BAOFENG BF-UV5R

BaoFeng UV-5R 8 Watt Ham Radio User Manual

Model: BF-UV5R | Brand: BAOFENG

Introduction

This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the operation and maintenance of your BaoFeng UV-5R 8 Watt Ham Radio. Please read thoroughly before use to ensure proper functionality and safety.

What's Included

BaoFeng UV-5R Full Kit Contents

Image: The full kit includes the BaoFeng UV-5R radio, two 1800mAh batteries, a long TD-771 antenna, a standard antenna, a speaker mic, a programming cable, a walkie-talkie earpiece, a desktop charger, a hand strap, and a belt clip.

Safety Information

Important Safety Guidelines

Components Overview

Radio Components

BaoFeng UV-5R Radio Components Diagram

Image: A detailed diagram showing the various components of the BaoFeng UV-5R radio, including the antenna, knob (ON/OFF, volume), LCD, Call (FM/alarm) button, PTT (push to talk) button, Moni (flashlight/monitor) button, VFO/MR (frequency mode/channel mode) button, A/B key (frequency display switches), BAND key (band switches), and Keypad.

Setup

1. Battery Installation

BaoFeng UV-5R Battery Installation

Image: Shows the back of the radio with the battery compartment and the 1800mAh battery, indicating how to attach and detach the battery.

  1. Align the battery with the grooves on the back of the radio.
  2. Slide the battery upwards until it clicks into place.
  3. To remove, press the release latch at the bottom of the battery and slide it downwards.

2. Antenna Attachment

BaoFeng UV-5R Antenna Comparison

Image: Displays both the standard and the longer TD-771 high-gain antenna, highlighting their sizes and the connection point.

  1. Screw the desired antenna clockwise into the connector on top of the radio until it is finger-tight. Do not overtighten.

3. Charging the Battery

BaoFeng UV-5R Battery Charging

Image: Shows the radio with the battery inserted, placed in the desktop charging cradle.

  1. Connect the AC adapter to the desktop charger.
  2. Place the radio (with battery installed) or just the battery into the charging cradle.
  3. The indicator light will show charging status (typically red for charging, green for fully charged).

Operating

Power On/Off and Volume

Rotate the Knob clockwise to power on the radio and adjust the volume. Rotate counter-clockwise until it clicks to power off.

Selecting Frequency/Channel Mode (VFO/MR)

Press the VFO/MR button to switch between Frequency Mode (VFO) for direct frequency input and Channel Mode (MR) for selecting pre-programmed channels.

Transmitting and Receiving (PTT)

To transmit, press and hold the PTT button on the left side of the radio. Speak clearly into the microphone. Release the PTT button to receive.

Dual-Band Display and Switching (A/B, BAND)

The radio features a dual-band display. Press the A/B key to switch the active frequency between the upper and lower displays. Use the BAND key to switch between VHF (136-174MHz) and UHF (400-480MHz) bands.

VOX Function

Voice Operated Transmit (VOX) allows hands-free operation. When VOX is enabled, the radio will transmit automatically when it detects your voice. Adjust VOX sensitivity in the menu.

Scan Function

To activate scanning, press the SCAN button (key 6). The radio will scan through active channels or frequencies. Press SCAN again to stop.

Built-in LED Flashlight

Press the MONI button briefly to turn the LED flashlight on/off.

Emergency Alarm

Press and hold the CALL button to activate the emergency alarm.

Programming

The BaoFeng UV-5R can be programmed via the keypad or using a computer with the included CH340 Programming Cable.

Video: This video demonstrates how to program the BaoFeng UV-5R Ham Radio using a computer. It covers the steps for connecting the radio and using programming software to manage channels and settings.

Keypad Programming

Basic settings like frequency, CTCSS/DCS codes, and power levels can be adjusted directly from the radio's keypad using the MENU button and numerical keys. Refer to the detailed programming guide (PDF) for specific menu options.

