Vertex Standard VX-P820 Series User manual

VHF •UHF Portable Radios
VX-820/870 SERIES
VX-829/879/P829/P879 VX-824/874/P824/P874
VX-821/871/P821/P871
512 ch/32 groups with 16 Keys and LCD 512 ch/32 groups with 4 Keys and LCD 16 ch/1 group without LCD
VX-820 Series VX-870 Series / Special Order Version
VX-P820 /P870 Series

Actual Size
Reliability, ruggedness, and interoperability like never before. The VX-P820/P870 series of Vertex
Standard portables is ready to respond when you are, with a wide array of signaling capability,
along with big audio, operator and system security measures, and PC programmability for
quick deployment. Submersible to IP57 (VX-P820)/IP68 (VX-P870) specifications, and built to
U.S. MIL-STD specifications, the VX-P820/P870 Portables are your assurance of long-term
reliability under the most difficult operating circumstances.
VX-P820/P870 SERIES
VX-P829/P879 VX-P824/P874 VX-P821/P871
P25 VHF•UHF Portable Radios
2
VX-P920 Series VX-P970 Series / Special Order Version VX-P820 Series VX-P870 Series / Special Order Version
512 ch/32 groups with 16 Keys and LCD 512 ch/32 groups with 4 Keys and LCD 16 ch/1 group without LCD

P25 DIGITAL MODE
3
Ideal for reception in noisy environments, high-powered audio of
the VX-P820/P870 Series is coupled to a large internal speaker,
assuring solid copy throughout difficult crowd control, fire, or
sporting-event operations.
Other Features
P25 Digital Conventional
AMBE+2™Vocoder
NAC (Network Access Code)
Talk Group ID
Individual ID List / Paging Group
Caller ID Display (Units with LCD only)
RSSI Indicator / RSSI Warning
Mixed Mode
AES / DES Encryption Options
NAC (Network Access Code) are programmable and are
typically used to control network access but may also be used to
steer repeater operations. NAC codes are used the same way
as an
analog CTCSS tone (or DCS code). There are 4096 unique
NAC codes.
For superior voice quality in narrow-band, digital, P25 mode of
operation our products use the AMBE+2™Vocoder protocol
from DVSI, Inc.
Because our products are fully TIA/EIA 102 Series compliant, you
are assured of broad compatibility within a wide range of P25
Digital Mode systems.
Talk Group IDs (TGIDs) provide for the logical grouping of radio
users into distinct organizations and can also be used to minimize
co-channel interference. There are more than 65,000 unique
TGID addresses.
In P25 operation each transceiver can be programmed with a
unique Unit ID. There are over 16 Million possible Unit IDs available.
Additionally, using the Paging Group feature, each unique Unit
ID can be identified with an Alphanumeric Tag, making selective
calling by name is possible. What's more, if no Paging call list
has been defined, direct input of the Unit ID number is possible,
permitting direct calling of any particular user. When receiving,
the Alphanumeric Tag (Name) of the calling station will be shown
(LCD models only). If no call list has been defined, only the
transmitting station’s Code number will be displayed. The Paging
Group may be subdivided into up to 15 sub-groups, and each
channel may be assigned to a sub-group in advance.
Channels can be programmed for analog only, digital only or
Mixed
Mode dual Analog/Digital operation. The radio will
automatically switch to the appropriate format when it receives a
call. This capability provides seamless switching between
Analog and Digital systems saves available channel
programming capacity and simplifies user operation of the unit.
Certain models feature Liquid Crystal Displays (LCD) and
provide visual indication of receive signal level (signal strength).
All models feature an audible indication of low receive signal
strength. When received signal strength falls to a level not
suitable for reliable communications an alert tone will sound.
This feature is useful if the unit has no display or if it is difficult
for the user to see the display during normal operation.
P25 contains special provisions for Emergency Calling. When
an "Emergency" signal is received, the radio’s "Busy" LED can
provide a very bright white blinking indication while the LCD can
show the Unit ID or Alpha Tag of the unit in distress...
Data Encryption Standard (DES) is an older format system
based on a 64 bit encryption algorithm...
Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) is a newer and more
robust system based on 256 bit algorithm. Encryption Keys
Multiple encryption keys can be stored in the unit as required.
The calling station will be identified either by their Alphanumeric
Tag (if defined in the Individual ID List), or by their ID number (if a Tag
is not defined).
Miscellaneous
・Emergency Decode Indication
VERSATILITY
In addition to the traditional battery saver modes, our exclusive
Intelligent Saver reduces power consumption associated with the
DSP.
Intelligent RX/TX Battery Saver
VX-P829/P824/P879/P874 with LCD:
Maximum 512 Channels / 32 Groups
VX-P821/P871 w/o LCD:Maximum 16 Channels / 1 Group
The LCD-equipped version provides massive channel storage
capability: up to 512 channels may be programmed into as many
as 32 groups. A single radio may therefore be programmed with
channel sets for a number of different jurisdictions or organizations,
ensuring seamless interoperability. The VX-P820/P870 Series
without the LCD can accommodate up to 16 channels in a single
memory group.
Rugged, Submersible Design
Submersible External Speaker/Microphone
MH-66 Series (optional)
The VX-P820 Series portables are housed
in an ultra-rugged, impact-resistant case
that is designed to exceed U.S. MIL-STD
810C/D/E/F standards for shock, vibration,
and driving rain; it also meets international
waterproofing standard IP55 (water jets)
and IP57 (submersion in water to a
depth of 3 feet for up to 30 minutes). For
even more demanding environments, the
VX-P870 Series version meets IP68
specifications (submersion to 6 feet for 3
hours), and is available via special order.
When operating in an emergency situation where immersion of
the radio and/or its accessories could occur, the optional MH-66
Series
Speaker/Microphone is rated to the same submersibility
specifications as the portable itself (IP57), ensuring that your
essential communications won’t be interrupted if the microphone
gets dropped into the water.
Loud 700 mW Audio Output
•CTCSS / DCS Encode and Decode •DTMF ANI/DTMF Paging
(optional FVP-25 required for DTMF Paging) •2-Tone Encode
and Multiple 2-Tone Decode •User Selectable Tone (VX-P829/
P824/P879/P874) •Scan: Channel Scan, Priority Scan, Dual
Watch, Follow-me Scan, Follow-me Dual Watch, and TA Scan
•Compander (Wide and Narrow Band) •Lone Worker
•Programmable Function Keys •PC Programmable •Power
Output: 5 W •Battery Indicator •Wide / Narrow (12.5 / 20 / 25
kHz programmable per channel) •Speed Dial (16-key version
only) •Large LCD (Dot Matrix / 12 Characters +7 Segments / 3
Characters) (VX-P829/P824P879/P874) •7-Color LED for Incoming
Call Alert •Programmable Home Channel Function •ARTS™
(Auto-Range Transpond System) •BCLO / BTLO and TOT

Actual Size
VX-829/879 VX-824/874 VX-821/871
VX-820/870 SERIES
VHF•UHF Portable Radios
4
VX-820 Series VX-870 Series / Special Order Version
512 ch/32 groups with 16 Keys and LCD 512 ch/32 groups with 4 Keys and LCD 16 ch/1 group without LCD

VERSATILITY
5
The LCD-equipped version provides massive channel
storage capability: up to 512 channels may be programmed
into as many as 32 groups. A single radio may therefore be
programmed with channel sets for a number of different
jurisdictions or organizations, ensuring seamless
interoperability. The VX-820/870 Series without the LCD can
accommodate up to 16 channels in a single memory group.
High-performance Encoder/Decoder circuits for both
CTCSS and Digital Code Squelch are provided, for access
to tone/code controlled systems. DCS is ideal for crowded
RF environments, providing superior immunity from false
opening of the squelch.
Fleet and network operation are enhanced by the built-in
DTMF ANI circuit.
The VX-820/870 Series provides unmatched flexibility in its
scanning features. Designed to optimize operation in a wide
variety of system environments, these scanning capabilities
ensure that you never miss an important call!
For operation in systems requiring Companding, the VX-
820/870 Series portables include both Wide- and Narrow-
band Companding circuitry, programmable channel by
channel.
