BAOFENG UV-25 Tri-Power Amateur Radio Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This instruction manual provides comprehensive guidance for the safe and effective use of your BAOFENG UV-25 Tri-Power Amateur Radio. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating the device to ensure proper function and to prevent damage. Retain this manual for future reference.

2. Safety Information

• Do not operate the radio in explosive atmospheres (e.g., flammable gases, dust particles, metallic powders).
• Do not transmit without an antenna attached.
• Use only BAOFENG approved batteries and chargers. Unauthorized accessories may cause damage or injury.
• Keep the radio away from medical devices to avoid interference.
• Avoid exposing the radio to extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, or moisture. This device is not waterproof.
• Observe all local regulations and licensing requirements for amateur radio operation.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in your package:

• BAOFENG UV-25 Radio Unit
• 5200 mAh Li-ion Battery
• Gooseneck Antenna
• Tactical Antenna
• User Manual
• Type-C Charging Cable (and/or Wall Adapter)
• Belt Clip
• Hand Strap

Figure 3.1: Included components and approximate dimensions of the BAOFENG UV-25 radio and its accessories. The radio unit measures approximately 180mm in height, 70mm in width, and 45mm in depth. Two antennas are shown: one 470mm long and another 338mm long. Other accessories include a 5200 mAh Li-ion battery, a Type-C charging cable, a wall adapter, a belt clip, a hand strap, and an earpiece.

4. Product Overview

The BAOFENG UV-25 is a Tri-Power amateur radio designed for robust communication. It features a durable metal construction and a clear display for easy operation.

Figure 4.1: The BAOFENG UV-25 radio unit, showcasing its camouflage green finish, front display, keypad, and rotary knob. Two types of antennas are visible alongside the radio: a flexible gooseneck antenna and a longer whip antenna. A belt clip is also shown.

Figure 4.2: The BAOFENG UV-25 radio highlighting its robust metal construction, designed to withstand challenging environments. The image depicts the radio in a rugged outdoor setting, emphasizing its durability.

4.1 Controls and Ports

Figure 4.3: Detailed views of the BAOFENG UV-25 radio's key features. Top left shows the orange PTT button and two programmable side buttons. Top right displays the accessory ports (likely for speaker/mic). Bottom left shows the main rotary knob and speaker grille. Bottom right illustrates the antenna connector and emergency flashlight.

• Power/Volume Knob: Rotate to turn on/off and adjust volume.
• PTT (Push-to-Talk) Button: Press and hold to transmit, release to receive.
• Keypad: For frequency input, channel selection, and menu navigation.
• Display Screen: Shows frequency, channel, battery status, and other indicators.
• Antenna Connector: Connects the antenna to the radio.
• Accessory Ports: For external speaker/microphone or programming cable.
• Emergency Flashlight: Located at the top of the unit.

5. Setup

5.1 Battery Installation and Charging

1. Align the 5200 mAh Li-ion battery with the battery compartment on the back of the radio.
2. Slide the battery into place until it clicks securely.
3. To charge, connect the Type-C charging cable to the radio's Type-C port.
4. Connect the other end of the cable to a compatible USB power source (e.g., wall adapter, laptop USB port, power bank, car charger).
5. The charging indicator on the radio will show charging status. Ensure the battery is fully charged before first use.

Figure 5.1: The BAOFENG UV-25 radio's 5200mAh battery being charged via its Type-C port. The image illustrates multiple charging options, including a wall adapter, a laptop USB port, a power bank, and a car charger, demonstrating flexible charging capabilities.

5.2 Antenna Attachment

1. Select the appropriate antenna (gooseneck or tactical) for your operational needs.
2. Screw the antenna clockwise onto the antenna connector at the top of the radio until it is finger-tight. Do not overtighten.

6. Basic Operation

6.1 Power On/Off and Volume Control

• To power on, rotate the Power/Volume knob clockwise until a click is heard and the display illuminates.
• To power off, rotate the Power/Volume knob counter-clockwise until a click is heard and the display turns off.
• Adjust the volume by rotating the Power/Volume knob while the radio is on.

6.2 Channel and Frequency Selection

• The radio supports up to 999 channels. Use the keypad to directly input frequencies or navigate through stored channels.
• Press the MENU button to access the radio's settings and programming options.
• Refer to the full programming guide (if available separately) for detailed channel programming instructions.

6.3 Transmitting and Receiving

• Ensure you are on an appropriate frequency or channel.
• To transmit, press and hold the PTT button. Speak clearly into the microphone. The transmit indicator will illuminate.
• Release the PTT button to stop transmitting and return to receive mode.
• When receiving a signal, the receive indicator will illuminate, and audio will be heard through the speaker.

7. Advanced Features

7.1 Tri-Power Output Settings

The UV-25 offers three selectable power output levels to optimize battery life and range:

• High Power: Approximately 10W (for maximum range)
• Medium Power: Approximately 8W
• Low Power: Approximately 5W (for shorter range and extended battery life)

Adjust power settings via the radio's menu or a programmable side button.

Figure 7.1: The BAOFENG UV-25 radio's display indicating its selectable power output levels: High (11W), Medium (8W), and Low (5W). This feature allows users to optimize power consumption based on communication range requirements.

7.2 Multi-Band Reception

The UV-25 supports reception across multiple frequency bands, enhancing its versatility:

• UHF & VHF: For standard two-way radio communication.
• AM (Airband): For receiving aircraft communications (108-136MHz).
• FM: For receiving commercial FM radio broadcasts (76-108MHz).

Figure 7.2: Visual representation of the BAOFENG UV-25's multi-band reception. It shows transmission capabilities on TX: 144-146MHz and TX: 430-440MHz, and reception on RX: UHF & VHF, FM (76-108MHz), and AM (108-136MHz Airband).

7.3 One-Key Frequency Copy

The one-key frequency copy function allows for quick cloning of frequencies between two UV-25 radios, simplifying setup for multiple units.

1. Ensure both radios are powered on and in close proximity.
2. On the source radio, navigate to the frequency you wish to copy.
3. On the target radio, activate the frequency copy mode (typically by pressing and holding a designated button, e.g., [SK1] as mentioned in product features).
4. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the frequency transfer.

Figure 7.3: Illustration of the one-key frequency copy feature, showing two BAOFENG UV-25 radios. One radio is actively searching for a frequency to copy, while the other is ready to receive, indicating a simplified method for synchronizing radio settings.

8. Maintenance

8.1 Cleaning

• Wipe the radio's surface with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
• Ensure all ports are free of dust and debris.

8.2 Battery Care

• Store the battery in a cool, dry place when not in use.
• Avoid fully discharging the battery frequently to prolong its lifespan.
• If the radio will not be used for an extended period, remove the battery.

9. Troubleshooting

10. Specifications

11. Warranty and Support

Specific warranty information for the BAOFENG UV-25 radio is not provided in the product details. For warranty claims or technical support, please contact your retailer or the official BAOFENG customer service channels. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.