For the most part finding the programming software for the older radios wasn't overly difficult. Moto may be the most likely to be accessible through a local two way shop, with Kenwood not far behind. the software i got didn't load at all on one computer, and the other won't see the radio, either with the aftermarket cable or a legit motorola cable. i've been unsuccessful with programming a couple motorola radios i have, and kind of hit a brick wall with motorola, they were being helpful and then stopped. motorola seems to be more common to see ship-in programming services available. i was trying to get them going on DMR, but haven't fully worked that out.įrom the forum, kenwood seem reasonably easy to get software and cables for.

i have a couple motoTRBO compatible radios, and it's a few extra settings to watch out for setting up for analog. the digital stuff is a level more complicated, but if you're sticking with the analog side, it's not TOO much more complicated than the analog. the help files in the software are pretty decent about explaining the features, sometimes in somewhat technical language. aftermarket cables are available, many of the common software packages are out there, either from the cable seller or other sources, some paid. I've mostly dealt with Vertex Standard stuff, and coming from other radios, the learning curve for the analog only radios isn't horrible. I'll speak mostly from my own experience. To get help with programming do I ship the radio to someone here or can they send me software and walk me through the process? Is one brand easier to program than another? Ie-Kenwood vs MotorolaĢ. I also read it can be challenging to find software to program these radios but that some here can help with programming.ġ. I've read commercial radios are much higher quality and recommended to those who can afford it and would like the benefit of a radio with better components.

Icom Motorola XPR Programming Software