Showing posts sorted by relevance for query wouxun. Sort by date Show all posts
Showing posts sorted by relevance for query wouxun. Sort by date Show all posts

Sunday, July 15, 2012

Wouxun KG-UV920R: Ed Drops A Bomb!

Wow! Wow. Just wow. I got the following e-mail from Ed:

Dear Customer,
Here is the latest news on Chinese dual-band mobile radios.
Wouxun Dual Band Mobile  -  KG-UV920R
On June 21 I was informed that Wouxun would supply a small number of these radios to selected dealers (max of 10).  At that time they also quoted a dealer costs that I thought was outrageous.  The dealer costs was almost what I have always considered the retail price would be.  In an email I told them sternly that with any dealer markup at all, the radio would not sell in the US and I would decline to purchase samples.
Wouxun response was that when full production began, the dealer costs would be lower.  Since I've invested hundreds of thousands of dollars building a market for this company over the past few years, I decided I would not let others bring this radio to market before I did.  I reluctantly placed an order for 10 radios, figuring I would sell them at costs, to get them to market.
After my order was shipped, Wouxun informed me that these sample radios must NOT be sold for less than $320-$330.  They went on to say "If we found you or your dealer's end price was lower this range without our permission in advance, then we will stop supplying this model to you."
For the past two years, I've repeatedly told Wouxun that this radio must sell for no more than $250-$275 for it to be competitive with the big three Japanese companies.  It appears this advice has fallen on deaf ears.
These pre-production radios lack some of the features the full-production radios will have.  These will not be FCC Certified for Part 90 use.  They will have narrow band capability but will not have the 2.5 kHz tuning step required for Part 90 radios beginning in 2013.  The frequency range will be RX:136-174 & 350-480 and TX: 136-174 & 400-480.  They did not indicate if any wide-band receive, such as 118 MHz AM, would be available on these pre-production models.
Although these radios may lack some of the bells and whistles we've expected, I imagine they will still be good dual band radios for the ham market.  BUT, I still don't feel they are worth $325.
Wouxun says I can't sell these for less than $325.  They did not say that I can not include a FREE HT with the purchase.  (Rest assured, they will raise holy crap about it, but I'm used to that)  So here's my plan.  I will place the limited number I have on sale for $350 and include a free KG-UV2D HT in the deal.  I'll profit nothing at this but we'll see what happens.
Anytone Dual Band Mobile  -  AT-588UV
For the past two years, I have consulted with Anytone as they developed their dual band mobile radio.  Anytone send a non-working model of the radio for me to show at the Dayton Hamvention (Wouxun would not send anything).  Anytone is now sending a working model (for free!) and says full production will begin in early August.  Anytone has quoted a price that lets me know this radio will retail in the $250-$275 range.  It will be Part 90 Certified and will have some wide-band receive ranges, including AM aircraft.  I look forward to working with this company and expect their mobile to be a big seller.
TYT Quad Band Mobile  -  TH-9800
This radio covers 10 meters, 6 meters, 2 meters and 440 (only FM mode).  TYT sent a semi-working model for me to show at Dayton.  It would light up with menus working and etc.  Those who played with the display said it is a clone of the Yaesu FT-8900.  I have a close contact at TYT and am told they are working hard to get this radio into production in October.
Conclusion
I will continue to do my best to bring quality made Chinese radios to the US market and will only send these emails when necessary.
This particular email is going to about 5,000 people so please don't expect a quick response if you send me a question.
Regards,
Ed Griffin
Wouxun.US  &  Import Communications
www.wouxun.us
www.importcommunications.com

My shooting from the hip response... Ed is fed up enough with Wouxun that he is will to stress the relationship, but he's not done that without a Plan B (name change to Import Communications, Baofeng, Anytone, TYT). It also makes me think that Wouxun may have done us a great service by leading the way, but they may price themselves out of the low cost market - then they will be competing with the big boys on performance and quality. I'm sure the message board will be hopping tonight. I'm going to bed, but there will be interesting reading in the morning I am sure! I'm gonna have to read up on the AT-588UV, too.

Wednesday, July 11, 2012

Wouxun KG-UV920R: Drama Llama

Steve (Founder and Moderator of the Wouxun Yahoo Group):
"I know most all members are excitedly looking forward to release and availability of the KG-UV920R. Many recall this was an oft promised release for the last almost 2 years.
I have just learned from highly reliable sources that Wouxun has chosen to play "hardball" with all/many of its vendors by mandating that their retail pricing not be lower than the $320-330 range. Backing up this threat is Wouxun's warning that dealers violating this practice will be denied shipment of these units. I believe many of us had been led to believe they were working with a price point originally around $250 retail
Wouxun management is a member of our fine group and I am sure they would welcome your views. To avoid clogging this board with your reactions you may choose to email them directly at "wouxun@wouxun.com"
We have numerous vendors and Wouxun management as members and I would welcome their clarification of Wouxun's position if I've misrepresented it."
Ed Greany (1 of 2 Eds that sell the Wouxun Radios):
"I'm sorry I cannot lend any clarification to this matter. This same story came up last year with regards to the handheld unit. I have never been notified by China of such a requirement."
And I agree with Adam:
"This is funny because it exactly resembles a certain case study in marketing I recall.  When your customers are expecting a lower price you temper their expectations by "leaking" pricing info in advance of the release that's much higher than desired, then "cave" to customer demand later, all the while reaping the benefits of free publicity and additional hype. Ed's recollection of a similar story about another unit only supports the idea that this is not much more than a marketing gimmick."

Monday, September 10, 2012

Wouxun KG-UV920R: Wouxun Reviews the KG-UV920R

Wouxun reviews the Wouxun KG-UV920R... and no surprise, they like it!

Review for KG-UV920R 

��Review for the First Homemade Dual Band Mobile Radio KG-UV920R

Concerning about WOUXUN, the Dual Band Handheld KG-UVD1 was highly impressed by
the most of the national hams, which is the first Dual Band Handheld in China
and had been successfully upgraded to the complete version KG-UVD1P. KG-UVD1P is
regarded as the Dual Band Handheld with the best performances currently, even
though the price is a little higher than other domestic brands. Most of the
national hams happily accept it because of its quality, considering KG-UVD1P a
sound investment.

