Originally published March 10, 2015. Rugged Radios introduced the RRP6100 Desert Series as a configurable two-person race intercom built for clear driver-to-co-driver communication in extremely noisy off-road racing environments.
The RRP6100 combined dual amplifiers, independent volume controls, two-way radio compatibility and several specialized controls intended for desert racing. Although this model has since been superseded by newer communication equipment, it represents an important stage in the development of Rugged Radios race intercom systems.
Switchable Side Tone and Driver Isolate
One of the RRP6100’s defining features was its switchable Side Tone control. Side Tone allows occupants to hear their own voices through their helmet speakers or earbuds. That feedback can make conversation feel more natural, but it can also introduce more perceived background noise inside a loud race vehicle.
The RRP6100 allowed Side Tone to be turned on or off with a switch, giving the race team another way to tailor the system to the vehicle and operating conditions.
A separate Driver Isolate switch could direct incoming radio communications exclusively to the co-driver. With Driver Isolate activated, the driver could concentrate on the course while the co-driver handled communication with the pit or chase crew.
Adjustable for Different Race Applications
Independent driver and co-driver volume controls allowed each occupant to select a comfortable listening level. Internal microphone and radio-gain adjustments could also be configured for different microphones, helmet speakers and earbuds.
The intercom used transformer-based circuitry inside Rugged Radios’ shielded aluminum housing. This construction was designed to help protect the audio system against radio-frequency interference—an important consideration when an intercom, high-powered race radio, GPS, lighting system and other electronics are installed close together.
Race Radio and Accessory Integration
The RRP6100 could be connected to compatible handheld or mobile two-way radios using the appropriate adapter and jumper cable. Driver and co-driver push-to-talk switches allowed either occupant to transmit over the connected race radio.
A rear auxiliary port provided connections for additional audio and communication equipment. Depending on the installation and available adapters, the intercom could interface with devices such as a smartphone, GPS, satellite phone, music source or in-car camera.
That combination gave a race team two distinct communication channels: continuous conversation between the driver and co-driver, plus long-range radio contact with pit and chase crews.
Rugged Radios RRP6100 Features
- Two-person race intercom
- Dual 3.5-watt amplifiers
- Switchable Side Tone
- Driver Isolate switch
- Independent driver and co-driver volume controls
- Internal microphone and radio-gain adjustments
- Handheld or mobile two-way radio compatibility
- Driver and co-driver push-to-talk capability
- Rear auxiliary connection for compatible external devices
- Shielded extruded-aluminum housing
- Power-transmit LED and stuck-microphone indicator
- Mounting brackets and hardware
Designed for Demanding Off-Road Race Vehicles
Rugged Radios developed the RRP6100 for loud, high-vibration race vehicles, including Trophy Trucks, Class 1 cars, Class 11 cars and Ultra4 vehicles. Its adjustability also made the basic design relevant to enclosed UTV race cars where reliable communication between the driver, co-driver and support team was essential.
The RRP6100 is no longer part of Rugged Radios’ current intercom lineup. Racers building or updating a communication system can explore the company’s current two-person race radio and intercom kits.
