup .................................................................................................................. 127

Troubleshooting ........................................................................................................ 128

Software / Programming Related Problems ....................................................................... 128

Firmware Upgrade .............................................................................................................. 129

Appendix 1 – DVR Specifications ............................................................................ 130

Appendix 2 – DVR Status Display ............................................................................ 131

Appendix 3 – DVRS Features vs PSU Type ............................................................. 132

Appendix 4 – ‘DVRS Enabled’ PSU Features Support on Non-Motorola

Infrastructure ............................................................................................................. 134

Appendix 5 DVRS Features – P25 DVR Mode & P25 Trunking Mobile Mode ........ 135

Appendix 6 DVRS Features in P25 DVR Mode & P25 Conventional Mobile Mode 136
Appendix 7 DVRS Features in Forced Analog DVR Mode & Conventional Analog

Mobile Mode .............................................................................................................. 137

Appendix 8 DVRS Features in Forced Analog DVR Mode & 3600 Baud Trunking

(Analog or Digital) Mobile Mode ............................................................................... 138

Appendix 9 DVRS Features in Forced Analog All DVR Mode & 3600 Baud Trunking

(Analog or Digital) Mobile Mode & TDMA Trunking Mode ...................................... 139

Appendix 9 DVRS Features in Analog DVR Mode & P25 Trunking Mobile Mode . 140

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Appendix 10 DVRS Features in Analog DVR Mode & P25 Conventional Mobile

Mode .......................................................................................................................... 141

Appendix 11 DVRS Features in Analog DVR Mode & Conventional Analog Mobile

Mode .......................................................................................................................... 142

Appendix 12 DVRS Features in Analog DVR Mode & 3600 Baud (Analog or Digital)

Trunking Mobile Mode .............................................................................................. 143

Appendix 13 DVRS Features in Analog DVR Mode and P25 Phase II TDMA

Trunking Mobile Mode .............................................................................................. 144

Appendix 14 DVRS Features in Forced Analog DVR Mode and P25 Phase II TDMA

Trunked Mobile Radio Mode ..................................................................................... 145

Appendix 15 – Accessories ...................................................................................... 146

Contact Information .................................................................................................. 147

Index .......................................................................................................................... 148

Glossary ..................................................................................................................... 150

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List of Tables

Table 1 DVRS vs Infrastructure Compatibility ................................................................ 22

Table 2 VHF DVRS Configurations ............................................................................... 29

Table 3 UHF DVRS Configurations ............................................................................... 30

Table 4 700MHz DVRS Configurations ......................................................................... 31

Table 5 800MHz DVRS Configurations ......................................................................... 32

Table 6 DVRS RF Cables ............................................................................................. 40

Table 7 DVRS Control Cable Types .............................................................................. 40

Table 8 Summary of DVRS Control and RF Cables ...................................................... 47

Table 9 Recommended Programming Sequence .......................................................... 56

Table 10 DVRS Enabled PSU Models ........................................................................... 61

Table 11 Summary of Local Mode Microphone Audio Handling - Programmable Options

............................................................................................................................... 82

Table 12 DVR System Topologies- Voice ...................................................................... 92

Table 13 AVRA Functionality ......................................................................................... 93

Table 14 MSU Proxy Request Priorities ...................................................................... 102

Table 15 PSU Proxy Request Priorities ....................................................................... 102

Table 16 Signaling Request Interaction with Signaling Proxy ...................................... 103

Table 17 Signaling Request Interaction with Voice Proxy ............................................ 103

Table 18 Voice Request Interactions with Signaling Proxy .......................................... 104

Table 19 Voice Proxy Interaction with Voice Proxy ...................................................... 105

Table 20 Inbound P25 Encryption Rules ..................................................................... 109

Table 21 Outbound P25 Encryption Rules ................................................................... 109

Table 22 MSU MIC PTT P25 Encryption Rules ........................................................... 109

Table 23 Typical Remote Steering Scenarios .............................................................. 111

Table 24 Programming Example - Remote Steering.................................................... 112

Table 25 DVRS Features (Supported on Motorola Infrastructure) vs Type of PSU ...... 132

List of Figures

Figure 1 Cross-Band Full Duplex & Simplex Capable DVRS - Conceptual Diagram...... 23

Figure 2 Cross-Band Simplex Only Capable DVRS - Conceptual Diagram ................... 24

Figure 3 Vehicular Mount Cross Band DVRS Model – Full Duplex & Simplex Capable . 25

Figure 4 Vehicular Mount Cross Band DVRS Model - Simplex Only Capable ............... 25

Figure 5 In-Band Full Duplex / Simplex Capable DVRS - Conceptual Diagram ............. 27

Figure 6 In-Band Simplex Only Capable DVRS - Conceptual Diagram ......................... 27

Figure 7 Vehicular Mount In-Band 700 or 800MHz DVRS Model - Full Duplex & Simplex

Capable.................................................................................................................. 28

Figure 8 Vehicular Mount In-Band VHF or UHF DVRS Model - Full Duplex & Simplex

Capable.................................................................................................................. 28

Figure 9 Cross-Band DVR (Full Duplex and Simplex Capable) - Dimensions mm / [in] . 33

Figure 10 Cross-Band Simplex Only Capable - Dimensions mm / [in] ........................... 33

Figure 11 Typical VHF/UHF In-Band DVR (Full Duplex & Simplex) - Dimensions mm / [in]

............................................................................................................................... 34

Figure 12 Typical 700 / 800 In-Band DVR (Full Duplex & Simplex) - Dimensions mm / [in]

............................................................................................................................... 34

Figure 13 DVR Mounting Details – Full Duplex (With Duplexer) .................................... 37

Figure 14 DVR Mounting Details – Simplex Only Capable (No Duplexer) ..................... 37

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Figure 15 DVR Connectors - Front and Back View (With Duplexer) .............................. 39

Figure 16 DVR-to- MSU Control Cable 7W083X05-01 .................................................. 41

Figure 17 DVR-to- MSU (with Siren) Control Cable 1W083B09-01 ............................... 41

Figure 18 DVR Auxiliary Cable - 7W083X06-01 ............................................................ 42

Figure 19 In-Band VHF or UHF DVRS Interconnect Cabling - Front .............................. 43

Figure 20 In-Band VHF or UHF DVRS Interconnect Cabling - Back .............................. 43

Figure 21 In-Band DVRS (700 or 800MHz) Interconnect Cabling - Front ....................... 44

Figure 22 In-Band DVRS (700 or 800MHz) Interconnect Cabling - Back ....................... 44

Figure 23 Cross-Band Full Duplex & Simplex Capable DVRS Interconnect Cabling - Front

............................................................................................................................... 45

Figure 24 Cross-Band Full Duplex & Simplex Capable DVRS Interconnect Cabling – Back

............................................................................................................................... 45

Figure 25 Cross-Band Simplex Only Capable DVRS Interconnect Cabling – Front ....... 46

Figure 26 Cross-Band Simplex Only Capable DVRS Interconnect Cabling – Back ....... 46

Figure 27 Auxiliary Cable (7W083X06-01) DB15 Pinout ................................................ 48

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RF Energy Exposure Compliance, Awareness and

Control Information and Operational Instructions

This radio equipment is intended for use in occupational / controlled conditions,
where users have full knowledge of their exposure and can exercise control over
their exposure to meet FCC/ISED limits. This radio device is NOT authorized for
general population, consumer or any other use.

ATTENTION!

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Futurecom Systems Group,
ULC. could void the User’s authority to operate the equipment. To satisfy
FCC/ISED/IC RF exposure requirements for mobile transmitting devices, the
minimum separation distances specified in the “RF Safety” Book 8F083X03 (FCC)
or 8F083X05(ISED)shipped with the DVRS should be maintained. To ensure
compliance, operations at closer than this distance is not allowed.

ATTENTION!

Futurecom requires the P25 DVRS operator to ensure FCC/ISED Requirements for
Radio Frequency Exposure are met. The minimum distance between all possible
personnel and the body of the DVRS equipped vehicle is specified in the “RF
Safety” book shipped with the DVR. Failure to observe the Maximum Permissible
Exposure (MPE) distance exclusion area around the antenna may expose persons
within this area to RF energy above the FCC/ISED exposure limit for bystanders
(general population). It is the responsibility of the repeater operator to ensure MPE
limits are observed at all times during repeater transmissions. The repeater
operator must ensure at all times that no person comes within MPE distance from
the vehicle body.

ATTENTION!

The Transportable(suitcase) DVRS ships without an APX Mobile radio. Once an
APX Mobile radio is installed, refer to the Product Safety and RF Exposure booklet
8F083X03 enclosed with your DVRS. Refer to the vehicle installation guidelines for
vehicle installation. For fixed site installation, refer to the Fixed DVRS Site
Antennas section.

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APX Series P25 Interface

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Introduction

The P25 Digital Vehicular Repeater (DVR) is designed to be seamlessly interfaced to:

• Remote Mount APX Series Mobile Radios with or without a control head (O2, O3,
O5, O7 or O9)

Mobile Radio Model

Firmware Requirements

Notes

APX2500

R19.00.00 or later

Requires option GA00631

APX4500

R19.00.00 or later

Requires option GA00631

APX6500

R19.00.00 or later

Requires option GA00631

APX7500

R19.00.00 or later

Requires option GA00631

APX8500

R19.00.00 or later

Requires option GA00631

NOTE:

Mobile Radio must be configured as Remote Mount in order to be compatible with the
DVRS.

IMPORTANT!

This manual described the DVR models that are interfaced to the APX Series Mobile
Radios via P25 Interface. The MSU configured for DVRS operation can support up
to two Control Heads.

The P25 DVRS allows Portable Subscriber Units (PSU) to be used in areas where only
Mobile Subscriber Unit (MSU) coverage is available and portable radio coverage is either
intermittent or completely absent. Installed in the trunk of a car, fire truck, armored vehicle,
ambulance, the P25 DVRS extends radio communications to the PSU users who are
outside of the vehicle, inside a nearby building or in any marginal portable radio coverage
areas. The DVRS extends voice (analog or digital, clear or encrypted) communications
and supports key Trunking system features. The DVRS can be configured to provide
various advanced options to the users.

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Table 1 provides information on the DVRS infrastructure compatibility options.

FIXED NETWORK TYPE / MOBILE RADIO MODE

Portable

Radio Type /

Mode

Conventional

Analog incl.

Mixed Receive

Conventional

P25 incl.

Mixed Receive

3600 Analog /

Digital

Trunking

9600 P25
Trunking

FDMA

9600 P25
Trunking

TDMA

Conventional

Analog

YES

A/M

YES

A/M

YES

A/M

YES

A/M

YES

A/M

P25

Conventional

Generic

NO

YES

D/M/FA

NO

YES

D/M/FA

N/O

P25

Conventional

‘DVRS

Enabled’

YES

FA/FA-All

YES

D/FA/FA-

All/M

YES

FA/FA-All

YES

D/FA/FA-

All/M

YES *

D/FA/FA-

All/M

Table 1 DVRS vs Infrastructure Compatibility

DVRS Channel Types:
A = Analog, D = Digital, M = Mixed, FA = Forced Analog, FA-All=Forced Analog All
(See Part II of this manual)

*Applies to APX Portables only

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Identifying Your DVRS Model

Frequency Band of Operation

Depending on the frequency band of operation of the APX Mobile Subscriber Unit (MSU)
and DVR, the DVRS models are classified as follows:

• In-Band – when the MSU and DVR operate in the same frequency band.

• Cross-Band – when the MSU and DVR operate in two different frequency bands.

Cross-Band

Cross-Band DVRS models do not include any filters on the MSU side since the MSU and
DVR are not intended to simultaneously operate in the same frequency band. In single
band MSU configurations the MSU and DVR operate in different frequency bands.
In dual band MSU configuration either the MSU & DVR operate in 3 different frequency
bands or one of the MSU frequency bands is locked out when DVR operation is enabled
as shown on Figure 1.

Figure 1 Cross-Band Full Duplex & Simplex Capable DVRS - Conceptual Diagram

The Cross-Band DVRS typically includes a duplexer which can accommodate full duplex
and simplex DVR operation as shown on Figure 1. The cross-band duplexer however has
a limited pass-band window and is tuned to the DVR frequencies provided on the purchase
order.
APX8500 may require the interface kit. Please refer to the DVR/VRX1000 Ordering Guide.

As an option, a cross-band DVRS can be configured for simplex only operation as shown
on Figure 2. In this case the DVRS does not utilize any filters.

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Figure 2 Cross-Band Simplex Only Capable DVRS - Conceptual Diagram

APX8500 may require interface kit. Please refer to the DVR/VRX1000 Ordering Guide.

NOTE:

The vehicular (side-by-side) mount Cross-Band DVR can be interfaced to a high power
MSU, however, the transmit power of the MSU must be reduced to comply with the
maximum power restrictions described in the RF Safety Booklet 8F083X03, which is
provided with the DVR.

IMPORTANT!

The DVRS is shipped equipped with custom filters tuned to the specified frequency
range provided by the customer. Programming the DVR / MSU to operate on
frequencies outside of the original specified bands may result in intermittent or
complete loss of communications. Frequency changes may require filter retuning
or replacement.

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APX Series P25 Interface

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Figure 4 Vehicular Mount Cross Band DVRS Model - Simplex Only Capable

Figure 3 Vehicular Mount Cross Band DVRS Model – Full Duplex & Simplex Capable

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In-Band

The in-band DVRS models are equipped with two sets of filters, which are required in
order to ensure interference-free operation when both the MSU and DVR are transmitting
and receiving simultaneously in the same frequency band. The DVR is a full duplex
capable repeater, equipped with a duplexer, which provides sufficient isolation to prevent
desense during DVR repeat activation. The DVR duplexer also provides 40 dB isolation
on the Mobile radio transmit / receive frequencies. The filters installed at the output of the
MSU are designed to provide 40 dB isolation on the DVR transmit and receive frequencies.

IMPORTANT!

The above filter isolation must be complemented by 30dB minimum antenna
isolation (between the DVR and Mobile Radio antennas) in order to ensure
interference-free operation. It is recommended that the MSU in-band antenna is
mounted on the roof top of the vehicle while the DVR antenna is mounted on the
trunk. Each DVRS is shipped equipped with custom filters tuned to the specified
frequency bands – note the frequency range specified on the filter labels.
Programming the DVR / MSU radio to operate on frequencies outside of the original
specified bands may result in intermittent or complete loss of communications.
Frequency changes may require filter retuning or replacement.

The In-Band DVRS models are also equipped with an RF Bypass Switch, which bypasses
the filtering at the output of the MSU when a “DVR – Disabled” TG is selected on the MSU
Control Head (see Figure 5).

When a “DVR – Enabled” mode is selected on the MSU CH, the RF Switch connects the
extra filters between the MSU Antenna port and the MSU antenna to ensure interference­free operation. The complex in-band filtering is only feasible if sufficient frequency gap is
present between the DVR frequencies and the MSU frequencies associated with the “DVR

- Enabled” TGs.
For more information on the feasible filtering options, please refer to the DVRS Ordering
Guides.
As an option, an in-band DVRS can also be configured as simplex only (Figure 6). The
simplex in-band configuration however still requires DVR and In-Band filters.

NOTE:

The DVR and MSU require two or three (in the case of dual band MSU) separate
antennas.

IMPORTANT!

In all In-Band DVRS configurations, the MSU Transmit power must not exceed 50
Watts on DVRS Enabled MSU Modes due to the in-band filters power rating.
The in-band filters connected to the MSU have typical insertion loss of 1.5dB.

