Dump the UV-5R and Get the GT-5R (

[@daviddehass6877]

For those wanting to unlock the GT-5R, you can use CHIRP's UV-5R profile and change the "Duplex" columns entries from "off" to "none". Cheers.

[@HarryHamsterChannel]

Thanks. I'll dust mine off. Instead of sniping at the paperwork, think Casier ever talked on it??

[@hagridsbeardguy1399]

@@HarryHamsterChannel Did it work? :)

[@ghz24]

Removing the restrictions is easier than that. You can litterally hold three buttons while turning it on.

[@Mogas0311]

@@ghz24 I did this and as soon as I uploaded my frequencies to the gt5r, it went back into locked mode

[@ghz24]

@@Mogas0311 I haven't got my cable yet, just been programming by hand. So you downloaded the image, modified it and uploaded it then it locked? It will be another week before my cable comes. Any chance the downloaded image was from a locked radio? I'll be trying to do the same I'll tell you how it goes.

[@TheSoball358]

I love my non compliant baofeng. Ill have zero intention on giving it up.

[@akatsukiawsome13]

ford is releasing a new car, its capped at 60mph so they cant speed! people in the driving community have been breaking the law for far too long!

[@_specialneeds]

Those that put emphasis on compliance suffer from erectile dysfunction.

[@HarryHamsterChannel]

Fact is, there is as much Superstition associated with this RF black magic as there is valid data around. Too many variables. If it works, love it.

[@MarcellJjr]

thank you! if shit hits the fan they would wish they had those frequencies (red dawn)

[@realestateinflorida5224]

I agree. I want the most useful radio. If you want to be compliant read the freaking frequency you are transmitting on. Next, he wants cars that do not go beyond 70 miles an hour!!

[@johnhosler9417]

Programming a repeater on the fly. Uv5r Turn on Vfo mode. Enter frequency Enter shift direction. Enter off set. Enter PL Save to channel.

[@PatrickKQ4HBD]

VERY important process to memorize! Edit: Step 8 is write down the info in a notebook. I've forgotten what all my stored channels are for several times. It's my biggest headache.

[@proswangsta]

If on your UV-5R that transmits outside the Ham bands, you go to the duplex setting on your weather channel you can set it to "Off" and block out tx. I did that with my UV5Rs with the WX and public emergency channels 👍

[@jolebole-yt]

Nice to see that the GT-5R transmits a nice and clean signal. We will all benefit from that. Thanks for the clarification and testing.

[@donaldsmith3048]

If the FCC said everything that can transmitte outside the ham bands can't be used for ham radio. That would make it illegal to use all the home made radios! That was the heart of ham radio for years! And I thought was still part of it!

[@geraldscott4302]

You can build what you want, as long as you only transmit on the ham bands, and meets all the FCC requirements. But you cannot SELL a factory built radio that will transmit on anything but ham frequencies. No radio from Yaesu, Kenwood, or Kenwood, whether it is HF, VHF, or UHF, will transmit on anything but the ham bands. You cannot legally combine more than one radio service into one radio. The problem is not licensed amateurs, most of which are not likely to be transmitting illegally. It's all the UNlicensed people who buy these radios, because they are so cheap, and use them illegally.

[@jessihawkins9116]

@@geraldscott4302 you can but you have to list it for parts or repair

[@charliegoodnight7560]

FCC will take away Christmas and thanksgiving if you cross them!! 😂. Typ Gov overreach

[@KenTenTen]

Hi David, great review! Ordered one to play with. Note there is no way the manufacturer will print "Amateur Radio license required" because that's just not true. You need a license to Transmit, but not to possess or to use to receive. But I get what you mean. Me too.

[@michaelmichael8406]

One caution on Chirp with the UV-5R type radios: as I understand it, when you download from one of them, you are getting the settings and perhaps some element of the firmware. If you then upload to a different radio, with different firmware, it can brick the radio. Not always, or even often, but sometimes. Best practice is to download from radio A, download from radio B, select all the memories you want to copy on A's sheet, hit Ctrl-C, go to B's sheet, highlight the first row you want to overwrite, and hit Ctrl-V. Once you have the memories as you like, B's sheet to B. It takes a few extra seconds, but really isn't too bad.

[@davecasler]

Radioddity specifically told me to use the UV-5R setting. But your caution is well-placed.

[@michaelmichael8406]

The radio model setting is fine - there are a bunch of radios that use it. The issue is downloading from one physical radio and then uploading to a different one. That would be fine with another maker's radio, and I've even done it with Baofengs and cousins, but there is a chance of failure if you do it with two radios that have different firmware revisions.

[@RamLaska]

This is a good point, because CHIRP seems to be uploading more than just a list of frequencies. It probably is the entire (or at least partial) firmware, with executable code and all. I updated my TYT UV-8000d from CHIRP, and now when scanning, instead of scanning memory channels 1 through 99 or whatever, it scans channel 1, then 2, then 1 again, then 3, then 1 again, then 4, and so on. I have no idea how this glitch got introduced -- I programmed the first thirty or so channels from the HT itself, then copied it to CHIRP, added more, then sent it back down to the radio. I might try the trick of copying the channels into a new profile and sending it back out to the radio. At least Channel 1 is set to the calling frequency! 😄

[@davep6977]

Here's a safer(r) way and what I've done is to read one radio. Copy the whole spreadsheet format and then paste it to the other radio's page. I've had to do that UV5R's when they've had a firmware change W9DLP

[@michaelmichael8406]

@@davep6977 Isn't that what I said? It's certainly what I *tried* to say. :)

[@bryceb1234]

Tested two new (purchased in the last month) UV-5Rs with the same analyzer you have and they looked pretty decent. Highest second harmonic was 53dB down from the fundamental. Not as clean as the GT-5R, but appears to at least follow guidelines.