CHIRP Software Programming

BaoFeng UV-5R Programming Cable

Image: Shows the BaoFeng UV-5R connected to a computer via the CH340 programming cable, illustrating the setup for software programming.

For advanced programming and managing 128 channels, it is highly recommended to use CHIRP software.

  1. Install the necessary drivers for the CH340 Programming Cable on your computer.
  2. Download and install CHIRP software from its official website.
  3. Connect the programming cable to your radio and computer.
  4. In CHIRP, select your radio model and the correct COM port.
  5. Download data from the radio, make desired changes (e.g., add frequencies, set privacy codes), and then upload the data back to the radio.

Maintenance

Care and Maintenance

Troubleshooting

Common Issues and Solutions

ProblemPossible CauseSolution
Radio won't power onLow battery; Incorrect battery installationCharge battery; Reinstall battery correctly
No signal receptionAntenna not attached; Wrong frequency/channel; Out of rangeAttach antenna; Verify frequency/channel; Move closer to transmitting radio
Poor audio qualityLow volume; Speaker mic issue; Weak signalAdjust volume; Check speaker mic connection; Improve signal strength
Cannot transmitPTT not pressed; Frequency/channel not set for transmit; Battery lowPress PTT firmly; Ensure transmit frequency is valid; Charge battery

Specifications

Technical Specifications

FeatureDetail
ModelBF-UV5R
BrandBAOFENG
Frequency RangeVHF 136-174MHz / UHF 400-480MHz (Transmit: VHF 144-148MHz, UHF 420-450MHz)
Number of Channels128
Power Output8 Watt
Battery Type1800mAh Lithium Polymer (x2 included)
Voltage7.4 Volts
Dimensions1 x 2 x 5 inches
Weight0.01 ounces (radio only)
Water Resistance LevelWater Resistant
Special FeaturesLong Range, Dual Band, Keypad Lock, Dust Proof, Emergency Alarm, Built-in LED Flashlight
FCC ID2AJGM-UV5R

Warranty and Support

This product comes with a 30-day hassle-free return policy.

For further assistance, please refer to the official User Guide (PDF) available online: User Guide (PDF).

For technical support or service inquiries, please contact BAOFENG customer service.

Related Documents - BF-UV5R

Preview Manual de Instrucciones Baofeng UV-5R
Comprehensive instruction manual for the Baofeng UV-5R portable dual-band transceiver, covering features, installation of accessories and battery, charging, basic and advanced operations, menu settings, and detailed technical specifications. Optimize your radio's performance with this guide.
Preview BAOFENG UV-5R FM Dual-Band Transceiver User's Manual
Comprehensive user manual for the BAOFENG UV-5R FM Dual-Band Transceiver, covering installation, operation, safety guidelines, advanced features, troubleshooting, and technical specifications for this portable two-way radio.
Preview BAOFENG UV-5R FM Dual-Band Transceiver User Manual
Comprehensive user manual for the BAOFENG UV-5R FM Dual-Band Transceiver, covering operation, safety, features, troubleshooting, and technical specifications for wide-band communication.
Preview BaoFeng UV-5R Series FAQs: Your Comprehensive Guide
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) for the BaoFeng UV-5R, UV-5RA, UV-5RE, and UV-5R+ series radios. Covers firmware, FCC certification, transmitter/receiver, programming, scanning, tone access, accessories, software, audio, antennas, display, and general troubleshooting.
Preview Baofeng UV-5R 사용자 설명서: 종합 안내 및 작동 지침
Baofeng UV-5R 무전기 사용 설명서는 배터리 관리, 기기 작동, 주요 기능, 메뉴 설정, 문제 해결 및 기술 사양에 대한 자세한 정보를 제공합니다.
Preview Baofeng UV-5R User Manual
Comprehensive user manual for the Baofeng UV-5R dual-band handheld radio, covering safety guidelines, key features, assembly, battery charging, detailed control descriptions, LCD display icons, and advanced menu functions for optimal operation.