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Figure 5 In-Band Full Duplex / Simplex Capable DVRS - Conceptual Diagram

Figure 6 In-Band Simplex Only Capable DVRS - Conceptual Diagram

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Figure 7 Vehicular Mount In-Band 700 or 800MHz DVRS Model - Full Duplex & Simplex
Capable

Figure 8 Vehicular Mount In-Band VHF or UHF DVRS Model - Full Duplex & Simplex Capable

More complex RF Bypass Switch algorithm is needed for APX8500 radios which have
single antenna port for multiple bands, and the optional external antenna triplexer is not
installed. New algorithm would assure that MSU In-band filter is in use only when MSU is
operating on the zone/channel that is in the same band as DVR. Therefore, the following
change of DVR algorithm was made for DVR:

- MSU In-Band Filter to be in use when DVR is enabled AND mobile is on an In-
Band channel

- In all other cases (MSU is on Cross-Band channel or on Multiband channel that
is not affecting/crossing into DVR band) MSU In-Band filter should be bypassed

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Here is a simple table of possible MSU /DVR channel band configurations:

MSU

DVR

MSU In-Band Filter

Single
Band

In-Band

IN

Single
Band

Cross­Band

OUT

Multiband

In-Band

IN

Multiband

Cross­Band

OUT

APX MSU Model

VHF (136-174MHz)

DVRS Models

Reference

Dual Band APX MSU
700/800MHz & VHF

• X-Band with band locked VHF, Full Duplex

• X-Band with band locked VHF, Simplex

• In-Band & X-Band Capable, Full Duplex

• In-Band & X-Band Capable, Simplex

Fig. 1 & 3
Fig. 2 & 4
Fig. 5 & 7
Fig. 6 & 8

Dual Band APX MSU
700/800MHz & UHF R1

• X-Band Full Duplex

• X-Band Simplex

Fig. 1 & 3
Fig. 2 & 4

Dual Band APX MSU
700/800MHz & UHF R2

• X-Band Full Duplex

• X-Band Simplex

Fig. 1 & 3
Fig. 2 & 4

Dual Band APX MSU
UHF R1 & VHF

• X-Band with band locked VHF, Full Duplex

• X-Band with band locked VHF, Simplex

• In-Band & X-Band Capable, Full Duplex

• In-Band & X-Band Capable, Simplex

Fig. 1 & 3
Fig. 2 & 4
Fig. 5 & 7
Fig. 6 & 8

Dual Band APX MSU
UHF R2 & VHF

• X-Band with band locked VHF, Full Duplex

• X-Band with band locked VHF, Simplex

• In-Band & X-Band Capable, Full Duplex

• In-Band & X-Band Capable, Simplex

Fig. 1 & 3
Fig. 2 & 4
Fig. 5 & 7
Fig. 6 & 8

Dual Band APX MSU
UHF R1 & UHF R2

• X-Band Full Duplex

• X-Band Simplex

Fig. 1 & 3
Fig. 2 & 4

Single Band APX MSU
VHF

• In-Band Full Duplex

• In-Band Simplex

Fig. 5 & 7
Fig. 6 & 8

Single Band APX MSU
UHF R1

• X-Band Full Duplex

• X-Band Simplex

Fig. 1 & 3
Fig. 2 & 4

Single Band APX MSU
UHF R2

• X-Band Full Duplex

• X-Band Simplex

Fig. 1 & 3
Fig. 2 & 4

Single Band APX MSU
700 / 800MHz

• X-Band Full Duplex

• X-Band Simplex

Fig. 1 & 3
Fig. 2 & 4

Table 2 VHF DVRS Configurations

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APX MSU Model

UHF (380-430; 450-470; 470-512MHz)

DVRS Models

Reference

Dual Band APX MSU
700/800MHz & VHF

• X-Band Full Duplex

• X-Band Simplex

Fig. 1 & 3
Fig. 2 & 4

Dual Band APX MSU
700/800MHz & UHF R1

• X-Band with band locked UHF, Full Duplex

• X-Band with band locked UHF, Simplex

• In-Band & X-Band Capable, Full Duplex

• In-Band & X-Band Capable, Simplex

Fig. 1 & 3
Fig. 2 & 4
Fig. 5 & 7
Fig. 6 & 8

Dual Band APX MSU
700/800MHz & UHF R2

• X-Band with band locked UHF, Full Duplex

• X-Band with band locked UHF, Simplex

• In-Band & X-Band Capable, Full Duplex

• In-Band & X-Band Capable, Simplex

Fig. 1 & 3
Fig. 2 & 4
Fig. 5 & 7
Fig. 6 & 8

Dual Band APX MSU
UHF R1 & VHF

• X-Band with band locked UHF, Full Duplex

• X-Band with band locked UHF, Simplex

• In-Band & X-Band Capable, Full Duplex

• In-Band & X-Band Capable, Simplex

Fig. 1 & 3
Fig. 2 & 4
Fig. 5 & 7
Fig. 6 & 8

Dual Band APX MSU
UHF R2 & VHF

• X-Band with band locked UHF, Full Duplex

• X-Band with band locked UHF, Simplex

• In-Band & X-Band Capable, Full Duplex

• In-Band & X-Band Capable, Simplex

Fig. 1 & 3
Fig. 2 & 4
Fig. 5 & 7
Fig. 6 & 8

Dual Band APX MSU
UHF R1 & UHF R2

• In-Band Full Duplex

• In-Band Simplex

Fig. 5 & 7
Fig. 6 & 8

Single Band APX MSU
VHF

• X-Band Full Duplex

• X-Band Simplex

Fig. 1 & 3
Fig. 2 & 4

Single Band APX MSU
UHF R1

• In-Band Full Duplex

• In-Band Simplex

Fig. 5 & 7
Fig. 6 & 8

Single Band APX MSU
UHF R2

• In-Band Full Duplex

• In-Band Simplex

Fig. 5 & 7
Fig. 6 & 8

Single Band APX MSU
700 / 800MHz

• X-Band Full Duplex

• X-Band Simplex

Fig. 1 & 3
Fig. 2 & 4

Table 3 UHF DVRS Configurations

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APX MSU Model

700MHz

DVRS Models

Reference

Dual Band APX MSU
700/800MHz & VHF

• X-Band with band locked 700/800, Full
Duplex

• X-Band with band locked 700/800, Simplex

• In-Band & X-Band Capable, Full Duplex

• In-Band & X-Band Capable, Simplex

Fig. 1 & 3
Fig. 2 & 4
Fig. 5 & 7
Fig. 6 & 7

Dual Band APX MSU
700/800MHz & UHF R1

• X-Band with band locked 700/800, Full
Duplex

• X-Band with band locked 700/800, Simplex

• In-Band & X-Band Capable, Full Duplex

• In-Band & X-Band Capable, Simplex

Fig. 1 & 3
Fig. 2 & 4
Fig. 5 & 7
Fig. 6 & 7

Dual Band APX MSU
700/800MHz & UHF R2

• X-Band with band locked 700/800, Full
Duplex

• X-Band with band locked 700/800, Simplex

• In-Band & X-Band Capable, Full Duplex

• In-Band & X-Band Capable, Simplex

Fig. 1 & 3
Fig. 2 & 4
Fig. 5 & 7
Fig. 6 & 7

Dual Band APX MSU
UHF R1 & VHF

• X-Band Full Duplex

• X-Band Simplex

Fig. 1 & 3
Fig. 2 & 4

Dual Band APX MSU
UHF R2 & VHF

• X-Band Full Duplex

• X-Band Simplex

Fig. 1 & 3
Fig. 2 & 4

Dual Band APX MSU
UHF R1 & UHF R2

• X-Band Full Duplex

• X-Band Simplex

Fig. 1 & 3
Fig. 2 & 4

Single Band APX MSU
VHF

• X-Band Full Duplex

• X-Band Simplex

Fig. 1 & 3
Fig. 2 & 4

Single Band APX MSU
UHF R1

• X-Band Full Duplex

• X-Band Simplex

Fig. 1 & 3
Fig. 2 & 4

Single Band APX MSU
UHF R2

• X-Band Full Duplex

• X-Band Simplex

Fig. 1 & 3
Fig. 2 & 4

Single Band APX MSU
700 / 800MHz

• In-Band Full Duplex

• In-Band Simplex

Fig. 5 & 7
Fig. 6 & 7

Table 4 700MHz DVRS Configurations

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APX MSU Model

800MHz

DVRS Models

Reference

Dual Band APX MSU
700/800MHz & VHF

• X-Band with band locked 700/800, Full
Duplex

• X-Band with band locked 700/800, Simplex

• In-Band & X-Band Capable, Full Duplex

• In-Band & X-Band Capable, Simplex

Fig. 1 & 3
Fig. 2 & 4
Fig. 5 & 7
Fig. 6 & 7

Dual Band APX MSU
700/800MHz & UHF R1

• X-Band with band locked 700/800, Full
Duplex

• X-Band with band locked 700/800, Simplex

• In-Band & X-Band Capable, Full Duplex

• In-Band & X-Band Capable, Simplex

Fig. 1 & 3
Fig. 2 & 4
Fig. 5 & 7
Fig. 6 & 7

Dual Band APX MSU
700/800MHz & UHF R2

• X-Band with band locked 700/800, Full
Duplex

• X-Band with band locked 700/800, Simplex

• In-Band & X-Band Capable, Full Duplex

• In-Band & X-Band Capable, Simplex

Fig. 1 & 3
Fig. 2 & 4
Fig. 5 & 7
Fig. 6 & 7

Dual Band APX MSU
UHF R1 & VHF

• X-Band Full Duplex

• X-Band Simplex

Fig. 1 & 3
Fig. 2 & 4

Dual Band APX MSU
UHF R2 & VHF

• X-Band Full Duplex

• X-Band Simplex

Fig. 1 & 3
Fig. 2 & 4

Dual Band APX MSU
UHF R1 & UHF R2

• X-Band Full Duplex

• X-Band Simplex

Fig. 1 & 3
Fig. 2 & 4

Single Band APX MSU
VHF

• X-Band Full Duplex

• X-Band Simplex

Fig. 1 & 3
Fig. 2 & 4

Single Band APX MSU
UHF R1

• X-Band Full Duplex

• X-Band Simplex

Fig. 1 & 3
Fig. 2 & 4

Single Band APX MSU
UHF R2

• X-Band Full Duplex

• X-Band Simplex

Fig. 1 & 3
Fig. 2 & 4

Single Band APX MSU
700 / 800MHz

• In-Band Full Duplex

• In-Band Simplex

Fig. 5 & 7
Fig. 6 & 7

Table 5 800MHz DVRS Configurations

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DVR Dimensions

Cross-Band DVR Dimensions

Figure 9 Cross-Band DVR (Full Duplex and Simplex Capable) - Dimensions mm / [in]

Figure 10 Cross-Band Simplex Only Capable - Dimensions mm / [in]

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In-Band DVR Dimensions

Figure 11 Typical VHF/UHF In-Band DVR (Full Duplex & Simplex) - Dimensions mm / [in]

Figure 12 Typical 700 / 800 In-Band DVR (Full Duplex & Simplex) - Dimensions mm / [in]

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DVRS Installation Basics

Planning the Installation

Before starting the installation, inspect the vehicle and determine how and where you
intend to mount the DVRS antennas (one or two connected to the Mobile Radio and one
to the DVR), the DVR components, MSU, Control Head, MSU accessories. Ensure to
provide adequate separation between the Mobile radio antennas and the DVR antenna,
especially in in-band configurations.

When planning the DVRS installation, make sure to leave adequate room around all DVRS
modules to allow for easy RF and Control cabling connections, to enable programming /
re-flashing access to both the DVR and MSU ports and access to the DVR mounting
screws.

Ensure all DVRS components are mounted within the interconnecting cables range.
The DVRS operates only in negative ground, +12VDC electrical systems. Before starting

the installation, make sure that the ground polarity of the vehicle is correct. Accidentally
reversing the polarity will not damage the radio but will cause the cable fuses to blow.
Futurecom recommends installation of voltage surge protection to protect the car
electronics to prevent spikes in the supply voltage.

CAUTION!

Before installing any electrical equipment, check the vehicle manufacturer’s User
Manual.

Installation Tools Required

Description

Needed for:

Drill

Mounting base installation screws.

Center Punch

Mounting base installation screws.

6mm Allen Key

Tightening the 8mm machine screws for securing DVR/Filters
to their mounting bases.

Wire Cutters and
Crimping Tool

DC power cable installation.
#1 Philips Screwdriver

Tightening of cover screws.

3/16” Flat Screwdriver

Tightening of connector screws.

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Mounting the DVR

Cross-Band DVRS Mounting

1. Select the locations of the DVR and MSU such that the interconnecting cable can
reach and there is enough space for securing the side thumbscrews of the DVR.

2. Using the mounting base as a template, mark the positions of the 6 holes on the
mounting surface.

3. Center-punch the spots you have marked and realign the mounting base in position.

4. Secure the mounting base with six self-drilling screws. 6mm or ¼” screws are
recommended.

5. Leave enough room for adequate access to the DVR connectors and screws.

6. Route the cables through the mounting base as required.

7. Drop the DVR Assembly into the mounting base and slide it back.

8. Secure the DVR assembly with the two 8mm machine screws and split spring lock
washers provided.

9. Tighten the 8mm machine screws with the 6mm Allen Key. The required tightening
torque is 21.7 Nm (16 lb in).

10. Connect all cables and then secure the front and rear DVR covers by tightening the 4
thumbscrews provided.

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Figure 13 DVR Mounting Details – Full Duplex (With Duplexer)

Figure 14 DVR Mounting Details – Simplex Only Capable (No Duplexer)

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In-Band DVRS Mounting

1. Select the locations of the DVR, in-band filters and MSU such that the interconnecting
cables can reach and there is enough space for securing the side thumbscrews.

2. Using the mounting base as a template, mark the positions of the 12 holes on the
mounting surface.

3. Center-punch the spots you have marked and realign the mounting base in position.

4. Secure the mounting bases with six self-drilling screws. 6mm or ¼” screws are
recommended.

5. Leave enough room for adequate access to the DVRS connectors and screws.

6. Route the cables through the mounting bases as required.

7. Drop the DVR and the Notch Filter Assemblies into the mounting bases and slide each
back.

8. Secure the DVR assembly with the two 8mm machine screws and split spring lock
washers provided.

9. Tighten the two 8mm machine screws with the 6mm Allen Key. The required tightening
torque is 21.7 Nm (16 lb in).

10. Repeat step 9 to install the Notch filter assembly.

11. Connect all cables and then secure the front and rear DVR covers by tightening the 4
thumbscrews provided.

12. Secure the rear Notch Filter cover by tightening the 4 thumbscrews provided.

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Mounting the Mobile Radio

For detailed Mobile Radio and accessories Installation Instructions, please refer to the
Installation Manuals available from Motorola. Ensure the Remote Mount MSU is mounted
beside the DVR within the range of the DVRS cabling.

NOTE:

Unless special cabling length is specified upon placing an order, the DVR is shipped with
a standard 3ft-long interconnect cable between the MSU and DVR.

Connecting the DVRS Cables

NOTE:

The DVRS antenna ports (both DVR and APX sides) are mini UHF female and require
antennas with matching mini UHF male terminations. Simplex Cross-Band Models
(without any filters) require an antenna with TNC male connector.

Figure 15 DVR Connectors - Front and Back View (With Duplexer)

Power Cable

IMPORTANT!

The DVRS operates only in negative ground, +12VDC electrical systems. Before
starting the installation, make sure that the ground polarity of the vehicle is correct.

1. Determine power cable routing between the VRS mounting location and the vehicle
battery.

2. Locate an existing hole with a grommet in the vehicle firewall. If a firewall hole does
not exist, drill an access hole in the firewall for cable passage. Install a grommet in the
hole to avoid damage to the power cable.

3. From the inside of the vehicle, feed the red lead (without lug attached) through the
access hole into the engine compartment.

4. Find a grounding point close to the VRS location. Shorten the black lead.

5. Strip the end of the black lead as required. Crimp the large lug on the black lead and
connect it to the vehicle chassis ground.

TX

RX

RADIO

DVR

USB

AUX

POWER

ANTENNA

RX

TX

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6. Trim the red lead to the proper length. Strip the end of the red lead as required. Crimp
the large lug on the red lead.

7. Locate the fuse holder as close to the battery as possible and away from hot engine
parts. Cut the red lead at this location and pull both cut ends through the fuse holder
holes. Strip both ends and crimp the metal fuse holder ends on both ends. Install the
fuse and close the fuse holder.

8. Connect the red lead lug to the battery positive (+) terminal.

RF Cables

The following RF cables are provided with the respective In-Band DVR Models:

PN

Order

Code

Description

Length

Connectors

DVR Models

7W083X17-01

DDN9034

MSU to in-band
filtering

3 feet

Mini UHF
male

All In-Band
Models.

7W083X16-01

DDN9033

DVR Ant to In-Band
Filtering

3 feet

Mini UHF
male

VHF & UHF
In-Band
Models.

7W900X94-02

DDN2719A

APX8500 to Notch
filter

3 feet

QMA/Mini
UHF

All In-Band
Models.

Table 6 DVRS RF Cables

Control Cables

The following Control Cable types are available:

Part Number:

7W083X05-01

1W083B09-01

Order Code

DDN9028

DDN9029

Description

Standard MSU – DVR Control
Cable

Optional MSU – DVR Control
Cable.
Used when the MSU is
interfaced to Siren
HLN1439C

Connector Type - Mobile

Radio End

DB25 Male

DB25 Male → to MSU
DB25 Female → to Siren
Cable

Connector Type - DVR

End

Over-molded 20-PIN Female

Over-molded 20-PIN Female

Length

915mm (36”)
(Custom lengths up to
7620mm = 300” are
available)

915mm (36”)

Table 7 DVRS Control Cable Types

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Figure 16 DVR-to- MSU Control Cable 7W083X05-01

Figure 17 DVR-to- MSU (with Siren) Control Cable 1W083B09-01

NOTE:

Only one of the above Control Cables (shown on Figure 16 and Figure 17) is required
per DVRS Installation.

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Option Cables

The DVR Auxiliary port provides three Relay Driver Output Ports and two Switch Contact
Input Ports, which can be interfaced to external logic. The DVR Auxiliary port is extended
by the DVR Auxiliary jumper cable PN 7W083X06.

Figure 18 DVR Auxiliary Cable - 7W083X06-01

In-Band DVRS Option Cables

RF Switch Cable
Connect the DB9 Female connector of the 7W083X09 cable to the DB9 male port labeled

‘TO AUX’ which is located on the DVRS In-Band filtering shelf.
Connect the other end of the 7W083X09 cable to the matching DB15 connector of the
7W083X06 cable.
Connect the over-molded 9-pin connector of 7W083X06 to the matching DVR connector

labeled ‘AUX’.
To enable the RF Switch operation, the ‘MSU RF Bypass Switch’ box in the DVRS

Hardware Setup menu must be checked.
Other Option Cables

To connect other external logic to the DVR, the DB15 connector of the RF Switch cable
7W083X09 can be opened and extra wires added to the corresponding pins as described
in the DVR Options section of this document.

