Motorola XiR P8608Ex Explosion-Proof Radio | ATEX/IECEx Certified DMR Intrinsically Safe Two-Way Radio
Product Overview
The Motorola XiR P8608Ex is a professional-grade ATEX-certified DMR digital two-way radio engineered for communication in hazardous and potentially explosive environments. As part of Motorola Solutions’ MOTOTRBO series, this intrinsically safe transceiver delivers reliable, crystal-clear digital communication where safety is paramount.
Certified to ATEX and IECEx standards for use in Zone 1 and Zone 2 hazardous areas, the XiR P8608Ex is the trusted choice for industries dealing with flammable gases, vapors, mists, and combustible dusts. From oil refineries and chemical plants to mining operations and pharmaceutical facilities, this explosion-proof radio ensures your team stays connected without compromising safety.
Built on the DMR (Digital Mobile Radio) Tier II platform, the P8608Ex offers superior audio quality, extended battery life, enhanced coverage, and advanced features that analog radios simply cannot match. Whether coordinating routine operations or responding to emergencies, the Motorola XiR P8608Ex delivers mission-critical communication you can depend on.
Why Choose Motorola XiR P8608Ex?
🛡️ ATEX/IECEx Certified for Hazardous Environments
The XiR P8608Ex carries ATEX (European) and IECEx (International) certifications, making it approved for use in:
| Zone Classification | Environment Type | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 | Areas where explosive gas/air mixtures are likely to occur during normal operations | Oil platforms, refineries, chemical processing areas |
| Zone 2 | Areas where explosive gas/air mixtures are not likely to occur, but may exist for short periods | Storage areas near hazardous zones, ventilated areas |
| Zone 21 | Areas where combustible dust clouds are likely to occur occasionally | Grain handling, coal processing, pharmaceutical manufacturing |
| Zone 22 | Areas where combustible dust clouds are not likely, but may occur briefly | Areas adjacent to dust-producing operations |
Certification Details:
- ATEX Directive: 2014/34/EU
- Equipment Group: II
- Category: 2G (Gas) / 2D (Dust)
- Protection Type: Intrinsically Safe (Ex ia)
- Gas Group: IIC (Hydrogen, Acetylene compatible)
- Temperature Class: T4 (≤135°C surface temperature)
- IECEx Certification: Compliant with IEC 60079 series
📻 DMR Digital Technology Advantages
The MOTOTRBO DMR Tier II platform provides significant advantages over traditional analog radios:
| Feature | DMR Digital | Analog |
|---|---|---|
| Audio Quality | Crystal clear, noise-free | Static, interference |
| Spectrum Efficiency | 2 voice paths per 12.5kHz channel | 1 voice path per 12.5kHz channel |
| Battery Life | Up to 40% longer | Standard |
| Coverage | Extended range | Standard |
| Data Capabilities | Text messaging, GPS, telemetry | Voice only |
| Encryption | Built-in digital encryption | Limited/None |
| Call Features | Private, group, all-call, emergency | Basic group calls |
🔊 Exceptional Audio Performance
In noisy industrial environments, clear communication can be the difference between safety and disaster. The XiR P8608Ex features:
- Intelligent Audio technology that automatically adjusts volume based on ambient noise
- Advanced noise cancellation for clear voice transmission even in high-noise areas
- Powerful 1W speaker for loud, clear audio output
- Digital audio processing eliminates static and distortion
- Wind noise reduction for outdoor use
🔋 Extended Battery Life
The P8608Ex is optimized for long shift operations in demanding environments:
