Decoding the Motorola GM300 Model Number

Decoding the Motorola GM300 model number provides critical details about the radio’s specifications, such as frequency band, power output, channel capacity, and more. The GM300 model number typically follows Motorola’s standard convention, with the first six characters indicating the base model and the subsequent characters specifying features like RF power, frequency range, channel spacing, and logic board capabilities. Below is a step-by-step guide to decoding a GM300 model number, based on information from reliable sources.

Motorola GM300 mobile radios cover the VHF (136-174 MHz in two ranges) and UHF (403-520 MHz in fourranges) bands,with 8 or 16 channels, 12.5 or 20/25/30 kHz channel spacing, and 10, 25, and 35 – 45-watt power levels. They use the same accessories (loudspeakers, microphones, accessory plugs, power cords, mounting brackets, etc.) as the MaxTracs.

Decoding motorola gm300 model number

Fig: DecodingMotorola gm300 model number

The first six characters are pretty much standard Motorola convention. The second six characters provide a lot of useful information about the capabilities of the radio and the boards contained within it.  A typical model number would be M44GMC09C3A_. This is a 40 watt, UHF radio, 45.1 MHz IF, narrow spacing (12.5 kHz), 16 channels, expanded logic board, 438-470 MHz band.

Motorola GM300 Logic Board Differences

Expanded Logic Board (C)

  • 4-layer PCB construction
  • Socketed EPROM for firmware
  • 16-channel capability
  • Programmable accessory pins
  • Advanced signaling features (MDC1200, etc.)
  • Channel steering capability
  • Used in 16-channel radios

Masked Logic Board (D)

  • 2-layer PCB construction
  • Firmware stored in microprocessor
  • 8-channel capability (can be modified for 16)
  • Fixed accessory pin assignments
  • Limited signaling features
  • Used in 8-channel radios and M120/M130 models

Important Notes

  1. Frequency Range Specificity: The GM300 was the first Motorola product line where the model number includes the specific frequency range (position 10). This makes it easier to determine exact capabilities.
  2. Board Compatibility: RF boards and power amplifiers are frequency-specific and cannot be easily changed between ranges.
  3. Channel Modifications: The RSS (Radio Service Software) can be modified to allow 8-channel radios to accept 16 channels, and 16-channel radios to accept up to 40 channels.
  4. Related Models: M10 (1-channel), M120 (2-channel), and M130 (2-channel with signaling) use similar numbering but may have XV or XQ series designations.

Motorola GM300 Accessories and Compatibility

GM300 radios use the same accessories as MaxTrac radios:

  • Loudspeakers
  • Microphones
  • Accessory plugs
  • Power cords
  • Mounting brackets

Motorola GM300 Programming

The GM300 uses HVN8177 RSS (Radio Service Software) for programming, which is different from MaxTrac RSS but operates similarly. The programming cable and RIB (Radio Interface Box) setup is the same as MaxTrac radios.

This decoding system helps identify the exact specifications and capabilities of your GM300 radio, ensuring proper programming and accessory compatibility.

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