[@leonvanderlinde5580]

America is the only country in the world with handy talkies. The rest of the World have walkie talkies. Where we are we try to use a radio that can give us Community Policing Forum frequencies and the $ X $ frequencies as well as the license frequencies as we help them in case of disasters. You need to carry 5 radios when you have a disaster. We try to use one. The UV-5R is perfect.

[@matthewkriebel7342]

The “handy talky” thing is hams being pedantic. “Walky-talky” was the army nickname for a backpack radio. When hand-held radios became a thing, a slightly more descriptive nickname was needed. The public often calls hand-held radios walkie-talkies.

[@firehandszarb]

its great to be able to listen on non ham bands though and in uk we also have potential non ham frequencies that are legal if you purchase a license. Also band plans can change so a radio that is not artificially limited to certain frequencies is much more future proof.

[@bryanwhited5474]

Passed General and Extra today!

[@sammiller6631]

Congrats! That's a lot more bandspace to play with

[@davecasler]

Congratulations!

[@JennyEverywhere]

Good job!

[@KC3DLL]

Congrats 👏 🥳🎉

[@bryanwhited5474]

@@davecasler I have to thank you for this. I studies with HamStudy but failed the general. I then watch your videos for both the General and Extra and passed them both. The General, I only missed 1. Thank you!

[@AdamosDad]

I don't mind having a radio that can transmit out of band, I know better than to do that. It seems to be a modern problem since many older ham radios especially kits certainly could go off band but we just policed ourselves.

[@JaronActual]

Precisely. Despite what the FCC claimed in DA-18-980, there's no rule or law saying a radio capable of xmitting outside amateur freqs is illegal. Exactly as you said, homebrew and repurposed radio gear from decades ago was perfectly capable of xmitting on non-ham bands, but was still perfectly legal. Strict adherence to DA-18-980 would mean practically every modern SDR would also be illegal.

[@AdamosDad]

@@JaronActual 🖐🏼 🎙73's kd9oam

[@JaronActual]

@@AdamosDad High-five in return. We don't need corporations and manufacturers as extensions of a nanny state.

[@AdamosDad]

@@JaronActual Absolutely right my friend, I will build or modify my equipment as I please. I have and will continue to do so.

[@docthomas5198]

another SAD HAM

[@joeframo3347]

Uncle Dave Kessler great video you've been making these videos for years I've been watching I just got back in the amateur radio and I am amazed of how far this company is going 30 years ago nobody could talk me into that radio but now they're actually making them better with more power and for big battery packs like 3800 milliamp I'm very impressed for the 21st 😂 thank you again always a pleasure watching your reviews you have a lot of technical background electronics and I value your opinion before listen to some others that aren't too bright I put it mildly 😎 73's and God bless you and your 🙏🏻

[@buzzsah]

We all have our own ideas for software and cables. A number of years ago I tried the Baofeng cable and software, nothing but issues. I bought the RT Systems and is the only system I use for all my radios, I must have 11 CDs with cables. Plug & Play. easy.

[@sergeantcrow]

Where I live I would use my UV5R without any licence.. I just tune them to the 'open' public use frequencies that all the other little walkie-talkies sold in shops use..

[@lovedemcrybabies6215]

After watching this I just ordered 2 UV-5Rs before they are prohibited. I know enough to not transmit out of band.

[@jessihawkins9116]

they are illegal and the FCC will come to your door and confiscate them 🤨

[@almosthuman4457]

I do like the fact that the UV-5R is capable of transmitting on certain frequencies other than the ham bands. I have one programmed for all of the emergency frequencies in my area. I do not transmit on these frequencies, but having the ability to make an emergency call in the event of a life threatening emergency is an option I like to have in an area with limited cell phone coverage. If I can save a life, I will gladly deal with the consequences if transmitting on a restricted frequency.

[@MR-nl8xr]

If you ever end up having to keep your word, and DO; I would argue your user name is incorrect, here's the correction; Completely Human

[@jessihawkins9116]

you better not transmit on the restricted bands. you better not. 🤨

[@almosthuman4457]

@@jessihawkins9116 you must not have read the FCC guidelines on exemptions for life threatening emergencies.

[@charliegoodnight7560]

FCC won’t do anything. Think men in black suits are going to come and get you in the middle of the night?!? 😂. Show me 1 example where someone went to jail over talking on a ham band with no fcc “badge of honor”. Cool your transistors a bit. Who cares

[@ghz24]

You can very easily unlock the gt-5r to transmit on out of ham band frequencies.

[@mariodesmo]

I downloaded a copy of the (public info) FCC test report for the UV-5R family of radios from the FCC website itself. There, you can see the test results which were taken by Global Compliance (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd. and submitted by an agent in California, MiCom Labs Inc. The parent company, Po Fung Electronic (HK) International Group Company manufactures the radios and sells them under different models to other companies, according to information submitted to the FCC. The radiated emissions data submitted shows the spectrum analyzer sweeps (3 meter vertical and horizontal test modes) from 30Mhz to 1Ghz. All the test points (the entire sweep) were under the FCC limits.

[@cooknengr]

Glad that someone put an effort in reviewing the FCC filling paperwork, there is a lot a misunderstanding of FCC equipment authorization process. Let me share some info here...for example the FCC logo is not necessary a lie in this case, its an indication of SDOC, Supplier Declaration of Conformity of the NON intentional radiation to FCC part 15B rule. Prove of certification is the listing of FCCID, The TX ( Part 90 transmitter....part 97 does not really have a certification requirement, this is kinda sticky situation for manufacturer because part 97 amateur radio rule is for home brewer to improve radio art, so Baofeng provided test report of part 90...) and RX ( Part 15B for scanning receiver) , although under different FCCID, there are the same company under diffident grantee code. Note the Po Fung and BaoFeng are the same thing " treasure Mountain" except PoFung is southern Chinese dialect pronunciation , while BaoFeng is in Mandarin. The spur emission highest freq range per FCC requirement is 10x the Fundamental freq. result of "test sample" looks good, even thought official test report show more spur than Daves, because of the lower noise floor of certification grade spectrum analyzer. 73..