One of the front panel’s "programmable" keys may be
designated so as to allow the user to select a CTCSS or
DCS tone from a pre-defined Tone Table.
The VX-820/870 Series can transmit a 2-Tone paging call,
and can receive 2-Tone calls using different tone
combinations.
VX-829/824/879/874 with LCD:
Maximum 512 Channels / 32 Groups
VX-821/871 w/o LCD: Maximum 16 Channels / 1 Group
CTCSS / DCS Encode and Decode
DTMF ANI / DTMF Paging
(optional FVP-25 required for DTMF Paging)
2-Tone Encode and Multiple 2-Tone Decode
User Selectable Tone (VX-829/824/879/874)
Scan: Channel Scan, Priority Scan, Dual Watch,
Follow-me Scan, Follow-me Dual Watch, and TA Scan
Compander (Wide and Narrow Band)
When engaged, the Receive-mode Battery Saver rapidly
pulses the portable on and off, reducing current consumption
and extending battery life. If a call is received, the Battery
Saver is disengaged, and normal operation resumes. On
transmit, the Battery Saver will reduce transmitter power,
thus extending operating time, when you are within close
range of a strong repeater or dispatch center.
Customization of feature access
is easily accomplished at the
time of programming, thanks to
the "programmable" keys that may
be assigned functions needed
most in your operating environment.
All channel and other configuration data may be uploaded to
the portable by the dealer in a matter of minutes, allowing
efficient setup of a fleet of radios when rapid deployment is
required.
The Lone Worker feature is designed to emit an alarm for
30
seconds when the Lone Worker Timer (programmed by the
dealer) has expired. If the user does not reset the timer by
pressing the PTT switch, the radio switches to the
Emergency mode.
Lone Worker
RX/TX Battery Saver
Programmable Function Keys
PC Programmable
Automatic Number Identification, triggered by the pressing
of the PTT key, is available in the most popular industry-
standard formats, via the optional VME-100 (for Encoding
only) or VMDE-200 (for Encoding and Decoding) module.
ANI Encoding and Decoding (MDC-1200®, GE-Star®, and
DTMF (Encode): optional VME-100 or VMDE-200 required)
DURABLE CONSTRUCTION
The VX-820 Series portables are housed in an ultra-rugged,
impact-resistant case that is designed to exceed U.S. MIL-
STD 810C/D/E/F standards for shock, vibration, and driving
rain; it also meets international waterproofing standard IP55
(water jets) and IP57 (submersion in water to a depth of 3
feet for up to 30 minutes).
When operating in an emergency situation where immersion
of the radio and/or its accessories could occur, the optional
MH-66 Series
Speaker/Microphone is rated to the same
submersibility
specifications as the portable itself (IP57),
ensuring that your
essential communications won’t be
interrupted if the microphone
gets dropped into the water.
For even more demanding environments, the VX-870 Series
version meets IP68 specifications (submersion to 6 feet for
3 hours), and is available via special order.
Rugged, Submersible Design
Submersible External Speaker/Microphone
MH-66 Series (optional)
VX-870 Series
Special Order Version

6
EASY USER INTERFACE
When programming radios for use in different jurisdictions,
the VX-820/870 Series portables may be set up, channel by
channel, for use in 12.5 kHz, 20 kHz, or 25 kHz channel
spacing environments. Deviation and bandwidth are
automatically set according to the configuration you choose.
The optional DVS-5 Digital Voice Storage Unit allows you to
store and play back up to 120 seconds of incoming received
audio, so you can archive an important incoming message.
An easy-to-use DTMF Speed Dialer feature is included in
the VX-829/879, for specialized selective calling, telephone
interconnect, or other applications.
For advanced network or fleet operations, a 5-Tone
Encoder-Decoder circuit is included in the VX-820/870
Series. An expensive option on many competing brands,
this included feature enhances operation without impacting
your budget.
Ideal for reception in noisy environments, high-powered
audio of the VX-820/870 Series is coupled to a large
internal speaker, assuring solid copy throughout difficult
crowd control, fire, or sporting-event operations.
The large, easy-to-read display includes a 12-character dot
matrix that provides a wealth of information about the
operating channel, as well as various status icons.
