Baofeng UV-5R Plus Budget-Friendly Ham Radio
The Baofeng UV-5R line of amateur radios have exploded on the ham radio scene as budget-friendly, dependable, and powerful alternatives to the more established names in the field. They are dual band radios that work on both the VHF and UHF bands of the amateur radio spectrum. These devices can be used for radio-to-radio communication as well as for longer range communications via a repeater.
How do I qualify to transmit signals using a UV-5R?In order to legally transmit over the airwaves, you must be a licensed amateur radio operator, but you can listen without a license. One must pass the first test of amateur radio licensing in the U.S. in order to become a licensed amateur radio operator and legally transmit on the UHF and VHF bands with the Baofeng UV-5R Plus. One feature available with the affordably priced Baofeng UV-5R Plus two-way ham radio is its ability to utilize more frequencies than other amateur radios. For example, the Baofeng UV 5R Plus can be used on the FRS and GMRS frequencies. In this case, a different license is required to transmit on those frequencies. The FRS and GMRS license only requires one to pay a fee in order to transmit. The FRS and GMRS frequencies do not have repeaters, so these frequencies are solely for radio-to-radio communication.Because of the wide range of frequencies available, some people program their radios as scanners so that they can monitor public service providers, like police and fire. eBay has a large selection of new and used Baofeng UV-5R Plus configurations and accessories.
What items are included with the Baofeng UV-5R?Items Included with the Baofeng UV-5R Plus radios are:
- Baofeng UV-5R Plus battery
- Baofeng UV-5R Plus manual
- SMA female antenna
- AC adapter and drop-in charging tray
Specifications for the Baofeng UV-5R Plus features frequencies ranging from 136-174 megahertz and 400-520 megahertz, with access to 128 channels. Other features with this radio are an LCD display, VOX, and channel monitor as well as CTCSS and DCS. LED lights, an FM radio, and emergency alarm also come with the UV-5R.
> What are some accessories usable with the Baofeng UV-5R Plus?As with most amateur radios, one of the first upgrades made by many amateur radio operators is to replace the antenna, also called the "rubber ducky," with one that is more powerful. eBay has a wide variety of antennas for your radio. Some accessories that can be paired with this radio are:
- Baofeng UV-5R Plus programming cable
- A spare Baofeng UV-5R Plus battery
- Speaker/microphone
- 12 volt battery eliminator