KG-UVD1P commands a very good market not only nationally but also all over the
world. It is publicly recommended and reviewed by Amateur Radio Magazines
oversea. There were many foreign hams attending in the SEANET International
Conference in Shanghai in 2010, showing the great interests in this transceiver.
They got it because of its competitive price and strong features. Quanzhou
Wouxun Electronics Co., Ltd. is the leading manufacturer for the Dual Band
Handhelds in China. As developments continues, there are more and more
manufacturers for the Dual Band Handhelds, however, the Dual Band Mobile Radio
is still in vacancy. It is heard that WOUXUN started developing a Dual Band
Mobile Radio, and got the Radio Transmission Equipment Type Approval Certificate
by the National Radio Management Mechanism. However, we had been waiting for its
official marketing until 2012. All products of WOUXUN are strictly manufactured
according to the national requirements. It is highly appreciated and responsible
for them to be proactive to apply for the Type Approval. As all known, the radio
equipment with the Type Approval is much easier for the National Hams to apply
for the legitimate license. The CMIIT ID for the mobile radio KG-UV920R is
2010FP6596.

The WOUXUN transceivers not only Handhelds but especially the new mobile are
consistently with the unique appearance and the high-end designing concept. We
are lucky to get the sample to test and evaluate at the first time. Hereby, I
would love to share the review for the new mobile radio KG-UV920R with you all
as followings.

KG-UV920R is advertised the DUAL slogan, Dual Band, Dual Display, Dual Receive,
Dual Speaker, Duplex Cross-Band Repeat, Dual Control Interface. In summary,
KG-UV920R is a mobile radio with the Dual Band, Dual Display, Dual Frequency and
Dual Output.
Appearance& Designment
WOUXUN KG-UV290R is designed with the standard size for vehicle units, while the
size is 140*44*27mm and the volume is almost the same as FT-8800R/TM-V71A.
KG-UV920R is integrated with the detachable front panel from the radio body, and
the separate installation is able to one-line available, which means that the
Head line, the microphone cord and the speaker audio line are collected together
to one connecting cable of the radio body. There are flat and inclined
selectable for the front panel, while the inclined switchboard panel is the
standard package which is easier for the users to read and operate on the
inclined control panel when laying it on the vehicle units. The inclined
switchboard panel was used on Marantz GX3000 before and got the sound
impression. I love this designment, as the old mobile radios were used as fixed
station with the flat switchboard panel, and you had to use an extra mobile
mounting bracket to have a inclined view from the flat panel. This cute
designment is helping KG-UV9230R to be more brilliant and substantial solid, not
necessary to incline the radio body.

It is sweety for WOUXUN to offer the mobile mounting bracket for installing the
separated radio body and the long extension cable as the standard accessories.
The connection cable uses the one with eight cores, of which the connector uses
the RJ45 PLUG easy for the Hams to transform. One more reminder that the line
sequence of the KG-UV920R connection cable is not the simple straight-through
and I suggest that the guys who love DIY read the instruction in page 10 of the
user manual about making a professional connection cable for this transceiver.

WOUXUN KG-UV920R is created to structure with the cast aluminum, so the bottom
is easy to cool down the radio. There is a special devise that there are four
standing legs around four sides to make the whole body a little spare better for
the air moving. KG-UV920R is workable on high power transmission, so it is very
necessary for the radio to be configured with a cooling fan at the back of the
radio body.

This transceiver uses a 20mm fan on 12V 0.15A , much thicker than other brands,
to ensure that there is strong wind power. The fan uses the standard connector
with the main body, so it is convenient for the users to change new ones if
necessary. There is not much noise from the working fan, and it can link with
the PTT. Normally, the fan is working on condition that the transceiver
transmits, so it help the noise state in standby and keep the fan life. One more
feature of this fan is that the fan will automatically work if the temperature
is exceeding requirement even though the transceiver is not transmitting. You
should turn on the Over-temperature Detection in MENU 37 ahead, especially when
it is used in a hot workplace and high-load work. An intimate idea.

It is apparent to see that this transceiver is structured with two independent
speakers, one is big and one is a little smaller. I did detach this transceiver
and find that there are indeed two ultra-thin speakers. However, I guess they
are too close to make clear reception channels for both sides. There are
actually three speakers, two speakers structured on the radio body and another
one structured on the hand mic. The audio output from the hand mic is commonly
used in the professional mobile radios at the early stage, and it highlights its
benefits during the multi-vehicle radios and the remote separated installation.
There are three I/O connectors on the radio body, the hand mic connector on the
front panel, the PC connector by side and the double external speaker jack.
There are rubber cover to prevent from the duct and other small things. The PC
connector uses the RJ45 PLUG, which is able for the programming and connecting
two mobile radios for the offset repeating on the same band.

There are some creativities for the front panel on this transceiver. Firstly,
the large LCD screen, combining the charactor lattice with the preset symbol,
better than the traditional preset eight symbols and the M word strokes, even
though there is still a certain gap compared with the high density full lattice
screen on the imported high-end mobile radios. Secondly, there are three colors
selectable for the backlight, white, light blue and green. It is set in MENU 18,
MENU 19 and MENU20 relatively for the transmit, standby and receive mode. You
can set different colors respectively for the different work modes, so that you
can tell it easily. In addition, there are indicators accordingly. Thirdly, the
keys are used the hard plastic material and shined with the white backlight,
which is easy for the insufficient light. Moreover, the composite knob to adjust
the volume for two reception channels. I had thought it was for the volume and
squelch but actually it surprised me a lot. There is also the Chanel/Frequency
knob, but it is a little small because of the little space.

The hand mic of KG-UV920R is using a classical appearance and bulky size, which
integrates ultra-thin speaker and balances innerly, which make it a nice touch
and professional. The two ends of the spring wire are crystal and are easy to
swiftly change. The users can order the special length of the mic wire if
necessary. WOUXUN puts the hand mic(the one with the keyboard) as the standard
accessory, whereas the mic without keypad is the optional accessory. This hand
mic is not only supportable for the DTMF tone, but also for the remote
operations. The keypad layout of the hand mic is almost corresponding to the
front panel of this transceiver and it is even with the receiving/transmitting
LED indicator. The hand mic can be regarded as a remote controlled KG-UV920R.

