REVIEW: AN/PRC-148 MBITR, working replica by United-Star
 

United Star AN/PRC-148 MBITR

There currently two offerings: the Spartan and Tactical Workshop working MBITR repros. I personally have no experience with them. There's also a few dummies, the Spartan being usually considered as the only one worthy. But... what about this new contender? A complete set with working military connectors, antennas and competitive functionnality for under 300$... Mmm...
For your pleasure, me and my teammate Yannos ordered two of these : to complete our setups (reenacting), have a good radio and be the early adopters to test them for you!

They are available from several retailers. A group order will also be made here on ASC to save you some money and cross-border trouble :)

Basic Information
The testing units are 2nd batch (November 2010), recognized by the "CCI" sticker on top. For those who saw Jimmy Sjogren's review (here) might notice that his review unit does not have this sticker which probably explains the differences with ours. "Real Deal" information: Wikipedia, Thales (Official manufacturer's website)

Technical specs

1. Adjustable stepping (5kHz/6.25kHz/10kHz/12.5kHz/25kHz/50kHz)
2. Adjustable transmitting power (0.5W/1W/2W/3W/4W/5W)
3. 100 Memory frequencies
4. Editable channel name
5. Voce emission feature (VOX)
6. Battery indicator
7. Cable replication
8. Adjustable backlight brightness
9. Lockable channel mode
10. 2000 mAh lithium battery
11. Headset compatibility: U283/U (electret microphones, or condenser with specific PTT) and Kenwood 2-pins.
12. Antenna compatibility: TNC

Packaging

1. 2000 mAh lithium battery pack
2. 0.34m (13.5po) short antenna
3. 1.2m (4ft) blade antenna
4. 1.1m (45po) antenna relocation cable + MOLLE clamp
5. Power adapter (battery charger)
6. Programming cable (serial plug... some people might need a USB adapter)
7. Programming software (see post #2)
8. User's manual (relatively good english, modern chinese, traditional chinese)
9. Wrist lanyard
10. Radio procedures sticker (Medevac/air support/deliberate attack considerations)

Review
Pictures (from the web, I'll take some myself later)


As you can see, the kit is complete. Comes with all you need to use it right away including -something I especially appreciate- United-Star's own version of the Antenna Relocation kit, which allows to install the large antenna on the back of a plate carrier if needed. Unfortunately, the included programming cable uses serial plugs which are getting phased out of most modern computers... You will need either a USB adapter (which might be tricky and cause drivers issues) or, my personal choice, just buy a USB programming cable. Being compatible with Kenwood cables (Kenwood, Puxing, Wouxun, etc... most midrange chinese 4/5W radios) makes it relatively easy to find.


Only thing that seems a bit less professional are the software miniCDs which are blank (not United-Star branded) and... don't always work. Mine did, but I had to send the software to my teammate as his wasn't working for some reason.


Other than this issue, the radio is beautiful; even if it has a plastic outer casing, it has a nice weight, and doesn't have any play anywhere. It feels sturdy, and the plastic is hard (won't get scratched too easily). The U283 comes with a plastic cover, attached with a small lanyard. The channel selection knob clicks nicely in place and the rubber buttons feel great. The LCD is also easy to use.

It is not waterproof, but it is waterresistant. So... if it rains, you shouldn't have any issues. But it's not designed to be submerged, so I would be careful if I have to cross a river or similar situations.

Only complaint I have as far as the exterior goes is the volume knob; it turns too easily, I can definitely see it getting turned all the way up/down ingame, eventually causing communications issues. We'll see later if there's anything to be done about this. If you're using the Kenwood-type plug (or need to program the radio), just remove the two small screws on the "gold" panel at the right of the radio, and make sure you don't loose them!

EDIT: Now that I've gamed it, it is indeed easy to turn the volume button by accident... I personally just set it then added a small piece of ducktape to keep it in place, but I'll check if there's anything else I can do that's less ghetto.

A little realism thing...not huge, but still: the MAST (antenna relocation cable) ends aren't covered, so they are visibly shiny silver. Not a huge issue, but I would've liked if they were either rubber covered or anodized. This should be easy to change with a small piece of heat shrink of the proper diameter.


As far as antennas goes, it's using the TNC plug - same as the real antennas, which can be found on eBay! For those who would prefer more low-profile antennas, it's easy to find SMA adapters to use Puxing/Wouxun/etc antennas. The whip antenna looks good. The blade antenna also looks good; it stays straight in the air if let loose, but also folds down easily without excessive torsion (which could lead to cracks on the joints) if needed. Note that the whip only has the gooseneck part that's working - what's left (the blade itself) is just a dummy for the looks which screws and the tip of the gooseneck.

Don't forget that you need to put some force down, and keep it while screwing on.