Illuminated using Vertex Standard’s renowned Omni-Glow™
back-lighting, the VX-829/ 824/879/874’s LCD is clearly
visible at night, with minimal degradation
of your night vision.
Large LCD (Dot Matrix / 12 Characters +7 Segments /
3 Characters) (VX-829/824/879/874)
HIGH PERFORMANCE
The VX-820/870 Series provides up to five solid Watts of
transmitter power, for extended communications range. For
more localized
applications, the power output may be reduced
to 2.5 W, 1 W,
or 1/4 W, for enhanced battery life.
Power Output: 5 W
Wide / Narrow
(12.5 / 20 / 25 kHz programmable per channel)
Built-in 5-Tone signaling
Loud 700 mW Audio Output
Speed Dial (16-key version only)
Voice Storage (Optional DVS-5 required)
The user may select, out of the dealer-programmed channel
list, one channel to be the "Home" channel, which may be
assigned to a "programmable" key for one-touch access to a
critically-important channel.
The front panel of the VX-820/870 Series
includes an ultra-bright LED that can
display up to seven different colors, with a
variable flash pattern, to alert the operator
when a 2-Tone or 5-Tone call has come in,
and during Emergency mode operation.
7-Color LED for Incoming Call Alert
Programmable Home Channel Function
SECURITY
•AF Minimum Volume •Radio-to-Radio Cloning •Signal
Strength Meter •Battery Indicator •Audio Pitch Control
To prevent use of the portable by an unauthorized operator
(in case of theft, non-payment of subscription, etc.), a
dispatch center can send a 5-Tone command to "Stun"
(temporary disabling) or "Kill" (permanent disabling) a unit. If
the "Stun" command has been sent, another 5-Tone
"Revive" command may also be sent, re-enabling operation
of the portable.
To prevent interference to other users on busy channels, the
Busy Channel Lock-Out (BCLO) and Busy Tone Lock-Out
(BTLO) features prevent transmission by the portable if the
channel is occupied. And the Time-Out Timer (TOT) feature
will automatically cut of transmission if the programmed
maximum transmit time is exceeded.
The FVP-35 and FVP-36 Encryption Units provide security
for your important public safety and security communications.
A DTMF Paging function is also included in the FVP-25
module, for selective calling.
Any or all of the programmable keys may be assigned as
direct-access one-touch keys for selecting important
operating channels.
The ARTS™feature is a "handshake" system that uses
DCS coding to confirm that two ARTS™-equipped units are
within communication range. If an "out of range" condition
develops, an alarm will sound and the communication center
can instruct the field unit to move to a better location (or
assistance to the field unit can be dispatched).
Other Features
Direct Channel Recall (#1 - #4)
BCLO / BTLO and TOT
Remote Radio Stun / Kill / Revive (5-Tone)
ARTS™(Auto-Range Transpond System)
Encryption (Optional FVP-35/36 or FVP-25 required)

FVP-36
Inversion Encryption Unit
(VX-820/870)
DVS-5
Voice Storage Unit
(VX-820/870)
VME-100
MDC1200®/GE-STAR®
ANI Encoder Unit
(VX-820/870)
VMDE-200
MDC1200®/GE-STAR®
ANI Encoder/Decoder Unit
(VX-820/870)
Various accessories listed may not be available in some countries.