This hand mic is using the popular RJ45 crystal connector to connect the
transceiver body controller positively. Although this installation takes up some
space of the panel, it can avoid some troubles of lengthening the extension
cable. Compared to some designment set by side, the positive connection is good
for the life of connectors. In the actual operations, the force of the
connectors is quite uniform and the pressing lines are not easy to be got loose
or twisted. In a word, this mic is well praised by its strong features,
well-made and good-touching, even better than some mics of the world-famous
brands.


��������

Operations
WOUXUN KG-UV920R is Chinese and English selectable as the voice guide, which is
very frequently existed in Chinese transceivers. As a homemade mobile
transceiver, WOUXUN maintains this special function. There are two work modes:
Frequency mode and Channel mode. There are two options in Channel mode, the
channel number and the operating frequency display. KG-UV920R can be memorized
999 channels.Nowadays the memory spaces for the transceivers are very large.
KG-UV920R supports two receiving channels(left and right) to receive the UHF and
VHF signals respectively. There is configured by double covered potentiometers,
and the volume is separately adjustable for the left and right speakers. The
volume control seems traditional analogue mode, but actually it uses a CNC way
to adjust the volume. When the user is adjusting the volume knob,
correspondingly, there is a display for the adjusting volume level. The output
voice of KG-UV920R is very high, better for the users to receive the calls
clearly even you are in the noisy carriage. The squelch is using the complete
CNC way, and it is easy to press the key ��9/SQL�� to quickly enter the squelch
level menu in standby mode. The users can swiftly change the power
level(High/Mid/Low) via Key ��5/HL��. There are four power levels optional on
Menu 3. Mid power is divided into two levels(10W and 20W).

The keypad of WOUXUN KG-UV920R is designed to be very full-functional, which
does not strictly require the individual operations for the left and right work
area. It is unique that most keys are with dual functions, and it is convenient
to directly input the menu number to get the expected function.

KG-UV920R is able to input the frequencies directly via keypads(both keypads on
mic and on transceiver). This is a brand new design, which is very convenient
for the users who purchase the transceivers mainly for receiving and do not
install the mic to swiftly switch the frequencies. In past, only the receivers
of U/V band mobiles were supportable for the function of inputting frequencies
directly. KG-UV920R requires the users to press the functional key ��2/MHz�� to
manually program the frequencies. It is not so familiar for the new users to
see that the number keys are defaulted to carry on the corresponding functions
at the first beginning.

KG-UV920R is also able to adjust the frequencies/channels by switching the knob.
But this knob is near the MIC plug and its size is small, it is not easy to
switch it when the mic is installed at the same time. The functional keys cover
almost of the common operations, which include squelch setting, output power,
work mode, scanning, left/right operating windows and receiving on single or
dual bands modes etc. So the users do not need to operate the complicated menu
frequently. TDR key is for switching single/dual bands�� receiving and
transmitting, and is very practical for the in-service operation. KG-UV920R can
be used as the repeater without reconfiguring, and only a connecting cable is
necessary to connect two transceivers as a repeater.

FM radio is a auxiliary function and it is really an enjoyment to use it to
listen to the broadcast programs in the spare time.

There are many practical functions configured on KG-UV920R, for example
scanning, CTCSS/DCS, CTCSS/DCS scanning, PTT ID, voice prompt,
scrambler(optional), remote control functions(including stun, kill and monitor)
and PC programming.

BASIC TESTING
Transmitting Performance

The highest output power of Wouxun KG-UV920R is 50W (VHF) and 40W (UHF), and
working voltage is 13.8V. The RF amplifier of this transceiver uses the
MOSFET RD70HVF1 from MITSUBISHIS company, this component is extensively
used by the pop mobile radios manufacturer. The output power of RD70HVF1 can be
reached to 70W on 175MHz while 50W on 520MHz. It is obviously that the
KG-UV920R��s design is very reasonable, larger allowance will be less vulnerable
under the higher SWR value.

We tested the real output power and the current of the KG-UV920R, as well as the
sensitivity to voltage under high output power. The frequency range of this
tested transceiver is 136-174MHz & 400-480MHz, which is really large range.

������ UHF Band
400MHz 410MHz 420MHz 425 MHz 430 MHz 433 MHz 435 MHz 436 MHz 440MHz 445MHz
450MHz
30.2W 28.7W 30.1W 41.9W 40.5W 40.1W 40.3W 40.3W 41.9W 39.4 39.1W
������
455MHz 460MHz 465MHZ 470 MHz 475MHz 479.995MHz
36.7W 32.3W 30.2W 20.2W 19.0W 19.7W
������
Note: Testing voltage 13.8V, High power
������
������VHF Band
136MHz 140 MHz 142mhz 144 MHz 145 MHz 146 MHz 148 MHz 150 MHz
30.7W 34.5W 30.7W 49.5W 49.7W 49.5W 34.1W 31.9W
������
155MHz 160 MHz 165 MHz 170 MHz 174.995 MHz
30.4W 24.2W 22.8W 22.0W 17.5W
Note: Testing voltage 13.8V, High power

From the above testing result, the KG-UV920R gets the expected power.

Then we tested the relationship of the transmitting voltage and power, the
testing equipment is KIKUSUI PAK20-18A, we tested the changes under different
voltage, and transmitting frequency we chose the UHF central frequency which is
the most concerned by the HAMS.



f=435.100MHz
High poer Voltage Power Current
13.8V 39.7W 7.9A
13.0V 37.2W 8.2A
12.5V 35.4W 8.5A
12.0V 34.0W 8.7A
11.5V 31.4W 9.0A
11.0V 29.9W 8.6A

We found that the KG-UV920R with the compensating ability for the voltage
changes, if the voltage is decreased it will compensate by increasing the
current, in this case, the output power will less effect the reduced voltage,
but you will see this influence is lower than the other similar radios. Also,
the KG-UV920R with the alarm function, when the voltage is reduced to 11V during
the transmitting, it will come out a voice prompt.


Receptivity Testing
There is no indication from WOUXUN that KG-UV920R is available for the wideband
reception, but actually the receiving range is a little expanded. The available
receiving range is working in VHF:136-174MHz, UHF:350-480MHz, FM Radio receiving
in 65-108MHz.