The battery pack is detachable and the mecanism is firm, no play at all. Unfortunately, as of feb 26th, none is available separately. I asked the distributor who told be it's not currently planned, but will see what can be done...

So far I used it for two game days (8h) without having to recharge it, so it should be good enough for most people during milsims under 48h (unless you're a designated radio operator and are constantly emitting).

As a base of comparison, a Puxing PX777 has a 1200 mAh battery... and I used had mine for 5 days in -25 weather on hike and it died on the 5th day. At 2000 mAh for the MBITR, it should definitely last long enough.

It comes with a "pin charger" (2,47mm diameter, 12V output, pending confirmation) which you just plug directly into the battery pack (see the small hole, on the battery below). Mine was North-American plug, which is correct for me. I do not know if there is an EU (or other standard) version.



Manual is bilingual (english/chinese). Not perfect, but totally understandable. That being said it's missing a section on software use (no manual on the CD, nothing in the booklet) and the section on programming directly on the radio is very basic, so you'll probably have to play around a bit. Anyone familiar with other radios shouldn't have a problem but newcomers to programmable radios will probably get lost in the options...

I will try to write a basic guide, but anyone willing to help is very welcome!


Many have been asking questions about the U283 plug... well first of all, it is fully working. However, the impedence it has been designed with means that you cannot use condenser mics out of the box.

It will work with, assuming you have the proper plug:

• Davie's TASC1 (real)
• Bowman (real)
• Peltor COMTACI/II (real) with Element/Z-Tactical microphone (it's plug & play without modification)
• Any repro (Element/Z-Tactical) headset rewired with a U283
• Peltor COMTAC & MSA Sordins with impedence matching box/mpedence matching PTT
• H250 (real)

As you can see, given you have the right PTT, it can work with any headset. Otherwise, if it doesn't have the correct impedence, you won't be able to emit properly (reception will work perfectly).

The Kenwood plug will work with all the usual suspects (Z-Tactical/Element, Cavalvy, etc...)


--------------------------

Q&A

Does it work on PMR frequencies?
Yes, it is adjustable within the software. I don't have any PMR radios (here in North-America, we're using FRS/GMRS frequencies) so I can't confirm, but based on the programming capabilities, it is. Emitting strenght is also programmable.

Is it compatible with FRS/GMRS?
Yes (well, 400-470), and yes, programmable either on the radio itself or on the software

--------------------------
(This is my personal radio, which I've "dirtied" a bit with some light paint)
--------------------------

NOTE TO ANYONE LOOKING TO BUY IT
For both FRS/GMRS and PMR frequencies, you should get the UHF 400-470mHz version.

--------------------------

Bottomline: being someone who's striving for realism, I'm glad I bought it. Even with the little issues, which can all be solved somehow,

--------------------------

Feel free to ask any other questions you might have! I will answer these to the best of my knowledge. Please post them in the topic (not by PM) so it can benefit other members... it also allows other people to answer, which can be done much faster than just me. Thanks!

I hope you enjoyed this review and that it will help you make a good and informed decision!


See following post for downloads and other utilities.

Software

Latest update (as of 2011-01-16)
I have modified to work on Seven.
-> Download here <-

I modified the setup.ini to install it on Vista and Seven.

In both cases, just unzip and run setup.exe

If you want to do the modification yourself ton install on Vista/Seven, you will need to copy the CD's contents on your computer, edit "Setup.ini" with Notepad and add this before the "Language" section:

Then you will be able to run Setup.exe and install it normally from your computer.

The serial number for the software is: 112-20100130


Mini programming guide

1. Make the sure battery is charged
   
2. Open the software (RDA1846) as administrator
   
3. Plug the radio & turn it on*
   
4. Do whatever you gotta do:
   I highly recommend starting with one of the files I provided and modify it to suit your needs.
   
   You can:
   - Insert your frequencies in the table (to use the wizard, click on the ">>" button on the right of the row). Even if you get an error, click "OK" and continue.
   
   - Edit preferences in the "Edit" -> "Optional Features" menu
   
   "Greet" input field is a message that will be shown when powering up the radio. I recommend your callsign or ID (for me, "Conker" or "EF06") but you can put whatever you fancy.
   
   - Load pre-made file with "Open" button or with "File" -> "Open"
   
5. Click on "Write to radio" button (CTRL+R, or menue "Program" -> "Write to radio")
   It should show a progress bar and if it worked, it will end with a popup "100% completed".
   If it shows "Data Fail", it might have actually worked anyway... The software is bugged. See next step to make sure everything worked.
   
6. Turn off radio. Turn it on again. Did it show your custom greetings message? If it did, that's because it worked! If the radio is locked, press and keep down "ESC" button until the lock, top left of the screen, disappears. You can check your presets by pressing "GR" button which will toggle the manual/preset mode, and then cycle thru them with either the arrows or the channel knob (top of radio, center).
   