Cross-Band DVRS Option Cables

Connect the over-molded 9-pin connector of cable PN 7W083X06 to the matching DVR
connector labeled ‘AUX’.
Terminate the required external logic option cable (provided by others) with a DB15 male
connector with the required pin out and connect it to the DB15 female connector of the
7W083X06 cable.
The external logic options must be enabled in the DVR personality as described in the
DVR Options section of this document.

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Figure 19 In-Band VHF or UHF DVRS Interconnect Cabling - Front

Figure 20 In-Band VHF or UHF DVRS Interconnect Cabling - Back

1 2 4

4 2 3 5 6

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Figure 21 In-Band DVRS (700 or 800MHz) Interconnect Cabling - Front

Figure 22 In-Band DVRS (700 or 800MHz) Interconnect Cabling - Back

1

2

2

4

5

3

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Figure 23 Cross-Band Full Duplex & Simplex Capable DVRS Interconnect Cabling - Front

Figure 24 Cross-Band Full Duplex & Simplex Capable DVRS Interconnect Cabling – Back

1 2 2

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Figure 25 Cross-Band Simplex Only Capable DVRS Interconnect Cabling – Front

Figure 26 Cross-Band Simplex Only Capable DVRS Interconnect Cabling – Back

1

2

2

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Ref # PN

Length

Order Code

Notes

1a

7W083X05-01

3ft

DDN9028

DVR to MSU Control Cable
Custom lengths available – up to 25ft.

1b

1W083B09-01

3ft

DDN9029

Replaces 1a if a Motorola Siren is to be interfaced
to the MSU.

2

Control Head cable provided by Motorola

3

7W083X06-01

2.5ft

DDN9031

Auxiliary Cable.

4

7W083X17-01

3ft

DDN9034

MSU to In-Band Filtering RF Cable

5

7W900X94-02

3ft

DDN2719A

APX8500 to Notch filter RF Cable

6

7W083X09-01

1ft

DDN9032

RF switch option cable

7

7W083X16-01

3ft

DDN9033

DVR to In-Band Filtering RF Cable

8

1W083A01-01

18ft

DDN9030

DVR Power cable

Table 8 Summary of DVRS Control and RF Cables

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DVR Options

The DVR Auxiliary port provides three relay driver output ports and two switch contact
input ports, which can be interfaced to external logic. The DVR Auxiliary port is extended
by the DVR jumper cable PN 7W083X06. The external logic can be easily interfaced by
connecting to the correct pins on the DB15 connector as described in the next paragraph.

DVR Auxiliary Cable

The DVR Auxiliary Cable (PN 7W083X06) extends the DVR AUX port pins to a DB15
connector for easy connection to the required external logic. The DB15 pinout is shown
below.

Figure 27 Auxiliary Cable (7W083X06-01) DB15 Pinout

Pin #

Designation

Note

1

SWITCH 1

Alternative AVRA Input, operating as
programmed in the Tweaker Hardware
Setup Screen

2

RXD2

RS232 Input

3

TXD2

RS232 Output

4

RELAY 2

Primary Light Output / as programmed

5

GND

Ground

6

RELAY 1

RF Switch Output / as programmed

7

NOT USED

-

8

RELAY_12VDC

12VDC for powering up relay coil. Max
current draw is 750mA TOTAL from both
pins 8 & 15.

9

GND/SHIELD

Ground / Shield

10

NOT USED

-

11

NOT USED

-

12

SWITCH 2

For future use

13

RELAY 3

As programmed

14

NOT USED

-

15

RELAY_12VDC

12VDC for powering up relay coil. Max
current draw is 750mA TOTAL from both
pins 8 & 15.

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AVRA

The Automated VR Activation (AVRA) option enables automated DVR ON/OFF control
triggered by an external switch – portable charger, door switch etc.

If this option is desired, the external switch (provided by others) needs to be wired to one
of the following:

A dedicated VIP Input on the MSU Control Head or DEK.

o The ‘Automatic VR Activation’ and ‘AVRA Uses VIP on CH’ selection boxes

in the DVRS Hardware Setup menu must be checked.

o The corresponding VIP I/P must be enabled in the MSU – refer to the

programming guide provided by Motorola for detailed instructions.
For detailed instructions on VIP wiring, please refer to the MSU installation manuals
available from Motorola.

‘Switch 1 Input’ on the DB15 of the DVR Auxiliary Cable (PN 7W083X06).

o The ‘Automatic VR Activation’ selection box in the DVRS Hardware Setup

Menu must be checked.

o The ‘AVRA Uses VIP on CH’ selection box in the DVRS Hardware Setup

menu must be left blank (unchecked).

o The MSU does not require special programming related to the enabling of

this option.

Status Lights

The Status Lights option provides status identification capabilities. The relay outputs in the
DVRS can be programmed to provide several status indications – ‘Master Light’, ‘LOC
Mode Light’, ‘SYS Mode Light’ or ‘DVR ON Light’.
The DVR then provides control input to an external switch which in turn toggles an external
light.
The external switch and light are not included with the DVR.
The Light Switch Relay Coil “+” must be wired to +12V DC and the “-“ to the corresponding
Relay Output on the DB15 connector of the DVR Auxiliary cable PN 7W083X06 (500mA
Max).

External Alarm

In applications where the DVR is installed in a fixed 19” rack, the external alarms option

can be enabled and the corresponding relay output wired up to an external logic system
for monitoring and reporting of ‘low power’ or ‘overt temperature’ combined alarms.

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DVRS Antenna Installation

Any DVRS model requires the use of two or three antennas – one or two connected to the
MSU and one connected to the DVR. For a list of approved DVR antennas, please refer
to Appendix 12.

IMPORTANT!

To assure optimum performance and compliance with RF Energy Safety standards,
these antenna installation guidelines are limited to metal-body vehicles with
appropriate ground planes and take into account the potential exposure of back
seat passengers and bystanders outside the vehicle.

The MSU and DVR antennas must be installed in such way as not to cause interference.

IMPORTANT!

All DVRS models require 30dB minimum Antenna Isolation between the DVR and
MSU Antennas.

Before installing an antenna on the trunk lid:

• Ensure the distance from the antenna to the front surface of the rear back seat is

greater than the minimum distance specified in the “Product and RF Safety” booklet
for the specific DVRS model and frequency band.

• Ensure the trunk lid is grounded by connecting grounding straps between the trunk lid

and the vehicle chassis.

To ensure compliance with RF Energy Safety standards, the antenna locations, gain and
maximum transmit power (for both the MSU and the DVR) must be as specified in the
“Product and RF Safety” Booklet shipped with the DVR.

NOTE:

The DVRS antenna ports are mini UHF female and require antennas with matching mini
UHF male terminations. Simplex ONLY DVRS configurations feature TNC female
connector on the DVR side.

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Index

A

AVRA ....................................................................... 33

C

Control Cables .......................................................... 24

Cross-Band ................................................................. 7

D

DVR Auxiliary Cable ............................................... 32

DVR Dimensions ...................................................... 17

DVRS Antenna Installation ...................................... 34

DVRS Installation Basics ......................................... 19

I

In-Band ..................................................................... 10

Installation Tools ...................................................... 19

M

Master Light.............................................................. 33

Mounting the DVR ................................................... 20

O

Option Cables ........................................................... 26

P

Power Cable .............................................................. 23

R

RF Cables ................................................................. 24

Part II – DVRS PROGRAMMING

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DVR Programming Basics

Installing and Uninstalling the Tweaker Programming Software

If you have older Tweaker version already installed, you can either uninstall it first OR you
can simply install the new Tweaker in a new folder.

Insert the provided USB memory stick and follow the prompts to install the Tweaker
programming software in the desired location on your PC. If the installation does not start
automatically, please open the provided CD and click on the Setup.exe file.
To uninstall Tweaker – go to the Control Panel, Add and Remove Programs, find the
DVRS Tweaker and select the Remove option.

Using the Tweaker Programming Software Off-Line

The Tweaker programming software can be used off-line to review, modify and save new
personality templates (.dpd) files.

Viewing DVR Personality Files Off-Line

Run the Tweaker.
Select File → DPD Files (Templates) → Load DPD File and specify the dpd file location
and name when prompted.

Modifying DVR Personality Files Off-Line

Once a dpd file is successfully opened (as described in the previous section), the dpd
settings are available for reviewing and modification off-line.

Saving DVR Personality Files Off-Line

After editing the personality setting, the dpd file can be saved by selecting File → DPD
Files (Templates) → Save DPD File and specifying a new or the same dpd file name and

location.

Operating
Systems

Windows XP
Windows 7, Windows 10

Processor

400MHz or higher Pentium grade processor

Peripherals

CD Drive for software installation
USB Port

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Using the Tweaker Programming Software On-Line

To use the Tweaker on-line the following is required:

1. Tweaker software installed on the PC.

2. Powered up DVRS.

3. Programming cable (USB cable directly connected to the DVR or Motorola

programming cable connected to the MSU control head).

Setting up Communications with the DVR

1. Ensure the USB cable is plugged into your PC and connected to the USB port on the

DVR.

2. Ensure the DVRS is powered up. Note that the DVR may be connected to DC power

but will power up only when the MSU interfaced to it is powered up.

3. If connecting to the MSU control head IP Ethernet port, ensure the ‘Connect to Control

Head’ field on the Ports screen in Tweaker is set to ‘Yes’.

Ports

Field Name

Range

Description

Notes

COM Port

na

Automatically selected and used
when connecting directly to the DVR
USB Port.

Connect to
Control Head

Yes
No

Set to ‘Yes’ when PC is connected to

the MSU Control head IP Ethernet
port.

Set to ‘No’ when connecting directly

to the DVR USB Port.

Default setting is ‘No’

MSU IP

Read Only

Applicable only when connecting to
the MSU Control Head.

DVRS IP

Read Only

Applicable only when connecting to
the MSU Control Head.

DVRS Port

Read Only

Automatically assigned field.

Programming
Mode for MSU

Yes
No

When set to ‘Yes’ the MSU is placed

into programming mode whenever
the DVR is being programmed.

When set to ‘No’ the MSU is still fully

functional while the DVR is being
programmed.

Default and recommended
setting is ‘Yes’.

Reading the DVR Electronic Label

The Electronic Label of the DVR contains information regarding the firmware currently
loaded in the DVR, the hardware model and serial number.
To read the DVR Electronic Label, select DVR Info from the Repeater Setup Menu:

The electronic label can be read either on-line or by loading a previously saved .epr or
.dpd file.

NOTE:

An .epr file contains the personality and calibration data of a specific DVR unit. A .dpd file
contains the personality settings of a DVR unit. Used for ‘cloning’.
The .dpd file does not carry the DVR/VRX1000 ID.

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The Electronic Label is also stored in the .dpd file, even though the information contained
in it does not overwrite the electronic labels of the DVRs during ‘cloning’.

Reading from the DVR (Uploading Data)

To read a DVR unit:

1. Establish On-Line communication with the DVR.

2. Select Repeater → Load Data from Repeater OR Press F2.

3. The personality data of the currently connected DVR unit will be loaded into the

Tweaker memory for reviewing and / or editing.

Writing to the DVR (Downloading Data)

Applying dpd File (‘Cloning’)

Select File → DPD Files (Templates) → Apply DPD to The Repeater. Specify the
desired .dpd file name and location when prompted.

Writing Selected Changes to the DVR

If any changes are made while reviewing the personality data of a DVR (On-Line), the
fields containing changes are shaded in green (if the changes are valid). If the changes
are not valid, the fields will be marked red and the new settings cannot be saved to the
repeater.
After making the necessary changes to all the settings on the various Tweaker screens,
the new personality can be saved to the DVR by executing any of the following:

• F4

• OR

• Repeater → Save Changes to Repeater

• OR

• Repeater → EEPROM Maintenance (Ctrl+E) → Changes ->Repeater

• OR

• Click on the EEPROM Maintenance Icon → Changes -> Repeater

Reset the repeater (after the changes are saved) in order to ensure the changes are in
effect. Resetting of the DVR can be done by executing any of the following methods:

• Repeater → Reset Repeater

• OR

• F3

• OR

• EEPROM Maintenance → Reset Repeater

• OR

• Power OFF and ON the MSU

When the DVR personality has been changed and the changes are not causing any
detected errors, the EEprom maintenance icon is flashing yellow. Clicking on the icon
opens the EEprom screen which offers the options of saving the changes to the DVR and
resetting the DVR. If the data changes contain errors, the EEprom icon is flashing red
and the screens containing conflicting data will be marked with a red exclamation mark.
In this case, the changes cannot be written to the DVR EEPROM until the errors are
eliminated.

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DVRS Programming Guidelines

Programming Steps Overview

The DVRS operation depends on the following:

• DVR firmware and programming settings

• MSU firmware and programmed personality

• PSU type, firmware and programmed personality

• System infrastructure

To enable a given DVR feature, all of the above components must be adequately setup
and matched to support it.

IMPORTANT!

Changes to any of the personality templates may require corresponding
adjustments to the personality templates of the rest of the system components.

To ensure consistent programming of all components, the following programming
sequence is recommended:

Step

Action

Software Program Used

1

Create the MSU template with enabled DVR
Operation and save it. Ensure the ‘DVRS profile’
is selected for the desired MSU Talk Groups /
modes and there are no frequency plan issues
(In-Band models only).

Mobile CPS (Motorola)

2

Export an .xml file by using the “DVRS Export”
option in the Motorola CPS (Codeplug Menu).
Save the xml file on your PC.

Mobile CPS (Motorola)

3

Create a .dpd file and program the licensed DVR
channels. Ensure the DVR frequencies are within
the ordered filtering specification.

Tweaker (Futurecom)

4

Import the saved .xml file.

Tweaker (Futurecom)

5

Program the Mobile Channel attributes as
required.

Tweaker (Futurecom)

6

Program the desired analog / digital mode
features in the DVR.

Tweaker (Futurecom)

7

Save the. dpd template.

Tweaker (Futurecom)

8

Create the PSU template. Ensure DVR
Operation is Enabled and the settings match
those programmed in the DVRS.

Portable Radio CPS (Motorola)

9

Save the PSU Codeplug.

Portable Radio CPS (Motorola)

10

Ensure all personality templates are matched in terms of frequencies, PL/DPL,
TX/RX NIDs, enabled and disabled features etc. and confirm through testing the
DVRS operation before field deployment.

Table 9 Recommended Programming Sequence

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Programming the APX MSU for DVRS Operation

Enabling the DVR in the APX MSU

When interfacing a DVR to an APX MSU, the ‘DVRS Hardware Enable’ option must be
enabled (DVRS Configuration → DVRS Wide → General → ‘DVRS Hardware Enable’).
DVRS Operation can then be enabled in the desired MSU conventional and / or trunked

personalities by selecting corresponding ‘DVRS Profile Selection’ (Trunking Personality

‘X’ → General → ‘DVRS Profile Selection’; Conventional Personality ‘Y’ → General
→ ‘DVRS Profile Selection’).

NOTE:

The MSU requires H-Option GA00631AA in order to support DVRS operation.

DVRS Button Assignment

To be able to control and change the DVR mode and channel from the MSU control head,
a DVRS button must be programmed in the MSU (Radio Ergonomics Configuration

→Controls → Menu Items). The ‘DVRS’ button function can also be assigned to a side

button on the keypad microphone.

Automated VR Activation (AVRA) Programming in the APX MSU

The DVR can be automatically activated by external logic (car door switch, park brake
switch, portable charger etc) wired to a dedicated MSU VIP Input. The MSU VIP Input
assigned for the AVRA function is specified in the Radio Ergonomics Configuration

→Controls → Radio VIPs → General menu.

NOTE:

The DVR must be programmed for VIP type activation by checking the Hardware Setup
→ ‘AVRA uses VIP on CH’ in the DVRS Tweaker.

In Car Monitor (ICM) Programming of the APX MSU

The ICM function can be programmed to be either ‘HUB Controlled’ or ‘ICM Button /
Menu Controlled’ in the DVRS Configuration → DVRS Wide → General menu of the
APX MSU codeplug. If ‘ICM Button / Menu Controlled’ option is selected then the
corresponding ICM button / Menu item needs to be programmed as well. In addition, ICM
operation (Enabled or Disabled) needs to be programmed for each DVRS Profile by
checking / unchecking the ‘ICM Allowed’ box (DVRS Configuration → DVRS Profiles
→ Profile ‘X’ → General).

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DVRS Profile Settings Programmable in the APX MSU

The following features are programmed in the corresponding DVRS Profiles in the APX
MSU:

MSU Field Name

Options/Units

Description

Notes

DVRS Profile
Name

Name

Desired Profile
Name

DVRS Remote
Activation

‘Disabled’
‘Via Call Alert’

‘Disabled’: Call

Alerts from the FNE
addressed to the
MSU's Radio ID are
handled in the
same way that a
regular Call Alert is
handled.

‘Via Call Alert’: Call

Alerts from the FNE
addressed to the
MSU's Radio ID
cause the DVR to
cycle through it’s
Modes: System,
Local and Off.

When this feature is
Enabled, the MSU
can no longer
initiate or receive a
regular Call Alert.

Generate Status on
DVRS Mode
Change

Enable / Disable
Check Box

Enables / Disables
the MSU sending
Status message to
the FNE to indicate
the current DVRS
mode after EVERY
DVR mode change
regardless of the
trigger (CH button
or remote change
by PSU or by FNE).

The MSU sends the
following Status
updates when this
feature is Enabled:

Status 1 = OFF
Status 2 = LOCAL
Status 3 =
SYSTEM

ICM Allowed

Enable / Disable
Check Box

Enables / Disables
the In Car Monitor
Functionality for a
given DVR
Personality

Refer to the Global
DVRS Features
Section of this
document for
details on ICM
operation.