This transceiver is with the Cross-Band Repeat function. For example, you set
the144.700MHz in the left band and set the left side to 144.700MHz and the right
side to 439.625MHz, and these two crossed bands can be twin receive at the same
time.
������
There are independent signal indicator in both left and right sides, in addition
to the BUSY, there are nine divisions which means the signal strength and they
can be successively displayed. We have tested the actual signal strength in UHF
and get the following results:
NO.1 NO.2 NO.3 NO.4 NO.5 NO.6 NO.7 NO.8 NO.9
-132dbm -130dbm -128 dbm -127 dbm -126 dbm -125 dbm -123dbm -122 dbm -120 dbm
After testing, it is found that the radio signal is factually reporting the
receiving signals. However, we also see from the above table that the radio
signal of this transceiver is easy to get full, basically in -120dbm, 0.22mv has
got full.
It is seen that the receiving sensitivity is very high, for example, it is
0.18mv in 435MHz and 0.20mv in 145MHz, better than 0.25mv indicated in the user
manual.

Scanning Performance Testing

WOUXUN KG-UV920R with multiple scanning functions of frequencies and memory
channels.

We tested the speed of frequencies scanning under VFO (Frequency) mode, scanning
based on 10KHz step (total 1000 frequencies), it costs about 150 seconds, that
means the scanning speed of this KG-UV920R is approximately between 6CH/s and
7CH/s. It is not as good as the import mobile transceivers, but the scanning
speed is always a shortage of Chinese radios. However, this KG-UV920R��s
scanning speed is still faster than most of other Chinese handhelds. Besides the
frequency scanning, it also supports the CTCSS/DCS scanning to detect the
sub-tone parameters.

All in all, WOUXUN KG-UV920R surprises us a lot, especially its variety
functions. What��s more, its functional design has many outstanding advantages
against the domestic and abroad transceivers, and very considerable in details.
As the first marketing Chinese dual band mobile transceiver, this KG-UV920R with
a higher starting standard, even though it still has some ��bugs�� need to be
improved.

We strongly hope WOUXUN will keep introducing supreme products, and bring all
HAMs the cheaper but higher performance radio equipment in future.
������

Thursday, December 8, 2016

BuyTwoWayRadios: Wouxun KG-D901 DMR Bundle

If you've got more money to spend on a new radio, you might consider the Wouxun KG-D901 DMR Holiday Bundle from BuyTwoWayRadios.com for $199.99:
"What's in the Kit:

Tuesday, May 31, 2016

Wouxun KG-D901: BuyTwoWayRadios.com Demo Units

"At first glance, The KG-D901 looks almost identical to the analog KG-UV9D and KG-UV9D Plus multi-banders, with the large, color LCD display first introduced in popular KG-UV8D and now considered a standard fixture in the latest generation of Wouxun portable handheld transceivers. It has the same keypad layout found on both the 8D and 9D models and the same array of buttons on the side. It has the volume and channel knobs, TX/RX LEDs and flashlight typically found on the other Wouxun radios as well.
As soon as you turn it on, however, the similarities end. It may look and feel familiar on the outside, but this is not a typical analog Wouxun radio at all. It's digital. As a Wouxun product, the KG-D901 is something entirely new. 

Key Features 
Unlike the 8D and 9D, the D901 is a single band transceiver, in your choice of either a UHF or VHF version. Most of the primary features are expected, and compared to other DMR digital radios, they may not seem particularly unique. However, there is one item on the list that may give the D901 a little extra. It is noted in bold.
  • 400-470MHz UHF frequencies (UHF Model)
  • 136-174MHz VHF frequencies (VHF Model)
  • Analog and Digital Modes
  • Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) digital technology
  • Direct and Repeater Modes
  • 16 memory channel and 2 Zones
  • Built-in CTCSS/DCS signaling in analog mode
  • Text Messaging (Digital Mode)
  • All Calls, Group Calls, Select Calls (Digital Mode)
  • Scrambler Function (Analog Mode)
  • Digital Encryption
  • Microphone Modulation Setting
  • IP57 Water Resistant"
 And:
"The KG-D901 package includes one KG-D901 single band UHF or VHF two way radio (depending on your version of choice), a 7.4v, 2000mAh battery pack, belt clip, antenna, desktop charger, AC power cord, and wrist strap. The demo models we received did not include a manual, but we expect one to be in the box when the final version of the radio ships from Wouxun.
The Wouxun KG-D901 is expected to arrive early summer 2016."

Saturday, March 26, 2016

Wouxun KG-UV8E

Via a comment on another post, comes a link to the Wouxun KG-UV8E. Specs and pics follow:

WOUXUN KG-UV8E Triband (latest 2016)

Triband, True Dual Receive, Cross Band Repeater, Waterproof IP55  TERBARU 
WOUXUN  is HT known brands with very good sensitivity, clear sound, high quality.
What are the main advantages of this HT?
  • Triband TX-RX: 136-174, 350-399, 400-520 MHz new
  • Voice Compander  new
  • Group scrambler new
  • True Dual Receive (can receive signals at two different frequencies simultaneously)
  • Duplex Cross-band  (can receive and transmit simultaneously on two different frequencies)
  • Cross-band repeater  (receiving in the VHF and UHF transmit back on, or vice versa)
  • Receive very good quality , cleaner and sharper.
  • Layar besar, display warna, full dimmed when standby new
  • Function side buttons can be programmed
  • Large memory capacity of 999 channels
  • Saving electricity usage, the battery is more durable, longer standby.
  • The latest model , cool and steady.
  • LED flashlight for emergencies
  • FM radio for information and entertainment channels
  • Waterproof  Rating IP55 (dustproof, resistant of spray water / rain storm)
Expensive or Cheap? True dual receive, full duplex, and cross band repeat is a feature which only HT Japan 5 million upwards.
Product quality WOUXUN known for good in the world, not only in Indonesia, please google to prove themselves.
Technical specifications WOUXUN KG-UV8E:
  • Triband frequencies: 135-174 MHz, 350-399MHz and 400-520MHz
  • Max power: 5 watts to 4 watts VHF and UHF
  • True Dual Receive (receiving two frequencies simultaneously)
  • Cross Band Repeater (RX and TX on one frequency in another frequency band)
  • Dual Display, Dual Watch
  • Voice Compander
  • 8 Group of Scrambler
  • Radio FM: 76-108MHz
  • 999 Channel Memory
  • Stopwatch function
  • SOS function
  • Tone 50 CTCSS and 104 CDCSS
  • LED flashlight (senter)
  • Low Battery Alert
  • Battery Saver
  • Time-out Timer
  • features VOX 
  • Antenna type: SMA Male
  • Dimensions: 124 x 61 x 33mm (not including buttons and antennas)
  • Weight: 180 gr empty
  • Authorized warranty service and parts for 12 months
  • Waterproof rating IP55
  • Made in China
Paket Wouxun KG-UV8E:
  • Unit HT Wouxun KG-UV8E
  • Battery lithium-ion 1700mAh, 7.4V
  • HT Antenna SMA
  • Charger dock
  • Belt clip + rope
  • Earset
  • Manual










