K0NR on the Utility Mode

VHF FM: The Utility Mode

Tekk D-30 DMR Handheld Radio

Tekk D-30 DMR Handheld Radio:

Smallest DMR Radio Anywhere!

Smaller than a credit card! 

The D-30 is our smallest and lightest unit. It's "Mini" size, flashlight feature, and it's superb audio, this unit is perfect for coaching, churches, restaurants, retail, and others.
Optionally available with a unique space saving 6-Gang charger, the D-30 is compatible with our other models and all major competitors. 

2 Watts
16 Channels
2000 mAh Battery
Only 5 ounces
3" x 2" x 1"
2 Year Warranty!

Includes one Tekk D-30 UHF digital mobile two way radio, antenna, belt clip, lanyard, AC charger, 2000 mAh lithium-ion rechargeable battery and one year manufacturer warranty. 

Programming Kit includes Programming Cable and Software

Hat tip to David B for the link to the D-30. Sorry it took me so long to post!

WPA3

WPA3 coming - anything to improve wireless security is good news!

Baofeng BF-T1 (BF-9100) on Facebook

BF-T1 harmonics: 

"1. When using the amateur radio band of 70cm, then the 2nd harmonic is approximately -30dBc (dB relative to carrier). No detectable 3rd harmonic.

2. These radios appear as though they can be used on the 2m amateur radio band, by going into the programming system.
HOWEVER! When transmitting on 2m. The fundamental is very low and the 2nd and 3rd harmonics are GREATER than the fundamental. Therefore I conclude that these radios must not be used on frequencies, different to those stated by the manufacturer."

BF-T1 measurements via SDR dongle (so take them for what they are worth):

"I have received and programmed the Baofeng T1 but i may have some problems with it. While it works correctly in the UHF it outputs only very low power in VHF."

I agree with Jim:

"It isn't designed to TX on VHF. You should only program VHF frequencies for RX only. For example NOAA weather radio reception."

You can pick one up for cheap on Amazon:

Working FM Chip in New Samsung Phones

I'm sure some accountant is complaining about the pennies it will cost, but I'm glad new Samsung phones will have a functional FM chip.

Baojie BJ-218 Software

In the comments on the original Baojie BJ-218 2M/440 Mini Mobile post, some folks were looking the programming software. Someone posted the link to the Baojie downloads page that includes the software.

It also looks like you can use CHIRP:

Yes, the BJ-218 works with the Luiton LT-725UV CHIRP driver as well as the factory software. I have one of each, an LT-725UV and a BJ-218, factory software and files are interchangeable, and I was able to write my LT-725UV CHIRP .img file into the BJ-218 without issue. My only question is when will the LT-725UV driver go from 90% to 100% and leave the Beta stage?

Tomu - Tiny ARM Computer

Tomu: a tiny, open-source hardware computer that fits in a USB port! @xobs, my long-time collaborator and friend, has teamed up with @mithro to crowd fund this neat little idea on @crowd_supply: https://t.co/Th3HkzJcdD. Check it out & nab one of these handy things to hack on! pic.twitter.com/n3T84RIfZt

— bunnie (@bunniestudios) January 9, 2018

Baofeng BF-T1 (BF-9100)

Some interesting stuff about the Baofeng BF-T1 that Ivan Hazelton shared* on the original BF-T1 post:

Good news! With the programming cable you can program this little rig with 20 channels 400-520MHz and 130-174MHz. Now be aware that the antenna is ... sub-optimal for the 130-174MHz so a suitable replacement will need to be MacGyvered. It'll be great to have a little, >$20, 4oz, disposable, dual band rig. It goes by another name BF-9100A, and the software to program it can be found here or direct linked here (.rar file).  The cable does use a fake PL-2303 serial chip, so you'll also need the drivers off the same page, or direct linked here (.rar file). 

Direct link to BF-9100A/BF-T1 Manual (.doc).

Also, it has CHIRP support.

*I've done some editing so the links work.

Streaming Games

It still blows my mind what can be done today with virtualization and streaming... Nvidia's GeForce Now Windows App Transforms Your Cheap Laptop Into a Gaming PC.

Vero Telecom HT Mobile Amplifier - VR-P25

I've put HTs in my car, but never felt the need for an amplifier like the VR-P25.

Frequency Range:	400-470Mhz/136-174MHz/222-225MHz/350-40MHz
Power Input:	2-5 Watts (10%)
Power Output :	20-30Watts
Supply Voltage��	12~15V��DC��
Current Consumption��	4.5~5.5A
Input/Output Impedance :	50 Ohm Nominal
RF Connectors��	RF Input (Radio)-SMA* RF Output(Antenna)-SL-16* *RF connectors can be ordered in any configuration of TNC or N-type per customer's
Size:(HxWxD)	35x115x135(mm)
Weight:	800 g