- ATEX-certified battery designed for hazardous areas
- Up to 28 hours of operation on a single charge (typical duty cycle)
- Intelligent battery management extends overall battery lifespan
- Battery status indicator shows remaining capacity
- IMPRES battery technology (optional) for optimized charging and real-time battery diagnostics
💪 Rugged Construction
Built to survive the harshest industrial conditions:
| Specification | Rating |
|---|---|
| Ingress Protection | IP67 (dust-tight, waterproof to 1m for 30 min) |
| Military Standard | MIL-STD-810 C/D/E/F/G |
| Drop Resistance | 1m drop onto concrete |
| Operating Temperature | -30°C to +60°C |
| Humidity | 95% non-condensing |
| Vibration/Shock | Tested per MIL-STD specifications |
📍 Integrated GPS (Model Dependent)
Select models include integrated GPS for location tracking:
- Real-time location reporting for worker safety monitoring
- Man-down detection triggers automatic GPS location alert
- Lone worker function with GPS coordinates
- Geofencing for area access control
- Emergency location transmitted with alarm activation
🔐 Enhanced Security Features
Protect your communications with built-in security:
- Digital encryption (ARC4 40-bit standard / AES 256-bit optional)
- Authentication prevents unauthorized radio cloning
- Remote radio disable/enable for lost or stolen units
- Stun/Revive function for radio management
- Secure boot ensures firmware integrity
Key Features & Specifications
Communication Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Frequency Band | UHF: 403-470 MHz |
| Channel Capacity | Up to 1000 channels |
| Zone Capacity | Up to 128 zones |
| Digital Protocol | DMR ETSI TS 102 361-1, -2, -3 |
| Operating Modes | Digital, Analog, Mixed Mode |
| Power Output | High: 4W / Low: 1W |
| Modulation | Digital: 4FSK / Analog: FM |
| Channel Spacing | 12.5kHz (digital/analog) / 25kHz (analog) |
Call Features
| Feature | Availability |
|---|---|
| Group Call | ✅ |
| Private Call | ✅ |
| All Call | ✅ |
| Emergency Call | ✅ |
| Remote Monitor | ✅ |
| Priority Interrupt | ✅ |
| Call Alert | ✅ |
| Radio Check | ✅ |
| Radio Enable/Disable | ✅ |
| Lone Worker | ✅ |
| Man Down | ✅ (with sensor) |
Signaling Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| CTCSS | 50 tones |
| DCS | 104 codes |
| Analog Signaling | MDC1200, 5-Tone, 2-Tone |
| Digital Signaling | DMR standard signaling |
| VOX | Hands-free voice activation |
| Scan | Priority scan, vote scan |
Safety Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Emergency Button | One-touch emergency activation |
| Emergency Alert | Voice, data, or silent alarm options |
| Man Down | Automatic alert when radio tilts or is motionless |
| Lone Worker | Periodic check-in requirement with escalation |
| GPS Location | Transmits coordinates with emergency |
| Intrinsically Safe Design | Certified for explosive atmospheres |
Display & Interface
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Display | Monochrome LCD (some models) |
| User Interface | Programmable buttons, rotary channel selector |
| Indicators | LED status indicator (tricolor) |
| Audio | Internal speaker, 3.5mm accessory jack |
| Connector | Multi-pin accessory connector |
Physical Specifications
| Specification | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | Approx. 137 x 57 x 42 mm (H x W x D) |
| Weight | Approx. 380g (with battery) |
| Antenna | Stubby UHF antenna (ATEX certified) |
| Display | Model dependent |
| Keypad | Limited keypad / No keypad (model dependent) |
ATEX Certification Explained
What is ATEX?
