Astro Spectra, VSELP to IMBE APCO 25 upgrade?

[andrewket]

Hi all,

I've got an Astro Spectra here that I've recently acquired from ebay. It was advertised as an Astro radio and I didn't realize that Motorola marketed an Astro radio that was non-APCO 25 compatible. I'm now trying to figure out what is involved in upgrading the radio.

Model: D04KKH9PW7AN
Flash: 4D0008-040000-6 (doesn't show APCO25 as an option on decode)

Service mode displays-

AMR0604
I040310

I'm not sure which is which, HOST vs DSP. I'm assuming HOST is first - making it 06.04 and DSP 04.03.10.

Anyone know if is possible to upgrade the radio, and if yes, approximate cost from Motorola? Phone numbers to friendly and "aware" dealers would be welcomed. My first phone call to a Motorola 2-way shop resulted in a "you want to do what?" response.

Thanks,
Andrew

[Pj]

The only true way to make your spectra into an APCO25 is to get it flashupgraded by a Motorola Dealer that deals with pubilc safety agencies. These are usually the larger/regional shops.

If you have absoulutly no need for it, don't bother. The upgrade was last priced out to be around $625. The upgrade will also update to the latest HOST/DSP that is needed to make the option work.

Be advised, some shops or Motorola rep will NOT upgrade the radio unless you are the ORIGNIAL purchaser from MOtorola directly. This seems to depend on where you are and who you deal with. The local shop cannot just upgrade the radio. They need to go thru THEIR rep to get the upgrade.

[andrewket]

Unfortunately, I really need APCO25. I'll try to find a dealer that is willing to be friendly. My employer has a Motorola rep... I may try to go that route as well.

Thanks,
Andrew

[Pj]

Going thru your employer's moto rep may be the best thing. Just make sure you are on the in's with the boss! Also make sure its a shop that deals in public safety radios such as the Spectra, and not the commerical radios just like the cdm's/ht's etc.