The newIcomF5021 and F6021 have been designed as replacements
with many features that theF-121andF-221did not have such as:
Remote channel control through BCD
Limited MDC1200 encode/decode
PTT ID, improved Emergency features, radio check/stun/revive
The F5021/6021 is also a drop in replacement to the F121/F221 with size and mounting bracket configuration and uses the familiar F3021 Cloning software.
128 channels (max.) separated into 8 memory zones. Memory channels can be identified with the 8-character channel name and selected easily with the up/down buttons.
Front mounted speaker
4 watts (typ.) front mounted speakers delivers clear and loud audio. With the speaker facing the operator, audio can be clearly heard without impediment during operations.
6 programmable buttons
A pair of up/down and P0-P3 function assignable buttons allow you to customize functions to meet specific needs. An independent volume knob offers simple, convenient operation.
MIL grade rugged construction
The tough aluminum die-cast chassis and polycarbonate front panel have been tested to the MIL standard 810F. With this heavy-duty construction, the IC-F5021 series provides reliable operation over the long term in all manners of rugged environments.
Most popular signalings built-in
Use the built-in 2-Tone, 5-Tone, CTCSS and DTCS capabilities as standard to set up your own talk groups, PTT ID and quiet stand-by when others are talking. The IC-F5-21 series has added CTCSS/DTCS high speed decode and 2-Tone decode accuracy.
MDC 1200 compatible
The following MDC features are available with the built-in MDC signaling.
PTT ID (TX/RX)
Radio check (RX)
Radio stun (RX)
Radio revive (RX)
Emergency TX/RX (No ACK)
5 alias table (max.)
Multiple 2-tone, multiple 5-tone
Up to ten 2-tone and eight 5-tone codes can be decoded on a channel. When a matched tone is received, the following items are programmable for each code.
Radio kill, stun and revive
The radio kill/stun functions disable a lost or stolen radio over the air, eliminating security threats from undesired listeners. When the stun command is received, all functions will be temporarily locked out until the revive command is received or the unlock password is entered.
Lone worker function
When the radio is not operated for a present period, the radio sounds a beep and requires you to push any button. If the radio is still not operated for a specified wait period, an emergency signal automatically transmits and informs co-workers that something may have happened to the individual worker.
Mode dependent scan
In the mode dependent setting, the scanning setting is dependent on the operating channel. When you change the operating channel the scanning list automatically changes the list set for that channel. It is convenient when you move to a different operating area and change operating channel, you don’t have to change the scanning setting.
Tx channel setting and talk back function
The Tx channel setting allows you to program a transmission channel while scanning. Start channel, last detected channel, priority and preprogrammed channels are selectable. Prior to the Tx channel setting, the talk back function allows you to talk on the last detected channel, while scanning resumes after a preset time. The user can easily make a quick response with this function.
Wide frequency coverage
The IC-F5021 series covers a wide frequency range in one version (VHF 136–174Mz, UHF 400–470 or 450–512MHz).
The new high-capacity VX-4500/4600 Series of mobile radios will offer 2-tone and 5-tone encode/decode and MDC-1200encode/decode along with voice inversion encryption built-in for enhanced user convenience.
The VX-4500/4600 mobile radio series also includes channel announcement capability and built-in Emergency alert for driver safety. Frequency ranges include 134 – 174 MHz, 400 – 470 MHz and 450 – 512 MHz with no sub-bands. First available will be the VX-4600 model featuring an 8-character alphanumeric display, 512 channel capacity and 6 programmable buttons for enhanced group communications.
The VX-4500/4600 mobile radios will provide the dependable performance users need in mobile radio communications combined with added value in expanded signaling, security and safety capabilities built-in with wide band coverage.
As with all Vertex Standard radios, the new VX-4500/4600 Series is backed with a full 3-year warranty in North America. Future additions planned based on this new mobile platform include LTR/Passport trunking models to be announced later in 2010.
