MSF5000 "upgrade" to advanced controller.

[PETNRDX]

OK, so I am pretty knowledgeable on the MSF's.
But I have just obtained a bunch of MSF controllers that are the RSS programmable type from CXB stations.
These are coming out of 800 Mhz radios (that will be scrapped) and going into the older "suitcase" programmed CLB VHF and UHF stations.
What I am trying to do is make these older MSF's easier for our local clubs to use on the hambands to retire some Micor and Mastr II repeaters, and maybe add a few new repeaters.
I am used to reprogramming and tuning the MSF with no problems.
But, what happens when you put the newer controller into an older station?
Won't the RSS get "confused" when it reads the radio and controller and sees that there is a mismatch?
Or is it pretty simple to just re-program the code plug?
Or even dump an existing codeplug into the "frankenMSF"?

[Doug]

http://www.repeater-builder.com/motorol ... o-cxb.html
Steve,
Its a walk in the park, Its going to take you longer to remove the SSCB from the tray than it will be to add the 5 volts line across the bottom. After that go grab one of the def files and build a new codeplug, (I believe its Conv_def) As a side note I convert all of mine over I've been finding some 800 and 900 trays on the "World class auction site" for around 75 bucks or so. If you happen to get a hold of 900 MHz tray look at the vco numbers. Hint, hint parts are parts
Doug

[kcbooboo]

The programming software has no idea what's behind the SSCB. The rest of the RF Tray's hardware is essentially the same between the suitcase-programmed and PC-programmed stations, except for a 5V signal. There's nothing in the RF Tray that even tells the SSCB what band it is, nor what RF Power level it can support. All of that is handled by the hardware in the RF Tray. Other than the 900 MHz SSCB expecting 2.5 kHz audio levels and having HearClear components installed, the SSCBs are nearly identical for all bands. 800 MHz stations were 5 kHz wide so the SSCBs are good for VHF, UHF, and 800 MHz.

As mentioned, the most difficult thing will be to get the front panel escutcheons off and on the plastic control tray. Be gentle and "use the force." Please ASK how to do it before you break something. This would be a great me-tube video; now, if I just had a camera...

Bob M.

[Doug]

Hi Bob,
I can't help but to give you and repeater builder a shameless plug.
Doug

[PETNRDX]

Thanks guys.
Will give those things a try.
Should be a slam dunk.
Need it to get above 7 degrees outside to get going on it tho...