Overview
The Motorola MaxTrac 800 Series is a synthesized two-way mobile radio designed for operation in the 800 MHz band. It was part of Motorola’s MaxTrac product line introduced in the 1980s, intended for commercial, public safety, and industrial communications. The series provided reliable analog FM operation with programmable channel capability.
Technical Specifications
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Motorola |
| Model | MaxTrac 800 Series |
| Frequency Range | 806–870 MHz (varies by split) |
| Channels | Typically 8 or 16 (model dependent) |
| Modulation | FM (Analog) |
| Frequency Control | Synthesized (PLL) |
| Channel Spacing | 25 kHz (wideband) |
| Power Requirements | 13.8 VDC nominal |
| Audio Output | Internal speaker or external speaker supported |
| Signaling | Carrier squelch, optional CTCSS/DCS (model dependent) |
| Programming | Computer programmable (RSS software via RIB interface) |
Physical Description
The MaxTrac 800 Series is a compact mobile radio with a die-cast metal chassis designed for vehicle or fixed installation. The front panel typically includes a channel selector, volume control, indicator LEDs, and a microphone connector. Some variants include a numeric or segmented display depending on configuration.
The unit is designed for dash mounting or bracket installation and supports external accessories such as microphones, speakers, and antennas.
History
The MaxTrac product line was introduced by Motorola in the 1980s as a cost-effective, synthesized alternative to earlier crystal-controlled radios. The 800 MHz versions were developed to support expanding trunked and conventional systems in the public safety and commercial sectors.
MaxTrac radios became widely used due to their reliability, relatively simple programming, and compatibility with Motorola infrastructure. The series remained in service for many years and was eventually succeeded by newer product lines such as the Radius and later CDM series.
References
- https://www.motorolasolutions.com
- https://www.repeater-builder.com/motorola/maxtrac/maxtrac-index.html