Subject: ALINCO NEW DR-599 MOBILE
Date: 22 Jan 92 17:17:26 GMT


BACKGROUND: This is basically the DR-590 MOBILE with many extras. From my
            understanding it costs approx 680.00 with discounts selling
            the unit for about 625.00.  It has a removable head that can
            mount in a remote location with an optional accessory kit.

THE EXTRAS: The front panel has been revamped and doesn't chiop like the 590
            front panel. This unit receives AIRBAND and 800MHZ. No modification

            is required in order to access the crossband repeater. 

THE MOD: In order to access AIRBAND and 800 perform the following. Remove the 
  front panel by removing 2 screws on left side of front panel and 2 on
  the right side. In back of the front panel two cables join at a connector,
  unplug these! Now that the front panel is in your hands, remove the 2
  phillips head screws on the back plate of the front panel. Carefully pry
  bottom of plate and the plate will come off. There will be 2 jumpers
  just aching to tell you "CUT ME". The first jumper is blue , and when
  cut activates air and 800 megs. The Red jumper activates general transmit.
  It is fair to place a disclaimer in here stating what you should already
  know. You shouldn't be using this radio on non amateur frequencies for
  transmission. OK, next is to reassemble the radio. Now RESET the radio 
  and AIRBAND and 800MHZ will be enabled. To receive 800, another pigtail
  (option) should be obtained from your dealer or by requesting it from
  ALINCO. In truth, the unit is so new that the pigtail isn't quite ready yet!
  Don't fret it will be here soon.

ACTIVATING AIRBAND & 800:
    
  Press the VHF or UHF key twice and airband will display on the VHF side and
  800 on the UHF side.


DIFFERENCES between 590/599:

  The 599 has no bugs (during alpha test) to speak of. All CTCSS tones work
  properly. The audio for crossband repeat has been taken care of. The temp
  controlled squelch circuit is absent in the 599 and thank goodness! This
  circuit contributed to problems on extended crossband operation.


73s,

Jay Appell (KA1SNA)