BAOFENG Programming Cable Instruction Manual

Introduction

This manual provides instructions for the BAOFENG Programming Cable, Model BF-S122. This cable facilitates communication between your computer and compatible BAOFENG two-way radios, enabling programming of frequencies, channels, and other settings using appropriate software. It is designed for use with various BAOFENG models including UV-5R/5RA/5R Plus/5RE, UV3R Plus, BF-888S, 5R EX, 5RX3, and GA-2S.

Image: BAOFENG Programming Cable. This image displays the USB connector on one end and the dual-pin radio connector on the other, with the BAOFENG logo visible on the USB housing.

Package Contents

• 1x BAOFENG Programming Cable (Model BF-S122)
• (Optional) Driver CD: Note that newer packages may not include a physical CD. Drivers should be downloaded from official sources or recommended third-party sites.

Image: BAOFENG Programming Cable alongside a driver CD. The cable is coiled, showing both the USB and dual-pin connectors. The CD has the BAOFENG logo.

Setup and Driver Installation

Proper driver installation is critical for the programming cable to function correctly. The cable acts as a USB to Serial adapter.

System Requirements:

• Operating System: Windows 7 (64-bit), Windows 10. Note: macOS and iOS systems are not supported.
• Available USB Port.
• Internet access for driver and software downloads.

Driver Installation Steps:

1. Do not use the included CD for drivers. It may contain outdated or incompatible drivers.
2. Disconnect the programming cable from your computer and radio.
3. Download the correct Prolific USB to Serial driver. Recommended sources include the Miklor.com website or the official CHIRP software website. Search for "Prolific driver" specific to your Windows version.
4. Install the downloaded driver. Follow the on-screen instructions. Administrator privileges may be required.
5. Restart your computer after driver installation is complete.
6. Connect the programming cable to a USB port on your computer. Windows should recognize the device and install it successfully.
7. Verify driver installation: Open Device Manager (Right-click "This PC" or "My Computer" -> "Manage" -> "Device Manager"). Look under "Ports (COM & LPT)" for "Prolific USB-to-Serial Comm Port". Note the assigned COM port number (e.g., COM3, COM5). Ensure there are no warning symbols (e.g., yellow triangle).

Image: A programming cable with an FTDI chip indicator. This highlights the type of chip often used in these cables, which requires specific drivers.

Software Installation

The BAOFENG Programming Cable requires third-party software to program your radio. CHIRP is a widely used and recommended free, open-source program.

1. Download CHIRP: Visit the official CHIRP website and download the latest stable or daily build for your operating system.
2. Install CHIRP: Follow the installation instructions provided by the CHIRP software.

Operating Instructions

Once the drivers and software are installed, you can proceed with programming your radio.

1. Ensure your radio is turned OFF.
2. Connect the dual-pin connector of the programming cable to the microphone/speaker jack on your BAOFENG radio. Ensure a secure connection.
3. Turn ON your radio.
4. Launch the CHIRP software on your computer.
5. In CHIRP, navigate to Radio > Download From Radio.
6. A dialog box will appear. Select the correct COM Port (the one you noted from Device Manager, e.g., COM5).
7. Select the Vendor (e.g., Baofeng) and your specific Model (e.g., UV-5R).
8. Click OK to initiate the download. The software will read the current configuration from your radio.
9. Once the download is complete, you can edit frequencies, channels, and other settings within the CHIRP interface.
10. To save your changes to the radio, navigate to Radio > Upload To Radio. Confirm the COM Port, Vendor, and Model, then click OK.
11. After the upload is complete, disconnect the cable and restart your radio to apply the new settings.

Image: Two examples of compatible BAOFENG radios. The left image shows a standard BAOFENG radio, and the right image shows a BAOFENG UV-5R MK4 radio, both with keypads and displays.

Maintenance

• Store the cable in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Avoid kinking or sharply bending the cable to prevent internal wire damage.
• Keep connectors clean and free of dust or debris.
• Regularly check the CHIRP website for software updates to ensure compatibility and access to new features.

Troubleshooting

• Cable Not Recognized / Driver Error (Code 10):
  • Ensure you have installed the correct Prolific driver for your Windows version. Avoid drivers from the included CD.
  • Completely uninstall any previous drivers for the cable from Device Manager (check "Delete the driver software for this device").
  • Restart your computer, then install the recommended driver from a reliable source like Miklor.com.
  • Try a different USB port on your computer.
• CHIRP Cannot Connect to Radio:
  • Verify the COM port number in Device Manager matches the one selected in CHIRP.
  • Ensure the radio is turned ON and the cable is securely connected to both the computer and the radio.
  • Confirm you have selected the correct radio Vendor and Model in CHIRP.
  • Some radios may require holding down a specific button (e.g., PTT or a function key) while powering on to enter programming mode. Consult your radio's manual.
  • Close other applications that might be using the COM port.
• Incompatible Operating System:
  • This cable is not compatible with macOS or iOS. Use a Windows PC for programming.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For warranty information or technical support, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or contact the seller directly. Ensure you have your purchase details available when seeking support.

Additional resources and community support for BAOFENG radios and programming can often be found on amateur radio forums and websites like Miklor.com and the CHIRP Wiki.