Kenwood NXR-1700E
The NXR-1700E is a compact VHF repeater that runs analog FM today and upgrades to NXDN or DMR Tier II in the field without swapping hardware. At 8.21 x 1.73 inches it fits two units in a single 1U rack space. Built-in IP networking, SNMP management, hot standby redundancy, and a built-in SIP interface make it suitable for organizations managing multi-site radio systems from a central location.
Overview
Organizations on analog VHF face a specific infrastructure decision when planning a digital migration: buy analog-only repeaters now and replace them when ready to go digital, or buy digital repeaters now and leave capability unused until the migration happens. The NXR-1700E removes the dilemma by delivering analog FM today with field-upgradable NXDN or DMR Tier II capability that activates via software, not hardware replacement.
The NXR-1700E covers VHF at 136-174 MHz with output from 1 to 50 W, running at 50 W at 50% duty cycle and 25 W at 100% duty cycle. It handles 32 channels across analog FM and either NXDN Conventional or DMR Tier II once the upgrade license is applied. Channel spacing covers 30, 25, 15, and 12.5 kHz for analog and 12.5 or 6.25 kHz for digital. Frequency stability is plus or minus 0.5 ppm. A 1.71-inch OLED display shows channel and status information.
The built-in IP network adapter connects the repeater to Ethernet for remote management and multi-site networking across up to 16 sites for both analog and digital modes. SNMP protocol integration allows inclusion in enterprise network management systems. HTTPS-secured remote access provides monitoring, control, programming, and test console access without a site visit. A built-in SIP interface in digital mode eliminates the need for an external IP console or gateway. Hot standby redundancy is configurable for mission-critical sites. MIL-STD-810 compliance covers tower site and non-climate-controlled installation environments. Power supply range is 10.8 to 15.6 V DC.
Key Features
Field-Upgradable Digital Protocols
NXDN Conventional and DMR Tier II are optional software upgrades applied in the field without hardware replacement. An organization can purchase the NXR-1700E for analog FM operation today and activate digital capability when the network is ready, protecting the capital investment and avoiding a second hardware purchase.
Built-In IP Networking and SNMP
An integrated IP network adapter connects the repeater to Ethernet without an external network module. Multi-site conventional IP networking links up to 16 sites. SNMP protocol integration places the repeater in enterprise network management systems alongside IT infrastructure. HTTPS-secured remote console access enables programming and monitoring without site visits.
Hot Standby Redundancy
Hot standby configuration provides automatic failover for mission-critical sites where repeater downtime is unacceptable. The compact form factor means two NXR-1700E units fit in a single 1U rack space, making an active/standby pair possible without occupying additional rack space over a single-unit installation.
Built-In SIP Interface
A built-in SIP interface in digital mode connects the repeater to IP phone systems and VoIP infrastructure without an external IP console or gateway device. G.711 audio codec compatibility with third-party SIP applications avoids proprietary lock-in to Kenwood-specific console hardware.
Two Units Per 1U Rack Space
At 8.21 x 1.73 x 8.33 inches, two NXR-1700E units fit side by side in a single standard 1U 19-inch rack space. This is a meaningful advantage for equipment rooms, tower site cabinets, and mobile command vehicles where rack space is constrained and accommodating hot standby pairs without doubling rack consumption matters.
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