The Motorola CM160 analog mobile radio solves the channel ceiling that the CM140 hits at ten channels. Where the base model forces a driver to stay within a single-digit channel range, the CM160 opens up 64 to 100 memory slots. A concrete supplier serving six plants across three counties can program every site frequency, every plant channel, and still have room for a mutual aid simplex frequency. The driver scrolls to the plant name on the 8-character alphanumeric display instead of memorizing channel numbers.
This CM160 64-channel mobile radio also doubles the physical controls from two to four programmable buttons. Long-press access extends to eight single-push functions. A driver can assign monitor, scan, talk-around, and power-level toggle to dedicated buttons without menu navigation. VHF models output 25 to 45 watts. UHF models deliver 25 to 40 watts. The same front-facing 4-watt speaker and the same CTCSS/DCS tone board from the CM series carry over, meaning existing accessories, brackets, and programming cables are fully compatible. For fleets that outgrew the CM140 but do not need digital, this is the model that fills the gap.
Description
We supply original Motorola Solutions products through our authorized distribution channel. Every unit includes factory packaging, original accessories, and full manufacturer warranty eligibility. Motorola®, MOTOTRBO™, and APX™ are registered trademarks of Motorola Solutions, Inc.
A four-channel radio covers one site. An eight-channel radio covers a small fleet. The Motorola CM160 analog mobile radio covers an entire regional operation. It is the model that fleet managers reach for when drivers start complaining that they cannot hear dispatch because they are on the wrong channel. More channels mean fewer missed calls. Fewer missed calls mean fewer return trips.
64 Channels, One Radio: From Single Site to Multi-Zone
The CM140 hits its channel limit when a business expands beyond one location. The Motorola CM160 analog mobile radio removes that ceiling. It stores 64 channels using standard signaling. With advanced signaling protocols, the count reaches 100. A regional taxi dispatch can assign every suburb its own channel. A road construction contractor can program each project site and the office repeater into the same radio. The 8-character alphanumeric display shows the channel name. A driver sees “PLANT-3” instead of a number. At 60 kilometers per hour, that clarity matters more than any spec sheet number.
Four Buttons, Eight Functions: Keeping Eyes on the Road
Commercial drivers should not navigate radio menus while moving. This CM160 commercial fleet radio addresses that with four physical programmable buttons on the control head. Each button supports a long-press secondary function. The total reaches eight single-action commands. A driver can assign scan on and off to button one. Monitor opens the squelch on button two. Talk-around switches from repeater to direct mode on button three. High and low power toggle on button four. All eight functions operate by touch without looking at the radio. That keeps eyes on the road and dispatch traffic in the speaker.
The CM140 Upgrade Path Without the Digital Premium
Fleets running CM140 units face a choice when they outgrow ten channels. Upgrade to digital at significant per-unit cost, or step up within the same analog ecosystem. This 8-character display mobile unit makes the second option practical. Mounting brackets, microphones, power cables, and CPS programming software are shared across the CM series. A fleet with thirty CM140 radios can add ten CM160 units without buying new accessories or retraining drivers. The transition is invisible to the end user. The only difference is more channel names on the screen.
Technical Specifications and Warranty
Every Motorola CM160 analog mobile radio includes a compact microphone, mounting bracket, DC power cable, and warranty coverage.
- Frequency Bands: VHF (136-162 / 146-174 MHz) or UHF (438-470 MHz)
- Power Output: VHF 25-45W / UHF 25-40W
- Channels: 64 (standard) / up to 100 (advanced signaling)
- Display: 8-character alphanumeric LCD
- Programmable Buttons: 4 physical, 8 functions via long-press
- Tone Squelch: CTCSS and DCS per channel
- Audio Output: 4 W internal speaker, front-facing
- Channel Spacing: 12.5 / 20 / 25 kHz