Wednesday, May 23, 2012

Import Communications

I just saw this note on Ed's Import Communications website:
"Wouxun.US is my domain name. It is not connected with Wouxun-China other than the fact I sell over 500 Wouxun radios per month.
China does not like the fact that other brands of radios are associated with this web site.
Any questions about products on this site should be directed to info@wouxun.us or info@importcommunications only."
I assumed that the name change from Wouxun.us to Import Communications was driven by Ed's desire to sell more brands with a more generic web site/company name. It never occurred to me that Wouxun/China wouldn't like seeing the Baofeng and TYT along side the Wouxun radios. Duh.

Monday, January 6, 2014

Impact and Perception

I posted about the Wouxun problem.
Hans posted about the Wouxun problem.
Matt posted about the Wouxun problem.
David posted about the Wouxun problem.
It is making the rounds on the Yahoo Group.
It is making the rounds on the forums like eHam.net, QRZ, and AR-15, CalGuns.net.
[ EDIT TO ADD: ] The QRPer posted about the Wouxun problem.


That's in less than 24 hours. I know we don't represent a huge part of the total internet, but for the Chinese radios, we are what I like to call a non-trivial number. Wouxun had a huge lead on the other manufacturers. The KG-UV920R was a disappointment. Losing the guy that bought these radios to the US market is another step back. Culture issue? Poor management? Inability to manufacture? With alternatives like BaofengAnyTone, and a multitude of others, more problems or perceived problems* will make them go the way of AOL.

* Especially considering the price increases as they became more popular. My first Wouxun was less than $110.

Tuesday, January 24, 2012

KG-UV920R: "No Update" Update

I hesitate to post this as there is still no real news, but CheapHam had a note in their newsletter about the KG-UV920R:
"Wouxun KG-UV920R - We have received many inquiries about the new Wouxun Dual Band mobile. Latest word from the factory is that the unit is still under certification. The release date nor firm pricing have been released yet. Hopefully soon. We are a direct importer of Wouxun products and in constant communication with the factory. Stay tuned for any breaking news."
Ed, at Import Communications, also posted an update earlier in the month:
".......January 01, 2012 Update......
I recently operated this radio while in China.
Wouxun says this radio will be ready in November-December.
I would not expect to see it Certified and for sale until March-April."
I could read that as both good news for 2012 or, given the date he posted it, another scenario where it won't be ready until 2013.

Bonus:
You can subscribe to the CheapHam newsletter on their site. The latest one has a discount code for buying the Wouxun KG-UVD1P for $94.95 after the $5 discount. Or you can get the for Wouxun KG-UVD1P Special Package $139.95. Use WOU-5 as the coupon code when checking out.

Thursday, October 16, 2014

Anytone AT3318UV-E: Mini-review

A mini-review from Mike on the Anytone AT3318UV (A,B,C,D &E) Yahoo Group:
"I talked a friend into buying two of these tri-band handhelds because of the advertised FHSS (frequency hopping spread spectrum) feature, which turned out to be more of a random frequency trunking feature and probably a misunderstanding of the FHSS term by the Chinese manufacturer.

The radios were purchased from the exclusive US importer "Import Communications", who notified all buyers about the mistake with the FHSS option and offered a refund if so desired. 
So here I sat with my friends two otherwise good looking and great sounding 2m, 220MHZ and 440MHz plus part 90 certified handhelds as he mulled over keeping or returning the radios. After reading up on the manual, perusing the extensive programming software and living with these handhelds for a week I decided I can't live without it and and purchased one from my buddy who originally bought the pair.

These radios cover 136 to 174, 220 to 225 and 400 to 520MHz transmit and receive plus .52 to 30MHz AM HF (10KHz steps), 64 to 108MHz WBFM, 118 to 136MHz AM and 225 to about 260MHz FM receive only. The radio works surprisingly well in the AM broadcast and HF SW bands with an appropriate antenna and I did not detect any overload problems feeding it with a large G5RV type HF antenna.

The radios have a very extensive but fairly easy to navigate menu system unlike any Baofeng or Wouxun I have used and I love the various banks I can assign to memory channels to scan only specific banks if I want or I can scan the entire memory. There is also a quick talk around feature for your programmed repeater frequencies and all sorts of other nifty features that I don't see on other Chinese brands.

When using the AM/FM broadcast or SW feature, if you receive a call on whatever two way frequency is being monitored the broadcast band will temporarily mute during the call then pop back in about 5 seconds later. You can listen to music or local news and not miss a radio call. 
The receiver performance is also much better than Baofeng and Wouxun radios I've tested. I live in a very RF rich environment and was recently comparing a Baofeng UV-5R, a Wouxun UV8 plus a Yaesu VX-8R and FT-60 at a local hilltop about a half mile from a major repeater site with lots of RFI.

While listening to some simplex activity on 146.52 I noticed both Yaesu radios were hearing lots of things the Baofeng was not. Some of the signals that were almost full quieting on both Yaesu radios just did not exist on the Baofeng UV-5R. I was also playing with the cross band repeat on the new Wouxun KG-UV8D at the same location and noticed it was not repeating things that I could hear clearly on the input frequency on the Yaesu radios. 
I repeated the same tests with the new Anytone AT-3318UV-E and its on par with the Yaesu radios and could hear every weak signal the Yaesu's could in the heavy RF environment. The Anytone also cross band repeated weak signals very well under the same conditions.