Coming in late September, the release of the Vertex VX-450 featuring expanded safety and security functions.
Features:
Emergency and Lone Worker safety alerts built-in with Man Down alert and intrinsically safe radios as options.Channel announcement, 700 mW loud audio output and VOX capabilities are also built-in for expanded responsiveness and productivity.
Voice inversion encryption, MDC-1200Full keypad (16 key) and four-key models, both with 8-character alphanumeric display and 512 and 256 channel capacity respectively and a non-display option.
Encode/decode and 2-tone/5-tone encode/decode built-in. Frequency ranges include 134-174 MHz, 400 – 470 MHz and 450 – 512 MHz.
Full 3-year warranty in North AmericaFuture additions planned based on this new platform include LTR/Passport
The new VX-230 portable offers ample features in a cost competitve portable.
•16 Channel Capacity
5 Watts in VHF or UHF
•Increased Frequency Coverage
•Large capacity Lithium-ion battery
Built-in Emergency Feature
•Lone Worker functions
Talk Around Scan
Heavy-Duty Design and Construction
The VX-230 portable was designed and built to meet 11 different Mil-Spec standards covering Mil-Std 810 C/D/E/F.
Talk Around Scan
For smaller groups working remotely, the Talk Around Scan feature will monitor both the repeater input and output to determine if direct (talkaround) communication is reliable. If so, the radio will automatically switch to Talkaround mode to reduce unnecessary airtime through the repeater system.
Wideband Coverage
The VX-230 includes the expanded range of 134 MHz – 174 MHz and 450 MHz – 512 MHz. There are different antennas optimized for certain sections of the VHF or UHF range.
Large Capacity Lithium-ion Battery
The VX-230 can be combined with the 2000 mAh FNB-V103Li battery. With the FNB-V103Li, the VX-230 battery life (5-5-90) is over 13 hours. That’s without and power saver!
Built-in Emergency Featrure
The built-in emergency feature acts as a panic button to call for help in any situation. This feature, when activated, goes to a pre-programmed channel, sends out your emergency ID and begins transmitting live audio. Many additional features are programmable.
Lone Worker Functions
For workers who often work individually, the VX-230 has a built in feature which allows for periodic ‘check in’ of the user. If you miss a check in, the radio alerts you audibly. If you still do not respond (injured), the radio initiates the emergency sequence on it’s own.
Compact Radio with Long-LastingLi-Ion Battery The Vertex Standard VX-230 provides wider band coverage, more signaling features and improved ergonomics* that adds up to a better return on your investment.
Improved Portability A radio that won’t get in the way, the VX-231 is more compact and lightweight than the VX-160 series. A radio that is easier to carry with you on the job.
More Battery Power Designed to use powerful Li-Ion battery technology for longer battery life. Includes a 1150 mAh battery providing 9 hours of operation with the battery saver enabled.
Wide Band Coverage for Added Value One radio designed to cover the full band in the VHF and upper range of the UHF bands, which provides expanded options in frequencies to use.
More Scanning Options While many radios provide 1 or 2 scanning options, the VX-231 radio gives you 4 additional scanning options for greater convenience and flexibility for the way you need your radios to perform. Options include: Priority, Dual Watch, Follow Me and Talk Around scan.
Exclusive Auto-Range Transponding System – ARTS™ Only Vertex Standard radios are designed to inform you when you and another ARTS™-equipped station are within communication range. If out of range for more than 2 minutes, your radio senses no signal has been received and beeps to alert you. The base station can then alert the field unit to move back in range. A great solution to keep your workers coordinated.
This portable looks and resembles very much the VX 820 series of radios. This is where Vertex got the idea to come out with such a radio. This radio comes in many different splits and has many antenna options so you get optimal preformance no matter what split you get. This radio is perfect for anyone who needs a small radio that will preform well. There are also many accessories to choose from, such as rapid chargers, speaker mics, high capacity batteries etc. Programming these radios are very simple. All you need is the programming kit and the software and you’re good to go!
