XTS5000 UCM Removal

[W8CLA]

Been a lurker here for a while. While I can usually search and read and eventually figure things out for myself, I can't seem to find anything this time around.

I just received a Q split XTS5K with an encryption module installed. I saved the original cp and proceeded to default the cp and program in an analog ham repeater to test out the radio and it popped up illegal key when trying to transmit. From what I understand this has to do with the UCM.

As I'm a ham, I have no need for encryption so can I just remove the UCM or is that tied to the flashcode? I got the radio in a lot and will probably sell it to get a J or K split as uhf is pretty much non existent here.

 

[cyrus]

A quick fix would be to go into CPS and untick the "Hardware Encryption" box.

 

[xpr8300]

+1 for Cyrus' recommendation.

If you REALLY want to remove it, you have to open the radio (you DO have the proper case opener right? while a flat head screwdriver can work, it probably also will damage your housing). Then you have to pop off the retaining clips holding the controller board down. Gently lift it from the bottom of the radio and you will see the UCM board. Unplug and ebay away.

So yeah, uncheck hardware encryption and write it back

 

[W8CLA]

I tried un-ticking hardware encryption and writing back but then the radio just said un programmed and beeped repeatedly. I've had it opened, with the plastic tool, so that's not a problem. I just wasn't sure if I could just remove it completely or if there was something else that needed to be done.

I'm fairly familiar with programming a few different Motos but haven't ever dealt with hardware encryption. Thanks for the advice so far guys.

On a side note and off topic, there were two HT1250s in that lot also. Did Moto make a convertacom for the 1250s? And if so does anyone have a model number?

 

[foxtrotdelta]

On a side note and off topic, there were two HT1250s in that lot also. Did Moto make a convertacom for the 1250s? And if so does anyone have a model number?

Yes, see page 28 of this PDF: Professional Series Two-Way Radios and Accessories. I can't vouch for how well they work though as I've never used one.

 

[Notarola]

A quick fix would be to go into CPS and untick the "Hardware Encryption" box.

This is the method I recommend. Quick, simple and fool proof.

 

[W8CLA]

@foxtrotdelta Thanks for the link, I discovered that shortly after posting. I don't plan on actually installing and using the VA as intended. I have one for my XTS's and use it as an all in one charging/programming setup. All I can find for programming cables for the 1250's are the usb and serial seems to be the more trusting option.

@Notarola I'll try the un-ticking again. The unprogrammed issue could've just been a fluke or something I did.

 

[Number 6]

@foxtrotdelta Thanks for the link, I discovered that shortly after posting. I don't plan on actually installing and using the VA as intended. I have one for my XTS's and use it as an all in one charging/programming setup. All I can find for programming cables for the 1250's are the usb and serial seems to be the more trusting option.

@Notarola I'll try the un-ticking again. The unprogrammed issue could've just been a fluke or something I did.

The unprogrammed message on the display and tone are not related to the UCM. You’re just on an unprogrammed channel position.

 

[W8CLA]

@Number 6 That was absolutely correct lol. It never occurred to me to check the channel selector and it should have. I feel like an idiot now. Thanks for pointing out what should have been obvious. In my defense I've never programmed anything with a channel knob. I'm used to it just reverting to the first channel.

 

[TESTMODE]

@Number 6 That was absolutely correct lol. It never occurred to me to check the channel selector and it should have. I feel like an idiot now. Thanks for pointing out what should have been obvious. In my defense I've never programmed anything with a channel knob. I'm used to it just reverting to the first channel.

Most definitely not an idiot if you can admit that you did not do something and learned something from it.

 

[PSEhub]

And if you do remove the UCM, you are supposed to put the black piece of foam back in.