Radio Set Hx Prc 6020 Technical Data |top| [NEW]
Here is the complete technical data story for the Radio Set HX PRC 6020, a modern, manpack tactical software-defined radio (SDR).
11. Known Limitations and Field Reports
From technical reviews and user feedback (collected from open-source military forums and maintenance logs), the following limitations are noted:
- No Built-in GPS: Cannot send automatic position reports without an external GPS dongle connected via the data port.
- Slow Scan Speed: Scanning through 20 channels takes approximately 2 seconds (100 ms per channel), which is slower than modern SDR-based radios.
- Battery Contact Wear: The battery latch mechanism can wear after 2000 mating cycles, requiring replacement of the battery carrier springs.
- Audio Distortion at Max Volume: At 100% volume, the internal speaker may clip (distort) on low-frequency male voices. Reducing to 85% volume resolves the issue.
- Compatibility: Not interoperable with SINCGARS (Single Channel Ground and Airborne Radio System) frequency hopping without an external adapter.
4. Data Capabilities
The PRC-6020 was not just a voice radio; it was a data node. It supported tactical data systems, allowing for the transmission of map overlays, orders, and situation reports digitally, speeding up the "OODA loop" (Observe, Orient, Decide, Act) for commanders. Radio Set Hx Prc 6020 Technical Data
Transmitter Data
- RF Output Power:
- High Power: 4 Watts (Typical for man-pack)
- Low Power: 0.4 Watts (for short-range/low probability of intercept)
- Modulation: FM (Frequency Modulation)
- Harmonic Suppression: > 60 dB
Battery & Power Management
The technical data sheet highlights a smart power management system:
- Battery Type: Li-Ion 603258.
- Smart Charging: The radio internally balances cells, reducing the need for external standalone chargers.
- Low Power State: 50mA sleep mode for extended field dwell times.
Transmitter Duty Cycle:
Continuous 100% duty cycle at 10W is not recommended without external cooling. The radio includes a thermal foldback circuit that reduces power to 5W if the internal temperature exceeds 85°C. Here is the complete technical data story for
Receiver Data
- Sensitivity: Better than -118 dBm (12 dB SINAD)
- Selectivity: Highly selective front-end to reject adjacent channel interference.
- Audio Output: Capable of driving a headset or a loudspeaker unit.
Comprehensive Technical Data and Analysis of the Radio Set HX PRC 6020
Core Technical Specifications
The PRC 6020’s technical data sheet reveals a device engineered for extreme environments and bandwidth-heavy applications.
Frequency Range & Waveforms:
- Coverage: 30 MHz to 512 MHz (continuous), with optional extension to 762 MHz for SATCOM.
- Waveforms:
- Legacy: VULOS, SEM 70, Havequick I/II, SINCGARS, SATURN, and standard FM/AM.
- Advanced: Thales’ HPDATM (High Performance Data) waveform, which delivers IP networking comparable to tactical cellular systems.
- NATO Standard: ESSOR (European Secure Software Defined Radio) HDR-WF.
RF Power Output:
- Manpack mode (with battery): 1W to 10W (adjustable).
- Vehicle mode (with amplifier): Up to 50W, extending range significantly.
Physical & Environmental (The "Hardened" Story): No Built-in GPS: Cannot send automatic position reports
- Dimensions: 210 mm x 80 mm x 270 mm (approx. 8.3" x 3.1" x 10.6").
- Weight: 4.5 kg (9.9 lbs) including standard battery and antenna—lighter than its predecessors but still robust.
- Water/Dust Rating: IP67 (submersible to 1 meter for 30 minutes).
- Temperature Range: Operational from -31°F to +140°F (-35°C to +60°C). Storage down to -40°F/C.
- Shock & Vibration: MIL-STD-810G (withstands drops onto concrete from 1.5 meters).
Networking & Data (The "Complete Story" Key Feature):
- IP Connectivity: Full IPv4/IPv6 stack with embedded routing. Acts as a node in an ad-hoc mobile network.
- Data Rates: Up to 1 Mbps over-the-air using HPDATM waveform (standard SINCGARS is only 9.6 or 16 kbps).
- Encryption: NSA-certified Type 1 (up to Suite B and AES-256). Also supports TRANSEC (Transmission Security) to prevent direction-finding.