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Chicomm Blog

An In-depth Look at the APX 8000: The Best Radio for Public Service

Posted by Lisa MacGillivray on Thursday, April 9, 2015

APX8000"With 4 RF bands and multi-mode system access, the APX 8000 knows no limits when it comes to interoperability. Whether it’s loud or windy, whether you whisper or yell, the Adaptive Audio Engine and ultra-loud speaker bring clarity into every conversation. With Wi-Fi access, the APX 8000 can quickly receive new codeplugs, firmware and software features in order to redeploy the radio fleet with ease as users keep talking without interruption. Intuitively designed with a familiar look and feel, the compact APX 8000 is always comfortable to use, from your grip to your holster."

This is the product description given about the APX 8000 courtesy of Motorola, and it is spot-on. For public safety organizations looking for the ideal radio solution, we've found that this is the best fit - here's why.

What makes it great?

The APX 8000 packs four bands in a single radio (7/800 MHz, VHF and UHF Range 1 and Range 2 bands), ensuring clear communication in all environments. It also has the capabilities needed to provision in 20 Wi-Fi networks so that radio users can receive software updates in a wide-range of environments, including facility WiFi-enabled areas or in the field via Wi-Fi hot spots.

One of the best features of this portable radio is the adaptive technology it uses. For example, the APX 8000 has:

  • Adaptive dual-sided operation
  • Adaptive noise suppression
  • Adaptive gain control
  • Adaptive windporting
  • Adaptive speaker equalization

This means that radio users have the benefit of talking into either side of the radio, canceling out wind noise in the field, and even ensuring balanced audio throughout communication.

Not only is this radio packed with lots of great features, but it is easy-to-use and practical, too.

How does it look/feel?

This radio is tough, which is perfect for those working in the public safety sector. It has a durable, aluminum alloy endoskeleton that protects the radio’s interior even if the exterior is cracked or damaged. The protection even keeps the radio functional after it has been submerged in up to two meters of water for two hours. Another great feature is the tempered glass that protects the radio’s color display from hard impacts or rough scratches.

In terms of size and functionality, the APX 8000 comes in at just over 11 ounces, and measures 5.47x2.98x1.38 inches, making it a great radio for the field. It also has a great color display, built-in emergency button, and some models even come with a full keyboard. 

How does it perform?

In short: great. This radio’s lithium ion battery offers a 12-hour battery life, ensuring communication stays open on those longer shifts. In terms of frequency, it does have the four bands mentioned earlier, and operates in various frequency ranges (VHF: 136-174, UHF 1: 380-470, and UHF 2: 450-520 MHz).

Finally, this portable radio overs encryption and Wi-Fi security, as well as great channel spacing (12.5 kHz, 20 kHz, 25 kHz).

What radio features does it have?

The APX 8000 comes with some great radio features, including:

  • GPS Capabilities
  • Memory channel
  • Text messaging capabilities
  • Voice announcement
  • Mission critical wireless Bluetooth
  • Wi-Fi
  • Adaptive audio engine
  • Over-the-air programming

Conclusion

The APX 8000 portable radio is the ideal radio solution for those in public safety. As a lightweight, durable, and long-lasting radio, it allows users to communicate clearly in intense environments due to its adaptive audio engine. In addition to being reliable, the APX 8000 is an innovative radio solution with its Wi-Fi capabilities.

To learn more about why the APX 8000 is the right choice for your organization, contact Chicago Communications today.

 Public Safety Communication Checklist