*Some computers, usually older ones, might need COM devices to be plugged in at startup to be recognized by the BIOS. If nothing works, you can try rebooting the computer while having the radio plugged-in and turned on.


Downloads
Right-click, save as.

FRS/GMRS at 5W (This is the one for Canadians) frequencies preset file:
Download here

PMR (Europe) frequencies preset file. Thanks to Viking_Dane for his help!:
Download here

Wiring Guide
For those interested by these technicalities, each terminal is identified by a letter.

Letter ... Wire color ... Function
A .......... N/A ............. Power, Negative (Not wired)
B .......... Green ......... Headphone audio (single channel)
C .......... Yellow ........ PTT key
D .......... Red ............ Microphone audio
E .......... Blue ........... Speaker
F .......... N/A ............. Power, Positive (Not wired)

Note that A and F are useful only when using accessories powered with the radio's battery, so they are pretty much optional. The wire color is for the United Star replica, I have no idea if that's the same on real radios.

Thank you for the review.

The questions I have are:

1) Spare batteries (I see you have already thought about that, but wanted to let you know others were too!)
2) Charger - is it a standard cord (DC, 9, 12, etc. volts) or would spare chargers have to be made available from the manufacturer?

3) Software - what is the file type and does it appear to be different from the Puxing and Wouxun programming software?
4) Software - Can you program anything from the keyboard, like CTSS or DTMF codes?
5) Software - Can you get a version that can only be programmed (frequencies) from the software? If so, this would have a chance--albeit slim--of being FCC approved here in the US.

5) Band - Do you know if they do or will make a UHF/VHF dual band version?

6) Is the data connection pad on the right side of the radio just a dummy? It looks like it is just a cover for the Kenwood two pin plug jack.

so did you have a change to test the radio?

A lot of people are waiting to hear about if it works with real steal headsets.

To make it short ... No!
I got one of the very first Radios 6 weeks back with the help from a friend in china! But when testing with my Msa Sordins and 3 Nexus Ptt´s it does not work!

The connector on the radio needet to be modified to accept the 3 ptt´s (the 3 lugs on the radio weren´t deep enough to accept the ptt´s) and after finaly make em work the radio did nothing! Like i never connected anything!

When i opened the radio i saw the connector was soldered onto the board inside of the radio but it seems it serves no function ... Or atleast not on my radio/lemon i got!

Did send the radio to a friend (www.jimmysjogren.se ) but not even he could make it work!

Sorry guy´s .....

Those I received are supposed to be a 2nd batch with this corrected. I say supposed, so we'll see...

Hope you can test it soon so we all know .... An other way would be the new Toysoldier Mbitr´s with the 5pin plug ... can confirm that they work w/o problems ... tested with real Tci Ptt and Real comtac 2

Thanks Lucky, that's good info on the TS MBITR. Too bad the TS MBITR is not as good a radio. (no programming, only standard channels)

Conker, just waiting on your word about real steal compatibility with the 2nd batch.

Thanks again.

I am testing the RS headset, I should have my Radio tomorrow if CP isn't delaying. As soon as I test I will be putting my quick review here too for the RS headsets.

Please note when it is available for sale..price and link that would be great !....from my research most website is "out of stock" or ' Pre-order" at this time..:(

Ebaybanned has the new gen.2 "In stock" ... but somehow i cannot access the page with IE, Chrome or firefox so sry no link .....

http://img262.imageshack.us/img262/7174/img1662u.th.jpg

I'll take better pics after I've finished studying tomorrow, we're in the finals this week and next.

EDIT: Well my backup batteries for the camera have leaked and I can't find the charger for my rechargables, so I might have to do with the basic point and shoot... but I'll manage something.

Long post!

I received my United Star PRC-148 today!
Lets start on the review!


The box is quite bigger then I though it would be. The box is appealing and has a lot of info on it.

http://i424.photobucket.com/albums/p...w/DSCF0214.jpg


The padding inside the box is nothing spectacular. Just a plastic mold that is pretty flimsy. But it appears to hold everything in place as it should.
Everything is well packed and sealed in plastic bags.

http://i424.photobucket.com/albums/p...w/DSCF0215.jpg

What is included with the Radio?
-PRC-148
http://i424.photobucket.com/albums/p...w/DSCF0224.jpg

-Antenna, Whip Antenna, Antenna Adaptor
http://i424.photobucket.com/albums/p...w/DSCF0223.jpg

-Stickers, Antenna extension cord, Programing cable
http://i424.photobucket.com/albums/p...w/DSCF0220.jpg

-MOLLE antenna adapter (don't know how its actually called lol), Charger
http://i424.photobucket.com/albums/p...w/DSCF0222.jpg