[@superalpha]

Prolific is not counterfeit but it is a different brand UART chip. Many "programmers" do not understand serial peripherals so that is likely why prolific cables have issues.

[@4000marcdman]

i got the starter kit with my uv5r and it came with a cable. it worked great and got a lot of extra stuff

[@thatsgottahurt]

Thanks for the review. Just starting off - was studying for the test (and was passing practice exams) then got distracted by NOAA sats where I dont need to transmit. But still want to learn more and get into armature radio. Didnt want to go all in with good (expensive) equipment so im currently only using Raspberry Pi w/ RTL-SDR and also a UV-5R. (and now maybe replacing UV with GT) Cant wait to check out some of your other videos as I start to study up again.

[@topendchuck]

UV 5R = Damn good little radios!

[@rodrigodarian3357]

I guess it's kind of off topic but do anybody know a good site to stream new movies online ?

[@rodrigodarian3357]

@Gunnar Jayden thanks, I went there and it seems like a nice service :D I appreciate it!!

[@gunnarjayden6840]

@Rodrigo Darian you are welcome =)

[@johnwest7993]

I see we have different definitions of "damn good."

[@charliegoodnight7560]

@@johnwest7993seems many have dillusions and different opinions on “policy” and actual “law” as well 😂. Sad ham much?! 😂 F the FCC

[@rogerlafrance6355]

BTW the standard for performing a harmonic and spurious test is to set the level of Fo and then insert a Fo notch and/or Highpass filter below Fo2 then add the attenuation of the filters to the reading and subtract 6Db per octave if using a sampler. Some FCC services require measurements to -120Db.

[@davecasler]

I freely admit I'm no expert on the finer points of testing radios. I doubt my scope would allow that level of detail.

[@biggriggy007]

I love the Baofeng radio. As a Ham it would be so much better if it was limited TX for ham bands only. Keep the unlocked radio out of the hands of the general public. That’s why the rules and laws are in place. Besides any ham worth their salt can unlock one to use if they are also public service. 73’s

[@danielrbeals217]

No, you are wrong. A ham cannot be legally allowed to modify or to use an opened up amateur radio on a public service frequency. However anyone, ham or not can talk on any frequency if it is a life or death emergency. Many preppers who are concerned about the SHTF possibility happening, they want to be able to communicate with others on any frequency available.

[@4000marcdman]

Why would anyone advocate to cripple a radio? It's up to the operator to know the bands and what they can and can't transmit on. That's like advocating to have your rights taken away.

[@Nebula-qq8sg]

I wouldn’t advocate to lock it down, but it should have some material/labeling to inform. Some people just aren’t the brightest in the first place, and also plenty of people might pick it up and be like “oh these are like the walkie talkies I played with as a kid” not knowing they were breaking regulations.

[@discofishing]

I think Dave is talking about spurs. You can still probably use CHIRP to software unlock the software so you can "monitor" FRS/GMRS and MURS.

[@greglawrencemusic]

But Dave, when the zombie apocalypse comes restricted bands and spurious signals are insignificant! ;-) Personally I have two UV-5R's and a UV-5RIII which has the 1.25 meter band. There is no "Skip-Memory Search" setting on the radio. This must be done within Chirp software. When I use my cheap-o USB cable, it goes into TX mode and I have to insert it and reinsert it, fiddle around with it (on both ends) and eventually it works. - and of course the manual is written in Engrish. This radio is most likely identical with better specs and restricted frequencies. (FM radio, Flashlight, Alarm) Many people opt for the MARS Mod on the IC-7300...but I didn't. I knew I would be tempted. lol. '73

[@JaronActual]

Most 5R variants use practically identical innards. It's just a matter of what firmware has been loaded onto it, which determines what features it can do, what settings are exposed in the menu, or how CHIRP interacts with it. The further problem is that Chinese enforcement of IP law being what it is, it can be extremely difficult to know whether you're getting an actual Baofeng, a licensed Baofeng variant made by a third party, or an imposter. Not that "official" Baofengs are always great quality, but the rip-offs are often much, much worse.

[@charliegoodnight7560]

Love my tri band Chinese “junk”. Works better than my $450 handheld!!

[@maddogintheair]

This is great to see. I have enjoyed my UV-5R even after getting new Yaesu HTs. At that price point the GT-5R is a fantastic beginner radio. I will happily purchase these for folks who are just getting into the hobby! Next step is a better belt clip.

[@preparados1917]

I have a Yaesu ht, a Radioditty DMR ht and a Baofeng ht. I usually use my bsofeng when checking into nets from home. I have owned that radio since 2017 and have nothing bad to say about it. I know you can transmit outside ham bsnds, but is my responsibility as a licensed ham to know which frequencies I have privileges on and not deviate off that. I compare that with hf opertions. We need to know what is legal and what is not, all licensed operators know that.

[@HarryHamsterChannel]

And a license, cowboy!

[@wb8cxo]

Yea, but many many Hams are obsessed with having radios that transmit out of the ham bands... When challenged they state "in case of emergency" they can transmit anywhere! They also like to use their amateur band radios on MURS and GMRS. (Note a comment below) So they WILL seek radios that will transmit out of band and WILL seek to modify, if possible, the radio to transmit out of band. You might convince the manufacturers you will NEVER convince the ham user! It is nice to see they have improved the spectral purity of the radio. 73 Mike P.S. I bought a TS-440 HF rig from a ham that not only had it opened up on transmit... Had every aeronautical HF frequency programmed into it and it would transmit there too! It's a wonderful experience!

[@davecasler]

As a pilot I hope you didn't find transmitting on HF aeronautical frequencies to be wonderful. Almost all HF radios today have general coverage receivers so you can receive anything.

