The Newest Version of the UV5R series?
The UV-5R is a generic transceiver. There are dozens of variations available, such as UV5R, RA, RB, E5, F8, GT3, etc. (List of Variants) Other than Case andColor, they are the same radio. (rebranded) If you have the newest firmware, you have the newest radio.
There is also a High Power version (F8HP) which is a Tri-Power 1/4/8W radio. F8HP Review
The Newest model of the UV82 series?
There are 3 models of the UV82 series.
UV82 - VHF 136-174 / UHF 400-520MHz
UV82X - VHF 136-174 / VHF 220-260 MHz
UV82C - VHF / UHF US FCC Part 90 certified
Firmware - Can it be updated?
No. The firmware in these radios cannot be updated. The microcontroller is an OTP type. (One Time Programmable) Once 'flash' programmed at the factory, it cannot be changed.
- To determine which F/W your UV5R has, go toFWRelease
- To determine which F/W your UV82 has, simply
Press and Hold the 5 Key while Powering On the radio
LCD will display the 6 digit FW release.
FCC Type Acceptance
The UV82C and F11 are both certified for FCC Part 90 commercial service in the US. Both models require software to prevent accidental field programming.
Note: These radios are not certified for FRS, GMRS or MURS operation in the US. Consult your country's regulations regarding proper use and licensing.
Transmitter and Receiver
2.1
I can't hear my local repeater (CTCSS)
Some Repeaters and Services require a CTCSS or DCS tone for access but DO NOT transmit one back. If your display indicates there is an incoming signal but you hear no audio, you may have an incorrect or unnecessary RX tone set. This can be tested by pressing the [MONI] button of the side of the radio. When in doubt, leave the CTCSS or DCS tones set toOFF.
I can't hear my signal, but I hear the repeater squelch tail
The key here is that you can hear the repeater squelch tail.
You are too close to your receiver and over powering (de-sensing) it.
When this happens, you are blocking everything from your monitor.
1) Listen to your signal on simplex to verify you have audio.
2) Call someone on the repeater to verify your signal quality. If they can hear you, then all is fine.
2.3
Can I receive Aircraft frequencies
No. They are out of the radio's frequency range.
Also, the Aircraft Band is AM while the UV5R is FM only
2.4
Can I receive Weather channels - NOAA / NWS
Yes. However, it cannot be put in a standby mode and triggered by their 1050Hz alert tone.
2.5
FM Broadcast Radio cuts out
The broadcast radio gives priority to an incoming VHF/UHF signal.
It returns back to FM Broadcast X seconds after the signal clears.
X is determined by the ABR setting. 0-5 secs (0-24 secs using CHIRP)
To prevent the radio from switching, set VHF/UHF to an unused frequency.
2.6
FM Broadcast overrides TDR (UV5R only)
When receiving a commercial FM radio broadcast, the station will only be interrupted when a signal on the currently selected display (A or B) is received regardless of the TDR-AB (Menu 34) setting.
The UV82, however, recognizes both displayed channels.
2.7
Receiver Pulses when returning from a received signal
This is a 'bug' in some firmware releases.
If Save (Menu 3) is set to 1, 2, 3 or 4 and ABR (Menu 6) is set to 9 or 10, a pulsing may occur on a broadcast FM signal when returning from a received signal interruption.
- Work Around: Set Save to OFF or ABR to 8 or less.
2.8
Audio chops out when listening to a station If this occurs, STE (Menu 35) should be set to OFF.
2.9
Oscillator Images / 'Birdies'
The UV5R and UV82 series radios use a 26MHz reference oscillator. These have been known to cause interference on the following frequencies which are multiples of 26.
156.0, 234.0, 416.0, 442.0, 468.0, 494.0 MHz.
Household appliances are also notorious for generating stray signals. Televisions, computers, power supplies, chargers, etc. If the 'birdie' is not present outside your house, you will need to isolate the source inside.
