Batboard

I know I'm probably getting annoying with my stupid questions, but this is the only place I know to ask informed people...

This flash stuff kind of confuses me, even after reading a ton of threads and stuff on BL.

Say I buy a used AS with valid tags that isn't stolen, firm/dsp matches with the flash/serial, but it's real basic. 000001-000000-9, for example. And since it's got such a basic flashcode, it's probably got a 512k Vocoder board. Since I'm not the original buyer, I can't buy flash updates from Motorola, right? So, the radio is forever stuck as conventional operation only?

The vocoder board could be 512k or 1MB depending on the age of the unit, not so much the FLASHcode. Newer units had the 1MB, since they were more readily & cheaply available as time went on.

It is difficult to get your FLASHcode upgraded through Motorola, since they generally reserve the FLASHport upgrade process for major users with dozens/hundreds/etc of radios so it makes them money. Joe blow on the street is pretty much SOL unless he/she knows somebody at Motorola who can get the process rolling for them.

There's a possibility that you could pay the 'flat-rate' repair charge and have the depot upgrade your radio to your desired FLASHcode. I have heard of people getting this done. It would be best of you called them up & had it sent to someone's attention if they agree to do it for you.

Todd

I see. Well, not so bad. I don't have any desire to use IMBE or any fancy things like MODAT.

I've seen a few posts two years ago talking of a new-made Saber look and actalike called the XTS9000. They spoke as if they used them and they were being tested by gov't groups. Was all this bunk, or did it get cancelled, or something?

Sounds like your're thinking of the SSE5000 which /\/\ did as a SP project for NYPD.

Searching on "SSE5000" should find you more information.