[@wb8cxo]

@@davecasler I was just emphasizing the extent hams will go to to modify their radios to transmit OOB. As a pilot I don't appreciate ANYONE who jeopardizes safe flight in any way. Sorry that was not obvious! The "wonderful experience” comes from just seeing it all unfold! I don't transmit beyond the limits of my license! But do hold the Restricted Radiotelephone license required "back in the day” to transmit on aeronautical frequencies. FWIW. :)

[@davecasler]

@@wb8cxo I have a restricted radiotelephone license too, but have no idea where it is!

[@jplacido9999]

The only solution is (just saying): Radio Hams cought with out of band TX capability would loose their licence for at least 5 years and face a increased dificulty exame to get back in the hobby. For non-Hams: Imediate imprisionment with obligatory jail time in a low security prision facility (althought it must be a Faraday cage prision cell😀😀😀). This is the ONLY way. Otherwise, people will laugh at you if you try to explain the rules (those rules avoid chaos). But it all seems north-corean enforcement, so it is a nowadays reality: Everybody does what pleases to them and if it's not a obligatoty jail time offence they simply don't care. (And yes, they will laugh at you and call you 'square").

[@neilrobinson3085]

You don't necessarily get what you pay for... but you definitely DO pay for what you get!

[@raulcruz6601]

EXACTO

[@ik04]

To be clear: Never upload the radio data from one radio and download it to another radio. You can upload the channel presets, save them as a CSV and then load those into the presets of another radio with no problems, as long as the fields all match.

[@HarryHamsterChannel]

Why a CSV? I use the regular default Chirp format to backup my radio default programs. Am I upsetting the Baofeng Order? Again? This approximate method can also be used to change defaults on similar cheap HT's. No luck with removing FRS assignments yet.

[@ik04]

Radios with the same name use different microprocessors/FPGA chips and randomly loading the wrong one from a different radio can do terrible things. The chirp file has data in it other than the presets and radio settings.@@HarryHamsterChannel

[@johnpeterson7264]

That’s great to see the suppression of harmonics. Now - I need to see the same deal with a rain resistant model.

[@r2db]

There is no need to put "amateur radio license to buy" as you had suggested because that is not the case. Anyone can purchase any amateur radio equipment and lawfully receive any signals on the amateur radio bands. "Amateur radio license required to transmit" would be correct. However, there is also absolutely no reason why the radio needs FCC certification if it is only used for Part 97 operations. Our license requires that WE ensure that our equipment is compliant. There is also no reason to prohibit sales at truck stops. Having a class A commercial driver license is not mutually exclusive with being a licensed operator under Part 97.

[@penzman]

The UV5R is now sold here as the UV5R IC, Industry Canada approved.

[@phottomatt4202]

Thanks for the very technical info, used your link to buy the GT-5R based on this. Just starting out and studying for the HAM technician license.

[@joeminton105]

Just got my GT-5R. Also the 2022-2026 ham license manuel. Studying for my Tech license. But soon gonna get my GMRS license. Looking for a good GMRS radio.

[@sonyareeder7855]

I'm totally green...does a person need a actual ham technician license?

[@phottomatt4202]

@@sonyareeder7855 Only if you want to transmit, you can own it and listen but need a license to transmit with it.

[@lyfandeth]

I wonder if "cut the green wire" will wideband them, as it does in so many premium ham radios. I appreciate the problem, but also know folks who keep radios programmed out of band "just in case" they are needed for true emergency service on marine, gmrs, or public service bands.

[@Bootyhunter1971]

Watch a video from "notarubicon" that explains how to do it. Simple combination of button pushes while powering on.

[@myCloudWatcher]

In many places, it is not legal to possess and or carry radios that are not legal in the location. Your personal rights may not apply if you are carrying radios with no valid license for the radio and location at that moment. Operation adds more weight to the violation. I can add that modification can also be an issue.

[@myCloudWatcher]

@@electrofrying1685 Many examples, Airports, Army bases, Government Offices... To be legal you need legal equipment. Amature Radio Operators are more freedoms. Nonlicensed operators have fewer rights.

[@dimitriapproved]

Oh no, not another entry level HT!! They are all entry level HTs. Some just cost more.

[@pattimichellesheaffer103]

A big problem with the two GT-5R's I've received is that the squelch is WAY to sensitive. Even the minimum squelch of 1 will cause audible stations to cut out (go silent) if just a bit of noise appears. (You have to depress MON to listen.) None of my 4 other types of Baofeng/BTECH units have this issue. Using a gain antenna like the Nagoya NA320A or the SRJ77CA doesn't seem to help - which seems very strange. Did Baofeng have a big, "bad-lot" of these units that it's dumping on the market? (I see they're $25 on Amazon now, which seems very low.)

[@hyperlogos]

The squelch is infamously bad. But you can fiddle the settings on it in CHIRP and make it more useful

[@JennyEverywhere]

I found that the people running a science fiction convention I liked to attend had purchased a dozen UV-5rs on eBay, and we're using them for the operations crew. I made a big stink about it, so they asked around and one of their First Aid people had their ham ticket, so I talked to him about it and said he had to make sure they were used properly. He didn't realize that they were using ham radios, and thought they had FRS radios. He was very concerned as well. I'd have to dig into part 97 to make sure, but I think they managed to squeak by with his help. That's another thing the GT-5r box needs -- a reference to Part 97. Parts 15B and 90 don't cut it.

[@davidaix5771]

Well they do make a baofeng style radio that is GMRS only but it's a piece of junk

[@JennyEverywhere]

@@davidaix5771 Do you mean the BTECH GMRS-V1? I have one. It's better than the blister pack FRS/GMRS garbage. I've actually managed to TALK to people on it in my area (yes, I have a GMRS license as well as an Amateur Extra).