2.10
Audio mutes when I turn off the Keypad Beep
This was a 'bug' found in firmware releases N5R-20 / N5R-30. Details
2.11
Squelch Control has Limited Range - NEW The squelch levels 1 through 9 currently make little to no difference when selected. CHIRP has recently added a way to resolve this by letting the user select the Range of the squelch control. This is explained in detail with graphics at: Squelch Level Range Set
Programming
3.1
Channel is programmed but will not save
There are three steps to the process:
1) You must be in the VFO/Frequency mode
2) Display A (top display) must be selected.
3) Channel must be empty before programming frequency data. (use menu 28 to delete a channel) Refer to Programming Hints
3.2
Storing the 7th / 8th digit of a frequency
UV5R / UV82 Enter the first 6 digits of the desired frequency.
Then use the
for the last digit(s), depending on step selected.
(Step = 6.25kHz) 462.712
= 462.7125
Newer UV5R series radios with updated firmware will now predict the 7th / 8th digits regardless of the step setting.
462.716 = 462.71625
462.717 = 462.7175
462.718 = 462.71875 Rounded Up
462.719 = 462.71875 Rounded Down
- A tiny .25 / .5 / .75 kHz will appear to the right on the LCD.
- The step setting only impacts the scanning mode.
3.3
Can I store different frequencies in A and B
No. There is only a single bank of 128 channels (0-127)
The same frequencies show in both displays A and B.
You can however change the way they appear. (Menu 21 & 22)
The display options are Frequency, Channel Name or Channel Number.
Note: Manual programming of memory channels can Only be done while display A (top display) is selected.
3.4
The purpose of 2 displays (A and B) Dual Receive. You can set each to a different preprogrammed channel. With TDR (Menu 7) turned on, your radio will sample between the two frequencies and stop on whichever one has activity.
3.5
Synchronizing display A and B
Display A and B operate independently. You can set one display for Frequency and the other display for Name, but you cannot synchronize them to track together.
3.6
Disabling the transmitter for receive only frequencies (NOAA)
This can be done using the transmit inhibit function of your software.
3.7
Storing FM radio 65-108MHz channels in memory
This radio cannot store FM Broadcast channels in memory. You also cannot make this radio transmit on this band.
3.8
Switching Modes from VFO (frequency) to MR (channel)
- UV5R - Press VFO/MR button
- UV82 - Press and Hold the [MENU] key when turning radio on.
3.9
Activating VFO / MR switching mode - (UV82C)
The UV82C (commercial) comes shipped from the factory locked as part of US FCC Part 90 compliance.
Unlocking the radio can only be accomplished using software.
Factory Software - UV82C / OEM Software
Optional Features tab (OEM)
Select VFO/MR En (enable)
How to select channels to skip when scanning
Selecting channels to be skipped during the scanning process can only be done via software. This cannot be done using the keypad.
Note: The scan rate of this radio is only 3 channels per second.
4.2
Receiver skips random channels when scanning
There is a known 'quirk' with the UV5R receiver.
If a scanned channel has an R-CTCSS tone of 136.5 Hz or lower, the receiver will not stop on that channel.
R-CTCSS (PL) tones of 146.2 and higher work fine.
Note: Do Not use RX Tones unless absolutely necessary.
4.3
Radio does not scan new channels added by keypad
Power cycle your radio OFF, then ON and the issue should disappear.
Tone Access (CTCSS, DCS, DTMF)
5.1
What are CTCSS (PL) tones
A CTCSS is an 'Tone' sent along with your voice when transmitting.
They are used to access a specific repeater and block interference.
Visit CTCSS for details.
5.2
Tone Scanning (available on most UV5R/UV82 radios)
To determine the Tone of an incoming signal, perform the following:
MENU
1 0 (DCS) or 1 1 (CTCSS)
MENU
SCAN
A tiny CT should start flashing on the left side of LCD.
- You can start the scan function prior a signal being received.
- When a signal is detected, the scan will start automatically.
- When it finds the tone, it will beep and stop.
