What is the Difference Between the Retevis Repeaters RT97, RT97S, and RT97P?
What is the Difference Between the Retevis Repeaters RT97, RT97S, and RT97P?
If your handheld two way raidio doesn't meet your communication needs, you may need a repeater for walkie talkie to extend the range. Due to its compact size and expected performance, the Retevis RT97 repeater series has always been the first choice for distance expansion solutions. Retevis RT97 repeater series includes 3 models: RT97, RT97S, and RT97P. Before you decide to buy, read this article to learn about their differences.
Designs are Different
The Retevis RT97S repeater has the same face shell and the same dimensions as the Retevis RT97P DMR repeater, which distinguishes it from the Retevis RT97. However, only the RT97S has an extra DB-9 connector for adding an external controller for linking purposes. Using a custom interface cable (which we do not offer) enables RT97S to be connected to a Raspberry Pi connected to the myGMRS Network or any other repeater controller or linking system that uses a PC or single-board computer. This allows for controlling the RT97S repeater from a PC or Raspberry Pi.
Retevis Repeater for Walkie Talkie
Versions are Different
Retevis RT97 is an analog repeater and has four versions on the website:
① 16-Channel UHF Radio Repeater Version; Center Frequency: [TX: 463.3125MHz, RX: 453:3125MHz, Offset: 10MHz]
② 16-Channel VHF Radio Repeater Version; Center Frequency: [TX 162.6125MHz, RX: 152.6125MHz, Offset: 10MHz]
③ 8-Channel GMRS Radio Repeater Version, GMRS Frequency: [TX: 462.550-462.725 MHz, RX: 467.550-467.725 MHz]
④ Customizable Version: [Support Frequency Customization: UHF (400-470MHZ) or VHF (136-174MHZ); Offset: ≥5MHz and ≤12MHz]
Retevis RT97P is a DMR radio repeater that can help DMR handheld radios extend range, and it has three versions:
① 8-Channel UHF Radio Repeater Version; Center Frequency: [TX: 463.3125MHz, RX: 453:3125MHz, Offset: 10MHz]
② 8-Channel VHF Radio Repeater Version; Center Frequency: [TX 162.6125MHz, RX: 152.6125MHz, Offset: 10MHz]
③ Customizable Frequency Version: [Support Frequency Customization: UHF (400-470MHZ) or VHF (136-174MHZ); Offset: ≥5MHz and ≤12MHz]
Retevis RT97S is also an analog portable repeater and has two versions on the website:
① 8-Channel GMRS Radio Repeater Version, GMRS Frequency: [TX: 462.550-462.725 MHz, RX: 467.550-467.725 MHz]
② Customizable Frequency Version: [Support Frequency Customization: UHF (400-470MHZ) or VHF (136-174MHZ); Offset: ≥5MHz and ≤12MHz]
Programming Software and Cables are Different
The repeaters RT97, RT97S, and RT97P use different software; you can download the software via this link: https://www.retevis.com/resources-center. And their programming cable is also different, as follows:
Tips:
1. Both RT97, RT97S, and RT97P repeaters can be powered by DC 12V~24V power, car power, or a solar battery. What solar battery to choose will depend on your climate and how much use it will see. During the summer, when there is lots of sun, a 9-amp-hour battery and a 30-watt panel do just fine.
2. The antenna interface of RT97, RT97S, and RT97P is SL16-J/M, which is compatible with antennas such as MA02. The extender antenna cable compatible with RT97, RT97S, and RT97P is C9123A. Only the RT97S supports connecting to a speaker microphone. The compatible speaker microphone for RT97S repeater is C9252A. If you don’t know what accessories you need for your repeater, you can contact us via email or buy our repeater bundles, which include compatible accessories.
3. If you need to customize the repeater, please note the following information when placing the order: RX frequency, TX frequency, Offset (≥5MHz and ≤12 MHz).
4. Please note that due to the duplexer installed in the repeater, the actual output power will be halved, around 5-6W. If you need a repeater with higher power, then the Retevis R1 25W Analog Repeater is recommended, which has a UHF version and supports VHF/UHF customization.
R1 with Antenna and Coaxial Cable Kit
Thank you for reading this blog! If you have any questions, please leave your comments below. We are looking forward to your comments!
Related Blog: New Here! Get Acquainted with R1 25W Repeater for Two Way Radio
