The MDC1200 signalling protocol is used to enhance the basic voice communications by adding digital data capabilities to the system.
Motorola MDC1200 equipped radios can be programmed with an impressive variety of features to improve your
efficiency as radio users. These features include: Push-to-Talk Identification (PTT-ID), emergency,
Call Alert, Voice Selective Call, and Radio Check. Equipped radios can be made capable of sending a
unit ID or Emergency Alert to a control unit or receiving a call Alert, Voice Selective Call or
radio Check from a control unit.
The following is a simple introduction to the MDC1200 signalling capabilities. As each radio varies in
capabilities please contact Pacom Communications to check the MDC1200 capabilities of your radios.
PTT-ID
There is an individual ID defined for each signalling mode. When the radio is keyed, the individual
ID of the TX signalling mode will be used as the Radio ID in the PTT-ID transmission if enabled.
Having radios transmit their ID allows for immediate recognition of the caller and thus reduces
undesirable transmissions. PTT-ID can be set to be transmitted at the start of each call, or at the
end of each call, for constant tracking of callers.
Call Alert
Call Alert may be placed by suitably equipped base and handheld radios. The Call Alert when activated
can set the called unit to enter alert mode with both an alert tone and alert LED indication. The
calling unit also may be set to receive acknowledgement hat the call Alert was received by the called
radio. Call Alert reduces operator fatigue and reduces unnecessary voice calling of a required unit.
The called unit will maintain an alert Status until the call is responded to or the power is switched off.
Call Alert is especially helpful when the called person is away from their vehicle or radio unit.
On returning to the radio unit they are alerted to the fact that they are required to call back to base
by the alert tone and LED indication.
Radio Check
Radio Check allows base operators to check the operational status of a selected radio without
interrupting or interfering with a radio user. On requesting a radio Check the Base, or suitably
equipped Portable, will request the called unit to transmit back an acknowledgement thereby indicating
to the Base that the Radio is switched on and in the radio system coverage area. No indication is given
to the called radio other than a brief flash of the LED when the called radio transmits its
acknowledgement.
Other Features
There are several other features available from MDC1200 signalling to improve your radio system
efficiency. Please contact Pacom Communications for further information on the MDC1200 advanced
signalling system.
Radio Disable
All GP328/338 and GM950/GM328/338 radios are programmed with an identity that allows suitable
equipped base stations or service centres to disable a stolen or lost radio.
Radio Enable
All GP328/338 and GM950/GM328/338 radios are programmed with an identity that allows suitable equipped
base stations or service centres to enable a recovered or found radio.