Note: UV5R series radios with N5R or newer firmware now require that Menu 10 (DCS) or Menu 11 (CTCSS) be set to something other than OFF to perform the scan.
5.3
Sending a 1750 / 2100 Hz Tone Burst UV82
PTT + F transmits a 1750 Hz tone
UV5R
PTT + BAND or PTT + A/B transmits a 1750Hz tone.
UV5R (newer models with Band Button)
PTT + A/B transmits a 1750Hz tone.
PTT + BAND transmits a 2100Hz tone.
Click to enlarge
5.4
DTMF keypad positions
These tones are not reliable for DTMF access.
Early FW releases BFB231 and prior had a keypad sequence error.
[Menu] = A [Up] = C [Down] = B [Exit] = D
This was later corrected in BFB238 to:
[Menu] = A [Up] = B [Down] = C [Exit] = D
Some older versions, when sending tone D, the speaker emits the tones for 0 [zero] but the correct OTA tone for D is actually sent.
The pattern varies by firmware release.
Batteries and Accessories
6.1
Cables, antennas, Spkr/Micr interchangeability
Many Kenwood / Wouxun accessories are, such as Spkr/Micr, Programming Cables, etc.
6.2
Is a radio case a good purchase
If you carry your radio and keys in the same pocket, yes.
See Radio Shutdown under General Questions below.
6.3
USB chargers
These radios have a 7.4 volt battery while a USB port is only 5.0 volt. There is not enough voltage to charge the battery. The standard charger supplies 8.4 volt during the charge cycle.
6.4
Charger Replacement
The TYT BGC-F8 is a direct replacement and seems to be built more solidly. It is designed to use a 13.8Vdc input. With the proper cable, it can be used in the car to charge the battery while on the road.
6.5
Optional Batteries for the UV5R
There are 3600 / 3800 mAh batteries, and AA / AAA cases are available. However, many are designed to fit the standard UV-5R only and are not interchangeable without modification.
See Photo of cases.
There are extended batteries that are universal, but they must specifically state that in their advertising.
Here is an image of such a battery.Universal
Note: The bottom of the battery case is smooth, not keyed.
Always check compatibility before ordering.
6.6
Charging a 3800mAh battery using the side jack
To charge the BL-5L 3800mAh battery you must purchase a:
- TYT TH-UVF9 battery charger for 110VAC or
- TYT TH-UVF9D for 12VDC.
- These are fully regulated chargers
- Plugs directly into side of battery, not a charger base
-- These are sometimes found on Amazon
click to enlarge/strong>
6.7
AA / AAA Battery Cases (UV5R series)
The UV-5R series requires 7.4V for proper operation.
The standard battery case will hold 6 AA or AAA cells.
The standard rechargeable battery provides 1.25V per cell.
This will provide the 7.4V needed. (6x1.25=7.5V)
Note 1: Most Alkaline batteries provide 1.5V per cell. (6x1.5=9.0V)
This will create an Over Voltage condition and the radio's protection circuit will cause the radio to not transmit.
To prevent this from occurring, replace one of the cells with a spacer or 'dummy' cell. This will drop the voltage to (5x1.5=7.5V) for proper operation. They can be found on eBay by searching "AA dummy battery"
Note 2: Some battery cases have very close tolerances. Although this is normally not an issue, you may want to slide a thin piece of paper or cardboard between the contacts to prevent a short if something should slip out of place.
click to enlarge
6.8
Battery Removal - Difficult
Some batteries ship with a sharp edge on the clip that holds the battery in place. This can be smoothed down with fine sandpaper. Only take off a small amount at a time.
click to enlarge
6.9
Replacement Parts (knobs, switches, screws, etc)
Some links can be found here... PARTS
Software, Cables & Drivers
7.1
Software selection
There are several software options.
- Factory (OEM) Software - Usually included with the radio OEM-5ROEM-82OEM-82C
- CHIRP - Compatible with over 80 different modelsCHIRP
- RT Systems - Purchased along with proprietary cable
Note: Running UV82C software on a UV82 will Not add new features to your radio.