[@davidaix5771]

@@JennyEverywhere yeah that's what I was talking about those bteck i have a bteck uv-5x3 and its great radio btech is an American importer and they upgrade the receivers to mine is a tri-band

[@JennyEverywhere]

I ordered the radio using the Amazon link Dave posted in the description, and the Powerwerx "red cable" as well. The cable has not arrived yet, but it doesn't matter much, I located my old Baofeng cable from my UV-5r, and after some fiddling with drivers, I got it working with Chirp. Now I notice that it does NOT say "GT-5R" on the little plate at the bottom of the front of the radio. It says instead "UV-5RE". This is concerning because I ordered the radio from the page that SAYS it's a GT-5R, but I didn't GET a GT-5R. Instead, I got this one, and don't know if the spurious harmonics are still messed up on this thing! I haven't tried it on GMRS or FRS to see if it'll transmit out of band, but I'm almost afraid to try. It DOES seem to work a bit better than my UV-5R I got years ago, so SOMETHING has changed, but it looks like either Baofeng or Radioddity is pulling a fast one here, sending out radios that aren't what the customer ordered. Dave, if you have any contacts with the company, could you please ask them about this? There are comments on the Amazon page (which now says "Currently Unavailable") that say I'm not the only one who got a UV-5RE instead of a GT-5R. I'm going to try contacting the seller myself, but I don't have any inside connections like you might.

[@davidaix5771]

@@JennyEverywhere if it's a uv-5r just going to chirp and you can wideband it by expanding the frequency limits it's real easy and as far as those radios being out of stock they kind of all are the FCC I think is cracking down on the sale of these radios so I get them while you still can what I mean by that is with less limits on the frequencies pretty soon they're going to have to sell them where they can't transmit out of band

[@heinzpilot]

We have several "spammers" on the repeaters where I live transmitting interfering signals, music, ect. I'm pretty sure the police are NOT showing up at any doors for FCC violations related to these radios or other things. Good review on these new little radios however.

[@DiverCTH]

Fox hunting time!

[@mjex1965]

@@DiverCTH wait until the fox bites back.

[@danluzurriaga6035]

I agree that the spurious emissions are important to comply with. I disagree that it is so important that a radio sold to amateur operators must be limited to the ham bands only. Licensed hams know where they are allowed to transmit. By requiring only the ham bands be open is disrespecting the license that amateurs receive, as if we cannot control our own transmissions. It is the principle and it otherwise makes no difference. Bottom line is the assumption that amateurs will operate illegally if you let them (insulting); if someone operates illegally it is between that person and the law but don't underestimate the rest of the ham community in the process. Furthermore, we are allowed to build our own transmitters if we wish so putting limits on retail products conflicts with the qualities of amateur operators. You will say even licensed hams will violate rules; maybe, but they will mod their radios and could do that anyway. Let the authorities deal with lawbreakers but don't insult legal operators by treating them like children, similar to putting governors on their go-kart engines lol. If you say "but non-hams can buy the radios too"; again, if they break the law it is between them and the authorities. In this case when they do their pirate radio, you are assuring that they will pirate ONLY the ham bands.

[@davecasler]

I've heard this argument so many times before. My position, which I will continue to espouse as best practice, is to transmit only on the ham bands. You can receive anywhere you want. I can remember when ham band radios would not even receive shortwave stations (except for those on 40 meters).

[@ham5497]

Can these be made to work on Railroad Frequencies with CHIRP? A lot of non-profit railroad museums Don't have the funds to buy the latest Motorola industry standard radio it'll be nice if there's something that was compliant that they could use.

[@browntroy101]

Thanks for the showing of this GT-5R!! Love your clarifications and easy going plain-speak!!!

[@jcwillette]

Thank you for all the great videos....just past my extra class on March 17, 2021....

[@davecasler]

Congratulations on the upgrade!

[@tylerdean980]

This seems like the obvious choice over the UV5R. But I enjoy the expanded transmit the UV5R has.

[@jessihawkins9116]

why? your not allowed to transmit on the non ham bands. are you a scofflaw? 🤨

[@tylerdean980]

@@jessihawkins9116 You can use any frequency in an emergency, and having the ability to communicate outside the ham bands could be the difference between life and death. In terms of all radios in the world, ham radios only make up a small portion. There are many more people that have CB's and FRS radios. Arbitrarily limiting your radio's capabilities could cost you valuable time or your life in an emergency situation. If all you want to use your radio for is to talk to other hams, it doesn't make a difference, but if you're relying on it in a life and death situation, there's no reason to limit yourself arbitrarily.

[@johnwest7993]

Dave, are you sure there isn't some combination of keys to hold down that will open up the transmit frequencies on that radio? They found such a combination for the GMRS version. BTW, as a ham I prefer a rig that is capable of operating on all sorts of non-ham frequencies simply because I'm always preparing and prepared to use my gear during emergencies, and frequency agility may possibly be the difference between life and death. I want all of my gear to be as versatile as possible. Since I'm capable of building a rig essentially from scratch to operate on any frequency I choose, what manufacturers put into or don't put into compact consumer rigs is really only a matter of convenience to me, but convenience matters. However, as a ham I KNOW what frequencies to operate on, and when, and what all my options are, as do other hams, and I have a spectrum analyzer and low-pass filters to ensure the purity of my signals, whereas the average consumer is utterly clueless about the entirety of the field of electromagnetics. The problem is when the non-ham, non-technical crowd has easy access to inexpensive, frequency-agile radios. That is what is happening with mail-order ham gear. It's not the radio's frequency range or even its harmonic content that's the problem. Knowledgeable, responsible people work with such things every day with no problem. As with our US firearms problem, the fundamental problem is who has access to these radios. And with modern marketing and cheap, quick international mail-order of radio electronics with no verification of the qualifications or any certification of the purchaser, that could be anyone, anyone at all. I recall years ago buying a modest power (75 Watts) used HF amp at an electronics surplus store. The clerk asked my call-sign, then asked to see a copy of my ham license before they would sell me the amp. That's the way these radios need to be sold again. Consumer HT's should only be legally sold for unlicensed or specific licensed service applications if their firmware cannot be accessed, they are entirely sealed in something like potting compound, and they have foolproof channelization and permanently affixed antenna systems, period.