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MSU Field Name

Options/Units

Description

Notes

Local Mode –
Outbound System
Repeat in Local
Mode

Enable / Disable
Check Box

When the DVRS is
in the LOCAL
mode, this setting
determines if
outbound system
calls are
transmitted by the
DVR to the Local
PSUs (when
Enabled) or not
(when Disabled).

Local Mode – MSU
System PTT in
Local Mode

Enable / Disable
Check Box

If Enabled, the
MSU is keyed up
upon MSU MIC
PTT even if the
DVR is in the Local
Mode. When
Disabled, only the
DVR is keyed up
when the MSU MIC
is PTT-ed.

When this setting is
Disabled, the
System Mode –
Local Tx Fallback
field is accessible.
This field can be
enabled ONLY
when the Local

Mode – Outbound
System Repeat in
Local Mode is

Enabled.
When this setting is
Enabled, the
System Mode –
Local Tx Fallback

field can’t be

enabled.

System Mode –
Local Tx Fallback

Enable / Disable
Check Box

If upon MSU MIC

PTT the MSU can’t

transmit to the FNE
then if this field is
enabled, the MSU
MIC audio will be
routed and
transmitted locally
by the DVR only.
If Disabled, the
MSU will sound
deny ergonomics
until the MSU can
transmit to the
FNE.

The local transmit
is not supported in
the case of Trunked
FNE busy,
conventional smart
PTT and secure
key mismatch /
secure key errors.

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MSU Field Name

Options/Units

Description

Notes

Proxy Time Out
Timer (sec)

15 sec to Infinite in
15 seconds
increments

Selects the amount
of time that the
MSU is able to
transmit a "proxied"
audio call, in other
words, continuous
group voice or
individual voice
audio from a PSU
(via the DVRS) to
the FNE system.

Infinite indicates
that no timeout
occurs regardless
of the duration of
the PSU call.

Proxy Limited
Patience (sec)

1 sec – 60 secs

Selects the amount
of time that the
MSU waits for a
busy Conventional
channel to become
available for a PSU
(Proxy)
transmission
request before
failing the
transmission.

Applies specifically
to proxy signaling
transmissions, such
as status,
message. call alert
etc.

P25 Trunking OTAR via DVRS

In order for the DVRS MSU to provide packet data services to associated PSUs on a P25
Trunking system, the MSU must be configured for packet data operation and must be
context activated on the system.

MSU Scan Programming Requirements

The MSU Scan feature is allowed while the DVRS is active (System or Local Mode) if the
MSU Scan type is configured as one of the following:

• Trunking Scan

• Conventional Scan

• Mixed Conventional Voting Scan

• Legacy Voting Scan

• Multi System Scan

• Priority Monitoring

The MSU does not support any other modes of scan operation, apart from those listed
above, while the DVRS operates in SYSTEM or LOCAL mode. In such unsupported
cases, the MSU will automatically suspend scan operation when the DVRS is set to
SYSTEM or LOCAL mode of operation and resume it when the DVRS is OFF.

NOTE:

The LPSU calls will be repeated on the MSU Selected Channel.

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MSU Group Services Programming Requirements

The “Group Text Messaging Service” in the corresponding Trunking system screen has to
be set to ‘Full Decode’ in order to enable the Group Text Feature in the MSU.

To enable the Group Alias Update feature, the MSU must have the ‘OTA Radio Alias Type’

set to ‘Decode Only’ in the corresponding Trunking system screen.

The MSU may have Group Text Messaging Services and / or Group Alias Update disabled
so it will not store group texts and update its UCL but will still pass along the group texts
and alias updates to the DVRS and its affiliated PSUs.

Exporting MSU data (.xml file)

Once the MSU is programmed for DVRS operation, the data needs to be exported by

using the Motorola CPS “DVRS Export” option in the Codeplug menu. The standard CPS

Export Data option cannot be used for DVRS programming purposes.

Programming the PSUs for DVRS Operation

The programming of the PSU depends on the PSU type and user requirements. The
following paragraph describes the programming options related to DVRS operation for the
3 main types of PSUs – Analog, P25 Digital (Generic), P25 DVRS Enabled.

The following PSU models have modified firmware that allows them to operate as DVRS
Enabled:

PSU Models that can be

‘DVRS Enabled’

PSU Firmware Revision Required

XTS1500
XTS2500
XTS5000

R9.00.00 and later

Note: It is highly recommended to always use the latest
released PSU firmware to ensure all fixes and new features
are included.

APX4000
APX6000
APX7000
APX8000

R7.00.05 and later
APX8000 – R14.50.00 or later

Note: It is highly recommended to always use the latest
released PSU firmware to ensure all fixes and new
features are included.

APX portable radios operating through a DVR,
utilizing the enhanced DVR digital feature set
require subscriber option QA00631.

Table 10 DVRS Enabled PSU Models

All other P25 capable PSU models or the above models with older firmware versions can
only be programmed as ‘P25 Generic’ since they are not capable of enhanced
communications with the DVRS.

NOTE:

APX MSUs can also be programmed as ‘DVRS Enabled’ and used to communicate
through a DVRS provided they are NOT interfaced to a DVRS.

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Programming the P25 ‘DVRS Enabled’ PSU

The P25 DVRS Enabled PSU needs to be affiliated on the P25 FNE through the DVRS
therefore its ASTRO Unit ID and TG ID must be valid and allowed on the FNE side.
Typically the conventional ASTRO PSU Unit ID is set to match that of the Trunking system
PSU ID in in-band applications. In cross-band application the ASTRO PSU unit ID must
be enabled in the P25 system in order to be able to affiliate and communicated through
the DVRS.

If Fireground (FG) signaling is enabled in the PSU, ensure that the programmed “Tx
Voice Type” (analog or digital) matches the type of corresponding DVR “FG Enabled”
channel (analog or digital).

Remote Talk Group Steering allows local PSU user to remotely change the TG / channel
currently selected on the MSU by sending a call alert / page to the DVR (using the DVR
ID) and transmitting a specific NID.
If Remote Talk Group Steering is required, the PSU must be programmed to transmit on
the same DVR channel with different NIDs, which NIDs are then strapped to the desired
MSU modes in the Tweaker Mobile Radio Channel Setup screen.
When the DVR receives a call alert page with given NID, it steers the MSU to the mode
associated with this NID. The DVR Tx NID is as programmed and must be matched with
the PSU Rx NID! The PSU is programmed with various Transmit NIDs (used for the
steering) but the same Receive NID (or F7E). The DVR Rx NID is programmed to match
the PSU Tx NID programming when no remote mode steering is needed.

XTS Series ‘DVRS Enabled’ PSUs

If the XTS ‘DVRS Enabled’ PSU needs to support say 10 TGs via DVRS, then the PSU
needs to be programmed with 10 different conventional ASTRO personalities using the
designated DVRS Enabled ASTRO system. Each conventional personality must be
strapped to the corresponding TG ID from the specified TG List. Each conventional
personality is then assigned to a desired PSU mode in the Zone / Channel assignment
listing. The PSU behavior, when switched to a DVR channel, is specified by programming
the desired features in the corresponding ASTRO system ‘DVRS’ Tab. Alternatively the
PSU can be programmed with just one (or a few TG IDs) and TG translation can be
enabled in the DVR so that the PSU TG ID is always translated to the ID of the TG selected
on the MSU control head.

NOTE:

TG IDs are programmed in the XTS PSU conventional ASTRO Talk Group List in decimal
format.

APX Series ‘DVRS Enabled’ PSUs

If Group Services support is required, the “Group Text Messaging Service” in the

corresponding conventional system screen has to be set to ‘Full Decode’ in order to enable

the Group Text Feature. To enable the Group Alias Update feature, the PSU must have

the ‘OTA Radio Alias Type’ set to ‘Decode Only’ in the corresponding conventional
personality screen. ‘Selective Squelch’ needs to be programmed (instead of the default

‘Normal Squelch’) if the PSU User want to receive only Group Services for its selected

Talkgoup.

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If the APX ‘DVRS Enabled’ PSU needs to support say 10 TGs via the DVRS, then the

PSU may be programmed with a single Conventional Personality, which is using a

Conventional System of ‘DVRS’ type. The Conventional Personality’s Frequency Option

table will contain 10 entries, which are strapped to desired TG IDs. The actual TG IDs are
specified in the designated Astro Talk Group List, which is then linked to the Conventional
Personality (‘Astro Talkgroup’ tab). The PSU behavior, when switched to a DVR channel,
is specified by programming the desired features in the corresponding Conventional

System ‘DVRS’ Tab. Each Frequency option of the Conventional Personality (using

desired TG ID and a ‘DVRS’ type Conventional System) is then assigned to a PSU mode

in the Zone Channel Assignment listing. Alternatively, the PSU can be programmed with
just one (or a few TG IDs) and TG translation can be enabled in the DVR so that the PSU
TG ID is always translated to the ID of the TG selected on the MSU Control Head.

Programming of Generic P25 PSU for Digital DVRS Mode

The programming of a Generic P25 PSU requires matched DVR – PSU programming of:

• DVR Tx and Rx Frequencies

• Tx and Rx NIDs (NACs)

In addition, the programmed PSU ASTRO Unit ID and selected TG ID must be valid and
allowed on the P25 system.

Programming of the P25 PSU (Generic P25 or DVRS enabled) for operation
on Conventional P25 MSU System

Both PSU types must have the Tx and Rx NIDs matched with those programmed in the
DVR. If the P25 conventional system is not using dedicated TG IDs then all system radios
transmit with the default TG ID = 1.

When the XTS PSU is programmed as ‘DVRS Enabled’, and ‘Talkgroup’ is checked in the

given conventional personality, the PSU transmits with default TG ID = 2. When the
system radios are operating on a conventional P25 system, which is not using Talkgroups,
all radios still transmit with default TG ID = 1. Therefore, the DVRS Enabled XTS PSU
programming may need to be changed to TG ID=1 in order to match the rest of the system
radios so that communications can be heard between DVRS PSUs and system PSUs.
The Generic P25 PSU transmits with default TG ID = 1 so it matches the rest of the system
radios and its programming does not need to be changed.

NOTE:

TG ID 1 can be added to the DVRS Translation tables so that PSU calls coming from
Generic P25 PSUs (with TG ID 1) will be translated to the TG ID currently selected on the

MSU, while ‘DVRS Enabled’ PSUs will be able to make proxied calls on their selected TG

IDs.

If the conventional P25 system is using dedicated TG IDs, then the ‘DVRS Enabled’ or
Generic P25 PSU must be programmed with corresponding conventional personalities
using the required TG IDs.

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Programming of the P25 XTS PSU (Generic P25 or DVRS enabled) for
Inbound Digital Takeover

A Generic P25 XTS PSU must have Smart PTT disabled if “Outbound Takeover by Voice
Allowed” is enabled in the DVR.

Programming of Analog Conventional PSU for Analog DVRS Mode

The programming of any PSU for analog mode involves the following:

• PSU Tx frequency and Tx PL/DPL must match the DVR Rx frequency and Rx PL/DPL.

• PSU Rx frequency and Rx PL/DPL must match the DVR Tx frequency and Tx PL/DPL.

• Adjacent channel spacing programming of the DVR channel and PSU must be the

same i.e. either 12.5kHz or 25kHz.

• If MDC Emergency is to be used by the PSU, the PSU must have MDC1200 signaling

enabled. The MDC1200 System Pretime must be set to 50ms if the PSU Emergency
ID is to be seen on other System radios that are on the same TG. If the MSU has the
default System Pretime of 700ms, the PSU Emergency ID will only be displayed on
the Dispatcher Console.

• Preamble during pretime must NOT be enabled.

• If MDC1200 Emergency alarm is to be used when the MSU is on a trunked channel,

the MDC ID (hex) must be allowed on the Trunking system side (see MDC PTT ID
offset)

• If DTMF signaling is used, the DTMF sequence programmed in the PSU must end with

a ‘*’ i.e. 123*.

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DVR Programming

The following paragraphs provide detailed DVR programming information.

IMPORTANT!

Do not change DVR settings unless fully familiar with the meaning of a specific
option. The Tweaker program reports any obvious errors and does not allow invalid
data to be saved to the DVR, however, not all inconsistencies can be reported by
the Tweaker. Successful DVRS programming requires thorough understanding of
the DVR, MSU and PSU programming as well as the specific User / System
requirements. Only when all templates (DVR, MSU and PSU) are matched, the DVRS
will operate properly. For instance, changing the APX MSU template may require
corresponding update of the DVR template, which in turn may require update of the
PSU template.

Repeater Setup

RF/Analog Setup

The values in this menu are set to the correct settings upon shipping from the Futurecom
factory. No changes to those values are required unless instructed otherwise by
Futurecom.

Frequency Band Setup

This screen is used for selecting the adjacent channel separation. Two selections are
possible – Set 1 and Set 2, which can be either Narrowband (12.5kHz) or Wideband
(25kHz). Ensure the correct spacing (Set 1 or Set 2) is selected to match the portable
radio programming on each DVR channel – see “Repeater Channel Setup” screen,
‘Bandwidth’ field.

User Text

This screen is provided for template maintenance purposes. The DVR personality
templates can be dated and referenced from this Menu screen by entering an applicable
template / project description and revision.

DVR Info

This screen is for information only and it displays the firmware revisions, model and serial
number of the DVR.

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Personality Data Setup

Repeater Channel Setup Menu

Field Name

Options

/ Units

Description

Notes

Ch #

1-192

DVR Channel Number – referenced
in the Mobile Radio Channel Setup
when associating DVR channels to
Mobile Radio Modes.

Read Only Field.

Name

Seven (7)
character
string

DVR Channel name (alias)
displayed on the Control Head
when the DVR is enabled.

Channel Mode

F. Duplex
Simplex

Determines the DVR mode of
operation for the specific channel –
Full Duplex or Simplex.

Fire Ground

Yes / No

Enables or Disables Fireground
Signalling Capabilities on the
selected DVR channel.

Fireground (FG) signaling can be
enabled on analog or digital DVR
channels only.

Channel Type

Digital
Analog
Mixed
F.Analog
TPS
FA-All

Defines the DVR Channel Type.
Mixed Mode is selected when the
same DVR channel will be used by
Analog and P25 PSUs.

Rx Freq

[MHz]

DVR Rx Frequency (Must match
the PSU Tx Frequency).

Rx PL

[Hz] / DPL

DVR Rx PL / DPL (Must match the
Analog PSU Tx PL/DPL).

Applies to Analog, Mixed and F.
Analog Mode Only.

Tx Freq

[MHz]

DVR Tx Frequency (Must match the
PSU Rx Frequency).

Tx PL

[Hz] / DPL

DVR Tx PL / DPL (Must match the
Analog PSU Rx PL/DPL).

Applies to Analog, Mixed and F.
Analog Mode Only.

PL STE

[deg] /
DPL

Analog PSU PL/DPL Squelch Tail
Elimination – must be programmed
to match the PSU.

Applies to Analog, Mixed and F.
Analog Mode Only.

VR Mode

System
Local
User

Determines the Default DVR mode
when this DVR channel is selected.
TG Mode (Mobile Radio Channel
Setup) overwrites this setting.

Manual Mode
Change

Enabled
Disabled

Enables / Disables the DVR mode
change from the VRS button on the
Control Head. If this field is set to
Disabled, the VRS button still
toggles between the default DVR
mode and OFF mode.

This field is automatically set to
Enabled when the VR Mode is set
to User.

Tx Pwr

30-40
dBm

Specifies the selected Tx Output
Power at the DVR Antenna Port on
the DVR Tx frequency.

The Duplexer Tx Insertion Losses
as entered in the Interface to

Mobile Setup screen are

compensated by the DVR PA
Output to produce the
programmed Tx Power at the
Antenna Port.

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Field Name

Options

/ Units

Description

Notes

R-Tx Pwr

30-39
dBm

Specifies the selected Tx Output
Power at the DVR Antenna Port
when the DVR transmits on its Rx
frequency to other DVRs.
Refer to the Primary /Secondary
Operation Paragraph for more
details.

The Duplexer Rx Insertion Losses
as entered in the Interface to
Mobile Setup screen are
compensated by the DVR PA
Output to produce the
programmed Tx Power at the
Antenna Port.

CCT

0-60 min

Continuous Carrier Timer –
specifies the maximum time a DVR
can be transmitting before its Tx
function is disabled. If the CCT is
set to 0 (OFF), the DVR operates in
continuous duty mode.

Does not affect Telephone
Interconnect Calls. Phone calls
have a separate CTT programmed
in the Digital System Setup.

ON/OFF Trigger

RSSI
Squelch
Sq&RSSI

Analog Mode – any ON/OFF trigger
can be selected.
Digital Mode – RSSI only allowed.
Mixed Mode – RSSI only allowed.

Squelch is invalid setting in Digital,
F. Analog or Mixed Mode DVR
Channels.

RSSI Thresh

-50 to

-127dBm

Default Setting is -115dBm.

The Duplexer Rx Insertion Losses
as entered in the Interface to
Mobile Setup screen are taken
into account to calculate the RSSI
at the Antenna Port.

Busy Lc Th

-65 to

-105 dBm

Threshold used during the dynamic
Busy Lockout Phase if Primary /

Secondary Enable BL for Voice
Comm is enabled (see Digital
Mode Settings menu).

Refer to the Primary /Secondary
Operation Paragraph for more

details.