-CD, Manual (very small)
http://i424.photobucket.com/albums/p...w/DSCF0219.jpg












Wow that things looks AMAZING. <--Those are the first words that came in my mind.
Everything looks very well built and detailed. The buttons works great and the knobs also works great.

http://i424.photobucket.com/albums/p...w/DSCF0230.jpg


The radio is pretty straight forward. there is 7 buttons and 2 knobs
-Menu/mode
-Scan/GR
-Lock/escape (keep the lock button pressed until it locks, do the same to unlock.)
- Down arrow
-Up Arrow
- Enter/lamp
-ALT
-PTT
-Dual watch operation
-Emergency alarm
- Power on/Volume knob
-Channel/Menu knob


One of the first thing I've done tho is to take a closer look at the U283 plug.
The plug looks to be real and it IS FUNCTIONING BUT there is an Impedance problem with Mil Headset. I had NO trouble receiving and the PTT. Only to send which is normal.

http://i424.photobucket.com/albums/p...w/DSCF0239.jpg
http://i424.photobucket.com/albums/p...w/DSCF0240.jpg










This thing feels really solid. It is made out of High Grade plastic and the buttons seems to be made out of real good rubber. The U283 is made out of metal of course and the antenna plug is also made out of metal. the knobs clicks good and turns great. The only weird thing I think with he buttons is the PTT. You don't really feel when you press it.
It really feels like a brick.











First thing first, Its a real pain in the ass to make it work haha.
the Software didn't want to install on my PC. Got it to work with Conker, a file will be released for people who are experiencing the same problems as I did. plug the radio and open it up (apparently you can let it closed but I didn't test it) and fire up the software. Press read data (mine doesn't even work! maybe its a bug somewhere) then do what ever you want and once its done press Write (mine works .. weird because read doesn't)

The software is REALLY basic and a bit of a pain to use (buggy). That has
I only did some light test as I don't have anybody to try it with. But so far the radio works VERY GOOD. transmit and receives really good.
I will try tot est it more later if I can have someone with me to test it.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
Well built
Feels solid
Works great
Looks stupidly awesome
Functions
functioning U283 plug

Cons:
Price
Impedance issues with RS headset
Software

Overall a GREAT PRC-148. From the things I've heard on other PRC-148 (DH and stuff like that) this one wins all the way!


Other pics:
http://i424.photobucket.com/albums/p...w/DSCF0236.jpg
http://i424.photobucket.com/albums/p...w/DSCF0235.jpg
http://i424.photobucket.com/albums/p...w/DSCF0233.jpg
http://i424.photobucket.com/albums/p...w/DSCF0232.jpg
http://i424.photobucket.com/albums/p...w/DSCF0228.jpg
http://i424.photobucket.com/albums/p...w/DSCF0242.jpg
http://i424.photobucket.com/albums/p...w/DSCF0243.jpg
http://i424.photobucket.com/albums/p...w/DSCF0245.jpg

A small retarded video :
YouTube - United Star PRC-148 Overview

hey yannos check inside if you don't have jumper pin! like the picturehttp://i.ebayimg.com/02/!B-1fkbQ!2k~...Vb!IV!~~_3.JPG

I doubt its the same concept of the Toy Soldier. I tried to open it but I am missing a special screw driver to open it, Conker has the screw driver so He will check on His. Thanks for the Heads up tho!

no prob bro! let me know! because I was looking to get one but I'm waiting for reviews
, the original version is too expensive can for now, maybe later! hahaha 8k

i tried to google this however im no radio or electrical expert. what specifically is a Impedance problem?

Civvie radio doesn't use the same Mic Impedance as Mil. radio. That's why it snot working.

Iirc you need to switch the Mic in the headset to an "Electrical Condenser Microphone" to make it work. There was an "how to" somwhere on dragonredairsoft.

€dit: Found it ....

Attention: If you use real steel military headset, if you can hear but not seem transimitting, please try change the headset's electrodynamic microphone(moving coil microphone)to Electret condenser microphone(electret microphone)

http://www.dragonredairsoft.com/cata...cts/modAll.jpg

Yes, looks like it. Fortunately, on headsets such as the COMTAC you can just unplug the mic to remove it so hopefully it would be possible to get a "condenser microphone" separatly instead of modding the expensive headset...

YouTube - United Star PRC-148 Review
Bad english review LOL!

nice review i lol'd a few time.. xD can't wait to see it

Is this s dual com radio?If i would be in the role of a platoon commander i would need to talk to my squadleaders but also to HQ.
Does this radio have pmr channels?
what would be a group price?

If there is a microphone impedance problem, then the plug is technically not compatible with mil std PTTs. This would be something that United Star would have to change on the radio. But I think that because they have the Kenwood two pin plug and the U-283 plug, both are probably wired into a single circuit. This means that if they changed the impedance of the microphone circuit to match the mil std PTT, it would then not work with standard Kenwood types. So I don't see this happening any time soon (if at all.)