[@daviddehass6877]

It's actually super easy. There are plenty of Reddit posts explaining how.

[@charliegoodnight7560]

Yup. Hold the 3 buttons down and turn the radio on. Easy

[@PatrickKQ4HBD]

I think the spurious emissions and out of band transmissions are massively overblown concerns. What appears to be a more pressing problem is old school purists purposefully jamming newer digital and weak signal transmissions. I've heard a lot of "Get off my band!" crud.

[@TennesseeFrank]

Have you tested a newer UV-5r to see if they've also had the improved chip set installed? I'd be willing to bet that new Baofeng radios (mid-2023 and later) all use the same board and chip set so they'd all have less/no spurious emissions same as the GT-5r. I'd be interested in seeing you test a current model.

[@SpeakNowHoldYourPeace]

Quick question: I have two (2) Baofeng UV-5Rs. I have them set and programed identically the same in the menu. I also have them on the same frequency. When I transmit from Baofeng radio # 1 to Baofeng radio # 2 it works fine however when I try to transmit from Baofeng radio # 2 to Baofeng radio # 1, the Baofeng radio # 1 will not pick up the transmission from the other Baofeng radio #2. SO I cannot hear any signal/transmission from Baofeng radio # 1. Do you think there is something wrong with Baofeng radio # 1?

[@Roddy1965]

I shall return my recently ordered bulk order of 300 UV-5R radios! (just kidding).

[@thomascardenas2680]

Wondering if you can help. I recently purchased UV-5R's . I am trying to load the Rugged Radio channels to it. When I upload them, i can see the channel but it does not allow me to transmit on them. Any ideas what it could be? The TX and everything is enabled. Not sure why it wont work.

[@BamaChad-W4CHD]

I bet the frequencies can still easily be unlocked. Are we mistaking them making a product for the American market when they are actually just slapping a sticker on ones shipped here to try and fake fcc compliance? Edit after watching the whole video. I'm impressed. The fixing of the spurious emissions is just impressive. I'm extremely happy to be able to listen to the full frequency range but only transmit on ham bands. Great video as always

[@oldgringo66]

I just looked at the Amazon store and it clearly states that the GT-5R transmits on 420-450 only and only receives on 144-148 . Obviously this is wrong because Dave did the transmit on 2m for spurious emissions.

[@davecasler]

Yes, the Amazon page is poorly worded.

[@chuck9333]

I bought the Baofeng GT-5R and opened it today. It does have a slightly larger antenna. I tuned into the net on my Baofeng UV-5R and typed the frequency in my Baofeng GT-5R without the PL tone or offset. I'm on the second floor of my house with aluminum siding and the UV-5R picked up more of the net and the GT-5R picked up half of the net and I don't know why. The Baofeng GT-5R has more static like my Tid Radio. I will have to program my GT-5R and do more testing but I already don't like what I hear.

[@modus_ponens]

It is still possible to unlock GT-5R with old version of Baofeng reprogramming tool. CHIRP or Baofeng's latest reprogramming tool can not do that.

[@Stevef-sk3jc]

Question.. ive added a quarter wave ground wire to my 7ft whip..on my fibreglass camper body it tuned up beautifully, i change the wire to aluminium tape and stuck it on in place of the wire.. i couldnt get it to tune at all.. when i unstuck 4 inches of the end.. it tuned up very nice.. whats going on.. cutting it shorter to allow for end effect didnt help.. any thoughts

[@twong689]

An anecdote: I got my UV-5R readily approved by the Radio authority in Beijing about two years ago. In the mean time, my Yaesu 7800 and MD-380G got dismissed because they are not white listed. I don't like radio Puritans or Stoics.

[@chuckadams4400]

We don't like you either.

[@otm646]

You mentioned the radio can only transmit on the ham bands. Can it receive across the full spectrum like a UV-5R?

[@davecasler]

Yes

[@toby-dog3538]

The GT-5R is quite easy to open up to transmit outside the Ham bands using Chirp. Its in the limits in settings. The UV-5R is most certainly part 15 compliant. There is nothing that makes the UV-5R illegal.

[@davecasler]

The UV-5R spurious emissions are the problem. The GT-5R fixes that.

[@toby-dog3538]

@@davecasler It may fix the problem, I never stated otherwise. Spurious emissions nor the "FCC" compliance or the out of band capabilities makes them illegal. I was just pointing a few incorrect statements in your video. You video is very good and offers many reasons to change radios. The Baofeng haters will jump at anything to cry, "its illegal"

[@ralphshepard1]

I think the UV-88 is a superior radio At about the same price point and now supported by chirp.

[@ericlevine420]

can it be unlocked by pressing the 3 buttons while powering on ?

[@commontater652]

I did not realize an Amateur transceiver had to meet Part 90 spec. Guess I have to replace my ADI and my Kenwood.

[@s1mp13m4n]

When I started in ham radio four years a go, my first radio was the BTech UV5X3. Well fast forward a few years. We have severe storms in our area with tornado warnings. The NOAA weather alert goes off and a tornado siren, we run for shelter. In the time of running from the house to safety in pouring rain...the China radio got wet. I am in shelter trying to use the radio and it had factory reset. It was in Chinese and I lost all of my presets. After that moment I was done with cheap Chinese junk. It failed when I needed it most. A tornado touched down 1/4 mile from us while in shelter. I had no weather radio nir way to contact anyone, the radio failed. I now own a Yaesu VX6R. Yes it is expensive but it is built very well, it is water resistant, and built to last a long time. My Yaesu radio and battery were made in Japan...and the quality shows. My advice is avoid the Harbor Freight radios. When you are facing a threat to your safety, it is not worth the gamble on a low quality radio.

[@Brianflys]

They make great cheap radios to hand out to family or friends in SHTF times. Hope I never have to. But I'm not handing out Icoms or Yeasus...

