Kenwood NX-1300DE3 UHF DMR Two Way Radio

The Kenwood NX-1300  DE3 is part of the company’s flagship NEXEDGE two-way radio range. Positioned as an entry-level model, this non-display handset is nonetheless packed full of features and impressive Kenwood technology, making it a great value option for general-purpose communications across a range of industries.

In common with the rest of the NEXEDGE range, the standout feature of the NX-1300DE3 is that it can operate in digital or analogue modes without needing to pre-programme the handset in either – the way you have to with most dual-mode two-way radios available on the market.

In fact, NX-1300 radios can operate in three modes. Handsets can function as both a digital DMR or NXDN two way radio, as well as use analogue FM fequencies. DMR is a time division multiple access (TDMA) digital radio protocol that offers high energy efficiency and flexibility. NXDN is a frequency division multiple access (FDMA) protocol that is less flexible but doesn’t require synchronization.

Kenwood’s pioneering switching technology autosenses received mode and transmits replies accordingly. This makes the NX-1300DE3 a perfect option for digital migration, offering seamless integration with older radios and so easing the path to digital for businesses that want to upgrade from analogue gradually. Given its highly competitive price point, the NX1300DE3 represents one of the best-value options available for upgrading to digital radio anyway.

The benefits of digital include more features, better signal range and enhanced audio quality. The NX-1300DE3 showcases Kenwood’s renowned audio expertise, with digital noise suppression and automatic gain control providing a high-quality listening experience. Other digital features include TDMA 2-slot and Dual Slot Direct Mode, two different approaches to increasing channel efficiency so the network can handle more call traffic, and therefore more users.

The NX-1300DE3 is a UHF two way radio, meaning it uses frequencies in the UHF range 400 – 470 MHz. All two-way radios operate on either VHF or UHF bandwidths, with the UHF range having the higher frequency but shorter wavelengths of the two. Shorter wavelengths do not travel as far as reliably, but they are better at maintaining signal integrity when passing through or around obstacles. The NX-1300DE3 is therefore ideal for use indoors or in built-up environments.

Built with use in business and industry in mind, sturdy NX-1300DE3 handsets are designed for simple, intuitive operation on the move, with a standard push-to-talk button plus VOX voice activation. VOX mode means a radio begins transmitting when users begin to speak, so they can in effect be used hands free.

In addition, the NX-1300DE3 comes with a range of programmable safety and emergency alert features, including Emergency Call override and a one-touch Emergency Button. Lone Worker allows colleagues to keep tabs on workers operating alone in hazardous environments. This feature will monitor the activity levels of the radio. If a radio is inactive for a pre-programmed amount of time a beep will sound. If the beep remains un-responded to then an alarm will be sent to other radios within the network to let workers know there may be an issue their colleague.