Rx NID (h)

Hex #

Must match the P25 PSU Tx NID.
Serves as CAS validation in Digital
Mode (equivalent to Rx PL/DPL in
Analog Mode).

F7E Enables the DVR to receive
on any NID.

Applies to Digital, Mixed and
F.Analog Mode.

Tx NID (h)

Hex #

Must match the P25 PSU Rx NID.
Serves as CAS validation in Digital
Mode (equivalent to Tx PL/DPL in
Analog Mode).

Applies to Digital, Mixed and
F.Analog Mode.

Tx RSSI Th

-60 to

-110dBm

When a Secondary DVR detects a
request for DVR repeat and it does
not detect any Heart Beats coming
from the current Primary DVR, the
Secondary DVR checks for activity
on its Tx frequency (exceeding the
Tx RSSI Th) to determine if the lack
of Heart Beat is due to the Primary
DVR already repeating the Call. If
no activity is found to exceed the Tx

RSSI Th the DVR will check again

and if 3 heart beats are missed, the
DVR will negotiate becoming a
Primary.

Refer to the Primary /Secondary

Operation Paragraph for more

details.

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Field Name

Options

/ Units

Description

Notes

Rx RSSI Th

-60 to ­110dBm

The DVRs exchange
Primary/Secondary messages on
their Rx frequency while idle.
Before a Primary DVR sends out a
Primary Heart Beat (HB), it checks
for RF activity and HB exceeding

the programmed ‘Rx RSSI Th’ on

the Rx frequency. If the Primary
DVR does not detect any RF

activity or HB exceeding the ‘Rx
RSSI Th’, it will proceed with

sending a Primary HB. If it detects

HB exceeding the programmed ‘RX
RSSI Th’, the Primary DVR backs

off and becomes non-Primary, on
stand-by. If a HB is detected but its

level is below the programmed ‘Rx
RSSI Th’ the DVR will stay a

Primary and send its HB. If it
detects RF activity on the Rx
frequency, the Primary DVR will
postpone the sending of its HB until
the Rx frequency is clear to ensure
the HB can be successfully (without
interference) received by the other
DVRS.

Refer to the Primary /Secondary

Operation Paragraph for more

details.

Bandwidth

Set 1
Set 2

Selects the Adjacent channel
spacing (12.5kHz or 25KHz) as
programmed in the ‘Frequency
Band Setup’ menu.

See ‘Frequency Band Setup’
Screen.

Steering

Yes
No

Enables (‘Yes’) or Disables (‘No’)

portable initiated steering of the
MSU mode (zone/channel). Based
on the PL/DPL programmed in the
PSU and received by the DVR. The
DVR steers the MSU to the
zone/channel that is associated
with a specific Rx PL/DPL
programmed in the DVR Steering
Table.

Applicable to Analog DVR Modes
only.

Steering Table

screen

Opens a steering Table that
enables the user to program up to
14 different mobile modes per DVR
channel and the corresponding Rx
PL/DPL codes that are used as
steering triggers. When the DVR
receives a LPSU transmission with
the programmed PL/DPL, it will
steer the MSU to the corresponding
MSU mode.

Applicable to Analog DVR Modes
only.

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Field Name

Options

/ Units

Description

Notes

Steering in
Emergency

Yes
No

Default setting is ‘No’ (Disabled).

When steering in emergency is
Disabled, the DVR suspend
steering until the emergency is
cleared. The DVR disregards the
programmed RX PL/DPL and
repeats all traffic to the System.

If enabled (set to ‘Yes’) the VR

steering does not change when
emergency has been declared.

Applicable to Analog DVR Modes
only.

Steering Revert

Yes
No

Enables (‘Yes’) or Disables (‘No”)

MSU revert to the originally
selected zone/channel after the
steering inbound call is complete
and the Steering Hang Timer has
expired.

Applicable to Analog DVR Modes
only.

UID Translation

Yes
No

Enables (‘Yes’) or Disables (‘No”)
DVR shall replace the PSU’s
source ID and TG with MSU’s ID

and MSU’s TG

The <Unit ID Translation> feature
is supported on digital DVR
channels only.

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Mobile Radio Channel Setup

The DVR operation may be enabled on some MSU modes and disabled on others as
selected and programmed in the personality of the MSU interfaced to the DVR.

The DVR must be ‘made aware’ as to which TGs are ‘DVR Enabled’ and which are ‘DVR

Disabled’. The DVR can be used only on the MSU modes listed in the Mobile Radio

Channel Setup screen accessible via Tweaker. The Mobile Radio Channel Setup data is
extracted by first exporting the MSU data (using the Motorola CPS) and then importing the
data by using the Import → Motorola XML function of the Tweaker as described in the
next paragraph.

Importing Motorola XML File
After programming the APX MSU DVRS operation and exporting the XML file using the

Motorola CPS, the data needs to be imported into the DVR by using the Import →
Motorola XML file function of the Tweaker. Any change to the MSU programming may
require exporting and importing of a new XML file in order to update the DVR programming
personality to match that of the MSU.

Configuring the Mobile Radio Channel Settings in the DVR

Field Name

Range

Description

Notes

Zone #

Read Only

This field is extracted during the
“Import Motorola XML File”
process.

Ch. #

Read Only

This field is extracted during the
“Import Motorola XML File”
process.

Name

Read Only

This field is extracted during the
“Import Motorola XML File”
process.

Pers. Type

Read Only

This field is extracted during the
“Import Motorola XML File”
process.

TG #

Read Only

This field is extracted during the
“Import Motorola XML File”
process.

Emergency
Revert

Read Only

This field is extracted during the
“Import Motorola XML File” process.

This field will be marked
red (invalid) if it:

• Points to MSU
channel, which TG
Mode is "Disabled"

• Points to a ‘VR
Disabled’ zone and

channel

• Points to an MSU
channel, which does
not have the current
VR channel in the list
of allowed VR
channels

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Field Name

Range

Description

Notes

Emergency Rev
Item #

Item # (on
the same
screen)

The correct Emergency Revert MSU
Mode referenced by its Item # must
be programmed to indicate which
mode the MSU must revert to and
issue the PSU emergency on.

Important: Specifying an
incorrect Item # in this field may
result in the loss of Emergency
and subsequent Emergency
communications!

Entering ‘0’ in this field is
equivalent to ‘No revert’.

Applicable to non-proxied
P25 PSU operation (such
as during TG translation),
analog PSU or Forced
Analog/Forced Analog All
PSU operation when the
selected MSU mode is
Type 2 Trunked or P25
Trunked (FDMA or TDMA).

This field will be marked
red (invalid) if it:

• Points to zone entry

• Points to MSU

channel, which has
‘TG Mode’
programmed as
"Disabled"

• Points to value that is
greater than Num. of
Items

• Points to an MSU
channel, which does
not have proper set of
VR channels in the list
of allowed VR
channels (Emergency
Revert MSU channel
must have all VR
channels that the
originating MSU
channel has)

Emergency ACK
type

‘VR ACK’
‘Site ACK’

‘Console

ACK’

‘Uncond. VR

ACK’

If set to ‘VR ACK’ – emergency sent
by the local PSU and received by the
DVR is immediately acknowledged
by the DVR.
The DVR sends ACK to the PSU only
after FNE Site ACK or RCM ACK
when this field is set to ‘Site ACK’ or
‘Console ACK’ respectively.
When ‘Uncond. VR Ack’ is selected
and the MSU is Out of Range, the
DVR is unable to transmit the
Emergency Alarm and the DVR will
send an ACK to the PSU to stop the
subsequent emergency retries.

Applicable only when the
‘Portable Ack Rq’ field on
the Emergency Mode
Setup screen is enabled
(checked).

Steer NID (h)

Hex number

Hex number used for remote
change of MSU TG/channel. Must
match the NID programmed in the
PSU.

Refer to the “Remote

DVR Control / TG

Steering” Paragraph.

VRch

number

If Independent Channel Change is
Disabled (i.e. DVR Ch Strapping is
enabled), this field determines which
DVR Channel will be automatically
selected upon selection of the
specified Mobile Radio Mode (TG or
Channel).

‘Strapping’ is Enabled /

Disabled by the

Independent Channel
Change Field in the DVR
Common Setup Menu.

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Field Name

Range

Description

Notes

TG Mode

None
Local
System
User
Disabled
OFF

Enables or Disables Slaving of the
DVR Mode to the selected TG.
‘None’ → this selection assumes no
specific DVR Mode is linked to the
TG. The DVR stays in the last mode
or the Mode associated with the
DVR Channel.
‘Local’ / ‘System’ → This selection
forces the DVR Mode to change to
either Local or System respectively
upon selection of the TG.
‘User’ → The Last DVR Mode that
was selected by the User is in effect
and the User can change it as
required.
‘Disabled’ → DVR is Disabled when
this TG is selected.
‘OFF’ → DVR is in OFF mode when
this TG is selected.

The ‘Disabled’ setting
must be selected in case
of multi frequency band
MSU modes (trunked or
conventional) when band
locking is enabled (i.e. no
in-band filters are
installed).
In such case, if a different
TG Mode is selected, the
Tweaker TG Mode field
will be red and the

personality can’t be saved

in the DVRS.

Manual Mode Chg

Enabled
Disabled

Enables or Disables the Mode
change (SYS / LOC) via the VRS
button when a specific TG is
selected.

VR Ch All Alwd

Yes / No

This field specifies if the User can
select from any programmed DVR
channel or from a short list. If
Strapping is Enabled, the DVR will
steer to the programmed strapped
DVR channel, yet the User may still
be able to select a different channel
if more then one entries are enabled
in the ‘VR Ch List’.

VR Ch List

0 - max # of
programmed
DVR
channels

Enables the selection of which DVR
channels are selectable when a
specific MSU TG / Channel is
selected on the MSU CH.

Applicable only if the “VR
Ch All Alwd” field is set to
“No”.

RCM (hex)

Read Only

This field is extracted during the
“Import Motorola XML File”
process.

PTT ID

Enabled
Disabled

Enables or Disables the pass
through of the PSU PTT ID through
the DVRS.

Applies to analog mode
(MDC PTT ID).

Sys Repeat

Read Only

This field is extracted during the
“Import Motorola XML File”
process.

Non ASTRO Sign

Read Only

This field is extracted during the
“Import Motorola XML File”
process.

Freq Band

Read Only

This field is extracted during the
“Import Motorola XML File” process.

For APX8500, this field is

set to ’Multiband-InB’ or
“Multiband-XB’ depending

on the DVR-MSU inband
or Crossband
Configuration

TDMA X2

Read Only

This field is extracted during the
“Import Motorola XML File” process.

Refers to X2 type of TDMA
MSU Mode.

TDMA Ph2

Read Only

This field is extracted during the
“Import Motorola XML File” process.

Refers to Phase 2 type of
TDMA MSU Mode

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Field Name

Range

Description

Notes

P25 Trunking
System

MSI

Non MSI 1

Non MSI 2
Non MSI 3

‘MSI’_ Default.

The DVR/VRX sends the ‘Status’

received from the P25 PSU to the
MSU without any change.

‘Non MSI 1’ The DVR/VRX adds 1
to ‘Status’ received from the P25

PSU and forwards the incremented

‘Status’ to the MSU.
‘Non MSI 2’ reserved for future use
‘Non MSI 3’ reserved for future use

Applicable only to P25
Trunking Channels.

Hardware Setup Menu

Field Name

Range

Description

Notes

RSSI
OFF
Hysteresis

Speed

2-20dB

1-10ms

Sets the RSSI CAS OFF threshold in
dB below the RSSI CAS ON Threshold
(see Repeater Channel Setup Menu).

Sets the RSSI Averaging Integration
Time.

Typically set to 5dB.

Typically set to 5ms.

Squelch
ON Threshold
OFF
Threshold

Speed

4-28dB
3-25dB

10-150ms

Sets the Squelch ON and OFF
thresholds.

Squelch Averaging Integration Time.

Affects Analog Mode only.
Typical recommended settings
are ON: 16dB SINAD
OFF: 10dB SINAD.

Typical setting is 25ms.

Reptr FM Dev.
Limit

12.5kHz
25kHz

0.75–2.5kHz

1.5 - 5kHz

Typically set to 2.12kHz (12.5kHz
channel spacing) or 4.25kHz (25kHz
channel spacing.

Affects Analog Mode only.
Depends on the selected
Channel Spacing – refer to the

Frequency Band Setup menu.

PL FM
Deviation

12.5kHz
25kHz

0.19-

0.75kHz

0.38-1.5kHz

Typically set to 0.38kHz (12.5kHz
channel spacing) or 0.75kHz (25kHz
channel spacing.

Affects Analog Mode only.
Depends on the selected
Channel Spacing – refer to the

Frequency Band Setup menu.

PL STE Delay

120-250ms

PL Squelch Tail Elimination Delay. Must
be set to match the portable setting.
Typical setting is 150ms.

Affects Analog Mode only.
If this field is programmed too
short the squelch tail will not be
fully eliminated. If it is
programmed too long, the
portable may unmute
unnecessarily.

Automatic VR
Activation
(AVRA)

Enable /
Disable
check box

Enables or Disables the Automated VR
Activation (AVRA) Option.

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Field Name

Range

Description

Notes

AVRA
Function

Activate
Only

Activate /
Deactivate

Toggle

If AVRA is Enabled then this field can
be set to one of the following:
‘Activate Only’ → Once the DVR is ON
it can not be switched OFF via the
AVRA trigger. It can only be switched
OFF from the MSU CH.
‘Activate / Deactivate’ → If the AVRA
trigger is de-asserted, the DVR
automatically switches ON or OFF.
‘Toggle’ → The DVR is switched OFF
every second time the AVRA trigger is
asserted.

Only applicable if AVRA is
Enabled.
The ‘Activate / Deactivate’
setting is typically used when
the AVRA trigger is a Portable
charger. Removing the portable
from the charger switches the
DVR ON (System Mode).
Placing the Portable back in the
charger switches the DVR
OFF.
The ‘Toggle’ setting is typically
used when the AVRA trigger is
a car door switch. Closing the
door the first time does not
deactivate the DVR.

AVRA uses
VIP on CH

Enable /
Disable
check box

This field must be set to Enabled when
the AVRA trigger is wired up to a VIP
I/P on the Mobile Radio Control Head
or DEK.

AVRA
Activation
Tone

Enabled or
Disabled

This option enables or disables the

‘beep’ heard on the MSU speaker upon

DVRS mode change when triggered by
AVRA.

The same ‘beep’ is heard when

the DVRS mode is changed by
pressing the VRS button on the
control head.

DVR AVRA
Polarity

Active High
Active Low

Defines the DVR ON/OFF trigger
polarity when an external switch is
wired to pin 1 of the DB15 connector on
the DVR Auxiliary cable (7W083X06-

01).

Applicable when the DVR
ON/OFF activation trigger is
wired to the DVR Auxiliary
cable. Not applicable when

the DVR ON/OFF trigger is
wired to the mobile radio CH
VIP.

Tactical DVR

Enable /
Disable
Check Box

If a DVR is to be used as a tactical
repeater (without any mobile radio
interfaced to it) this field must be set to
Enable.

A Tactical DVR model requires
a different Power cable that
allows the DVR to be powered
up by itself i.e. does not require
a powered up MSU connected
to it.

Low Battery
Alarm

OFF – 13
Volts

When the DC supply voltage drops 0.5V
above the programmed threshold, a
‘BATTERY LOW’ warning will be
displayed and the DVR will send
warning tones to the portables over the
air. If the voltage drops below the
programmed level, the DVR is disabled
and ‘BATTERY LOW’ alternates with
‘VR ERROR’ on the MSU CH display
and the VR Transmitter is inhibited.
When the battery voltage reaches 0.8 V
above the programmed level the alarm
condition is reset and the DVR resumes
normal operation.

Typical setting is 10V.

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Field Name

Range

Description

Notes

Engine Start
Alarm

OFF – 9
Volts

In most installations the DVR is
programmed to be in the OFF mode
upon power up. If not, the ‘Engine Start
Alarm’ field may be enabled to prevent
the DVR from transmitting when the
voltage drops below the programmed
threshold during engine start up.

This option may be useful only
in installations where the DVR
is programmed to power up in
System or Local mode. Since
the recommended DVR Power
up mode is OFF, this option is
not needed in most
installations. Default setting is
OFF.

MSU RF
Bypass
Switch

Enable /
Disable
check box

This field must be enabled on all in­band DVR models equipped with an RF
Switch.

Relay 1 must be selected in the ‘Relay
Use’ field due to the Auxiliary Cable

wiring.

Applies to In-Band DVRS
Models Only. This option
enables the Switch connecting
the in-band filtering at the
output of the MSU.

Band Lock

Enable /
Disable

In some in-band application, the Band
Lock feature may need to be disabled
even though there is no In-Band filter
provided with the DVRS. The typical
application for Disabling the Band Lock
is a Fixed DVRS installation where all
the required isolation (min 70dB) is
provided by antenna separation and no
in-band filter is required.

If the ‘MSU RF Bypass
Switch’ option is enabled, this
field is ignored.
If the ‘MSU RF Bypass
Switch’ option is disabled, this
field determines the MSU
behavior if the MSU and DVR
operate in the same frequency
band.

External
Master Light

Enable /
Disable
check box

This field needs to be enabled on DVR
models using an external light which is
lit when a DVR is a Primary or
Permanent Primary.

Relay 2 must be selected in the ‘Relay

Use’ field due to the Auxiliary Cable

wiring.