ATEX derives from the French “ATmosphères EXplosibles” and refers to two European Union directives controlling equipment and protective systems intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres:
- ATEX 137 (Directive 99/92/EC): Minimum requirements for worker safety in explosive atmospheres
- ATEX 95 (Directive 2014/34/EU): Equipment and protective systems for use in explosive atmospheres
ATEX Zone Classification
The ATEX directive classifies hazardous areas into zones based on the frequency and duration of explosive atmosphere occurrence:
Gas/Vapor Zones:
| Zone | Definition | Equipment Category Required |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 0 | Explosive atmosphere present continuously or frequently | Category 1G |
| Zone 1 | Explosive atmosphere likely to occur during normal operations | Category 2G |
| Zone 2 | Explosive atmosphere unlikely, but possible for short periods | Category 3G |
Dust Zones:
| Zone | Definition | Equipment Category Required |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 20 | Combustible dust cloud present continuously or frequently | Category 1D |
| Zone 21 | Combustible dust cloud likely to occur occasionally | Category 2D |
| Zone 22 | Combustible dust cloud unlikely, but possible briefly | Category 3D |
XiR P8608Ex ATEX Rating
The Motorola XiR P8608Ex is certified as:
Ex ia IIC T4 Gb Ex ia IIIC T135°C Db
Breakdown:
| Marking | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Ex | Equipment certified for explosive atmospheres |
| ia | Intrinsically safe protection (highest level) |
| IIC | Gas group – suitable for Hydrogen, Acetylene, and all less hazardous gases |
| T4 | Temperature class – max surface temp 135°C |
| Gb | Equipment Protection Level – suitable for Zone 1 and Zone 2 |
| IIIC | Dust group – suitable for conductive dust |
| T135°C | Maximum surface temperature for dust |
| Db | Dust protection level – suitable for Zone 21 and Zone 22 |
Why Intrinsically Safe?
Intrinsic safety (Ex ia) is a protection technique that limits electrical and thermal energy to levels below those that can cause ignition. This means:
- ✅ No sparks – Electrical circuits designed to prevent ignition-capable sparks
- ✅ Low energy – Energy levels too low to ignite explosive mixtures
- ✅ Controlled temperature – Surface temperatures kept below ignition point
- ✅ Fault tolerant – Safe even with two simultaneous faults
- ✅ No enclosure needed – Protection is inherent in the circuit design
Industry Applications
The Motorola XiR P8608Ex is essential for organizations operating in hazardous environments across multiple industries:
🛢️ Oil & Gas Industry
| Application | Use Case |
|---|---|
| Upstream Operations | Drilling rigs, wellhead operations, exploration sites |
| Midstream Operations | Pipeline monitoring, pumping stations, gas processing |
| Downstream Operations | Refineries, storage terminals, distribution facilities |
| Offshore Platforms | Production platforms, FPSOs, support vessels |
| LNG Facilities | Liquefaction plants, storage, regasification terminals |
Key Benefits for Oil & Gas:
- Zone 1 rated for refinery process areas
- GPS tracking for remote wellsite workers
- Man-down detection for lone workers
- Emergency alarm with location data
- Integration with plant-wide communication systems
⛏️ Mining Industry
| Application | Use Case |
|---|---|
| Underground Mining | Coal mines, metal ore extraction, tunnel operations |
| Surface Mining | Open pit operations, processing plants |
| Processing Facilities | Crushing, milling, flotation, smelting |
| Storage & Transport | Coal bunkers, conveyor systems, loading facilities |
Key Benefits for Mining:
- Dust zone certification (Zone 21/22) for coal and metal dust
- Rugged construction for underground conditions
- Long battery life for extended shifts
- GPS for above-ground location tracking
- Emergency communication in remote locations
🧪 Chemical & Petrochemical Industry
| Application | Use Case |
|---|---|
| Chemical Manufacturing | Reaction vessels, distillation, storage |
| Petrochemical Plants | Ethylene crackers, polymerization units |
| Specialty Chemicals | Pharmaceutical intermediates, fine chemicals |
| Fertilizer Production | Ammonia plants, urea facilities |
Key Benefits for Chemical Industry:
- IIC gas group rating for hydrogen and acetylene compatibility
- T4 temperature class for most chemical processes
- Digital encryption for sensitive operations
- Integration with plant emergency systems
- Clear audio in high-noise process environments
💊 Pharmaceutical Industry
