XTS2500 switching channels by itself

[krustykrab]

I have an XTS2500 VHF M3 here, and every once in a while, the channel will change to another zone but same channel number.

Using the channel knob as channels 1-16 and the ABC switch for zones, if I'm sitting on Zone A, Ch 3, a vibration or nudging the channel knob changes the radio to Zone C, Ch 3. Has anyone seen this before and might know how to fix this before I look for the part number and pricing for the channel pot? Contact cleaner doesn't seem to work.

Thanks.

 

[y85csm]

Get the original CPFix from MOL.
It fixes a known ABC switch issue.
I believe upgrading the firmware to latest version will also fix it.

 

[Notarola]

y85csm is correct the cpfix will fix a problem where the abc switch is incorrectly read by the processor. From your description it sounds like a bad connection on the flex or in the selector since it requires a 'direct' physical input to cause the issue. You can disassemble the unit and check out the flex and switches, but if your going to do that I highly recommend you use the disassembly tool or you will damage the bottom of the radio getting the electronics package out. Also be gently when releasing and reseating the flexes into their connections. The compression tab can be broken easily.

Once apart use a NON RESIDUE cleaner and vigerously work the controls ABC and selector back and forth a few times. Also look for missing insulators and corrosion. If all is well reassemble the unit and see how it works.

Ifm this is a bit beyond you a new front panel flex can be bought through Mot or some of the dealers hare.

 

[jpu535]

I have 7 radios (XTS2500 Model 1 and 1.5) that still changed zones even though they had the newest tuning data related to the CPFix. These radios are outside the date codes listed in the FSB10468 and were purchases new after the dates listed in the bulletin. I've complained to Motorola about it and all they wanted was to have the radio back for evaluation. Of course, they said it was a bad switch and charged us $389 flat rate for the repair.

 

[Notarola]

Did it fix the problem? Often Moto does not know the full range of units affected by an known issue. More often they are aware of an issue but deny it exists.

If the repair did work I suggest Sandys Communications here on the site. I have had the pleasure of dealing with them on several parts orders and have nothing but praise for the prompt service and reasonable pricing.

 

[krustykrab]

CPFix did not work for me. I just ordered the case opener tool. Just browsing through MOL, I found the part for the volume pot but not the channel selector. (??)

 

[duggerd]

CPFix did not work for me. I just ordered the case opener tool. Just browsing through MOL, I found the part for the volume pot but not the channel selector. (??)

Item Number. 4085131E04

SWITCH FREQ DUAL FUNCTION
Unit of Measure: 1 EA

List price $35.00

Active and orderable on MOL.

 

[jpu535]

Did it fix the problem? Often Moto does not know the full range of units affected by an known issue. More often they are aware of an issue but deny it exists.

If the repair did work I suggest Sandys Communications here on the site. I have had the pleasure of dealing with them on several parts orders and have nothing but praise for the prompt service and reasonable pricing.

Replacing the switch did solve the problem and it has not resurfaced in any of the originally affected radios.

I agree that Motorola sometimes doesn't know the full extent of the problems so when I complained I thought bringing it to their attention would help them identify a wider range of problem radios and expand the date range in the FSB but that didn't happen. The FSB only addresses the tuning issue related to the voltages on the switch. It appears they have two problem related to the same issue, component degradation causing varying voltages and a defective switch. I have 78 XTS2500's in use in the fire service and they have been bullet proof so far and have had this problem in only 7 radios.

I've been working with Motorola radios since the early 80's and know all to well their classic denial stance on problems.

I just thought I would share my experiences.

Thanks for the input.

Joe

 

[gcr33]

We had some that did just that change channels for no reason, switch replaced by our shop and no more trouble.

 

[MTS2000DES]

The switch is a problem on these radios. Our other tech does quite a bit of work replacing these for one user who's XTS2500s constantly get damaged by the OEM Motorola high activity case who's T-strap puts too much pressure on the switch assembly. There is almost no strain relief on them. What a technical abortion of a design.

It's not a big deal to replace but does require complete teardown to board level and a good re-flow station. All the more reason I sold off my 2500s. Not the most award winning design.

 

[MOTOROLANUT]

I have seen this problem with XTS5000's as well.