[@m118lr]

Was introduced to the Q’s, the Quansheng line INSTEAD of the Baofeng. Am fairly happy with them I suppose EXCEPT can’t seem to find spare/extra batteries for them although I haven’t TRIED REAL hard..

[@mihaim2318]

hello David, due to the fact that the manual is confusing, my question is, does this HT transmit in both 2m and 70cm? in the manual it is said that it transmits only in the 70cm band, and only reception in 2m

[@paulmillard1130]

A spurious output can be simply down to using any old antenna available at the time. 2.4ghz are a favourite.

[@ghz24]

No that's not true. Those spurious emissions are from the transmitter. No matter how bad the antenna it's not going to create frequencies not made by the radio.

[@tc1uscg65]

Along with what you feel it should say on the front of the package, it SHOULD also state the GT 5 DOES NOT operate on GMRS/FRS/MURS bands, which for the non-HAM op, like myself, who only would want these for that purpose (yes, I have a lic to operate on those spectrums). Not advocating using non-fcc approved devices for any transmissions however, for people wanting to get a decent multipurpose/use radio to tie up the communications needs for emergencies, these radios not only operate in those areas, but has FM and weax band reception and VHF-FM abilities. Now, if they learn to use CHIRP to set them up accordingly, that's even better. Thanks and I enjoy your videos.. 73's

[@haldorasgirson9463]

FCC doesn't issue test reports. The vendor goes to a licensed, 3rd party compliance lab and that lab issues the test report.

[@68LP13]

Seriously!!!! Reading these comments and watched this video is soo true of the stories I hear about Ham guys. Why is this soo important as it is a cheap hand radio, and it makes me wonder why the likes of Yaesu, Icom etc bother making radios simular to the Baofeng as it seems to be the most talked about hand radio by Ham users. I am not a Ham user, I have three Baofengs all loaded with repeaters, airports and harbours along with many other stations ALL of those I LISTEN to, but there are eight channels open to use for the likes of non hams (me). As I mentioned I listen, and sometimes I hear Hams acting just as bad as CBers by arguing and swearing (good and bad on both sides of the fence). One the problems with this world is nit picking and this Ham v CB that has been going on all these years needs to stop, unkey your mic for five minutes lean back and think how lucky you are to have what you own when homeless people who have nothing die on the street with nothing. I have a few good hams who drop down to 11mtr for a great chat and enjoy the company of my friends in a relaxed channel. I passed my Ham about a year and a half ago but did not contact Ofcom as I prefer the CB and 11mtr SSB life and just wanted to know if I could pass the exam, I use a FT1200DX for the 11mr SSB skip only and a CB for local chat, my three Baofengs are for listening along with my Uniden Bearcat scanner. If the Baofeng is soo cheap and nasty, why are you Hams buying them?

[@toml.8210]

The Baofung system of compliance reminds me of the way Ferrari "interpreted" the rules for homologation. 😁😆🤣

[@charliegoodnight7560]

And they both worked 😂

[@stahme10]

Thanks Dave this is great news for a newbe like myself that is on a budget! Love your videos. Thanks so much.

[@nickm9102]

I understand what you are saying about the transmit options but I am not sure I agree with not having equipment with the capability of working with Police/Fire/Ect. simply because if there is a SHTF situation you can configure for use in that situation. Idealy there is extra equipment but in reality it seems groups have to run with either exactly what they need or less than what they need.

[@troy3456789]

I wish there was a true hq superhet multiband radio that does what the uv-5r does. It angered the FCC that the uv-5r accessed and allowed transmission on MURS, FRS, and GMRS channels and some ham band channels. I have no idea why the FCC is upset about that capability. It makes no sense to me.

[@1crazynordlander]

Has Baofeng cleaned up their mobile radios like this one?

[@JeffElkins]

Amazon: Currently unavailable. We don't know when or if this item will be back in stock.

[@hectorpascal]

Yes, the new model has cleaner output, but you are connecting it directly to a wideband dummy load. In the older model, doesn't the reduced bandwidth of the antenna help to significantly reduce the radiated harmonic output? How is the FCC spurious emission test specified - into dummy load or antenna?

[@davecasler]

Probably an antenna in an RF-proof VHF/UHF indoor antenna range. I don't have such. But I do like the GT-5R much better.

[@jplacido9999]

Only super-narrowband antennas will help a litle on "filtering" those junk radios harmonics and band noise. Those antennas are rare.

[@donharlacher2196]

Dave, this radio (GT-5R) according to the Baofengradio website, the GT-5R only transmits on 420-450 mhz. It says that 144-148 mhz is RX only which means that it it is not a true dual band transceiver. Were you aware of this?

[@davecasler]

It transmits on 2meters just fine. It's a dual-band radio.

[@Michael-nd7gh]

@@davecasler Yeah, the specs on the Radioddity website literally says "144-148 (RX Only)" so I am glad to hear you counter that.

[@heinzpilot]

From the Radioddity website: Ideal HT For New Generation: GT-5R transmits only on 144-148MHz & 420-450MHz, meets all of the FCC requirements, and would not obstruct other important public services. Never worry about that a new ham would transmit on out of licensed range. Come and get this great little HT for your nearest who just passed his HAM tech exam!

[@lovemytechy]

@David Casler would you please check if Chirp can expand the frequencies of the GT-5R like it use to be able to do with UV-5R? I like that fact that it transmits cleaner signal but I don't want to buy it if I can not expand the frequencies to what was covered by UV5R. if it can not what would be a UV5R with a clean signal and no signal restriction like this?

[@masterchief586]

Thank you for the video, clears up some stuff for me. Hear you on the waves brother. I am ordering one for a good back up.

[@toddlittles2786]

i like listening to the ham radio! i don't have a lic to talk but at the same time i don't want talk.... i use a old school radio and a laptop with sdr and hackrf

[@nz0z134]

The baofeng dmr rig did dmr type one perfectly. Only trouble is no one else was on type one.