This option requires external
switching logic and hardware
(provided by installer).

Relay Use

‘Not Used’

‘MSU RF

Bypass SW’

‘Duplexer

Bypass SW’

‘Master

Light’

‘LOC Mode

Light’

‘SYS Mode

Light’

‘DVR ON

light’

‘External

Alarm’

Relay 1 must be assigned to the RF
Switch OR the Duplexer Bypass Switch
if the corresponding option is installed.

Relay 2 must be assigned to the Master
Light if this option is installed.

The MSU RF Switch option is included
with all side-by-side and Transportable
in-band models.

All Lights, Alarm relays and
associated external logic are to
be provided by installer.

AFC
Cumulative

Enable
Disable

Enables or Disables the Cumulative
Automated Frequency Control (AFC)
tuning.

Default setting is Enable. Set to
Disable during calibration.

AFC Fast

Enable
Disable

Enables or Disables the Fast AFC
tuning.

Default setting is Enable. Set to
Disable during calibration.

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MSU Data

This screen provides MSU data for information purposes only.

PSU IDs Allowed

This menu screen is used to specify PSU IDs (or range of IDs) that are allowed to be
affiliated on the system via DVRS. If analog portables are used and MDC ID pass through
is required, then the PSU MDC ID must be enabled on the System and included in the
PSU ID Data list of the DVR. If the range is set to be from ‘0’ to ‘- -‘, then any PSU ID is
allowed to talk through the DVRS. This screen is Password protected. To view the range
of IDs the User needs to enter a password. To change the PSU ID list the User needs to
log in as Admin (requires password).

DVR Remote Activation IDs

This screen allows the user to enter the console or system radio IDs of units that can page
the MSU and toggle the DVRS mode. The default list is empty i.e. when the MSU is paged,
the DVRS mode is not changed. If the MSU is programmed to have the remote activation
enabled, then any Call Alert Page to the MSU ID from a system unit whose unit ID is
programmed in the DVRS Remote activation ID table, will trigger DVRS mode change. In
addition, a Group Page to a TG the MSU belongs to will toggle the DVRS mode as
described above.

Talkgroup Translation Table

When the local PSU transmits on a TG that is in the DVR Translation table, the call will be
transmitted on the TG currently selected on the MSU control head. The local PSUs must
be programmed with Normal squelch or NAC=F7E in order to be able to receive outbound
(system) or MSU Mic PTT calls when TG Translation is enabled. The TG Translation
Table allows the user to program the Local PSU TG IDs that are enabled for TG
Translation. The default list is empty, i.e. TG translation is disabled.

IMPORTANT!

Encryption Key Translation is not supported by the DVRS.

IMPORTANT!

The DVRS Translation table (and corresponding PSU programming) must not
contain TG IDs that are used by the trunked FNE side.

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Analog Setup

Field Name

Range

Description

Notes

System Mode
Tones – Trailing

Enable /
Disable Check
box.

Enables or Disables the Trailing Tones
sent by the DVR to the Local PSUs to
indicate state of the transmission.
The tones are sent at the end of LPSU
transmission.

Affects Analog DVR
Mode when used with
Trunked MSU mode
only. The tones are
heard by all LPSU users
that are on the selected
DVR channel since they
are sent over the air (not
generated in the LPSU).

System Mode
Tones – Lead

Enable /
Disable Check
box.

Enables or Disables the Lead Go Ahead
Tones sent by the DVR to the Local
PSUs to indicate successful /
unsuccessful system channel access.
The tones are sent at the beginning of
LPSU transmission. The LPSU user

needs to do ‘double PTT’ in order to be

able to hear the Lead tones.

Affects Analog DVR
Mode when used with
Trunked MSU mode
only. The tones are
heard by all LPSU users
that are on the selected
DVR channel since they
are sent over the air (not
generated in the LPSU).

Local Mode
Tones – Trailing

Enable /
Disable Check
box.

Enables or Disables the Trailing Tones
sent by the DVR to the Local PSUs to
indicate successful / unsuccessful DVR
transmission. The tones are sent at the
end of LPSU transmission.

The tones are heard by
all LPSU users that are
on the selected DVR
channel since they are
sent over the air (not
generated in the LPSU).

Local Mode
Tones – Lead

Enable /
Disable Check
box.

Enables or Disables the Lead Go Ahead
Tones sent by the DVR to the Local
PSUs to indicate successful /
unsuccessful DVR transmission. The
tones are sent at the beginning of LPSU
transmission. The LPSU user needs to

do ‘double PTT’ in order to be able to

hear the Lead tones.

Affects Analog DVR
Mode when used with
Trunked MSU mode
only. The tones are
heard by all LPSU users
that are on the selected
DVR channel since they
are sent over the air (not
generated in the LPSU).

Portable Trunk
Simulated
Access

Enable /
Disable Check
box.

Enabled only when the PSU user is

expected to do ‘Double PTT’ and

Leading Tones are enabled.

Busy Lockout
MBX2
Compatibility

Enable /
Disable Check
box.

When Enabled, the DVR changes its
voting algorithm, so it is compatible with
Mobexcom II VRs.

Busy Lockout
ID

0 - 127

If MBX Compatibility is Enabled, each
DVR/VR needs to be programmed with a
different ID. Larger fleets may have
duplicate IDs programmed, preferably in
different operation areas.

Busy Lockout
Master Bit Clr
Time

0 – 180
minutes

If enabled (set to >0), the last DVR that
was voted a Primary will have a priority
in the next voting for the duration of the
timer. The timer is reset every time a
DVR is voted a Primary.

Default setting is 0 i.e.
Disabled and all DVRS
units have the same
chance of becoming a
Primary during every
voting. Applicable only
when MBX2 compatibility
is enabled.

DTMF Remote
Control Code

Up to 5 digits.

Upon receiving a matching DTMF
sequence from a PSU, the DVR switches
from OFF or Local to System Mode. The
DVR and PSU must be programmed with
the same DTMF sequence.

The PSU must be
programmed with * as
the last DTMF sign, for
example 1234*.

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Field Name

Range

Description

Notes

MDC Decode
Delay Time

0-1000 ms

Set to 200 ms more than MDC ‘System

Pretime’ programmed in PSU.

If set to 390 ms or less, the DVR will wait
for MDC signaling to be decoded before
proceeding. If MDC is decoded DVR will
proceed accordingly (initiate call,
emergency handling, etc).

If set to 400 ms or more, the DVR ignores
PSU emergency retries for the duration of
the timer to allow proper processing of a
decoded MDC1200 emergency to the
system and sending of emergency ACK to
the PSU.

If the PSU MDC ‘System
Pretime’ is set to 50ms,

this field should be
programmed as 250ms.

If the PSU MDC ‘System

Pretime’ is set to 700-

800ms, this field should
be programmed as
1000ms.

MSU Mode
Steering Hang
Time

0-60 seconds

When programmed to 0, the MSU stays
on the steered mode after the PSU
inbound call is over.
If programmed to >0, the DVR forces the
MSU to return to the original MSU mode
when the PSU inbound call ends and the
programmed timer expires.

Applicable when Steering
is Enabled.

Microphone
Signaling

None
Leading
Trailing
Both

Specifies the type of MDC or TPS
signaling sent by the DVR to the Local
PSUs upon MSU Microphone PTT.

TPS signaling is
applicable to TPS DVR
Channels only.

Encrypted Call
Support
Inbound Calls
Enabled

Enable/Disable
Check Box

When enabled the DVR is capable of
handling P25 Encrypted calls while on
analog DVR channel.

Related to ‘Outbound
Call Audio’ field: Enable
when Outbound Call
Audio set to Digital,
Disable otherwise.

Outbound Call
Audio

Digital
Clear
Warning Tones

Specifies the DVR repeat type when P25
Encrypted Outbound Calls are received
by the MSU and an Analog DVR channel
is selected.

Applicable to Analog
Mode only. Related to
‘Inbound Calls Enabled’
field.

Important: Current
implementation only

supports ‘Clear’

selection if MSU is
operating on
Conventional Digital
capable mode.

Simplex
PPI Interval

Disabled
500-10000ms

When enabled (Simplex Analog DVR
channels only), the DVR will periodically
interrupt transmissions during System
outbound calls and check for PSU activity.
If PSU activity is detected, the DVR will
drop the outbound call repeat and give
higher priority to the PSU Inbound call.

Applicable to Simplex
Analog DVR channels
only.

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Field Name

Range

Description

Notes

Fallback in
Analog Simplex
Mode Enabled

Enable /
Disable check
box.

If enabled, a non-Primary DVR that
detects a valid Inbound or Outbound Call
will monitor for Primary DVR repeating the
call and if such is not detected, the non­Primary DVR will repeat the call. The non­primary DVR only temporarily repeats the
call and does not become a Primary when
Primary repeat is not detected. The first
few seconds of the Inbound or Outbound
Call are always lost while the non-Primary
DVR is checking for Primary repeat and
deciding if fallback is needed. MSU MIC
PTT will key up both the DVR and the
MSU.

Applicable to Simplex
Analog DVR Mode only.

PSU Analog
Audio Queuing

500 – 1300ms

Defines the analog audio buffer, which
prevents the loss of audio at the
beginning of transmission while the MSU
is acquiring channel grant. Longer time
value may cause the PSU user to hear the
tail end of his own transmission.

Default setting is
1000ms. Applicable to
Trunking systems where
system access channel
grant may take 1000 –
1500ms.

MDC PTT ID
Offset

0 - 16777215

The DVR will add a user programmable
value/offset to the PSU MDC ID while
proxying a call to a P25 Trunking system.

PSU Priority
Outbound
Takeover By
Voice Allowed

Enable /
Disable check
box.

Enables / Disables the PSU Voice
takeover when the MSU is receiving an
outbound call.

PSU Priority
Outbound
Takeover By
Signaling
Allowed

Enable /
Disable check
box.

Enables / Disables the PSU Signaling
takeover when the MSU is receiving an
outbound call.

PSU Priority
Local to System
Call Upgrade
Enabled

Enable /
Disable check
box.

Enables / Disables the PSU call to be
upgraded from Local to System when the
MSU is no longer receiving an outbound
call and is allowed to transmit to the FNE.

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DVR Common Setup

Field Name

Range

Description

Notes

Local Mode
Allowed

Enable /
Disable
Check box.

Enables / Disables Local DVR
Mode selection by the User.

The DVR can still revert
temporarily to Local mode (when
the System is not available) even
if Local mode is Disabled.

Rptr
Independent
Channel Change

Enable /
Disable
Check box.

When Enabled the DVR channel
can be selected independently from
the selected MSU channel. When
Disabled, the DVR channel is
strapped to the selected MSU
channel.

Power Up Mode

Fixed
Last
Programmed

Specifies the DVR Mode upon
Power Up. When ‘Programmed’ is
selected, the DVR Mode is as
programmed for the selected DVR
channel or MSU Mode.

Default setting is Fixed.
If AVRA is Enabled then the
Power Up mode is driven by the
AVRA input.

Fixed Mode

System
Local
OFF

Specifies the DVR Mode when
Fixed Power up option is selected.
Typical recommended setting is
OFF.

Default setting for vehicular
mount models is OFF

Channel

Disable –
max # of
programmed
DVR
channels

Specifies the Default DVR Power
up Channel. If set to Disable, the
DVR reverts to the last used
channel upon Power up.

No Activity Timer

- Repeater

Disable –
120 min

If the DVR is not active (does not
receive any local PSU calls) for the
programmed period of time, it will
automatically switch from System
or Local to OFF Mode. The DVR
sends warning tones to alert the
Local PSU users every minute
during the last 5 minutes prior to
switching OFF.

Outbound calls, received by the
MSU and repeated by the DVR
will not reset the timer.

Display
PTT ID

TG ID

Hang Time

Enable /
Disable
check box.

0-5 sec

Enables / Disables the display of
Portable PTT ID and TG ID on the
Control Head.
Outbound calls TG ID is displayed
(when enabled) during proxied calls
as well.

Determines the hang time during
which the ID remains displayed
after the call has ended.

Repeater Active
Tones

Enable /
Disable
check box

Enables / Disables the sending of
tones when the DVR is switched to
System (and optionally Local)
Mode. The repeater active tones are
transmitted over the air to all Local
PSUs tuned to the same DVR
conventional channel.

Tones are sent when switching
from OFF to LOC or OFF to SYS
occurs. Tones are not sent when
switching SYS to LOC or LOC to
SYS.

Local Mode
Active Tones

Enable /
Disable
check box

Enables / Disables the sending of
tones when the DVR is switched on
in Local Mode. The repeater active
tones are transmitted over the air to
all Local PSUs tuned to the same
DVR conventional channel.
Requires enabling of the ‘Repeater
Active Tones’ Field.

Tones are sent when switching
from OFF to LOC or OFF to SYS
occurs. Tones are not sent when
switching SYS to LOC or LOC to
SYS.

8M083X25 R14

APX Series P25 Interface

DVRS Installation & Programming Guide – PART II

January 2019

Page 81 of 153

Field Name

Range

Description

Notes

DVR Active
Warning Tone
Interval

0-255 sec

When the DVR is in either Local or
System Mode, it can be

programmed to sound “DVR Active”

Tones in the MSU Speaker. This
field specifies the repeat interval
between those tones.

MSU Mic call
Repeat in LOC
Mode

Enable /
Disable
check box

When the DVRS is in the LOCAL
mode, this setting determines if
MSU Mic calls are repeated by the
DVRS to the Local PSUs (when
Enabled) or not (when Disabled).

This option is related to ‘MSU
System PTT in Local Mode’ option

in the MSU CPS which enables
MSU Mic call repeat to system
while DVRS is in LOCAL mode.
Typically in LOCAL mode Mic calls
are repeated only to Local PSUs by

disabling ‘MSU System PTT in
Local Mode’ and enabling ‘MSU

Mic Call Local Repeat in LOC
Mode’ option.

Warning: if both options are

disabled, functionality of the MSU
microphone in LOCAL mode will be
disabled

In single DVRS user applications
this option could be used to
disable local repeat and prevent
audio feedback from MSU Mic
and LPSU when the user is
inside the vehicle.

If ‘MSU System PTT in Local

Mode’ option in MSU is enabled,

MIC audio is transmitted to
system.

See Table 11 Summary of

Local Mode Microphone Audio
Handling - Programmable
Options

MSU Mic call
Repeat in SYS
Mode

Enable /
Disable
check box.

When the DVRS is in the SYSTEM
mode, this setting determines if
MSU Mic calls are repeated by the
DVRS to the Local PSUs.

When disabled (unchecked) the
DVRS does not transmit Mic audio
to the LPSUs when the MSU Mic is
PTT-ed and the DVRS is in the
SYSTEM mode.

When enabled (checked), MSU Mic
call audio is transmitted by both the
MSU and the DVR when the DVR

is in SYSTEM Mode. This is default

option for DVR.

In single DVR user applications
this option could be used to
disable local repeat and prevent
audio feedback from MSU Mic
and LPSU when the user is
inside the vehicle.

DVR Activation
via MSU Mode
Change

Enable /
Disable
check box.

Enables / Disables the DVR
activation by changing the selected
MSU Mode. If disabled and the
DVR is in OFF mode, changing the
MSU selection to a new mode
programmed for SYSTEM or
LOCAL will not cause any change
to the DVR mode (DVR stays
OFF). If enabled and the MSU
mode is changed to a new one
programmed for SYSTEM or
LOCAL then the DVR will switch
from OFF to SYSTEM or LOCAL
respectively.

8M083X25 R14

APX Series P25 Interface

DVRS Installation & Programming Guide – PART II

January 2019

Page 82 of 153

Field Name

Range

Description

Notes

System Channel
Acquisition Time

600 – 6000
ms

Determines the DVR wait time for
the system grant before the DVR
decides what tones (ACK or NACK)
must be sent to the Local PSUs
and starts local repeat.

This timer also determines the
maximum number of retries that
will be made by the DVRS in
order to acquire a system
channel. These retries are sent
every second so if the intent is to
allow 2 retries, the timer needs to
be set to 1800 – 2000ms in order
to allow sufficient system
response time.

This VR ID

number

Specifies the ID of the DVR, which
is used for remote DVR mode and
TG change. If not specified, the
DVR will assume the ID of the
currently interfaced MSU.

Refer to the Remote DVR
Control / TG Steering Section of
this Document.

Fallback to Local
Repeat Disabled

Checkbox

When this box is checked the
fallback to Local Repeat is disabled

Enable Bypass
Algorithm for
APX 8500

Checkbox

When enabled the algorithm would
assure that MSU In-band filter is in
use only when MSU is operating on
the zone/channel that is in the
same band as DVR.

MSU CPS

MSU System

PTT in Local

Mode

DVRS

Tweaker
MSU Mic Call
Local Repeat
in LOC Mode

Tx Mic Audio

to

FNE/system

Tx Mic

Audio

To Local

PSUs

Comment

No

No

Warning: MIC

functionality disabled,

audio not transmitted

No

Yes

Typical setting for

DVR

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

Table 11 Summary of Local Mode Microphone Audio Handling - Programmable Options

8M083X25 R14

APX Series P25 Interface

DVRS Installation & Programming Guide – PART II

January 2019

Page 83 of 153

Emergency Setup Menu

Field Name

Range

Description

Notes

Analog
Emergency
Signaling Type

Disable
MDC1200
ANI-5 Tones

Determines the type of
emergency signaling used by
the Local Analog PSUs.
When ANI-5 Tones is selected,
the PSU must be programmed
to transmit 4 Tones followed by
B - for example 1234B. The
Emergency ACK sent by the
DVR to the PSUs will be the
same tones followed by A i.e.
1234A.

