The defining feature of this platform is its integrated Networking Waveform. Unlike traditional "Push-to-Talk" voice relays, this radio creates a self-forming, self-healing mobile ad-hoc network (MANET).
The Harris RF-5800H-HH (often fielded as the AN/PRC-152A) represents a significant leap in handheld tactical communications. While legacy radios (like the PRC-117F or PRC-150) were primarily voice-centric with limited data "add-ons," the 5800H-HH is designed as a Software-Defined Radio (SDR) built specifically for high-bandwidth tactical networking.
It operates across the 30 MHz to 512 MHz frequency range, providing coverage for VHF-FM, VHF-AM, UHF-AM, and UHF-FM bands.
The HX PRC 6020 is a high-frequency (HF) and very-high-frequency (VHF) multimode transceiver designed for dismounted infantry, vehicle integration, and base station use. Unlike legacy systems that treat data as an afterthought, the 6020 was architected from the ground up for network-centric warfare (NCW).
Key General Specifications:
It is important to note regarding the term "PRC-6020":
The HX PRC 6020 is a capable mid-tier tactical SDR manpack with genuine data link functionality beyond simple serial modems. It supports:
However, its data link performance is not state-of-the-art (circa 2015–2018 technology). Operators should expect:
For a deep dive into your specific unit, obtain the manufacturer’s technical manual (likely from HX Systems or a rebrander like Barrett or Codan) — sections 3 (Waveform Specifications) and 5 (Data Interface Protocol) will provide the exact FEC, interleaver depths, and AT commands for data link control. radio set hx prc 6020 technical data link
HX PRC-6020 (often referred to as the RS HX PRC-6020 or part of the Tadiran HF-6000 series) is a tactical, combat-proven HF man-pack radio designed for reliable long-range communication in demanding environments. This high-frequency radio set serves as a versatile solution for modern battlefield requirements, offering secure voice and data transmission over a broad spectrum. 1. Core Technical Specifications
The PRC-6020 operates within the standard High Frequency (HF) band, optimized for both ground wave and sky wave propagation. Frequency Range : 1.5 MHz to 29.99999 MHz. Channel Capacity
: Offers 2,850,000 channels with a fine spacing interval of 10 Hz. Output Power
: Selectable power levels, typically 5W, 10W, and 20W to balance battery life with transmission range. Modulation Modes : Supports Upper Side Band ( ), Lower Side Band ( ), and Amplitude Modulation ( ), as well as CW (Telegraphy). Receiver Sensitivity
: Highly sensitive at -110 dBm (for 10 dB SINAD), ensuring the ability to pick up weak signals over long distances. 2. Communication Capabilities and Data Link
Beyond basic voice, the PRC-6020 is designed to handle sophisticated digital information types through an integrated modem. Data Transmission : Capable of adaptive data rates up to 4800 bit/sec Adaptive Link Establishment (ALE) : Features an automatic connection setup known as
and supports MIL-STD-188-141A ALE. This allows the radio to automatically select the best available frequency for a clear link, reducing the operator's workload. Information Types
: Transmits analog and digital voice, telegraphy (CW), flash messages, and tactical data. Networking The defining feature of this platform is its
: Supports selective calling (individual or group) and selective exclusion, allowing for organized net management. 3. Electronic Counter-Countermeasures (ECCM) and Security
To survive in contested electronic warfare environments, the radio includes several survivability features: Frequency Hopping
: Uses rapid frequency jumps to evade jamming and interception. Encryption
: Integrated COMSEC features include both analog and digital encryption to secure communications. Emergency Deletion
: A "zeroize" or emergency deletion function is available to quickly wipe sensitive parameters and cryptographic keys if the unit is at risk of capture. 4. Physical and Environmental Resilience
Designed for the "dismounted soldier," the PRC-6020 emphasizes portability and ruggedness. Durability : Built to MIL-STD-810 E/F standards for environmental resilience and MIL-STD-461/2 for electromagnetic compatibility. Power Source
: Typically powered by specialized battery packs, such as the 12V 15Ah Lithium Sulphur Dioxide (LiSO2) battery, which operates in temperatures from -30°C to +55°C. Form Factor
: In its man-pack configuration, the unit is among the lightest in its class, often weighing under 5.5 kg including the battery. 5. Configuration Versatility The HX PRC 6020 is a capable mid-tier
While the PRC-6020 is primarily a man-pack, it is the core of a larger family of configurations:
: A vehicular or fixed-station version often utilizing a power amplifier to reach up to 125W. GRC Series
: Higher power variants (such as the GRC-6400 or 6600) can scale up to 400W or 1000W for strategic, long-range applications.
In summary, the HX PRC-6020 is a cornerstone of tactical HF communication, bridging the gap between portable field operations and high-power strategic links through its robust ALE, ECCM capabilities, and flexible power options. vocoder rates available for this radio set? PRC-6020 Radio Set Technical Overview | PDF - Scribd
A radio set is only as good as its ability to talk to allies. The HX PRC 6020’s data link is designed to interoperate with:
Note: To achieve full interoperability, the "Radio Set HX PRC 6020 Technical Data Link" requires the optional IMC (Interoperability Module Card) installed in slot 2.
The HX PRC 6020 typically implements a KISS-like or PPP encapsulation over its serial data ports, with a native IP stack for Ethernet variants. A typical stack is:
| Layer | Protocol / Implementation | |-------|---------------------------| | Physical | Waveform (e.g., HSDL, WNW) | | Data Link | MIL-STD-188-220C (tactical data link framing) or HDLC-like | | Network | RIM (Radio IP Modem) – static or dynamic OSPFv3 for radio networks | | Transport | UDP with forward error correction (FEC) for real-time, TCP for file transfer | | Application | STANAG 5066 (for transparent data transfer), SARTAPE (email over radio), or custom XML messaging |