I'm not knocking the inexpensive Baofeng radios, for the price they great little radios and they measure very sensitive on a service monitor. But put them in a busy RF environment and their shortcomings will show up. The Wouxun KG-UV8D is also a really nice radio and quite a leap from the first Wouxuns I played with. But the AT-3318UV-E performance is is better and you get 220MHz tx/rx and a lot more features for just a little more money.

Playing with the AT-3318UV-E menus its also apparent that Anytone engineers are familiar with how American commercial and amateur users interface with two way radio equipment. Other Chinese brands have odd and useless features and will not do many things that radio users are demanding. 
The transmit and receive audio is extremely good and better than most handhelds I own including many Motorola, Yaesu, Icom and the like. The receive audio is almost Hi-Fi and people who I know personally come out of the speaker sounding much more like themselves than any other handheld radio I have used in recent times. I also gets great unsolicited transmit audio reports.

The 3318UV-E is also more compact than a Wouxun KG-UV3 type or KG-UV8D, which I had just purchased and sold after playing with the Anytone. So far battery life is very good from the stock 1800mah pack and I can't say enough good things about this very modestly priced handheld, its just a winner all around, despite the misunderstood FHSS feature.

I think the closest competitor to the AT-3318UV-E model is probably the Kenwood TF6a, which runs about $190 more and is not FCC Part 90 compliant, although its HF receive is SSB capable. The TH6a is also a design from 10+ years ago.

So there is my story about a pair of radios purchased for a specific feature and when that feature did not pan out the radios turned out to be so good I couldn't send them back.

Mike"

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Wouxun Mobile (KG-UV920R) - Vaporware?

I've been hoping for the release of Wouxun's KG-UV920R for some time now. Speculation was rampant that it would do for mobile radios what the KG-UVD1P did for HTs - a low price and lots of features.

Ed Griffin, from www.wouxun.us, recently posted this on a radio forum:
"No word on the mobile. But I will have a surprise at Dayton, and no it's not the mobile."
Ed Greany, another reseller who provides a lot of support to the Wouxun community, had this to say on the same forum:
"Personally, I'm REALLY tired of hearing about it. It's been over 6 months since it was leaked and there is absolutely NO word from China as to 1) IF it exists, 2) WHEN it will be released, 3) IF it will be Certified or 4) WHAT the price might be.

I stopped answering these inquiries. I suggested long ago that people STOP inquiring about it since that only drives the price up due to the spirited interest. High demand = High price. Some people just don't understand the evonomics of that principal.

Basically, all the U.S. dealers want it to come out and want to sell it. That's what we are in business for. None of us know any more information than you presently know right now. My most recent inquiry was "it is still in testing." Does that mean Wouxun's Test Lab or FCC Certification Lab or some highschool kid's chemistry lab. Nobody knows!

For now, pretend it was a dream and it really does not exist."
Makes me think I should start looking for alternatives for a dual band, dual receive, cross band repeating mobile rig.

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

HYS TC-UV55: Notes from Ed

YAWKG-UV920R* gripe session on the Wouxun Yahoo Group included a link to this radio on eBay. This radio being the HYS TC-UV55 that has been written about here and here.

The interesting part was when Ed Greany - the other very helpful Ed on the Yahoo Group - had this to say:
"I can speak to this subject. I have a prototype of that radio that I was considering carrying it as a mobile alternative with the Wouxun HT. It is NOT certified and the company wasn't interested in spending the money to certify it. I guess it runs about $5000 according to them. I don't know. I still have the new unit in a box. It replicates the Kenwood TM471 radio. I even did a price survey for them and they asked me for a recommendation on the button layout for the front of the radio. My price answer was between $199 and $250. Perhaps they settled on $239 - not sure.
I stopped negotiations when he said he was best friends with the owner of Wouxun. I didn't want Wouxun to think I was going behind their backs while I am their dealer.
It's unfortunate this is not legal in the U.S. It is a great radio as far as I can tell without resulting in my prototype becoming a "used" radio."
*Yet Another Wouxun KG-UV920R

Wednesday, November 21, 2012

Ham Radio Black Friday / Holiday Sale

Ham Radio Outlet has started their Black Friday deals. Some of the deals are one-day only, so head over and check them out.

Cheap Ham has some deals as well including two Wouxun packages:

Wouxun Dual Band KG-UV6D COMMERCIAL HT - VALUE PACKAGE for $184.95
This package includes our famous Wouxun Dual Band KG-UV6D Commercial HT - 2.5K step and TX/RX 137-174, 420-520 with the latest firmware and enhancements. Included with the HT you will receive the following:

2 1700mAh Li-ion battery packs
1 AA Battery case
1 Dual Slot Drop-in Desk Charger
1 USB Programming Cable
1 Speaker/Mic
1 Earphone
1 Battery Eliminator
3 Belt Clips
Dual-Band Antenna
Owner's Manual

Wouxun Dual Band KG-UVD1P HT - 2 Mtr/70cm (UHF) VALUE PACKAGE for $144.95
This package includes our famous Wouxun Dual Band KG-UVD1P HT - 2 Mtr/70cm (UHF) with the latest firmware and enhancements. Included with the HT you will receive the following:

2 1700mAh Li-ion battery packs
1 AA Battery case
1 Dual Slot Drop-in Desk Charger
1 USB Programming Cable
1 Speaker/Mic
1 Earphone
1 Battery Eliminator
3 Belt Clips
Dual-Band Antenna
Owner's Manual


Tuesday, May 24, 2016

Wouxun KG-UV8E: Tri-band HT

BuyTwoWayRadios has the Wouxun KG-UV8E tri-band HT:
"The KG-UV8E is based on the very popular Wouxun KG-UV8D, the dual band portable handheld radio best known for its large color display, cross band repeat capability and true simultaneous two band reception, all at a very low price point. At the moment of its introduction in 2014, the KG-UV8D was an instant hit, and it is still the handheld of choice among many hams today.

However, the 2 meter and 70cm bands are becoming crowded, and many hams are moving to the 1.25 meter band for some breathing room. The problem? There aren't a lot of 1.25 meter radios out there, and the ones that are available tend to swap the beloved 2 meter band for it. This means amateurs had to choose between a dual bander with either 1.25m VHF and UHF, or 2m VHF and UHF. If you used a handheld for both, you either had to carry two dual band radios, or give up a VHF band altogether.

