Radtel RT-860

Description

The Radtel RT-860 is a versatile piece of equipment that covers a broad spectrum of frequencies, which is music to any ham’s ears. It boasts reception across CB at 27 MHz, FM from 64 to 108 MHz, shortwave from 2.3 to 30 MHz, medium wave from 520 to 1710 kHz, and even long wave from 153 to 279 kHz.

Lots of receive options

One of the standout features is the full band RX unlock from 18 to 620 MHz and 840 to 1000 MHz. This opens up a whole world of possibilities, allowing me to tune into a variety of services that might not be accessible with more limited radios. For example, being able to receive aviation AM signals between 108 and 136 MHz is incredibly useful for keeping track of local air traffic, which can be both educational and entertaining.

Standout Features

The radio’s flexibility extends to its channel management features. With 1024 channels available, organizing your favorite frequencies is a breeze. The ability to switch between single and dual frequency display is particularly handy when working in repeater modes or monitoring two different frequencies simultaneously. The dual frequency standby function ensures that you don’t miss important transmissions on either frequency, making it perfect for multi-tasking operators.

Another feature that caught my attention is the dynamic signal strength meter. This isn’t just a standard bar graph; it provides real-time feedback on signal quality, which is crucial for adjusting your antenna setup or position to optimize reception. Coupled with the one-click frequency measurement and remote sub-tone scan, you can quickly identify and tune into weak signals or those buried among others.

For those who enjoy the technical aspects of radio communication, the RT-860 offers a range of advanced features. You can transmit two different end tones and MDC1200 signaling tones, which are essential for communicating with certain types of repeaters or systems that require specific signaling protocols. The ability to manually edit the channel names adds a personal touch and makes navigation easier.

One feature that’s particularly useful for operators in the United States is the inclusion of 11 NOAA weather forecast channels. Keeping tabs on local weather conditions is not only important for safety but also for planning your radio activities, as weather can significantly affect propagation.

Power management is also well thought out with a power-saving mode that gradually deepens the power saving ratio over time when enabled. This is a smart feature that helps preserve battery life during extended use, which is invaluable in field operations or emergency situations where power sources might be limited.

The RT-860 also includes a spectrum scan function, which is a powerful tool for discovering new frequencies and identifying interference or activity in various bands. Combined with frequency scan and channel scan functions, you can efficiently scan and find interesting transmissions without manually tuning through each frequency.

Customization

Customization is key in any serious ham radio setup, and the RT-860 delivers in this department. You can customize key functions to suit your operating style, set up VOX (voice-activated transmission) for hands-free operation, and even configure local and remote alarms for monitoring specific frequencies or conditions.

Moreover, the radio supports editable CTCSS, which is useful for activating repeaters or other tone-controlled systems. The customizable boot image and startup prompt allow you to personalize your operating environment, making it feel truly yours.

DTMF encoding transmission and decoding display are standard features that facilitate communication with devices that use DTMF signaling, such as some repeater controls or phone patches. Remote kill and remote disable functions provide an extra layer of security, allowing you to manage your radio remotely if necessary.

Lastly, the wake-up function ensures that your radio is always ready to receive important transmissions, even if it’s in a low-power state. The Type-C charging function is a modern touch that makes recharging quick and convenient, compatible with a wide range of chargers and cables.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Radtel RT-860 is a robust and feature-rich ham radio that caters to both novice and experienced operators. Its broad frequency coverage, advanced features, and customizable options make it a versatile tool for various communication needs. Whether you’re into traditional ham radio activities, shortwave listening, or monitoring other services, this radio delivers outstanding performance. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to expand their radio capabilities without compromising on quality or functionality.

Gallery

Specifications

Features

CTCSS / DCS / DTMF / Frequency Copy / Programmable Buttons / Signal Meter / Speaker / Split Operation / Timeout Timer / USB Charging / VOX

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