Icom has released the IC-F70 and IC-F80 VHF and UHF radios. They both are APCO P25 capable and offer man different features.
The Smart Migration to an APCO P25 Digital Radio System
Intrinsically safe versions cannot be upgraded to P25 digital. Enhanced MDC versions can be upgraded with purchase of optional UT-120 board and P25 activation key, but the enhanced MDC features will be lost.
*These versions are special order only – please allow 90 to 120 days ARO for delivery.
**Enhanced MDC adds GPS capabilities for AVL/APL and allows use of free-form short text messages of up to 48 characters in length.
***Any of these digital versions may be upgraded with AES and/or DES encryption (non-FIPS certified). Optional activation key option must be purchased.
****FIPS 140-2 versions come with activated, factory installed AES (FIPS certified) and DES (non-FIPS certified). No activation code is required.
More Features
The FIPS 140-2 validation confirms that the Icom encryption module, UT-120, has passed rigorous field tests and provides agencies the independent assurance that the module meets or exceeds the highest performance standards in encryption for its classification. FIPS encryption is a requirement for many federal agencies.
Intrinsically Safe (I.S.) refers to electronics equipment in which electrical energy is not present at levels that would spark and ignite an oxidized mixture of flammable gasses, vapors or liquids or combustible dusts or fibers.
Icom I.S. two-way radios are approved by Factory Mutual (FM), an international third-party insurance and loss prevention company.
IPX7 waterproof protection
The water removal design from the speaker grill keeps the communication clear, no matter what the elements are. The ICF70/F80 series has waterproof construction that is sealed with waterproof gaskets. * According to the International Standard IEC60529 (2001). 1m depth for 30 minutes.
Built-in multiple signaling
Use the built-in CTCSS, DTCS, 2-Tone, 5-Tone and BIIS capability to set up your own talk groups and quiet stand-by when others are talking. You can also set up selective calls to individuals or control a repeater.
Multiple 2-Tone, Multiple 5-Tone
Up to 10 2-Tone and 8 5-Tone codes can be decoded on a single memory channel. This is perfect for professionals who require multiple district paging on one channel. When a matched tone is received, the following items are programmable for each code.
Bell icon
Answer back
Stun
Beep sound
Auto transmit
Scan
Alphanumeric display
The large high contrast LCD clearly shows a variety of information with a full dot-matrix display. Program the display to show either 1 line with 12 characters or 2 lines with 24 characters. Status icons are displayed at the top and the functions assigned to the P buttons (P0P3) are shown at the bottom of the display. The bottom of the LCD shows the assigned functions (see right)
Li-Ion battery pack
The large capacity 1600mAh Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) battery pack, BP-235 provides a practical 8 hours* of operating time. Li-Ion batteries allow flexible charging and have almost no memory effect. * Typical operation Tx:Rx: Stand-by=5:5:90
Tactical group function
The tactical group function allows you to copy memory channels to the tactical zone (zone 32) and dynamically regroup memory channels. Using the optional zone copy cable, memory channels in the tactical zone can be transferred from a master radio to other radios.
Built-in voice scrambler
The IC-F70/F80 series includes a built-in inversion type voice scrambler. When a more secure system is required, the optional voice scrambler unit UT-109 or UT-110 is available. * These voice scrambler functions are not available in digital mode.
MDC 1200 compatible
The following selective calling and ANI features are available with the built-in MDC signaling.
PTT ID/Caller ID
Radio check
Selective call
Call alert
Emergency, emergency mic monitoring
Emergency man down (with UT-124)
Radio stun/revive
500 Aliases
Status/message
Call log
Enhanced MDC (EMDC)
Developed by Icom America Inc., EMDC is built upon and expands the widely used MDC 1200 data signaling protocol and system. Not only is EMDC fully compatible with MDC 1200, but it was also developed to allow future upgrades in features and functions without making your current equipment obsolete. These allow EMDC to:
Integrate into your existing fleet of MDC capable radios
Add GPS capabilities to locate your vehicles (AVL) and people (APL)
Send free form short-txt messages
Remotely conduct radio signal strength and battery diagnostics
GPS Location
Automatic vehicle location (AVL) or automatic personnel location (APL) is a core function of the EMDC system. EMDC was designed to provide AVL and APL capabilities without the need for external modems, data only radios, data only channels, or the requirement to replace an entire fleet of radios and infrastructure.