The solution? Wouxun created a portable handheld that includes all three. It's the KG-UV8E, and it's available now from Buy Two Way Radios!"
In short:
"The Wouxun KG-UV8E has all the same features of the KG-UV8D along with the feature upgrades of theKG-UV8D Plus. In fact, for all intents and purposes, it is a UV8D Plus, with the addition of one extra band for full transmit and receive on 1.25 meters from 222Mhz to 225Mhz."
You can pick one up for $139.99.

Full spec sheet is here (PDF).



Monday, May 4, 2015

Wouxun KG-UV9D: Upgraded Chip

In January last year, there was a lot of talk about a bug with some of the Wouxun radios that would cause them to lose their memory. A question was asked if the new KG-UV9D used the same chip. I reached out to Danny at BuyTwoWayRadios and he talked with Wouxun:
"Just wanted to let you know that I got a response from Wouxun over the weekend. They acknowledge the memory problems, but say that they are now using an upgraded chip."
 He adds:
"They didn't provide a date for when they switched chips, but I've never seen a radio with the memory problem so I think it’s been a while."
His experience sounds similar to the update at the bottom of Hans' post from last year:
"I just talked to Ruud PE1OPG, owner of Bamiporto.nl. While he sold at least 500 dual-band Wouxun models, he only ran into the problem once. Statistically that’s an irrelevant percentage of failures."

Monday, December 12, 2011

Wouxun KG-UV6D: Software Bug

Ed provided this warning on the Wouxun KG-UVD1 Yahoo Group:

"Here is what I know to be factual at this time. Since this is a newly discovered problem, the details may change as time goes by.
I want to make everyone aware of a potential problem with the KG-UV6D model, more specifically, the programming software for the KG-UV6D. If you know a 6D owner please make them aware of this.
When using the programming software for the 6D, DO NOT begin with a .tw file that was created and saved with previous versions of Wouxun software. These older files contain information THAT WILL DAMAGE the KG-UV6D radio if written to it. Even opening and modifying one of these older .tw files will still cause damage if written to the radio. Always begin programming a 6D with a blank file or one that was created and saved with KG-UV6D software.
A solution to this problem is being worked on and I will post any information I receive. At this time, it's not known if damaged radios will be able to be recovered via software, but hopefully that will be the case.
Regards,
Ed
www.Wouxun.US"
Emphasis is mine for a critical point. Let's see how Wouxun responds. All companies have problems. Good companies strengthen relationships by ignoring cost and focusing on the customer as they provide a solution.

Friday, March 23, 2012

Chinese Radios - The Center Part II

A commenter on yesterday's post about which Chinese manufacturer is really making all these radios pointed me to this link at Kightradio. (He is the one offering the TYT TH-UV3 for sale.) There are multiple updates on the page:
03/19/12 "The TYT TH-UV3 Dual Band HT is on the way to me now. I will update everyone as soon as I receive them."
So he could have the TYT TH-UV3 any day now. We do live in interesting times.
02/20/2012 "Baofeng UVD-5R Dual Band 4 watt HT was just released for sale in China. This is a nice little Dual Band rig but as of now, the menuis only in Chinese. This is howthe first UV-3R started out and then they made the english menu later. I would like to note that this radio looks exactly like the TYT F8 Radios. In talking with TYT I found out this is a COPY and not a radio made by TYT and sold to Baofeng. TYT has a patent on the case so we will see what TYT does about this later. So if you buy one of these on the internet, BEWARE, its menu is ONLY IN CHINESE and hard to figure out. I have one to test and I am having the menu translated and I will update you later on this.
Dual Band mobiles are not anywhere close to being released. I would not look for them at Dayton this year. Maybe if we are lucky, a few months after Dayton but this is just my personal guess with info I hear in talking with the MFG's every few days."
We know that are now versions of the UV-5R that do Chinese only, Chinese & English, and English only. And he has been told that Baofeng is ripping off TYT's case. More interesting is his claim that the dual band mobiles (KG-UV920R anyone?) won't be available for a few more months.
No Date "We attended the Hong Kong Electronics Fair and the Canton Export Fair Oct 15,2011
We will be updating the site in a few days with all the New Goodies we found at the show. Lots of exciting things in the works so be sure to check back with us and get updated.
We are in China now so if you have any special radios you would like us to purchase for you, contact us and we will be glad to purchase for you.
Call 405-227-9980 (Our time is opposite the USA time so when its 11 am in the US, its 11 pm in China) Please call late evening your time to reach us.
We can get you the latest versions of Wouxun,TYT, Baofeng and others at Hong Kong Prices."
Pretty cool that he offers to ferry radios back from China. Shipping and wire transfers can make a good deal go bad very quickly.
11/11/2011 "Wouxun is going to raise the price effective now of the KG-UVD1p & UVD3 about $22.00 This is because of dealer requests to add 2.5 steps to those models. Its seems more like a move on Wouxun's part to increase the retail price like they have been wanting to do for sometime. They also increased the min wholesale order to 500 units. This is going to put the Wouxun HT's in a higher price class and TYT and others will have the advantage. Hong Kong will have a much lower price and attract more customers. As far as the Dual Band mobile, I would not look for it anytime soon and when it does come out, I am anxious to see the price. Wouxun is not aware of other companies working on Dual Band Radios because they pay little attention to their competition."
Build your brand and demand higher prices. It is the American way!

Tuesday, April 21, 2015

Wouxun KG-UV9D: Pre-order

BuyTwoWayRadios has the Wouxun KG-UV9D available for pre-order for $159.99. It should ship around May 8th.

"Experience Multi-Band excitement with the Wouxun KG-UV9D! This multi-modulation two way radio combines dual band transmission, 7 band reception and multiple feature options for multi-functional operation you won't get with a typical dual band handheld radio!  
The KG-UV9D transmits on 4 watts UHF and 5 watts VHF with multiple power settings. It features an impressive 999 programmable memory channels with QT/DQT encoding and decoding, DTMF encode/decode and 25KHz/12.5KHz wide/narrow bandwidth selection.