7.2
Error Messages
There are several common error messages that could appear
when programming via software. A list of these error messages, their definition and recovery can be found at Error Messages.
7.3
Programming Cable / Drivers
This is one of the major frustrations with generic, low cost programming cables. Many generic cables use Prolific chip clones/copies. When plugged into a USB slot, Windows will load the latest driver. These drivers have been updated to reject cables using cloned chips.
These cables will work fine, but only if the proper backdated driver is installed.
Genuine Programming Cable
Programming cables utilizing an FTDI chip will work with no problems. These cables are truly "Plug 'n Play". Call your local dealer before ordering to confirm chip set.
7.5
Frequency Expansion (hacking)
There is software available that will allow you to enter any number you wish. However, even though the number shows in the display, internal filtering of the radio prevents both TX & RX operation on these frequencies and may cause irreversible damage to your radio.
Note: These radios were not designed to operate outside their specified range. They cannot be made to work as Tri-Band. Expand Frequency
Microphone and Audio Issues
8.1
No Transmit Audio
First, confirm you have no TX audio by listening to your signal on Simplex. If you experience no audio, the microphone jack might be stuck open with debris. Trim a Q-Tip to fit the microphone jack opening and dampen with denatured alcohol to clean the jack contacts. Allow ample time to dry.
If this doesn't resolve the issue, you may need to go one step further, as shown at this YouTube Video.
8.2
Low Transmit Audio
Here's are some suggestions:
1) Talk directly into the radio, within one inch.
2) Try an external spkr/mic to confirm problem is the mic.
3) Blow compressed air into the spkr/mic jack.
4) If you have an external spkr/mic, plug it in and out a few times. The issue might be a dirty connector.
5) Ham Bands Only - Set to Wide Band. 5 kHz (Menu 5=W)
Note: Some have reported the need to open up the microphone hole in the plastic case. This can be done by CAREFULLY using a 3/64" drill bit and twisting it slowly by hand to clear out the opening, but avoid touching the microphone element. There is approx 1/16" clearance between the inside of the case and the microphone element.
8.3
Less Microphone Sensitivity
Unlike Ham equipment, many of these radios were designed for commercial use. This was to block out background noise in an industrial environment. Talking right into the face of the radio cures most audio weakness.
Do not confuse the audio of a handheld with that of a smart phone that can hear a pin drop in the next room.
8.4
Is PTT disabled when Spkr/Micr plugged in
No. Even with a Spkr/Mic plugged in, the PTT switch is still physically connected. This is true for most handhelds.
8.5
External Speaker Microphone (ESM) options There are two optional available.
1. UV5R Single PTT ESM
UV5R - Transmits on selected display.
UV82 - PTT will always select display B.
2. UV82 Dual PTT ESM
UV82 - The lower Side PTT selects B, Top selects A.
UV5R - Functions as a standard single PTT Spkr/Micr.
Only the Lower Side PTT will function. Top PTT button has no effect.
Using a Dual PTT Spkr/Micr with a UV5R will not create a new Dual PTT function for the UV5R.
Antenna Questions
9.1
Which antenna is best?
It's all personal preference, but a good rule of thumb is:
The longer the radiator, the better the range, especially on transmit. Short stubby antennas use a coil to match TX to 50 ohm, not radiate. The closer to 1/4 wavelength in the air, the better the performance.
Field test results using 31 popular antennas can be found at Field Tests.
An overview of antenna types available can be found at Best Antenna.
9.2
SMA Antenna Connectors
There are several varieties of SMA connector. Male, Female, Reverse Polarity, etc.
Diagrams of these varieties can be found at SMA Antenna
9.3
Antenna doesn't screw in completely
This is not uncommon on some aftermarket antennas. If your antenna doesn't come with a rubber spacer to fill the gap, you can purchase a thin 5/8" OD rubber O-Ring. Take your HT with you to the hardware store to assure the proper fit.