| Application | Use Case |
|---|---|
| Active Ingredient Production | API manufacturing, solvent handling |
| Formulation & Filling | Dust-generating operations |
| Cleanroom Adjacent Areas | Areas near solvent storage |
| Warehouse & Distribution | Flammable material storage |
Key Benefits for Pharmaceutical:
- Zone 21/22 dust certification for powder handling
- Easy to clean and sanitize exterior
- Private call capability for confidential communication
- Compliance support for GMP environments
🌾 Grain & Food Processing
| Application | Use Case |
|---|---|
| Grain Elevators | Receiving, drying, storage, loading |
| Flour Mills | Milling, packaging, storage |
| Sugar Refineries | Processing, drying, packaging |
| Food Processing | Spray drying, dust-generating operations |
Key Benefits for Grain/Food:
- Dust zone certification critical for grain dust explosions
- IIIC rating for conductive (metal) dust compatibility
- Durable construction for harsh agricultural environments
- Group communication for coordinated operations
⚡ Utilities & Power Generation
| Application | Use Case |
|---|---|
| Natural Gas Distribution | Metering stations, pressure reduction facilities |
| Power Plants | Coal-fired plants, gas turbine facilities |
| Biogas Facilities | Digesters, gas storage, upgrading plants |
| Hydrogen Production | Electrolysis plants, storage facilities |
Key Benefits for Utilities:
- Zone 1/2 rating for gas handling areas
- Long-range communication for utility corridors
- GPS tracking for field service crews
- Emergency response coordination
🎨 Paint & Coatings Industry
| Application | Use Case |
|---|---|
| Paint Manufacturing | Mixing, milling, tinting |
| Industrial Coating | Spray booths, drying ovens |
| Automotive Plants | Paint lines, preparation areas |
Key Benefits for Paint/Coatings:
- Solvent vapor zone certification
- Compact design for spray booth operations
- Clear communication in ventilated areas
XiR P8608Ex vs. Standard Radios
| Feature | XiR P8608Ex (ATEX) | Standard Two-Way Radio |
|---|---|---|
| Hazardous Area Use | ✅ Zone 1, Zone 2, Zone 21, Zone 22 | ❌ Not permitted |
| Intrinsically Safe | ✅ Ex ia certification | ❌ No |
| ATEX Certified | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| IECEx Certified | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Spark Prevention | ✅ Designed to eliminate ignition sources | ❌ Standard electronics |
| Temperature Control | ✅ Limited surface temperature | ❌ No control |
| Battery | ✅ ATEX-certified battery | ❌ Standard battery |
| Accessories | ✅ Must be ATEX-certified | ❌ Standard accessories |
| Use in Refineries | ✅ Permitted | ❌ Prohibited |
| Use in Chemical Plants | ✅ Permitted | ❌ Prohibited |
| Use in Mines | ✅ Permitted | ❌ Prohibited |
| Cost | $$$$$ | $$ |
⚠️ IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTICE: Using non-certified equipment in hazardous areas is illegal and extremely dangerous. Standard radios can cause explosions resulting in death, injury, and property destruction. Always use properly certified ATEX/IECEx equipment in explosive atmospheres.
Motorola XiR P8608Ex System Compatibility
The XiR P8608Ex integrates seamlessly with Motorola’s MOTOTRBO ecosystem:
Compatible Infrastructure
| System | Compatibility |
|---|---|
| MOTOTRBO Repeaters | SLR 5500, SLR 8000 series |
| IP Site Connect | Multi-site wide-area coverage |
| Capacity Plus | Single-site trunking |
| Capacity Max | Multi-site trunking |
| Connect Plus | Multi-site trunking |
| WAVE PTT | Broadband PTT integration |
Compatible Portable Radios
The P8608Ex works alongside other MOTOTRBO portables:
- XiR P8668 / P8660 (standard, non-ATEX)
- XiR P8628 / P8620
- XiR P6600 series
- DP4800 / DP4600 series
- SL series (Slim radios)
Compatible Mobile Radios
- XiR M8668 / M8660
- XiR M8628 / M8620
- DM4600 / DM4601
Package Contents
Standard Package Includes:
| Item | Quantity | Certification |
|---|---|---|
| Motorola XiR P8608Ex Radio | 1 | ATEX/IECEx Certified |
| ATEX Certified Li-ion Battery | 1 | ATEX/IECEx Certified |
| ATEX Certified UHF Antenna | 1 | ATEX/IECEx Certified |
| Belt Clip | 1 | ATEX/IECEx Certified |
| Dust Cover | 1 | – |
| User Documentation | 1 | – |
| Safety Information | 1 | – |
Charger (Sold Separately or Bundled):
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Single-Unit Charger | IMPRES or standard charger for single radio |
| Multi-Unit Charger | 6-unit charger for fleet charging |
⚠️ Note: Charging must be performed in safe areas only. ATEX batteries must never be charged in hazardous locations.