Yes, it is a dual comm radio.

You can choose whatever preset you want as your main channel, however secondary channel will ALWAYS be preset 00.

Let's say you're a squad leader. Your squad channel is 06 (that's just for the exemple; it can actually be any preset from #01 to 99). This is your main channel. Command (HQ) channel that you want to listen at the same time can only be 00.

When you activate the dual channel function, it will listen constantly to both channels. If you talk on your radio, by default it will transmit on channel 06.

Now if you receive on channel 00, it will stay active as your default for a set delay (I'm not sure how long, I'll have to test it) OR until someone speaks on 06. While it is your default, if you speak it will be transmitted on that frequency so you can answer the radio check, HQ question, order, etc... After the time delay is over, it will get back to 06 as a default while still listening to both.

You can also manually change back and forth between both frequencies via a button on the side of the radio



Hope that helps... english isn't my primary language so I'm not 100% sure I used the best words for clarity. Feel free to ask any questions you might have if something doesn't make sense.



Makes sense. So there's two choices: mod/replace the micro (that'd be blasphemy, but I'm pretty sure using an Element mic would work for COMTACs) or add an inline amplifier for the mike signal. In that last case, sound quality would probably not be perfect, and you'd need additionnal power for that amplifier.

IIRC from what I've read, the MIL headsets have a 5Ω impedence over the civilian models.

Thanks for the answer conker but how about pmr does this radio support pmr?

Yes, 6.25Khz Stepping and Freq. range from 400.000-470.000 ... so yes, you can programm Pmr freq. w/o problems ....

VHF - 136-173.995Khz
UHF - 400-469.995Khz
FMS - 467.5125-467.6750Khz

Are supported and you can choose VHF;UHF;FMS when you programm the radio over the PC iirc .....

Exactly, as written in the first post... You can choose many options, including transmitting power and kHz stepping.

No. These are 3 different radio versions that you choose on purchase.

GREAT NEWS!

For those using real Peltor COMTAC II headsets, using the Element microphone will solve the impedence problem. So you just have to plug the Element COMTAC II mic on your Peltor COMTAC II instead of the OEM and you're good to go! As Yannos tested, you can receive fine, so that's all you have to do to be fully functionnal.

The supplier I have for the MBITR also stocks Element Comtacs, so maybe I'll be able to source just the Element microphones separately... that' really be great.

NOTE:
This only works for COMTAC II as they have removable microphones that you just have to unplug... For Sordins, COMTAC I and other headsets, you'll be forced to mod them as described there http://www.airsoftcanada.com/showpos...3&postcount=20

To be clear...

You're saying for real Peltor Comtac 2's just unplug the MT21 (I think it's a dynamic type) and replace it with the Element electret type microphone? Like in this link...

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll...=STRK:MEWAX:IT

Then the Untied Star U238 plug will work with real military PTT's through the real Comtac2s? Just that simple?

Apparently yes, as the only problem is the microphone impedence. Someone would have to try though, hopefully Yannos will be out guinea pig again? :p

love love love love love
I've been joking about getting a real steel MBITR, now I want this one :D

hey conker, do you think that Spartan will release a new generation with aluminum box and compatible with standard military spec to work with true comtac / sordin w/o modification! like in reddragon Gen4, but with version cb function programing like you has and not crap talkabout version! hahhaa!

I guess I'll still be it! lol

so for the dual channel mode, where on the radio is the channel switch button is it fairly to get access to while in a pouch or would you need to remove the radio to hit the button?

Balnk,

I think you already know that Andy has the replica Comtac, so if you get one of these radios and want to try it you can borrow the mic off of that one before buying one.

Conker i dont get it..so this radio has a the u283 plug that is only used for real steel militairy headsets and the only headset that is working on this radio is a comtac with a replica mc.
Am i am missing something?

Any military headset will work but you will have impedance problems for the mic for ALL of them... The reason why The Comtacs are the best is because you can swap the mic quickly with a Element one or Z tactical one.

It is most likely the PTT circuit and not the mic. My real Peltor mic works just fine in conjunction with a replica Peltor Comtac headset and a Puxing radio. I have the military mic and not the electret mic.

a mil. Mic is not he same impedance as Civvie radio takes... Some radios can convert and all but not the MBITR
The PTT has nothing to do with the impedance.. Even Peltor Them self says that their (lets say kenwood) Kenwood ptt will not match the impedance..

@Jurgen975, just because the military U238 connector is physically on the radio, does not mean that it is either wired correctly, or the circuitry is correct.

@Yannos, What EagleDriver is trying to say is that a microphone amplifier is most likely needed. This would be included into the PTT's circuit board. I agree with him that switching the microphone probably will not work. I don't 100% know this, it's just an educated guess...