LCD turns dark
This is to be expected from a small radio. 5 watts creates a lot of heat in a small unvented area. The newer 8 watt F8HP will heat up even quicker. Give it time to cool down and the LCD will return to normal. The same occurs if you leave the unit in the car on a hot day. Run low power whenever possible. This will also extend battery life.
10.2
Black and White display disappears
Did my display go bad? Probably not.
More than likely, your ABR (Menu 6) was reset to OFF. This is the Display Illumination Time. Enter the following sequence:
MENU
6
MENU
Up Arrow
Up Arrow
MENU
EXIT
This will set the ABR to 2 seconds.
10.3
Display shows + and - at the same time
In Channel Mode this is normal when the TX/RX frequencies differ.
In Frequency Mode + or - is displayed based on Menu 25 (Shift)
If TX and RX are the same (simplex) the + - indicator does not display.
10.4
Signal Meter Accuracy
The What? There's a signal indicator in the upper left.
If there's a signal, it appears. If not, it's gone.
Additionally, the signal indicator will show full scale on an unused channel when you (a) press the monitor button, or (b) when you set the squelch level to zero.
10.5
Signal Meter Function
The SDR receiver found in the UV-5R & UV-82 series does not measure an incoming signal in the traditional fashion based on strength, but rather the amount of noise. Once the signal becomes Full Quieting, it cannot determine the difference between an S1 or S9 signal. Unfortunately, this is by design.
10.6
Translating the Battery Level Indicator
Tests have shown the following: (tests by Phil Souza)
Full charge (approx 8.32 volts) 3 bars
Battery drops to 7.09 volts, 2 bars
Battery drops to 6.73 volts, 1 bar
Battery drops to 6.29 volts, 0 bars
Battery drops to 5.91 volts,
the radio announces "low voltage" until the battery expires.
Note: Volume must be turned up to hear the battery warning. Note: Measurements can vary based on temperature and load.
10.7
Display disappears if I wear sunglasses
LLCDs function by polarizing the liquid crystal elements in the display. Polarized sunglasses will react to the polarized lens. LCD Wiki
General Questions
11.1
Waterproof / IPX rating The IPX Code classifies and rates the degree of protection against water provided by a case or electrical enclosure.
This list ranges from IPX0 to IPX8.
- IPX0 = No Special Protection to
- IPX7 = Protected against water immersion for 30 minutes at a depth of 1 meter.
- IPX8 = Protected against water submersion - The equipment is suitable for continual submersion in water under conditions which are identified by the manufacturer.
AA detailed breakdown of these codes can be found at CODES.
11.2
Radio shuts down
A case is recommended if you carry your radio and keys in the same pocket. If the charging contacts are shorted, the battery goes into the protection mode. There will be no damage to the radio, but it will power off. To reset the protection mode, the battery must be removed and reinserted.
Note: If you carry a spare battery, place it in a small plastic bag for protection.
11.3
Did I get a used radio
Many of these radios come with some channels pre-programmed. These are channels used for factory testing.
The easiest way to remove them is:
UV5R - Press Menu, 40 (Reset), Menu, ALL, Menu.
UV82 - Press Menu, 41 (Reset), Menu, ALL, Menu.
11.4
Radio doesn't speak English
Press Menu, 14, Menu, Make selection, Menu
The selection varies by firmware release. Older units display ON / OFF, newer display CHI / ENG / OFF
11.5
Volume doesn't go completely down
This was common with very early versions of the UV5R. It was a component issue that has been resolved with newer radios. Periodically, however, even a new radio will show up with this issue.
11.6
Locking / Unlocking the Keypad
Hold the #
key in for approximately 3 seconds.
Pressing it quickly alternates TX power level.
11.7
User Manual - UV5R
Along with the standard edition, there is a re-written 66 page English User Manuals are available at:UserManual-5R
User Manual - UV82
The standard manual is available at: UserManual-82
Because of the similarities in the programming software, much of the expanded UV5R manual is compatible with the UV82.