[@wb8vqv]

Hi David! How is the receive audio level output on the GT-5R? I have 3 of the UV-5Rs scattered throughout the house. The oldest one has tons of audio output. The other two were bought as a pair later on and the audio output is terrible. It's so low that if there is any other noise in the room, I cannot hear it well at all even with the volume all the way up. I remember reading a review a few years back about some of the UV-5Rs used different audio output ICs but I haven't been able to relocate that article. Thanks, Dave WB8VQV

[@tylersathern1076]

Is the quality difference simply the better antenna on the GT-5R?

[@toml.8210]

It's obvious of Radioditty: They are the US importer for Baofunk radios. Unfortunately, there are (a few million?) UV-5R radios still out there....

[@-redacted-2214]

This must be where the sad hams hang out.

[@jeradnevada]

" some people "

[@shortwavefan2487]

Question for whatever reason you’re unable to obtain a cable at least at the moment of purchasing the radio will it still work. Also is it possible to swap out the rubber ducky antenna with a better one on this model sorry this is a dumb question Also very good video keep up the amazing work

[@stephenwade8093]

Those frequencies are also the Australian 2 and 70 ham bands

[@swanpyrotechnics441]

Hello, Im looking to use these in Bermuda how would I know if they are compatible to use there? ShipTX- 156.050 Ship RX -160.050

[@prepcommsuk]

Walkie Talkie is a phrase often used in the rest of the world. In the UK we prefer to call it a handheld.

[@damiengirvan5020]

In Northern Ireland we call it a hand job.....

[@johnroberts6695]

I can't find a GT-5R anywhere on Amazon. It's awash in UV-5Rs, though. I just want an inexpensive set of radios I can use for emergencies. 🔹🌞🌛🌠

[@gunzmith29r]

get a uv-5r....they the best

[@daywidjc]

Ordered a GT-5R through the Amazon link, fulfilled by OURUN but was sent a UV-5RE. Even though they claim that they will refund my money, I'm still not getting what I ordered. In closer examination of the erroneous UV-5, there were quite a few channels programmed so I think it may have been one that had been returned. So Buyer Beware!

[@icqme8586]

Any home test to know if an HT is compliant? Use a receiver on first harmonic and see how far away it can be received compared to a big-3 HT? Really like my UV82 but fear it's illegal/dirty on TX. Wish I could get a compliant UV82 because I love the look/feel of it.

[@shastaham7630]

As an reminder of the proper pronunciation of Wouxun (ō shin), just remember that it comes from across the ocean. Also remember that regarding Baofeng, the “e” is pronounced as a “u.”

[@johnzimmerman3021]

Yes, it comes from across the ocean but English has rules of pronunciation. Please note that we have no problems pronouncing Icom, Kenwood, Yaesu, etc.

[@JayKnight]

@@johnzimmerman3021 English had lots of conflicting rules. Pinyin is at least consistent and it's worth trying to learn it. Is not all that hard.

[@Sparkletron]

Close. Xin is pronounced like shin. But xun is pronounced like the bicycle: Schwinn

[@xxM5xx]

Who cares. They don't even use our alphabet so why print it Wouxun using our letters if you wish it to be pronounced entirely different than written? It is in the marketplace here and I'll pronounce it as written using American English pronunciation. If they want me to pronounce it "OhShwinn" they should have spelled it that way.

[@johnzimmerman3021]

@@JayKnight Agreed, Jay - Americans can sail right through Spanish, Japanese and German, but the real issue with Chinese is the varying pitch required when speaking it.

[@Assassin1959]

My UV-5R just died today... a bunch of symbols and numbers came across the screen and it will not do anything else. Not sure what to do now, I am thinking of trash it and get another one or just get a GMRS radio and play with that.

[@ChrisSmith-rm6xl]

Can you listen to an frequencies that you are not allowed to transmit on? Is there any downside at all to choosing the GT-5R instead of the UV-5R? Any software that works on one and not the other?

[@GoSlash27]

Dave, I think the wailing and gnashing of teeth about the UV-5R's harmonic content is much ado about nothing, and this is coming from a professional EMI technician. Yeah, it doesn't meet spec, but so what? The worst spur here is 30 dB below 5W, which means 5 mW transmitted through an antenna that's even not tuned for it. Will it ever *actually* interfere with anything? No! I get that HAMs want to be 100% compliant with FCC limits and that's great... but maybe a little sense of proportion is in order here?

[@bthemedia]

22:30 beyond “program on the fly”, I wish radios supported cloning channel settings from radio-to-radio via cable in the field!

[@TheSoball358]

There is a Bluetooth device that plugs into a baofeng- your phone reads the radio. You plug in what you need then clone. That could clone multiple radios in the field very quickly

[@bthemedia]

Custody Warriors I saw that online recently too… looks interesting but requires BT + smart phone. The old radio-cable-radio, push buttons, done - channels copied would be ideal

[@georgethomas9505]

I ordered the radio via your link and just received a UV-5RE vice a GT-5R. AArgghhh!!!

[@JennyEverywhere]

So did I. Rather annoyed.

[@davep6977]

A couple quick observations. I'd say portable. Handi-Talkie (Thus HT's)as well as PL (CTCSS) is a Motorola trade name. The radio "acceptance" said part 90, not Part 97. Part 90 is commercial Land Mobile. They get their Part 90 because to be compliant, the user can't enter frequencies via the keypad, so there is a keypad lock. The mineral oil is probably pressurizing and expanding. And the safe(r) way to go from different radio's is to read one. High light the fields and copy it. Then read the other radio and paste it. I've done this a lot of UV5R's when there's a firmware difference. What happens when you enter an "out of band" frequency into the GT-5R ?

[@damiengirvan5020]

I have a pain in my big toe.... Have you any idea what it could be??? Also what should I do with all this stuff in my pocket???