Here is a link to a thread that sort of discuss's this subject...

http://gearsoc.com/board/viewtopic.p...ood+ptt#p24088

THe problem is not the PTT. Its the microphone that is less powerful then what a civvie (United Star PRC-148) radio will be able to pick up. Yeah sure if you have an amplifier it WILL work. If you don't then you need to change the Mic. Even Wey Ferro says that. The Mic is the problem, not the ptt.

Impedence = resistance. Both options would work.

Either A:
- Using a low impedence mic (like the Element)

or B:
- Using a PTT with integrated amplifier.

Which Peltor PTTs don't have, as they are designed for military radios which have one integrated. Thing is, the United Star is designed to work with both Kenwood-type headsets (which don't need one) and military headsets, which do... It would need 2 separate circuits.

The only PTT that comes with a amp in it is the TCI one. Its specific and cost 260 something. :p

Well I guess we are all waiting to see if switching the microphone only, will work.

Here are the test conditions.

United Star Radio with U228
Unmodified real military PTT with MBITR connection (U229)
Real Peltor Comtac2 (remove MT21 microphone (Dynamic) and install Element (electret)microphone).

http://airsoftdepot.ca/catalog/produ...roducts_id=364

anyone think about using this one?
wonder how does this work?

@Socinco, since the link you gave us is a real steal product and we are discussing real steal products being used with the United Star MBITR, I would think it will have the exact same problems.

I just want to know where to order one of these radios lol

Did anyone test it out with Nexus Ptt´s allready?

@Lucky, a Nexus PTT that has been wired how? For a civilian or military headset?

I think it has already been found to work with a civilian headset, so a Nexus PTT wired for a civilian headset should work! But, a Nexus PTT wired for a military headset will not.

Need to know if they now work with Mil Ptt's ..... Nexus ptt's that come with the Msa Sordin Ranger kit that i have

I know i need to change the mic on the headset but i need to know if the radio accepts mil ptt's

Yes, the radio does accept standart 6 pins military plugs

Clearly philster911 did not read the thread.

Everyone understands the radio "accepts 6 pin (or 5 pin) military plugs". Thats not the question. Is the NATO plug wired correctly, that is the question. LOL.

It has been said already a couple of times .. My RS peltor IS wired NATO and it IS working .. Just IMPEDANCE issues with the mic.

TEA, peltor, and TCI make AMP PTT's

Yannos, I hate to be a stickler here....but....

If the mic has impedance issues...as in the transmitted voice is very soft (almost not heard) then it is NOT working correctly. I doubt people will be happy purchasing the radio, using it with a real military PTT and headset and find that people can't hear thier transmissions.

I agree with you that it's CLOSE, but it's not working correctly.

Let's wait until someone takes the real pletor microphone (MT21) off the Comtac2's and replaces it with an Element Comtac2 civilian microphone. This might solve the impedance issue
and increase the volume of the transmission. Then it will be working....

That's what has been said all the way. I am still waiting for a deal for Element comtacs just for the mic to test it.

Hey Yannos, want me to ship you my Element mic for you to do some testing? As long as I get it back :)

Go on MSN bud!

Talk to a CB or HAM radio guy to change the internal resistance of the military headset to match the civilian impedance?

I know its been done, mixing and matching microphones. So it should be possible with this.

Dimitri

Yup there is a couple of ways to make it work. Its just that I want to keep my headset Stock in case i decide to sell it and change for a MSA or something. So cracking it open and chipping it is not an option for me.

my comtac liberator with tci ptt work,but my transmission is low volume

@ras85ta:

That's exactly the symptoms caused by a high impedence microphone.

how do I fix? resistance? What is the value of impedances must be max?

Hi,
I got my 3 days ago..looking great except i tried work scan so can get the channel with my other radio PMR but nothing work..
so here Conker can you help me out

4.Does it work on PMR frequencies? Conker said

Yes, it is adjustable within the software. I don't have any PMR radios (here in North-America, we're using FRS/GMRS frequencies) so I can't confirm, but based on the programming capabilities, it is. Emitting strenght is also programmable.

can u tell me more details please...

From redwolf:
"The following lists the technical details of this radio:

Frequency Range:
MHR-148 VHF - 136~173.995 MHz
MHR-148 UHF - 400~469.995 MHz
MHR-148 FMS - 467.5125~467.6750 MHz

Memory Channel:
MHR-148 VHF - 100 Channels
MHR-148 UHF - 100 Channels
MHR-148 FMS -14 Channels

Output Power:
MHR-148 VHF - 5W
MHR-148 UHF - 5W
MHR-148 FMS - 0.5W

Frequency Sensitivity: 5PPm
Antenna Impedance: 50Ω
Maximum Frequency Deviation: 5KHz (W) / 2.5 KHz (N) "

To scan other frequencies just press the "second function" button on the side and then scan. PMR frequencies are around 446 MHz in Germany. I must also configurate my radio to PMR frequencies, so we can help us together :)

I used my other Kenwood TK3101 to determine which PMR channel have the right frequencies.