Dual Band Transmission
  • 136-174MHz VHF (FM TX)
  • 400-512MHz UHF (FM TX)

7 Band Reception
  • 76-108MHz (FM Radio)
  • 108-136MHz (AM RX)
  • 136-180MHz (FM RX)
  • 230-250MHz (FM RX)
  • 350-400MHz (FM RX)
  • 400-512MHz (FM RX)
  • 700-985MHz (FM RX)

The KG-UV9D operates on multiple levels to maximize the experience! it has true dual reception, so you can receive two signals on the same or different bands simultaneously. You can even transmit on one band while you receive on the other at the same time!

But its multi-function operation doesn't end there. The KG-UV9D has multiple scan capabilites, as well. Priority scan, channel group scan, these are just a given. CTCSS/DCS scanning is a plus. Want a scan feature that's really exciting? With it's dual receive, the KG-UV9D can scan two bands at the same time. Now, that's multi-functional!

Of course, we can't forget the multi-display. First introduced with the popular KG-UV8D, the large, color screen is also a prime feature of the KG-UV9D, and with some notable improvements. Of course, there is still plenty of room to display all the information needed to operate a multi-function radio on both bands at the same time. Now the display is also adjustable, with five levels of brightness. Customize the settings for your viewing comfort while conserving battery power as needed. With the KG-UV9D in your hand, you are in control!

Speaking of control, check out Lock Mode. You can choose to lock only the keypad, lock the keypad and the encoders, lock the keypad and the PTT, or lock it all. It's no longer all or nothing. Multiple lock options let you decide how your radio can be accessed, keeping you in control.

The KG-UV9D is also loaded with other features to make it truly multi-faceted! Three programmable side keys, sub-frequency transmission setting, Channel Name edit and display, Caller ID display, 76-108Mhz FM radio, SOS function, remote alarm, single-tone pulse frequency, reverse frequency, low voltage voice prompt, VOX (Voice Operated Transmit) for hands-free operation and a high illumination flashlight are all part of the package. And yes, like the 8D, the KG-UV9D has a stopwatch!

The Wouxun KG-UV9D comes with a 7.4v 2000mAh (14.8Wh) Li-Ion battery pack, belt clip, high gain antenna, stubby antenna, wrist strap, desktop charger, AC cord, owner's manual and a one year manufacturer warranty from Wouxun." 

Sunday, May 1, 2011

KG-UV Commander

Ed announced on the KG-UVD1 Yahoo group that Jim Mitchell, KC8UNJ, has released the KG-UV Commander software for programming the Wouxun handhelds.



David added some background about how it came to be:
"I was aware that Jim had developed programming software for certain Yaesu and Icom radios, so I contacted Jim last August, asking whether he would be possibly be interested in porting his software to the Wouxun radios. I told Jim that I had already prepared memory maps for the "tw" files and for the internal memory space of the radios (which I was making available to all who are interested). I was so pleased when Jim responded and said that he would be interested in porting his software.

I then discussed this project with Ed Griffin, proprietor of wouxun.us, and Ed very generously contributed radios for Jim to use in developing the software.

For the last eight months Jim has been working on this project, and a small group of beta testers have been playing with interim versions of the software and providing feedback to Jim. On April 30 Jim released a version which he is making available to the public.

The KG-UV Commander software is a very impressive package. I believe that it empowers the user to program literally every programmable feature of the Wouxun radios (including modifying band limits, which until now has required the separate unlock program). The Commander software reads and writes TW files, and also reads and writes CSV files (which are easy for Excel programmers and others to read and write for any future special programming applicatoins). And the program even reads ARRL TravelPlus frequency files! Furthermore, the program has a great user interface, and includes the normal spreadsheet editing features such as Add, Edit, Move, Cut, Copy, Paste, Delete, and Sort."
I must say the software is a huge leap forward. I needed to add some frequencies to mine, so this was the perfect opportunity to try it out. I had an Excel spreadsheet with some data I wanted to copy over. It wouldn't let me do multiple rows at once - in fact, it was like the app wasn't taking the latest information from the Windows clipboard. I ended up adding the entires manually, but with the auto-offset feature enabled, it just took a minute to do it.

The sort works great - you can sort all the entries or just select a few rows. I used that feature to keep my favorites at the top of the list and independent of all the others that I just wanted sorted by frequency.

There is also a function to search for duplicates. The search is really slick. You can tell it to ignore duplicate frequencies if one entry has a tone configured while the other does not.

The software really levels the playing field with the big boys. It reminds me of the software I have for my VX-3R.

Jim did a great job and this is just another example of how Ed continues to support the community and why he will get my business/endorsement.

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Baofeng UV-3R: US Re-seller - Import Communications

Some facts plus some guessing on my part...

I think Ed of wouxun.us might be setting up to sell the UV-3R.

Follow along...

On the Wouxun Yahoo Group, Ed responds to some comments about the UV-3R:
"The factory has applied for Part 90 certification, which may take about a month.
Hopefully they will be distributed in the US by a company, Import
Communications.

Regards,
Ed Griffin
www.Wouxun.US"
So he knows the factory has applied for and hopes to have their Part 90 Certification in a month. I had not heard that anywhere else and I've been trying to keep up with any developments on this front. I tried looking for Import Communications via Google, but didn't really find anything. On a whim, I tried http://importcommunications.com/ and got the following error:

I believe that http://www.kmaantennas.com/ is Ed's original/other business. A quick whois check confirms that Ed is the owner of the Import Communications domain and that it was registered about a year ago.

Registrant:
Ed Griffin
PO Box 451
New London, North Carolina 28127
United States

Registered through: GoDaddy.com, Inc. (http://www.godaddy.com)
Domain Name: IMPORTCOMMUNICATIONS.COM
Created on: 22-May-10
Expires on: 22-May-12
Last Updated on: 22-May-10

Lastly, I did look and see that Ed is a member of the UV-3R Yahoo Group. This doesn't mean a lot by itself, because it would make sense for him to an eye on the competition, but I'm adding it to the pile of circumstantial evidence.


Worlds collide - Wouxun and Baofeng! It makes sense that he might setup this more generic company to sell multiple brands. I'm actually a little jealous. I thought about trying to set myself up as a re-seller, but didn't have the courage or time to really pursue it. I hope I am correct, because I think Ed will be a good guy to sell these things.