FVP-35
Rolling Code Encryption Unit
(VX-820/870)
Accessories & Options
VH-111
Over the Head, Heavy Duty Headset
VH-121
3-Wire Earpiece, Mic,
Palm PTT Switch
VH-131
2-Wire Earpiece,
Palm Mic/PTT Combo
FBA-34
Alkaline Battery Case (6XAA)
MH-50D7A
Speaker/Microphone
FNB-V86LI
7.4 V 1150 mAh
Li-Ion Light-Duty Battery
FNB-V87LI
7.4 V 2000 mAh Li-Ion Battery
FNB-V92LI/IS
7.4 V 3000 mAh Li-Ion Battery
IS : Intrinsically Safe Version
* B for 120 VAC / C for 230 VAC
CT-116 Radio to Radio Cloning Cable
LCC-820 Leather Case
CLIP-17B Swivel Belt Clip
Submersible External Microphone
w/PF key, Toggle
MH-66A7A MH-66B7A
VX-820/870/P820/P870 Series
MDC1200
Digital ANI Encode Unit
(VX-820/870)
7
FVP-25
Encryption/DTMF Pager Unit
(VX-820/870)
VAC-920B/C*
Desktop Rapid Charger
for FNB-V86LI, FNB-V87LI,
FNB-V92LI/IS
VAC-6920B/C*
6-Unit Multi Charger
for FNB-V86LI, FNB-V87LI,
FNB-V92LI/IS
Programming Cable USB FIF-10/A + CT-108
RS-232C CT-29 + CT-115
Programming Software CE59 (VX-820/870)/CE76 (VX-P820/P920)
UHF ATU-6A 400-430 MHz
ATU-6D 450-485 MHz
ATU-6DS 450-485 MHz/3.5"
VHF ATV-6A 134-151 MHz/3.5"
ATV-6B 150-163 MHz/3.5"
ATV-6C 161-174 MHz/3.5"
ATV-6XL VHF UNTUNED
ATV-8A 134-151 MHz
ATV-8B 150-163 MHz
ANTENNA LIST
ATV-8C 161-174 MHz
ATV-10A
145-155 MHz HIGH GAIN
ATV-10B 150-160 MHz HIGH GAIN
ATV-10C 155-165 MHz HIGH GAIN
ATV-10E 165-175 MHz HIGH GAIN

VHF UHF
Measurements per EIA standards unless noted above. Specifications are subject to change without notice or obligation.
Transmitter Specifications
Power Output 5 / 2.5 / 1 / 0.25 W
Modulation 16K0F3E
11K0F3E
Spurious Emissions 70 dB
FM Hum and Noise (W/N) 45 / 40 dB
Audio Distortion Less than 3 % @ 1kHz
Receiver Specifications
Sensitivity (12 dB SINAD) EIA 0.25 / 0.32 µV
Adjacent Channel Selectivity (W/N) 75 / 70 dB
Intermodulation
(W/N) 75 / 70 dB
Spurious and Image Rejection 75 dB
Hum and Noise
(W/N) 48 / 42 dB
Audio Output 700 mW @16 Ohms, 5 % THD
General Specifications
Frequency Range 134-174 MHz 400-470 MHz
450-512 MHz
Number of Channels 512 (VX-829/824/879/874) / 16 (VX-821/871)
Number of Groups 32 (VX-829/824/879/874) / 1 (VX-821/871)
Channel Spacing 12.5 / 20 / 25 kHz
PLL Steps 1.25 / 2.5 / 5 / 6.25 kHz 5 / 6.25 kHz
Operating Voltage 7.4 VDC ±20 %
Current Consumption
STBY (w/save) 75 (30) mA 75 (30) mA
RX 200 mA 200 mA
TX 1.7A 1.9A
Battery Life (w/Battery save) 12.5 h (16 h) w/ FNB-V87LI 11.5 h (15 h) w/ FNB-V87LI
(RX 5 : TX 5 : STBY 90 Duty)
Temperature Range
– 22 ° F to + 140 ° F ( – 30 ° Cto +60 ° C)
Frequency Stability ±2.5 ppm
Dimensions (W x H x D)
2.3" x 3.8" x 1.5" (57.5 x 96.5 x 37.5 mm)
Weight (approx.)
10.9 oz (310 g) w/Ant, Battery (FNB-V86LI) and Belt clip
Low Pressure
High Temperature
Low Temperature
Temperature Shock
Solar Radiation
Rain
Humidity
Salt Fog
Dust
Immersion*
Vibration
Shock
500.2/Procedure I, II
501.2/Procedure I, II
502.2/Procedure I, II
–
505.2/Procedure Il Cat. A1
506.2/Procedure I
507.2/Procedure II, III
509.2/Procedure I
510.2/Procedure I
512.2/Procedure I
514.3/Procedure I Cat. 10
516.3/Procedure I
500.1/Procedure I, II
501.1/Procedure I, II
502.1/Procedure I, II
–
505.1/Procedure I
506.1/Procedure I
507.1/Procedure I, II
509.1/Procedure I
510.1/Procedure I
512.1/Procedure I
514. 2/Procedure I Cat. 10,8
516.2/Procedure I
500.3/Procedure I, II
501.3/Procedure I, II
502.3/Procedure I, II
–
505.3/Procedure Il Cat. A1
506.3/Procedure I, II
507.3/Procedure II, III
509.3/Procedure I
510.3/Procedure I
512.3/Procedure I
514.4/Procedure I Cat. 10
516.4/Procedure I
500.4/Procedure I, II
501.4/Procedure I, II
502.4/Procedure I, II
503.4/Procedure I
505.