And a other tip to "read" the data from the radio you have to plug it on the pc and then turn the radio on. Now you are able to read the data from the radio.

Thank you man ( SEAL ) ..

by the way i need more helps here:

1.when i got the radio ( out side the box didnt marked ) which one is so ..How can i know if it is MHR-148 VHF..MHR-148 UHF ...or MHR-148 FMS ? or All in one? and btw...mine have 10 channels only..on the youtube ..that guy radio is 14 channel???..
2. how you did you install the software for Win7?
3. Anyone know if is it working capatible with..Bowman PRR H4855U ? b/c i have that one too and want to connect it

Please i really need some helps..i kinda dump on radio things..Thank you!

I had the same Problem. On the box of your radio stays 148U and I have the same Box. So I think we have the same Version. And I didn't see until now any shop that you can select between the versions.

You have to connect your radio to your pc and first read the data from the radio. I have already posted a "how to read" the data. Look in my other post.
In the menu in the software you will find something like optional configurations, there you can adjust the transmitting power (0,5W-5W).
And you can configure individual channels to the frequencies that you have to use. Like PMR frequencies = 446MHz

Look on the first site of this thread, there is a help for windows seven user. I use the most time a Mac but to install the software I have found an old PC with windows XP. No problems there ;)

I don't really know, it could be possible to get a PTT Unit which is compatible with your headset. But I don't know any name, even that something like that exist.

All boxes say "MHR-148U". That's the radio model, where VHF/UHF/FMS are the variants.

For those who need the PMR frequencies, you have to get the UHF 400-470mHz variant, and use the programming software (as S.E.A.L. explained above, thanks :)) to restrict the emitting power and preset the frequencies.

For your Bowman, that's hard to say... but two things you have to know:
- Use either U283 connector; or
- Kenwood-type 2 pin connector

Which both works, HOWEVER in both cases you need a low impedence microphone (I won't know if that's the case for your particular headset/PTT, you'd have to check that on your own side).

For the presets, there are 99 available thru the software. Out of the box there might be only 14 set, but you can change that.

Hope that helps.

This radio so costly and hard to setup...
Did anyone from this thread try to setup the channel?..My self i have a really hard time...to connect to PC ( laptop in my case ) i have to find a converter adapter ( took me 3 days run around ) so finanly i got one ( so expensive ..$69.99 ) it's call "Tripp-lite"UBS serial adapter ...
so everything setup...seem smoothing until ...i cant read the data from radio or wirte it on radio..
first i change the port " com 3" then everything seem right but after i typed the channel frequency...i CANNOT write to Radio..and on the radio " ERROR" ..so i dont know what i did wrong here.

So Again i do need helps...

I've said it right in my first post that it uses a serial plug to connect to computers, so (if you read my post) you knew if when you purchased it.

For your other questions I can't really help you right now as I'm on my laptop away from home, but from what I can remember

1. If it's not off already, turn off the radio
2. Plug the radio in the computer
3. Launch the software
4. Turn on the radio
5. Click on "read" (to test if the connection is good)
6. Import the frequency file (attached to this post)
7. Click on "write to radio"; wait for the dialog to say completed
8. Unplug the radio.

Now if you don't see the presets you entered, press the [GR] button. It will switch between manual mode and preset mode. It should display the preset # on the top right (from 00 to 99).

VoilÃ*.

EDIT: The software has several bugs (as said on 2nd post, first page), but still works. It did display "error" on mine, but after I pressed [GR] to get into Preset mode it still worked perfectly.

Thank you Conker for your time...

i did exactly what you wrote ...except from step #5 ...click on "read" from radio..it show " Receive no Data"..and on the list it didnt shown anything ..:(...and i pressed the "GR" notthing happened..um...so i dont know .

and for the connection from radio i used the programming cable..BUT cant connect to Laptop ..b/c the port is diffirence 9 Pin and 15 Pin on laptop ( showned on pic ) so that why i used the USB connection ( so i dont know if that why it not connected???) or something wrong.

My last wish is ...can you shown me how you connect to Laptop ??? do you used other device ??( beside the programming cable come with radio )..

Thank you

The 15 pin is not the serial port you want, instead its a external monitor connection. It cannot be used to program anything, not this radio or anything else in this world.

Dimitri

Hi, I'm italian.

I just followed all the correct steps to configure my radio.

The biggest bug is when you digit the frequency and the program says "frequency is not a valid floating point value" and this appears with every number (independently of the decimal numbers).

