When purchasing a Sepura device, particularly second-hand, it’s crucial to understand the frequency bands it supports and the encryption features it includes. This guide will help you identify the key specifications and determine the suitability of the device for your needs.

Frequency Band Coverage

Sepura devices come in different models, each supporting specific frequency bands. Here’s a breakdown of the bands and their typical use cases:

TG (400 – 433 MHz)
– Common Use : Somewhat common.
– Notes: Suitable for amateur radio on the 70cm band.

TL (368.5 – 400 MHz)
– Common Use: Very rare.
– Notes: Best to avoid this band.

TN (380 – 414 MHz)
– Common Use: Very rare.
– Notes: Avoid this band.

TR (350 – 372 MHz)
– Common Use: Very rare.
– Notes: Avoid this band.

UO (440 – 473 MHz)
– Common Use: Quite rare.
– Notes: Covers PMR446 and commercial bands.

XB (851 – 870 MHz)
– Common Use: Very rare.
– Notes: Avoid this band.

TZ (410 – 430 MHz)
– Common Use: Commonly found on the second-hand market.
– Notes: Usable on 430 MHz but not upper

TS (370 – 400 MHz)
– Common Use**: Quite rare.
– Notes: Best to avoid.

TW (380 – 430 MHz)
– Common Use: Common on the second-hand market.
– Notes: Usable on 430 MHz but not upper.

TT (380 – 400 MHz)
– Common Use: Somewhat rare.
– Notes: Used exclusively on the Airwave network in the UK—Avoid!

UW (407 – 473 MHz)
– Common Use: Somewhat rare, but highly desirable.
– Notes: Covers the entire amateur and commercial bands, including PMR446—a versatile choice.

 Hardware Code (HW Code) Identification

To identify the device’s frequency band and encryption capabilities, locate the HW code, usually found on a sticker under the battery for handhelds or on the main unit for mobiles.

 Band Identification:
– The 4th and 5th characters in the HW code indicate the frequency band.
– Match these characters with the frequency bands listed above to know the coverage.

Encryption Identification:
– The 6th character in the HW code represents the encryption type:
– 0 = Clear (No encryption)
– 1 = TEA1
– 2 = TEA2 (Likely a missing Airwave set—Avoid!)
– 3 = TEA3

Accessing Hidden Menus

For advanced users, Sepura devices have hidden menus that provide additional information:

*477: View network quality, neighbor cells, GPS information, hardware/software revision, and more.
*2797: Access battery information.
*762: Start streaming GPS data over the serial connector.

When selecting a Sepura device, carefully check the frequency band and encryption features using the HW code. Avoid rare or unsuitable bands, and aim for devices with broad coverage, like the UW band, for maximum versatility. Use the hidden menus to further inspect the device’s status and capabilities.

courtesy of digitalradiohacker

* We do not provide programming software, licenses, additional information, or technical support beyond what is available through above published information!

By YO8TEH