ATEX Certified Accessories
All accessories used with the XiR P8608Ex in hazardous areas must also be ATEX certified. Available accessories include:
Audio Accessories
| Accessory | Description | ATEX Zone |
|---|---|---|
| ATEX Earpiece | Receive-only earpiece | Zone 1/21 |
| ATEX Remote Speaker Mic | Speaker microphone | Zone 1/21 |
| ATEX Headset | Over-the-head or hard hat mount | Zone 1/21 |
| ATEX Bone Conduction Headset | For high-noise environments | Zone 1/21 |
Power Accessories
| Accessory | Description | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ATEX Battery | Spare Li-ion battery | Required for Zone 1/21 |
| Single-Unit Charger | Desktop charger | Safe area use only |
| Multi-Unit Charger | 6-bay charger | Safe area use only |
| Vehicle Charger | 12V vehicle charging | Non-hazardous vehicles |
Carry Accessories
| Accessory | Description | ATEX Zone |
|---|---|---|
| Belt Clip | Spring-action clip | Zone 1/21 |
| Leather Carry Case | Protective holster | Zone 1/21 |
| Chest Harness | Hands-free carry | Zone 1/21 |
Programming & Data
| Accessory | Description | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Programming Cable | USB connection to PC | Safe area use only |
| CPS Software | Customer Programming Software | Radio programming |
⚠️ WARNING: Using non-ATEX-certified accessories in hazardous areas voids certification and creates explosion risk. Always verify accessory certification before use in Zone 1/2/21/22 areas.
Wholesale & Enterprise Solutions
We provide comprehensive solutions for enterprise and industrial customers:
Volume Pricing
| Order Quantity | Discount Level |
|---|---|
| 1-4 units | Standard Price |
| 5-9 units | 5% Off |
| 10-24 units | 10% Off |
| 25-49 units | 15% Off |
| 50+ units | Contact for Custom Quote |
Enterprise Services
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Fleet Programming | Pre-configured radios ready to deploy |
| Frequency Coordination | Assistance with frequency licensing |
| System Design | Coverage planning and system architecture |
| Installation Support | Technical guidance for system deployment |
| Training | User and administrator training |
| Extended Warranty | Additional coverage options |
| Maintenance Contracts | Ongoing support and service |
Rental Programs
For short-term projects or trials:
- Daily, weekly, or monthly rental
- ATEX-certified rental fleet available
- Accessories included
- Technical support during rental period
Compliance & Documentation
Certifications Held
| Certification | Standard | Status |
|---|---|---|
| ATEX | Directive 2014/34/EU | ✅ Certified |
| IECEx | IEC 60079 series | ✅ Certified |
| CE Marking | EU Conformity | ✅ Compliant |
| FCC | Part 90 | ✅ Approved |
| IC | Canada | ✅ Approved |
| MIL-STD-810 | US Military Standard | ✅ Tested |
| IP67 | Ingress Protection | ✅ Rated |
Documentation Available
| Document | Description |
|---|---|
| ATEX Certificate | Official ATEX certification document |
| IECEx Certificate | International certification document |
| Declaration of Conformity | EU DoC for CE marking |
| User Manual | Operating instructions |
| Safety Manual | Hazardous area usage guidelines |
| Programming Guide | CPS software instructions |
| Technical Data Sheet | Detailed specifications |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What hazardous zones is the XiR P8608Ex approved for?
A: The Motorola XiR P8608Ex is ATEX certified for Zone 1 and Zone 2 (gas/vapor) and Zone 21 and Zone 22 (dust) hazardous areas. It is not certified for Zone 0 or Zone 20 (continuous explosive atmosphere).
Q: Can I use standard Motorola accessories with the P8608Ex in hazardous areas?