Text messaging
EMDC provides greater flexibility by allowing the use of free-form short text messages of up to 48 characters in length which can be sent to individual radios or to groups of radios. This allows the transmission of information, such as addresses or directions, without requiring the field unit to write down messages transmitted by voice  improving efficiency and avoiding the possibility of error due to phonetic confusion.
Remote Management and Diagnostics
EMDC radios can be configured to allow their radio signal strength indicator (RSSI) and battery level gauge to be remotely monitored by the dispatcher. The dispatcher can also adjust the configuration of GPS periodic reporting from the field units remotely.
System Implementation
The only requirements to add a full suite of signaling capabilities are:
Icom radios with EMDC
At least one Icom base station radio with EMDC for the dispatch station
A Windows® PC with Icom or authorized 3rd party EMDC software installed at the dispatch console
Intrinsically safe version
Intrinsically safe version approved by FM Approvals, is suitable for use in hazardous areas where flammable gasses or liquids are used.
Radio stun/kill and Power-on password function
The radio stun/kill functions disable a lost or stolen radio over the air, eliminating security threats from undesired listeners. The power-on password prevents unauthorized people turning on the radio.
Other features
256 memory channels with 32 zones
Built-in audio compander
8 DTMF autodial memories
Normal and priority scans
Busy, repeater lockout functions
Wide and narrow (25/12.5kHz) channel spacing is programmable
P25 is quickly becoming more popular in the United States. There are more repeaters going up for P25 then ever before and more and more departments are going digital because of the advantages to analog. Because of this, prices are dropping for P25 related equipment, for example the radios themselves. This is due to high demand and competition.
Competition among Project 25 (P25) suppliers is improving and overall prices for P25 equipment are decreasing, although perhaps not as quickly as with other technology standards. The U.S.-developed public-safety communications standard is used in more than 200 systems and by 1 million subscribers worldwide, according to analysis from consulting firm Televate.
Twelve vendors offer P25 mobile and portable radios, while only four vendors provide P25 trunked systems. There are eight conventional infrastructure equipment vendors. “I’m not sure there is a major radio vendor out there who doesn’t have a P25 product,” said Neil Horden, program manager of the P25 Technology Interest Group (PTIG), comprised of P25 users.
The higher number of P25 radio suppliers has caused current radio quotes to be about 33 percent less than the base-price quotes in 2003. Some radios with advanced encryption standard (AES) encryption are approaching $1,000, while high-end radios with the most robust features cost around $2,500 in competitive procurements, according to the Televate analysis.
The conventional base station market also offers competitive pricing because of the larger number of suppliers. Televate analysis found that vendors typically offer 20-percent discounts on trunked infrastructure for mid-sized systems. Only three suppliers, Motorola, Tyco Electronics Wireless Systems and EADS North America/Tait Electronics, offer simulcast systems, and the EADS/Tait team just recently entered the market.
If you are a firefighter, or if you work in a very wet environment, such as at a port, or on the water, where communications are absolutely essential to your job, one of our submersible portables is probably the radio for you. This comparison table will show you, at a glance, what different frequency ranges and options are available from the 4 submersible portables we currently carry. The Vertex Standard VX-820 Series (VX-821, VX-824, VX-829, as well as the very popular Vertex Standard VX-920 Series (VX-921, VX-924, VX-929) all meet IP57 specifications. The Icom F60 and Icom F50 both meet only IPX7 Specifications, which means that neither radio is rated for protection against dust. So, when choosing a submersible portable, please make sure to take these things into consideration.
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