Affects Analog Mode only.

Display PSU
Emergency ID

Enable /
Disable Check
box.

Enables / Disables the Local
PSU ID display during the
processing of an Emergency by
the DVR.

In Digital Mode – the P25 Unit ID is
displayed on the Control Head,
Local PSUs, System Radios and
Dispatcher Console.
In Analog Mode – the MDC1200 or
ANI ID is displayed on the Control
Head.

Send Emergency
Ack. Tones

Enable /
Disable Check
box.

Enables / Disables the
Emergency ACK Tones sent by
the DVR to Analog PSUs.

Affects Analog Mode only.
All Tones sent by the DVR in
Analog Mode are heard by all
PSUs tuned to the same DVR
Channel, which PSUs are within
the DVR radio coverage area.

Portable Ack
Required

Enable /
Disable Check
box.

Enables / Disables the
Emergency ACK signaling sent
by the DVR to the PSU when
the DVR receives a PSU
Emergency Alarm.

Default setting is Enabled.

Attempts
Timeout

30-255 s

After decoding an Emergency
request from a PSU, a
Secondary DVR waits for the
duration of this timer and if no
other emergency request is
received from the PSU, the
counter will be cleared. If
another emergency request is
received, the DVR will
increment the counter
accordingly – refer to the

Attempts Counter Setting.

Attempts
Counter

0-10

Determines the number of PSU
Emergency attempts a
Secondary DVR will need to
detect before it switches to
Primary System Mode and
processes the Emergency to
the System. This counter is
reset when the DVR sends an
ACK to the PSU or when the
Attempts Timeout timer
expires.
When set to 0 – the Secondary
DVR will not monitor if the PSU
Emergency is being serviced by
a Primary DVR or not.

8M083X25 R14

APX Series P25 Interface

DVRS Installation & Programming Guide – PART II

January 2019

Page 84 of 153

Field Name

Range

Description

Notes

ANI 5 Tone Type

EEA
CCIR
EIA

Determines the ANI 5-Tone
Type.
Must match the Analog PSU
programming.

Affects Analog Mode only.

Emergency
Cancel

Analog Signaling
Type

Disable
ANI 5-Tones
DTMF

If enabled, the DVR will clear
the emergency upon detection
of the programmed Emergency
Cancel Code.

Affects Analog Mode only.

Emergency
Cancel
Timeout

OFF-1200sec

If programmed, the DVR will
automatically clear the
emergency upon expiration of
the programmed timer.

Affects all modes.

Emergency
Cancel
ANI Code

number

This field specifies the
Emergency Cancel ANI /DTMF
Code sequence. Must match
the Analog PSU programming.

Affects Analog Mode only.
Applicable only if the Emergency
Cancel Signaling Type Field is
Enabled.
The PSU must be programmed
with * as the last DTMF sign, for
example 456*.

FG Emergency
Destination

Local
System
Both

Determines the routing of
Emergency message received
by the DVR from a Local PSU
on a FG enabled DVR channel.

Applicable to DVR channels which
have FG signaling enabled.

Disable DVR
Emergency Call
State

Yes / No

When enabled, if emergency
alarm or call was declared by
an analog PSU, the DVR enters
Emergency Call State and
remains in this state until all the
MDC PSU emergencies are
cancelled by the PSU or DVR.
While in Emergency Call State
DVRS would forward all calls
received from the analog PSUs
without leading PTT ID as
emergency calls. Calls received
from analog PSUs with the
leading PTT ID would be
handled accordingly. The DVR
Emergency Call State is
cancelled by pressing the
DVRS button, by
preprogrammed emergency
cancel timer or remotely via
Emergency Cancel ANI code.

Applicable to Analog DVR mode
and analog PSUs only.

Use MSU
Emergency ID

Yes/No

When enabled the MSU ID is
used instead of the PSU ID to
proxy Emergency alerts.

Applicable to Analog DVR mode
and analog PSUs only.

Digital
Emergency
DVR Emergency
Echo ACK
Enabled

Enable /
Disable check
box

Must be Disabled when using
Generic P25 PSUs since they
will treat signaling level Ack as
application level Ack. Must be
Enabled when using DVRS

Enabled PSUs and ‘Console

Ack’.

Requires ‘Digital Emergency
Portable Ack Required’ to be

Enabled.

8M083X25 R14

APX Series P25 Interface

DVRS Installation & Programming Guide – PART II

January 2019

Page 85 of 153

Field Name

Range

Description

Notes

Digital
Emergency
Portable Ack
Required

Enable /
Disable check
box

Enables / Disables the sending
of low level ACK by the DVRS to
the PSU upon receipt of an
Emergency Alarm.

The Emergency ACK type is sent
by the DVR depending on its
programming – VR ACK / Site
(FNE) ACK or Console ACK.
Default setting is Enabled.

TG1 Translation
Disabled

Enable /
Disable check
box

Default setting is unchecked
(TG1 translation is enabled). In
this case when a PSU
emergency is received (on
default TG1), the DVR
translates the TG ID to match
the currently selected MSU TG
ID. This way the emergency is
announced on the selected
MSU TG, not on TG 1, which
may not even exist in the
specific Trunking system.

Applicable to Fireground Analog,
Mixed and TPS type DVR
channels.

Switch DVR from
LOC to SYS if
MSU in
Emergency

Enable /
Disable check
box

When the DVR is in the LOC
mode and the user presses the
Emergency button on the MSU
CH the DVR will switch from
LOC to SYS mode when this
option is enabled (box is
checked). If the option is not
enabled, the DVR stays in LOC
mode after Emergency is
declared on the MSU.

Tone Setup Menu

The tones setup screen allows programming of custom tones / tone sequences, which are
sent by the DVR to the Analog PSUs during Analog Mode of operation only.
If no custom tones are programmed, the DVR will send the default sets of tones.

NOTE:

The tones sent by the DVR in analog mode are heard by all analog PSUs, which are tuned
to the same DVR channel and are within the DVR RF coverage area.

Morse Code Menu

The Morse code option needs to be programmed only when a DVRS is to be used as a
fixed repeater and the FCC rules require transmission of Repeater ID via Morse Code.

8M083X25 R14

APX Series P25 Interface

DVRS Installation & Programming Guide – PART II

January 2019

Page 86 of 153

Digital System Setup Menu

Field Name

Range

Description

Notes

Call Setup –
Pass Queue
Response to
PSU

Enable /
Disable Check
Box

If a Local PSU (affiliated through the
DVR) PTTs and the Call is Queued by
the Trunking System, the DVR does one
of the following:
* if the Pass Queue Response Box is
checked → the DVR sends a Queue
message to the PSU and forces the PSU
to wait until System grant is received or
* if the Pass Queue Response Box is
unchecked → the DVR enables the
PSU Call to be repeated locally (to the
other Local PSUs while it is not repeated
on the System side).

Call Setup –
Local To System
Call Upgrade
Enabled

Enable /
Disable Check
Box

When a Call from a Local PSU (affiliated
through the DVR) has been put in the
Queue by the System or blocked by
MSU conflicting service, and System

grant is received during the DVR’s Local

repeat of the PSU Call, one of the
following will occur:
* if the System Busy Channel Grant is
checked → the DVR promotes the Local
Call to System so that the remainder of
the PSU Call is repeated to the System
Users or
* if the System Busy Channel Grant is
unchecked → the DVR repeats the Call
Locally only until the Call is completed.

This setting is applicable
if the Pass Queue
Response to PSU is
Disabled i.e. Unchecked
or the System Channel
Acquisition time (see
System Setup 2) has
been exceeded.

Call Setup –
Pass Deny
Response to
PSU

Enable /
Disable Check
Box

If a Local PSU (affiliated through the
DVR) PTTs and the System sends back
a Deny response, the DVR does one of
the following:
* if the Pass Deny Response Box is
checked → the DVR sends a Deny
message to the PSU and the call is
cancelled;
* if the Pass Deny Response Box is
unchecked → the DVR enables the
PSU call to be repeated locally (to the
other Local PSUs) but not to the System.

Individual Call
Setup
Private Call
Setup Timeout

5-60 sec

Determines the time a Local PSU waits
after initiating a Private Call to another
Local PSU to receive a reply from the
destination Local PSU. If the timer
expires before the destination PSU
replies, the DVR cancels the Private Call.
Must be set to match the settings of the
PSU.

Affects Private Calls
between Local PSUs
only.
The DVRS handling of
Private Calls between
Local and System PSUs
is based on the Timeout
settings of the P25
System.

8M083X25 R14

APX Series P25 Interface

DVRS Installation & Programming Guide – PART II

January 2019

Page 87 of 153

Field Name

Range

Description

Notes

Individual Call
Setup
Private Call Hang
Timeout

10-60 sec

If no PSU activity is detected for the
duration of this timer, the DVR cancels
the Private Call and is ready for servicing
other calls.

Typical recommended
setting is 30 seconds.

Individual Call
Setup
Telephone
Interconnect
CCT

OFF – 60
minutes

If a telephone call between a local PSU
and the Trunking system is processed by
a given DVRS and the call exceeds the
programmed timer, the call will be
automatically disconnected. This timer
applies to phone calls only.

Individual Call
Setup
Telephone
Interconnect
Hang Timeout

10-60 sec

If no call activity is detected for the
duration of this timer, the DVR cancels
the phone call.

Typical recommended
setting is 30 seconds.

P25 Frame Sync
Detection Timer

30-255ms

Upon Carrier Activated Squelch (CAS)
activation, if the DVR digital decoder
does not detect P25 Frame sync before
this timer expires, the DVR analog
decoders will be switched on (i.e.
PL/DPL, DTMF, MDC1200…).

Applicable to Mixed
Mode DVR Channels
only. Default
recommended value is
set to 100ms.

VR Ch Mixed
Mode Hold Timer

0-255 sec

This timer determines the DVR Mode
Hang Time. If the DVR receives a call
from an Analog PSU, the DVR will stay in
Analog mode until this timer expires. Any
System reply which is received before
the timer’s expiration will be transmitted
in Analog Mode. The timer is started
when the originating Analog PSU keys
OFF.
Upon expiration of the timer, the DVR
switches to digital repeat mode.

Applicable to Mixed
Mode DVR Channels
only. When a Mixed
Mode DVR channel is
selected, the default
DVR mode is P25 Digital.

8M083X25 R14

APX Series P25 Interface

DVRS Installation & Programming Guide – PART II

January 2019

Page 88 of 153

Field Name

Range

Description

Notes

PSU Proxy
Disabled

Check box

If this box is checked, the TG Proxying
feature is disabled and the Local PSU
and MSU must be on the same TG in
order to establish communications. If the
Local PSU and the MSU are on different
TGs, the Local PSU will not be able to
affiliate and as a result it will not be able
to make calls until the TG selection is
matched.

Applicable to Digital &
Mixed Mode only.
Allows Local PSU users
to switch to different TGs
and their calls to be
proxied by the DVRS
regardless of the
selected MSU TG (as

long as it is ‘DVR

Enabled’).

PSU Priority
Inbound
Takeover
Allowed

Check box

When enabled, the DVR gives higher
priority to a LPSU call initiated during an
ongoing LPSU call.

PSU Priority
Outbound
Takeover by
Voice Allowed

Enable /
Disable Check
box

Enables / Disables the PSU Voice
takeover when the MSU is receiving and
DVR repeating an outbound call.

PSU Priority
Outbound
Takeover by
Signaling
Allowed

Enable /
Disable Check
box

Enables / Disables the PSU Signaling
takeover when the MSU is receiving and
DVR repeating an outbound call.

Network Status
Reporting
Interval

0-255 sec

Determines the intervals for sending
Trunking Network Status messages
(Failsoft, Out of Range or Site Trunking)

as well as ‘Local Mode’ Indication to the

Local PSUs.

The Local PSU will wait
two times the
programmed interval
before it declares being
Out Of Range.

PSU Digital
Audio Queuing

700 – 1800ms
Defines the digital audio buffer, which

prevents the loss of audio at the
beginning of transmission while the MSU
is acquiring channel grant. Applicable to
Trunking systems where system access
channel grant may take 1000 – 1500ms

Default setting is
1000ms. Reducing the
buffering time provides
lower throughput delay,
however may result in
truncated audio when
accessing the system
due to poor coverage
takes longer.

P25 Preamble
Length

0 – 400ms

This setting must be matched with the
APX PSU programming to ensure
adequate PSU unmuting

Default setting is 40ms

PSU Affiliation
Timeout

0-72 hrs

Determines the time a PSU ID will be kept
in the DVRS affiliation table without
detecting any activity from the PSU. After
the timer has expired, the DVRS
deregisters the PSU and sends a
deregistration request to the system.

Recommended setting
should match that of the

‘Affiliation Inactivity
Timeout’ of the System

(default is 12 hrs).

8M083X25 R14

APX Series P25 Interface

DVRS Installation & Programming Guide – PART II

January 2019

Page 89 of 153

Field Name

Range

Description

Notes

Adaptive Power
On Simplex
Channel
Enabled

Check box

If this box is checked the DVRS sends
P25 messages to the Local PSUs to
adjust their transmit power depending on
the received signal strength.
Enabling this feature is NOT
recommended in applications where
more than one PSU are used with a
single simplex DVRS since it will affect
the PSU-to-PSU communications range.
If this box is unchecked the Portable
power levels will be set to the codeplug
default.

Extends the battery life of
the XTS/APX Generic

and ‘DVRS Enabled’

Portables when they are
operated in digital mode.

Pass Scan
Indication to PSU

Check box

When this box is checked, the local PSU
icon will indicate that the audio is coming

from the MSU’s landed channel.

8M083X25 R14

APX Series P25 Interface

DVRS Installation & Programming Guide – PART II

January 2019

Page 90 of 153

Primary / Secondary Setup

Field Name

Range

Description

Notes

Disable Primary /
Secondary
Processing

Enable /
Disable Check
Box

Enables / Disables the Primary /
Secondary Processing globally.

Refer to the Primary /

Secondary Operation

Paragraph of this
Document.

Disable Primary /
Secondary
Processing On
Analog VR
Channels

Enable /
Disable Check
Box

Enables / Disables the Primary /
Secondary processing on analog
channels only.

If M/S is disabled on
analog channels, the
BL must be enabled or
else there will be no
simulcast prevention
processing.

Enable BL for
Outbound Voice
Comm. and Heart
Beat

Enable /
Disable Check
Box

Enables / Disables the dynamic phase of
the Busy Lockout Algorithm for Outbound
Voice calls and sending of Heart Beats.

Refer to the Primary /

Secondary Operation

Paragraph of this
Document.
Applicable to both
Analog and Digital DVR
Mode.

Enable BL for
Inbound Voice
Comm.

Enable /
Disable Check
Box

Enables / Disables the dynamic phase of
the Busy Lockout Algorithm for Inbound
Voice calls.

Refer to the Primary /

Secondary Operation

Paragraph of this
Document.
Applicable to both
Analog and Digital DVR
Mode.

Permanent
Primary Status
Enabled

Enable /
Disable Check
Box

If this box is checked the DVR will
always be forced into Permanent Primary
State.

The Default setting is
Disabled. Programming

more than one DVRS
as a Permanent
Primary in a given
system may result in
interference and loss of
communications.

Permanent
Primary Control
Disabled

Enable /
Disable
Check Box

If this box is checked the DVR status can
not be changed to Permanent Primary by
pressing the VRS button on the Control
Head of the MSU.

The Default setting is not
checked i.e. User Control
is allowed.

Allow Secondary
DVR to take over
OOR Primary

Enable/
Disable
Check Box

If enabled, this option allows Secondary
DVR to gain priority over Out-of-Range
Primary DVR

Same option would allow
Secondary DVR on Home
system to gain priority
over Primary DVR on
Foreign system.

Heart Beat
Interval

3-60 sec

Determines the time intervals at which a
Primary or Permanent Primary DVR
transmits Heart Beat messages to all
other DVRs in the area.

Refer to the Primary /

Secondary Operation

Paragraph of this
Document.

‘Heart Beat’ messages

are part of the Static BL
Algorithm Phase and are
transmitted on the DVR
Rx frequency.

8M083X25 R14

APX Series P25 Interface

DVRS Installation & Programming Guide – PART II

January 2019

Page 91 of 153

MSU Interface Setup

Field Name

Range

Description

Notes

DVR Language
Selection

‘English’
‘French’

Specifies the DVR Language
Selection, which should match the
MSU language selection.

If the MSU is using a
different language
selection besides English
or French, the DVR
should be set up for
English.

Number of
Impolite Retries

0 - 15

Specifies the number of impolite retries
sent by the DVRS to the System upon
receiving an Emergency Alarm from
the PSU.

Applicable to
Conventional MSU
Mode. It is recommended
that a longer sequence is
programmed in the DVR
compared to what is
programmed in the PSU.

Number of Polite
Retries

0 - 15

Specifies the number of polite retries
sent by the DVRS to the System upon
receiving an Emergency Alarm from
the PSU.

Applicable to
Conventional MSU
Mode. It is recommended
that a longer sequence is
programmed in the DVR
compared to what is
programmed in the PSU.

Number of
Emergency
Retries

0 - 15

Specifies the number of Emergency
retries sent by the DVRS to the
System upon receiving an Emergency
Alarm from the PSU.

