Call alerts or tones on EX600?

[locomoto]

I apologize for the newbie question, I'm new to using CPS and programming. I searched the archives and didn't find an obvious answer.

I'd like to setup an alert tone on a UHF EX600, similar to the ring/buzz tone on an FRS radio to get the user's attention. Ideally this could be programmed to a hot-key on the EX600 to broadcast to all other radios on the channel.

I've read about setting up Call Alerts using MDC/QCII/DTMF but am not sure (1) which protocol to select or (2) if it's possible to tie the alerts to any channel or if I have to create a dedicated channel.

Is what I'm trying to do possible? If so, what's the best way to configure it?

thanks!

[nmfire10]

Is what I'm trying to do possible? If so, what's the best way to configure it?

Well, you aren't going to get a cheesy FRS call button, that much I can assure you. The radio simply doesn't do that. As far as sending any kind of signalling call-alert, i don't think the EX600 can encode call alerts either so you're probaby SOL.

I've made "alert tones" in the field before by turning up the volume on another portable, keying up, and making loud as hell feedback for a few seconds. Crude but it got the job done!

[locomoto]

Well, you aren't going to get a cheesy FRS call button, that much I can assure you. The radio simply doesn't do that. As far as sending any kind of signalling call-alert, i don't think the EX600 can encode call alerts either so you're probaby SOL.

That's a bummer.

So the EX600 can't send calls using MDC/QCII/DTMF in Conventional mode? The docs make it appear that it's possible, or does it assume some system wide controller to handle encode/decode?

thanks.

[nmfire10]

Like I said, I don't think it does but I don't use that model so I could be wrong. If it can do it, it would be a programming option and you'd need the software, cable, and RIB to set it up.

[locomoto]

Sorry for not being clear -- I've got CPS, programming cable, etc. for the EX600. It's that I'm not nearly an expert on using it as well as not knowing anything about the various signalling/call systems.

[911-EMT]

if your fleet use mdc1200 then dial on your keypad FFFF an it will alert all radios on that frequency, or set it up in the rss under call, mdc call, add a new call list, under id, select type: all call.

[locomoto]

Thanks for the info, 911-EMT. I spent some time fiddling with CPS on Sunday night and through trial and error generally got this working. In case anyone else wants to do this in the future, here are some rough steps:

* In the personality you want to tie the signaling to, go into Personality > Signaling and specify the Rx/Tx systems. I used a conventional personality.

* Under Signaling, specify any of MDC, Quik-Call II or DTMF. I setup a QCII call, specified the Hz tones I wanted in Call Format and set the Call Alert Type to Call Alert.

* Program button(s) on your radio for Radio Call (pops you into the call menu) or for somewhat simpler operation, use Call Alert Member #n -- I used this on a front panel button. CAM basically allows you to press two buttons (CAM + PTT) to send a page to anyone on the channel.

These instructions may not be exact as they are from a newbie. Good luck.

[nmfire10]

Alrighty, I guess it can do it. Sounds like it is basicly the same as the CDM/HT.