A: No. In hazardous areas, you must only use ATEX-certified accessories. Using non-certified accessories voids the intrinsically safe certification and creates serious explosion risks. Standard accessories may only be used in safe (non-hazardous) areas.
Q: Can I charge the ATEX battery in a hazardous area?
A: No. ATEX-certified batteries must only be charged in designated safe areas. Charging in hazardous areas is prohibited and dangerous. Chargers are not intrinsically safe devices.
Q: Is the XiR P8608Ex compatible with my existing MOTOTRBO system?
A: Yes, the XiR P8608Ex is fully compatible with MOTOTRBO DMR Tier II infrastructure including repeaters, IP Site Connect, Capacity Plus, Capacity Max, and Connect Plus systems. It can operate alongside standard (non-ATEX) MOTOTRBO radios in the same system.
Q: What is the difference between XiR P8608Ex and XiR P8668Ex?
A: Both are ATEX-certified DMR radios. The P8668Ex typically includes additional features such as a full keypad, larger display, GPS, and Bluetooth as standard. The P8608Ex is a more basic model with limited or no keypad, optimized for users who need simple, reliable communication. Verify exact features with your supplier as configurations vary by region.
Q: Can the P8608Ex communicate with analog radios?
A: Yes, the XiR P8608Ex supports mixed mode operation, allowing it to communicate with both DMR digital radios and legacy analog radios on the same channel. This enables phased migration from analog to digital systems.
Q: What is the actual communication range?
A: Range depends on many factors including terrain, infrastructure, and operating environment. With a repeater system, coverage can extend across an entire facility or multiple sites. In direct (simplex) mode, typical range is 1-5km depending on conditions. Indoor range in industrial facilities varies based on building construction.
Q: Do I need a license to operate the XiR P8608Ex?
A: Yes, the XiR P8608Ex operates on licensed UHF frequencies. You must obtain appropriate radio licenses from your national telecommunications authority (e.g., FCC in USA, Ofcom in UK, ACMA in Australia). License requirements vary by country.
Q: What warranty is provided?
A: Motorola provides manufacturer warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Extended warranty and service contract options are available. Contact us for specific warranty terms in your region.
Q: How do I program the radio?
A: The XiR P8608Ex is programmed using Motorola CPS (Customer Programming Software) connected via USB programming cable. Programming must be done in a safe (non-hazardous) area. We offer fleet programming services for bulk orders.
Q: Is training available for using ATEX radios?
A: Yes, we recommend training for both users and administrators. Training covers safe operation in hazardous areas, proper accessory use, charging procedures, and emergency functions. Contact us for training options.
Safety Warnings
⚠️ CRITICAL SAFETY INFORMATION:
- Use Only in Rated Zones: The XiR P8608Ex is certified for Zone 1/2/21/22 only. DO NOT USE in Zone 0 or Zone 20 (continuous explosive atmosphere).
- ATEX Accessories Only: In hazardous areas, use ONLY ATEX-certified accessories. Standard accessories are prohibited and dangerous.
- Safe Area Charging: Batteries must ONLY be charged in safe (non-hazardous) areas. Never charge in or near explosive atmospheres.
- Battery Integrity: Do not use batteries that are damaged, leaking, or modified. Replace damaged batteries immediately.
- No Field Repairs: Do not attempt to repair or modify the radio. All service must be performed by authorized personnel in safe areas.
- Follow Local Regulations: Comply with all local safety regulations and site-specific procedures for equipment use in hazardous areas.
- Regular Inspection: Inspect radio and accessories regularly for damage. Damaged equipment must not be used in hazardous areas.
- Turn Off Before Removing Battery: Always turn off the radio before removing the battery to prevent potential sparking.
- Report Defects: Immediately report any equipment defects to your safety officer and remove from service.
- Training Required: Ensure all users are trained in safe operation of intrinsically safe equipment.
FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE SAFETY REQUIREMENTS CAN RESULT IN EXPLOSION, FIRE, DEATH, OR SERIOUS INJURY.
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