Introducing the Quansheng UV-K5: A Versatile Handheld Transceiver [ UV-K6, UV-K5(8) ]

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Aliexpress links for Quansheng UV-K5( 8 )
https://is.gd/gZd1gj
https://is.gd/XLjMDO

Aliexpress links for Baofeng UV-5RM with airband
https://is.gd/6iXc3D

_{I guess you understand that those of you who have shopped on Aliexpress should keep an eye out and read about the sellers before you shop. Just because it worked for me or someone else doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be cautious..}

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The Quansheng UV-K5 is an affordable and feature-packed handheld radio designed for amateur radio enthusiasts, emergency communication, and outdoor adventures.

Let’s dive into what makes this radio stand out:

• Frequency Bands:
  • The UV-K5 operates on the 2m (144-148MHz), 70cm (420-450MHz), and 1.5m bands.
  • It also boasts a wide receive range from 50MHz to 600MHz.
• Airband Reception:
  • One of its unique features is the ability to receive AM signals, including those used in the airband.
  • Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast or need to monitor air traffic, the UV-K5 has you covered.
• Advanced Features:
  • Frequency Counter: Keep track of the exact frequency you’re tuned to.
  • Fast CTCSS Decoder: Quickly decode CTCSS tones for seamless communication.
  • Channel Sharing: Share channels with other UV-K5 radios over RF.
  • Password Lock: Secure your settings with a password.
• Compatibility:
  • The UV-K5 is compatible with most Baofeng accessories, except for the battery.
  • It’s like a Baofeng UV-5R on steroids, offering additional features and versatility.
• Value for Money:
  • Priced at around 20-25€, the UV-K5 provides exceptional value for its capabilities.
  • It’s a great addition to your radio collection without breaking the bank.
    

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Baofeng UV-5RM (2023 version) : A Familiar Companion

The Baofeng UV-5RM is another popular handheld radio that shares some similarities with the UV-K5:

• Frequency Range:
  • The UV-5RM covers both VHF (136-174MHz) and UHF (400-520MHz) bands.
  • It’s a reliable choice for everyday communication and emergency situations.
• Airband Frequencies:
  • While the UV-5RM doesn’t directly support AM airband reception like the UV-K5, it remains a versatile option for various scenarios.
• The 5RM(2023) is one of the newer Baofeng models with 999 channels, High Power and Tri Band operation
• One button NOAA channel access
• High resolution color LCD
• USB-C charging

In summary, both the Quansheng UV-K5 and the Baofeng UV-5RM offer excellent value for their price points. Whether you’re a seasoned ham radio operator or a beginner, these radios provide reliable communication and exploration possibilities.

Remember to explore the open-source firmware options for the UV-K5, which enhance its functionality and make it even more versatile.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is based on available reviews and specifications. Always verify details from official sources before making a purchase.

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Aliexpress links for Quansheng UV-K5( 8 )
https://is.gd/gZd1gj
https://is.gd/XLjMDO

Aliexpress links for Baofeng UV-5RM with airband
https://is.gd/6iXc3D

_{I guess you understand that those of you who have shopped on Aliexpress should keep an eye out and read about the sellers before you shop. Just because it worked for me or someone else doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be cautious..}

FTDI FT232RL USB Baofeng UV-5R (UV-5RA) DIY programming cable

Another easy DIY build for Baofengs and especially UV-5R are programming cables. 

Sure they are cheap on the Chinese sites but most have compatibility issues with Windows 10. So why not build your own when it’s relatively easy. 

Materials used:

• 6Pin FTDI FT232RL Module USB to TTL UART
• 3.5mm Mono Connector Cable Male Plug 3pin 3 Pole
• 2.5mm Mono Connector Cable Male Plug 3pin 3 Pole

The use of FT232RL is because of the existence of Windows 10 drivers which you can find here: https://ftdichip.com/drivers/vcp-drivers/  (I used the 2.12.36.4 version)

In the radio support & information Miklor website you can find a lot of details about the connection of the programming cables.

The simple guide is this

In the FTDI FT232RL USB cable I bought the connections where as following:

Red wire: 5V
Black wire: GND  <<
White wire: RXD  <<
Green wire: TXD  <<
Yellow wire: RTS
Blue wire: CTS

A little bit of solder to some male pin cables later

 

Cable is done and tested with CHIRP and works fine!

 

Also check out how to make battery eliminator for home / desk use for Baofeng UV-5R (UV-5RA) 

 

SY1EBE

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Baofeng UV-5R (UV-5RA) battery eliminator for home / desk use

Since I got my ham license I wanted to use the (in)famous Baofeng UV-5RA that I have in home without a battery.
Searching for a battery eliminator the ones I could find were for car use with an attached car-lighter adapter at 12V and from what I was reading around most of them are kind of bad quality.

So building one was kind of the sensible thing to do.

Materials used:

• large battery case for AA batteries for UV-5R
• DC-DC Step-Down converter 1.3-35V 3A
• one DC 55/25mm (or a 55/21mm) female power jack
• one unused laptop power supply at 19V 4.7A
  (the input power supply to use in the DC-DC step down converter should be over 10V (from 12V and above) and over 2-3A)

UV-5R needs from 7.4V to 8.2V (max) and something between 1.5A to 2A while transmitting in high power mode.
I set the step down converter to 8V just to be sure and the converter used can deliver up to 3A..

If you try to make something similar be careful to mark correctly the + and – terminals of the radio and the battery eliminator. Also check the laptop power supply for the + and – output in the male power jack!

A gallery (which is pretty self explanatory) of the build follows:

So far it seems to work fine and now I can have the radio on my desk without the need charging the battery constantly.

Also check out how to DIY a programming cable compatible for Windows 10 for the UV-5R using FT232RL USB adapter

SY1EBE

73