The Baofeng UV-9R and UV-9R Plus are both robust and waterproof radios suitable for various outdoor activities. However, there are some notable differences between these two models. Note: The UV-9R is also known as the UV-9R Pro List of Differences between UV-9R and UV-9R+ Power Output The UV-9R typically advertises a power output of around 8 watts (an upgrade over the 5W UV-5R). The UV-9R Plus also claims to output max 8 watts. This has been a subject of debate as some tests show them performing closer to 6-7 watts in practical use. Battery Capacity The UV-9R Plus often includes an 8000 mAh ..read more

The Baofeng UV-9G and UV-9R are two radios that share some similarities but have distinct differences primarily in their specifications and intended use. The Baofeng UV-9R is designed for Ham Radio applications, offering features like being waterproof and having a robust design suitable for various environments. It has been noted for its decent audio quality and compatibility with various accessories, though it lacks some newer features like USB-C charging. On the other hand, the Baofeng UV-9G is specifically tailored for General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) users and includes additional funct ..read more

Yes, software-defined radio (SDR) can transmit as well as receive signals, provided it is designed with the capability to do so. SDRs are versatile tools that use software to perform many functions that were traditionally done with hardware, such as modulating and demodulating radio signals, and filtering. This flexibility allows SDRs to handle a wide range of frequencies and modes, including transmission modes. However, it’s important to note the following: Transmitter Hardware Not all SDRs have built-in transmitters. Some (like the RTL-SDR) are designed only for receiving signals. Those SDRs ..read more

RTL-SDR is our top budget software-defined radio pick for the year and it is one of the most popular SDRs worldwide. This is the product that most people use when getting started with SDRs. The RTL-SDR is small and portable and can be carried around easily. With a frequency range of up to 1.7 GHz along with excellent community support, there’s a lot you can do with this product. Some applications however require better sensitivity. This is where a low noise amplifier helps. This post answers a few different questions: The benefits of using an amplifier What amplifier can we u ..read more

Using a TV antenna to boost a cell phone signal is not generally effective or recommended. TV antennas and cell phone signals operate on different frequency ranges, and their design specifications are tailored to their respective functions. Detailed Explanation Here’s why a TV antenna isn’t suitable for amplifying cell phone signals Frequency Mismatch TV antennas are designed to receive VHF (Very High Frequency) and UHF (Ultra High Frequency) signals, typically ranging from about 54 to 806 MHz. In contrast, cellular signals usually operate in the range of 700 MHz to 3500 MHz, depending on the ..read more

No, Baofeng radios, such as the UV-5R and other similar models, cannot pick up CB (Citizens Band) radio frequencies directly. CB radio operates on a specific set of frequencies around 27 MHz, which is in the HF (High Frequency) range. In contrast, most Baofeng radios are designed to operate on VHF (Very High Frequency, typically 136-174 MHz) and UHF (Ultra High Frequency, typically 400-520 MHz) bands. These ranges do not overlap with the CB frequencies. To listen to CB radio transmissions, you would need a receiver that is specifically capable of receiving HF signals in the 27 MHz range. CB r ..read more

Yes, you can listen to ham radio transmissions without a license. Listening to radio frequencies, including those used by amateur (ham) radio operators, does not require a license in most countries. Amateur radio bands are open to public listening, and you can use any receiver capable of tuning to the appropriate frequencies to enjoy ham radio broadcasts. Here are a few hardware options to allow you to listen to Ham Radio: A Baofeng radio like the one below A Software-defined radio dongle with the appropriate software application A Handheld SDR All the above can be used to listen to Ham Rad ..read more

In practical terms, an 8-watt handheld ham radio typically achieves a range of about 1 to 5 miles (1.6 to 8 kilometers) in urban settings, and 5 to 20 miles (8 to 32 kilometers) or more in rural or open conditions with a good line of sight. With optimal conditions and settings, especially from elevated positions or with improved antennas, the range can extend considerably further. Factors that determine transmit range The range of an 8-watt ham radio transmitter, such as those found in higher-power handheld devices, depends on several factors including the environment, antenna type, frequency ..read more

Yes, you can use the Baofeng UV-5R as a walkie-talkie. The UV-5R is a dual-band, handheld transceiver that operates on both VHF and UHF frequencies, making it suitable for various two-way communication purposes. Here are some points to consider when using UV-5R as a walkie-talkie Licensing Depending on your country, using the Baofeng UV-5R may require a license. In many places, transmitting on the VHF and UHF frequencies utilized by the UV-5R is regulated, typically requiring an amateur (ham) radio license. Make sure to check local regulations to ensure legal operation. Frequency Programming ..read more

SDR’s flexibility and adaptability have made it a popular choice for building FM transmitters, providing a modern twist to traditional broadcasting methods. Table of Contents Toggle What is Software-Defined Radio? SDRs that can be used for FM Transmission HackRF One Portapack H2 The Benefits of SDR in FM Transmission Flexibility Wide Range of Frequencies Ease of Upgrades Experimentation and Education Challenges and Considerations Technical Knowledge Regulatory Compliance Hardware Limitations Frequently Asked Questions Can you build a FM Transmitter with RTL-SDR? Conclusion Relate ..read more