Applicable to Trunked
MSU Mode

Fast Retries
Timer

500 –1500 ms

Amount of time the DVR will wait for a
response from Trunking system to a
previous request.

Set to 750ms as default

Slow Retries
Timer

1000- 5000 ms

Amount of time the DVR will wait to
allow conventional system to respond
to a previous request.

Default setting is 3000
ms.

Response
Pending Timer

500-2000 ms

Amount of time the DVR will wait for
an <Application Level Response> after
receiving a <Signaling Level
Acknowledgement>. DVR will stop
retries but hold off from sending any
other Proxy Requests until it receives
an <Application Level Response> from
the FNE or the DVR response pending
period expires.

Set to 750ms as default

Menu Timeout

0 – 120 s

Specifies the DVR Selection Menu
Timeout

0 = No Timeout

Short DVRS
Button Press

‘DVR Menu’

‘DVR Activation /

Deactivation’

Specifies the Short DVRS Button
press selection assignment.

Long DVRS
Button Press

‘None’

‘DVR Activation /

Deactivation’

‘Permanent

Primary Control’

Specifies the Long DVRS Button press
selection assignment.

8M083X25 R14

APX Series P25 Interface

DVRS Installation & Programming Guide – PART II

January 2019

Page 92 of 153

DVR System Topologies

The following table provides an overview of all possible DVR system configurations and
whether each is supported. The rest of the document provides details on the supported
system topologies.

PSU Type

DVR Ch

MSU / System Type

Conv.

Analog

Conv.

P25

Type II

Trunked

P25 FDMA

Trunked

P25 TDMA

Trunked

Analog

Analog

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Digital

No

No

No

No

No

Mixed

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Forced
Analog

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

Forced

Analog All

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

P25

Generic

Analog

No

No

No

No

No

Digital

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

Mixed

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

Forced
Analog

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

Forced

Analog All

No

No

No

No

No

P25

DVRS

Enabled

Analog

No

No

No

No

No

Digital

No

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

Mixed

No

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

Forced
Analog

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Forced

Analog All

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Table 12 DVR System Topologies- Voice

Global DVRS Features

This section describes Global DVRS features, which are common for all DVR channel
types.

Automated VR Activation (AVRA)

The MSU has Vehicular Interface Port (VIP) inputs that can be wired to a switch (refer to
the Motorola MSU installation documentation), which can be used for activation /
deactivation of the DVR. The switch that asserts the VIP Input could be the opening of the
car door, the removal of a PSU from the charger, a manual switch, parking brake switch
or a combination of the above. Alternatively, the AVRA trigger can be wired to the
designated pin on the DVR auxiliary cable as described in Part I of this manual.

The handling of the VIP inputs is determined by the ‘AVRA Function’ field programming in

the DVR as follows:

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• Activation / Deactivation: The DVRS activates when the VIP input is asserted
and deactivates when the VIP input is de-asserted.

• Activation Only: The DVRS activates when the VIP input is asserted and does
NOT deactivate when the VIP input is de-asserted.

• Toggle: The state of the DVR is toggled every time the VIP Input is asserted. No
action is taken when the VIP Input is de-asserted. This setting is intended to be
used when a car door switch is used as the AVRA trigger (opening the door
activates the DVR but closing it does not deactivate it).

The following table provides summary of the AVRA functionality as a function of the DVR
programming:

AVRA Configuration

System Mode

Allowed

VIP Input

Current DVR

Mode

New DVR mode

Activation / Deactivation

True

Asserted

OFF

SYSTEM

Activation / Deactivation

False

Asserted

OFF

LOCAL

Activation / Deactivation

True

Asserted

LOCAL

SYSTEM

Activation / Deactivation

False

Asserted

LOCAL

LOCAL

Activation / Deactivation

True

Asserted

SYSTEM

SYSTEM

Activation / Deactivation

True/False

De­asserted

ANY

OFF

Activation Only

True

Asserted

OFF

SYSTEM

Activation Only

False

Asserted

OFF

LOCAL

Activation Only

True

Asserted

LOCAL

SYSTEM

Activation Only

False

Asserted

LOCAL

LOCAL

Activation Only

True

Asserted

SYSTEM

SYSTEM

Activation Only

True/False

De­asserted

ANY

NO CHANGE

Toggle

True

Asserted 1st

OFF

SYSTEM

Toggle

False

Asserted 1st

OFF

LOCAL

Toggle

True/False

Asserted 2nd

LOCAL

OFF

Toggle

True

Asserted 2nd

SYSTEM

OFF

Toggle

True/False

De­asserted

ANY

NO CHANGE

Table 13 AVRA Functionality

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Band Locking

When both the MSU and DVR are configured to operate in the same frequency band, the
DVRS requires a special set of filters including an in-band filter placed at the MSU antenna
port. The special in-band filters are required in order to prevent interference when the DVR
and MSU are activated at the same time. When the in-band filter is not present (‘MSU RF

Bypass switch’ in the Tweaker Hardware setup screen is unchecked), the Band Lock

feature is enabled by default and the Tweaker prevents DVR operation on MSU channels
that are explicitly using the same frequency band as the DVR. On MSU channels where
the frequency band is not explicitly known such as in multi-site Trunking systems, the MSU
will be prevented from using frequencies in the same band while the DVR is active (i.e. in
SYSTEM or LOCAL mode). In this case the MSU will no longer allow roaming to sites
using the locked-out band. If the MSU is currently on a Trunking site that uses the locked­out band, the MSU will roam to another site. If no other sites are available, the MSU will

become ‘Out Of Range’. When the DVR is inactive (OFF mode), the MSU frequency band

is unlocked.
If Band Locking is disabled in the Tweaker, the MSU is allowed to roam to any site
regardless of the frequency band. A typical in-band application that may require Band
Locking to be disabled is the Fixed DVRS application when the MSU and DVR antennas
are mounted in such way as to provide minimum 70db of isolation and in-band filtering is
not required.
For MSU conventional channels where the band is known and fixed, the DVR restricts
access to channels using the locked-out frequency band.
If Band locking is enabled in the DVR and SCAN is enabled in the MSU, the MSU will skip
over any channels in the scan list that are configured to operate in the same frequency
band as the DVR.

In Car Monitor (ICM)

The ICM feature allows the MSU to monitor PSU voice traffic and is configurable in the
MSU codeplug as follows:

• ICM is enabled / disabled globally in the MSU via the ‘ICM Allowed’ field

• If ‘ICM Allowed’ is programmed in the MSU then ICM operation is further

configured on a per MSU channel basis via the ‘ICM Allowed’ codeplug field.

• ICM functionality is further configured to be triggered by either HUB on / off
transitions OR via Menu Item / Button on the MSU control head or keypad Mic.

When ICM functionality is configured to be triggered via HUB on/off then ‘ICM Selected’
operation takes place when the MSU microphone is placed on HUB, ‘ICM All’ operation

will take place when the MSU microphone is taken off HUB.
For details on how to program the ICM functionality and options in the MSU, please refer

to the corresponding Motorola documentation.
When the MSU is operating on a Trunking FNE with ICM enabled the following

configurations are available:

• ‘ICM Selected’ – the MSU speaker unmutes to PSU audio matching its selected
TG ID (digital DVR channel) or all qualified analog PSU audio (analog DVR
channel).

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• ‘ICM All’ – the MSU speaker unmutes to all PSU audio regardless of the TG ID
(digital DVR channel) or all analog PSU audio (analog DVR channel).

When the MSU is operating on a conventional FNE with ICM enabled the following
configurations are available:

• ‘ICM Selected’ and MSU configured for Selective Squelch – the MSU speaker will
unmute only to PSU audio matching its selected TG (digital DVR channels) or
qualified analog audio (analog DVR channels)

• ‘ICM Selected’ and MSU configured for Normal Squelch – the MSU speaker will
unmute to any PSU TG audio (digital DVR channels) or qualified analog PSU audio
(analog DVR channels).

• ‘ICM All’ – the MSU speaker unmutes to all PSU audio

Proxied Private Calls are never heard on the MSU speaker regardless of the Hang Up Box
(HUB) status.

NOTE:

Inbound Private calls to the MSU are not supported. Outbound Private Calls to the MSU
are heard on the MSU Speaker.

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Primary / Secondary - Operation and Programming Overview

The DVRS has a built-in simulcast prevention mechanism, which prevents more than one
DVRS from transmitting on the same frequency, at the same time, in the same location.

IMPORTANT!

The DVRS voting algorithm is designed to handle stationary, same scene
deployment scenarios only. It cannot be applied to moving vehicles with active
DVRS! Moving vehicles must have their DVRS switched to OFF or VR Disabled
mode.

The DVRs are capable of communicating with each other and negotiating which DVR is a
Primary i.e. elected to repeat and which DVRs are Secondary (i.e. on stand-by) for as long
as there is a Primary.

The simulcast prevention algorithm has two phases:

• Primary / Secondary Phase

• Busy Lockout Phase

During the ‘Primary / Secondary’ Phase, the DVRs exchange P25 messages on their Rx

frequency. When a DVR is activated (switched to SYSTEM or LOCAL Mode), it sends a
query – “Is there a Primary?” If it receives a Primary (or Permanent Primary) ‘Heart Beat’,
then the DVR assumes Secondary state. If no Primary Heart Beat is received, the DVR
becomes the Primary and starts sending ‘Primary Heart Beats’ notifying other DVRs of its
status.
The ‘Secondary’ DVRs monitor any DVR-related activity while in a Secondary mode and
execute Primary/Secondary checks periodically.

The ‘Primary’ DVR services any communication requests in the area and periodically

‘communicates’ its status to the other DVRs.

The Busy Lockout phase serves as an added protection by forcing the Primary DVR not
only to periodically communicate with the other DVRs in the area (using its Rx frequency)
but also to check for any activity on its transmit frequency prior to every repeat.

In order to accommodate the dynamically changing “real life” environment i.e. DVRs

arriving or leaving the scene at random time, DVR channel / mode changes, Permanent
Primary activation, remote DVR steering etc., the Primary / Secondary algorithm has
several built-in layers, configurable in the DVR programmed personality.

The transmit power during DVRS-to-DVRS transmission is set by the ‘R-Tx Pwr’ field in
the Repeater Channel Setup Menu. Typically this field is selected to be 4-5dB lower than
the ‘Tx Pwr’ setting.
Before a Primary DVR sends out a ‘Heart Beat’, it checks for RF activity on its receive
frequency to ensure the channel is free. If an RF signal is present and it exceeds the
programmed ‘Rx RSSI Th’, the DVR will wait until the channel is free before it transmits
its ‘Heart Beat’. When a Secondary DVR stops receiving ‘Heart Beats’, the DVR will check
for any activity on the transmit frequency to determine if the Primary DVR is busy
transmitting. If there is a transmission detected on the transmit frequency and it exceeds

the programmed ‘Tx RSSI Th’, the DVR will continue operating as a Secondary and

continue waiting for a ‘Primary Heart Beat’. If no activity is detected above the ‘Tx RSSI

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Th’ and 3 Heart Beats are missed, the Secondary DVR will start negotiating becoming a

Primary.

IMPORTANT!

The DVR cannot transmit Heart Beats while it is busy repeating.

The ‘Heart Beat’ Interval (3-60 sec) is set by the ‘Heart Beat Interval’ field in the

Primary/Secondary Setup. The default programmed Heart Beat Interval value is 5
seconds. When the ‘Enable BL for Voice Communication’ field (Primary/Secondary
Setup Screen) is enabled (checked), the DVRS goes through an extra simulcast
prevention check step. Prior to transmitting, a Primary DVR checks for any transmission
(on the DVR Tx frequency) exceeding the programmed ‘Busy LC Th’ (see Repeater
Channel Setup Menu). If no such RF transmission is detected on the transmit frequency,
the Primary DVR starts transmitting i.e. repeating. If transmit activity is detected, the DVR
transmits momentarily then checks again if another DVR is still transmitting and either
backs off (if the other DVR is still transmitting) or keys up if no transmission is present.
Disabling the DVR Primary / Secondary Processing from the Primary/Secondary Setup
Menu is intended for test purposes or if the DVR is installed in a fixed location. The
‘Permanent Primary Status Enable’ field (in the Primary/Secondary Setup Menu) is
disabled by default and should be used only at remote, fixed DVR installations or during
testing. The ‘Rx RSSI Th’ field in the Repeater Channel Setup screen determines the
Primary / Secondary range. If a DVR is receiving Primary Heart Beat from another DVR
at a level lower than the programmed threshold, the DVR will ignore the Primary Heart
Beats and will negotiate becoming a Primary DVR as well. The “Disable Primary /
Secondary Processing” box is to be checked only during bench testing. Primary /
Secondary processing should always be enabled during normal DVR operation except
during bench testing and in some fixed isolated installations (tunnels or in-building
systems using common filtering / combiners).

If Legacy Mobexcom II voting compatibility mode is enabled in the DVR, its voting
algorithm is compatible with older style analog only Mobexcom II VRs. Enabling this
feature allows seamless replacement of old style VRs with the new DVR by supporting the
deployment of both types of units in the same fleet during the transition period.

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Remote Mode change of DVRS by FNE / Dispatcher

Dispatcher can send a call alert (page) to a specific MSU ID, which in turn causes DVR
mode change in the following order: OFF-SYS-LOC-OFF.

The MSU can be programmed to support one of the following configurations:

• Call Alert / Remote Activation Disabled – the MSU does not respond to any Call
Alert requests

• Call Alert Enabled – the MSU responds to Call Alerts addressed to its ID and
does NOT initiate DVRS mode change

• Remote Activation Enabled – the MSU will acknowledge Call Alerts addressed
to its ID and will initiate DVR mode change provided the source ID of the Call Alert
is programmed in the “DVR Remote Activation IDs” table.

• When MSU is involved in any one of MSU features (emergency call, private call,
status, etc.) MSU will not accept the call alert from FNE.

“DVRS Remote Activation via Call Alert” feature is blocked by the MSU.

If “Generate Status on DVR Mode Change” is enabled for a given DVRS Profile (in the

APX MSU) , the MSU will send back a mode change status to indicate the current DVRS
mode (OFF, SYSTEM, LOCAL). Only the dispatcher console can interpret those status
messages:

DVR MODE

STATUS VALUE

OFF

1

LOCAL

2

SYSTEM

3

Dispatcher can’t force a non-primary DVR to become a primary and can’t activate a DVR
when a ‘VR Disabled’ mode is selected on the control head.

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MSU Scan
Supported MSU Scan Types

The MSU Scan feature is allowed while the DVR is active (System or Local Mode) if the
MSU Scan type is configured as one of the following:

• Conventional

• Multi-System Talkgroup

• Priority Monitor

• Voting

NOTE:

While the DVR is active, the Designated Voice Tx Member is ‘Selected Channel’

DVRS Enabled / Disabled Rules while MSU Scan is enabled

The Selected DVR channel settings are used across all MSU scan channels except when
the DVR operation is Disabled for the given MSU channel.
If the DVR selected channel is Digital and the MSU scans to an analog channel, the DVR
will become temporarily disabled.
If the Selected MSU channel is programmed as DVR Disabled, the DVR operation will
remain disabled even if the MSU scans to a channel which is DVR Enabled.
The DVR will become temporarily disabled if the MSU lands on a channel that is
programmed as DVR Disabled. In this scenario the DVR will not handle Outbound calls
received by the MSU but will still repeat Inbound PSU calls by reverting the MSU to its
selected channel.

Outbound Calls (received by MSU from the FNE) with MSU Scan Enabled

If the MSU is configured to only unmute to a specific TG ID or NAC, only the audio
containing the specified TG ID or NAC will be proxied by the DVR to the PSU.
Individual call signaling (Page, Call Alert, Message, Radio inhibit etc) originating from a
secondary (not the MSU selected) channel is not proxied by the DVR to the PSU.
Emergency Alarm / Call originating from a secondary channel are supported through the
DVR.

Inbound Calls (received by DVR from PSU) with MSU Scan Enabled

MSU Talkback and Designated TX are not supported when a PSU makes a call through
the DVR while the MSU has SCAN enabled. The MSU always moves back from the landed
to the selected channel when the PSU initiates a call through the DVR.
Talkback and Designated TX are supported only for MSU initiated calls.

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MSU ISSI Roaming

The NGI (New Generation Interoperability) feature and DVR feature will be allowed such
that a DVR MSU enabled subscriber may also be enabled for InterWACN-Roaming in the
subscriber codeplug. When the MSU roams to a foreign System the DVR will display “VR
Limited” to indicate to the user the limited functionality available.

When the MSU has roamed to the foreign system, the following features are not
supported by the local PSU.

• Private Call

• Telephone Interconnect

• Call Alert

• Dynamic Regrouging

• Radio Check

• Multisystem Scan

• Selector Lock

• Status

• Message

• Remote Monitor

• Reprogram Request

Unsupported PSU Features

The following PSU features are not presently supported by the DVRS or DVRS Enabled
PSUs:

• Evac Tone

• Hearclear

• DTMF Hot Keypad

• Securenet

• Soft ID

• QCII

• Singletone

• Conventional OTAR

• Authentication Demand packets

• Over-the-Air-Channel Reassignment (OTACR)

• Over-the-Air Channel Steering (OTACS)

• Over-the-Air-Programming (OTAP)

• PSU Scan

• Priority Channel PTT

• PSU Reprogram request / Selector Lock

• PSU Announcement Group operation

• PSU Phase II P25 conventional operation