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The DM1400 is the cheapest and most simple radio from the Motorola mobile DMR range.
These radios are aimed at users who don't need the advanced functionality of more expensive radios - Schools, Taxis, Hauliers etc.
If all you need is simple channel based operation, the DM1400 is a good chioce.
In the UK, the most commonly seen versions are:
MDM01JNC9JA2AN - 136-174MHz (VHF)
MDM01QNC9JA2AN - 403-470MHz (UHF)
With:
1-25W
Low tier (numeric display) makes the radio a DM1400.
High tier (alphanumeric display) makes the radio a DM1600.
No GPS or Bluetooth
Conventional (analogue / DMR)
BNC connector
Model Number Scheme:
Be careful when buying these units second-hand! There are variants of the DM1400 with analogue mode only (no DMR).
It isn't a "waste of money" to go through a dealer and buy brand new. For a start you will have a warranty and some technical backup, but you will also be getting exactly what you want, rather than what you could find on an auction website. Looking at the model number scheme, you'll notice that it is possible to order these units with up to 45W output power and with GPS / bluetooth.
Software
Motorola likes to implement wild changes to numbering schemes to keep everyone guessing. For this reason it is an absolute nightmare trying to keep track of things.
There are two series of software for Motorola DMR radios:
Series 1:
Started at V9 (because Motorola) and ran until V16 (build 828) in November 2019.
Because the last version of this series was V16, it is often referred to as "CPS16".
Some radios have older firmware, and as a result the codeplug data is also "old". For these radios you'll need CPS16.
Series 2:
Started at V2.18.95
This series is referred to as "CPS2".
Programming Lead
There are two ways to approach this - Either homebrew or bought.
Avoid generic leads from auction sites - They're sketchy and cause issues. 99% of programming issues that I come across are from cheap aftermarket leads. If you can't build a lead, just buy one from a dealer.
Programming can be done with USB through the accessory connector on the front of the radio.
Yes, the +5V line really IS required!
Because the DM1400 has its own power supply, you'd think that the 5V line for USB would not be required, as did I when I lashed a programming lead together. I was wrong, and the lead wouldn't work without the +5v line.