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XTL2500. Dark Display

Posted: Sat Aug 16, 2025 6:43 pm
by njscan
My XTL2500 has developed what I’m told is a common problem, the display is rather dark. Initially I was told it was a bad display, but I’ve found discussions saying it is related to component failure. Does anyone have more info, and / or know of any reputable sources for a new head? My current installation is using the remote head cable.
Thanks

Re: XTL2500. Dark Display

Posted: Sun Aug 17, 2025 11:10 am
by N4KVE
Was it bright, & faded, or always dark? The military 2500’s came with a dark screen to be used with night vision goggles. Look at the tag. Is there a FCC ID #, or does it have a cage #?

Re: XTL2500. Dark Display

Posted: Tue Aug 19, 2025 5:45 am
by NHfirefighter
If it’s a M5 or O5 head it’s a known hardware issue. I haven’t seen any solid fixes other than get a newer revision head.

There have been conversations about other options, such as this one at RR -

https://forums.radioreference.com/threa ... up.465262/

Re: XTL2500. Dark Display

Posted: Thu Aug 21, 2025 12:46 pm
by njscan
So i was given another head from another XTL2500. My 2500 is a remote head config. The doner radio was a dash mount.
I used the flex cable from my unit to install the donar head.
Radio wont power up, no signs of life. Reinstalled the original head and radio works, but still with dark display.
Im thinking (hoping) that the donar head might have a fuse. Nothing obvious, and the only mention of a fuse in the service manual is the main power fuse.