4/Procedure I, II Cat. A1
506.4/Procedure I
–
509.4/Procedure I
510.4/Procedure I, III
512.4/Procedure I
514. 5/Procedure I Cat. 20,24
516.5/Procedure I
VX-820/870/P820/P870 Series : Applicable MIL-STD
Standard MIL 810C
Methods/Procedures MIL 810D Methods/Procedures MIL 810E Methods/Procedures MIL 810F Methods/Procedures
VX-820/870 SERIES
2006.1003NA(U) B9200490C Printed in Japan
Vertex Standard
US Headquarters
10900 Walker Street, Cypress, CA 90630, U.S.A.
Phone [phone]; Fax [phone]
http://www.vertexstandard.com
Intrinsically Safe Information
The Intrinsically Safe Version of VX-820/870/P820/P870 series, equipped with any of optional units, meets the
requirements of ANSI/UL913 6th Edition for Class I, Division 1, Groups A-D; Class II, Groups E-G; and Class III for
hazardous locations.
Specifications
VHF UHF
Transmitter Specifications Measurements made per TIA/EIA-603 (Analog), TIA-102 CAAA (Digital)
Power Output 5 / 2.5 / 1 / 0.25 W
Modulation Analog (W/N) 16K0F3E / 11K0F3E
Digital 8K10F1D / 8K10F1E
Spurious Emissions 70 dB
FM Hum and Noise Analog (W/N) 46 / 40 dB
Audio Distortion Less than 3 % @ 1kHz
Receiver Specifications Measurements made per TIA/EIA-603 (Analog), TIA-102 CAAA (Digital) 
Sensitivity (12 dB SINAD) EIA 0.25 µV 0.32 µV
Digital 5% BER 0.25 µV 0.32 µV
Digital 1% BER 0.35 µV 0.40 µV
Adjacent Channel Selectivity Analog (W/N) 75 / 70 dB
Intermodulation Analog (W/N) 75 / 70 dB
Spurious and Image Rejection Analog 75 dB
Hum and Noise Analog (W/N) 48 / 42 dB
Audio Output 700 mW @16 Ohms, 5% THD
General Specifications
Frequency range 134 - 174 MHz 380 - 450 MHz
450 - 512 MHz
Number of Channels 512 (VX-P829/P824/P879/P874) / 16 (VX-P821/P871)
Number of Groups 32 (VX-P829/P824/P879/P874) / 1 (VX-P821/P871)
Channel Spacing 12.5 / 20 / 25 kHz
PLL Steps 1.25 / 2.5 / 5 / 6.25 kHz 5 / 6.25 kHz
Operating Voltage 7.4 VDC ±20 %
Current Consumption
STBY (Analog / Digital) 90 / 130 mA 90 / 130 mA
RX 250 mA 250 mA
TX 1.7 A 1.9 A
Battery Life (w/Battery save)
10.6h (13.0 h) w/ FNB-V87LI 11.0 h (13.0 h) w/ FNB-V87LI
(RX 5 : TX 5 : STBY 90 Duty)
Temperature Range –22°F to + 140°F (-30°C to + 60°C)
Frequency Stability ±2.5 ppm
Dimensions (W x H x D) 2.3" x 3.8" x 1.5" (57.5 x 96.5 x 37.5 mm)
Weight (approx.)
10.9 oz (310 g) w/Ant, Battery (FNB-V86LI) and Belt Clip
VX-P820/P870 SERIES
*VX-870 / P870 Series
VX-820/P820 Series : Applicable International Protection Standard VX-870/P870 Series : Applicable International Protection Standard