My problem is: I saved the .txt file with all my frequencies and channel names..then i import the file into the program, so I set the connection port and click "write"...it says "Data Fail" after showing for a millisecond a window with the loading bar. This appears even when I correctly connect the radio with the right connection port and click "Read": "Data Fail" as always.

What else can I do?

Thanks you for your help.

USB programming cable, 12$ shipped
http://www.409shop.com/409shop_product.php?id=103760

Techseller probably has some too, already in Canada.

You're right, and that happened to me too. I have no idea why it does this, but it doesn't cause any problem - just keep entering your values and clicking OK. That sucks, but I haven't found any way around it yet. Anyway once it's programmed, you don't have to bother about it, so it's not too bad IMHO.[/quote]

What I wrote before was off my memory as I won't have access to my computer until the 24th...I might have missed something :s
Hopefully someone else can help a bit until I get my computer.

Please, could someone else indicate me the solution before the 24th January? :o

like way ferro said; shouldn't it be enough with a amplified PTT?

shouldn't just this solve the problem if u wanna use ranger comms?
http://www.tacticalcommandstore.com/..._headsets.aspx

Made it!
It was a serial connection problem. You need to connect a direct pc serial port w/o adapter.

Frequencies/channels programming so good!
But I have an ending problem...when I insert my headphones (Thales Handmic for the PRC148/MBITR Military radio) the radio speaker (the lead line) doesn't disactivate itself...how can I sort out this problem??

cecioprogressive, could you be more descriptive of your problem? I don't understand what you typed.

When I connect the Thales earphones to the radio, the radio speaker continues to work as if I hadn't connected earphones! Earphones works well instead.

Cecioprogressive, can you confirm that this radio works on the standard EU pmr frequencies?

Sorry for topic jack ;-) but since Conker doesn't have any PMR to test I tought I might ask Cecioprogressive ;-)

PMR I use atm is a Kenwood UBZ-LJ8 (wich is widely used here in Belgium).
If this response is positive I might actually buy me one of these radio's :-)

Hi bn_
The United Star radio works with standard EU PMR frequencies as if UHF version works from 400 to 470 MHz (PMR is 446 MHz)!

I experienced the same issue when I used my Peltor made Kenwood jack with the Puxing radios. It would work fine through the headphones, but not turn off the external speaker. When I use the Peltors with a Wouxun or Kenwood radio, it functions normally and cuts off the radio's speaker output so that all output goes to the Peltors. I did not find a solution, other than just using two Wouxun radios.

It's possible that the speaker output will only get cut when a specific voltage/resistance is encountered across some of the pins.

The Motorola Sabers are like this, the functions of the radio that are switched between external/internal are regulated by the resultant voltage after the signal passes through the accessories.

In many cases I've had to throw a resistor in to get the accessories to work properly. There's different resultant voltages for ext mic+internal speaker, ext mic+ext speaker, ext mic/speaker + ext antenna, etc.

Not sure this is the case with these radios specifically but that's what the problem Eagle and cecio are talking about appear to be at first glance.

All LPD and PMR channels
 

1. Use ONLY original COM-port. Various solution:
a) find old computer, made 4-5 years ago.
b) use notebook with doc-station, usually it has a COM-port on the back, even if notebook doesnt have it. (note: doc-station has to be connected to power-source to have com-port operational)

2. Load table (attached) all 69 LPD and PMR channels. You can add your channels if you want with Excel or windows text editor.

3. Write it to Radio. Sometimes program will say "data error" after all channels loaded, but all will be ok. You can download all channels direct from radio, and save it again - somehow everything will be ok.

Do you think that this PTT can solve the impedencie problem?

http://www.toysoldier.com.hk/product...ls.php?pid=261

I *think* that yes it would work from the description, but haven't tested so I can't be sure :/

No it won´t solve the impedance issue. Element told me that the U229 is also mil wired so it will work with the United Star radio but the Toysoldier radios got the amp fot the mic inside the radio and not the ptt ... so the ptt won´t make a difference ... that´s what TS told me atleast ...

€dit: btw Conker ... where is the software update you wrote about on page 6??? ;)

Hello, All
I just received my radio, my first problem the software the sent me is unreadable. I am running win xp. can any one send me the programing software?

Aww... I feel bad now. Sorry for that, i went on hike and forgot that :(

See that post for the update: http://www.airsoftcanada.com/showpos...8&postcount=89

I haven't tested it yet. I'm getting back home on the 24th so I don't know if it improves anything.

thanks!!

@Yannos : on the Element headset, i should remove only the mic or it's possible to remove the mic+flexible+cable and just swap with the peltor one?

@alex: The whole mic assembly (mic+flexible+cable). Just unplug it and replace it with the Element.

That is very cool news. Thanks!