6400M watchouts for buying used?

Bruce KX4AZ

I am considering buying a used 6400M unit.  I am completely sold on the features and specifications, but want to know if there are any "watchouts" related to hardware/software versions of the radio since it was released.  Also, would knowing the serial number be of any use prior to purchasing?

Neil D Friedman N3DF

Antenna tuner installed = good.  At least SSDR version 2 licensed = good.  

Bruce KX4AZ

It has the tuner installed.  I am not sure about the SSDR - how much cost does that add?

KD0RC

SmartSDR (SSDR) is currently on version 3. You can upgrade a version 1 or 2 radio for $199. You can look at the release notes to see what features and bug fixes are important to you to decide if you want to upgrade. Note that you don't have to upgrade to v2 from v1, you can go straight to v3 if it is a v1 radio. I have v3 here, so I don't have any experience with the older versions. I can say that my radio and SSDR are working very well together and I have no desire to down grade. 73, Len, KD0RC

Bruce KX4AZ

Thanks all for the extremely useful information and rapid replies.  Really helps me in weighing the value proposition.

Bill -VA3WTB

When you order you radio, you will be on V3. As a new customer you would need to understand that the software is always in flux, never finished. But just as it is now? There are things we all would like to see added or fixed, but it is really nice as is. There have been about 4 or 5 upgrade, updates per year. And customer service is great, along with this Flex community, it is a win win.

paul

I bought a 6400 from an estate with V2. How do I update to V3 and change the sign on to my call and name. I already have a 6600 with V3. paul, wa3qpx

WX7Y

Hi Paul, the Version 3 license will have to be purchased from FLEX as that is assigned to the Radio NOT the user.

To change the Call sign, Do you mean the call SmartLink is using, or the Call sign displayed on the front panel?

To change on SmartLink then you simply logout of SmartLink and log in with your information.

To change the call sign on the Radio itself then the easiest way is to load up SmartSDR then click on "Settings" then "Radio setup" and down about halfway down you will see "Callsign" and simply change it.

KD0RC

Hi Paul, What Bret said plus do a factory reset (be sure to export your profiles first). Then set up your own SmartLink account if you plan on operating the radio remotely. I initially did not think I would operate mine remotely, but set up a SmartLink account anyway. Glad I did... I now frequently operate remotely from campsites where I have cell service. I use my phone as a hotspot and it works great!

Bill AB7AA

Hi Paul,

What hasn't been mentioned is that you can upgrade to the current version 2 software for free. Since that radio already has a version 2 license, just go to the flex download site and go through the complete update instructions for that version. The big thing that version 3 gives you is that 2 users can operate the radio simultaneously. If that is not important to you, version 2 is a good way to get your feet wet. You can still operate it remotely but just with only one operating position. Many of us have a radio just with version 2 and Flex keeps it updated with bug fixes etc.

73,

Bill