BTECH UV Pro - First Field Test

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 23 ม.ค. 2025

ความคิดเห็น • 98

  • @Liberty4Ever
    @Liberty4Ever 20 วันที่ผ่านมา +9

    5:00 - I love the retro ASCII art header for TTPBBS. I'm old enough for the BBS to be nostalgic (that's pre-internet, kids).
    😀

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  19 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      The good old days. I have fond memories of downloading phone phreaking and hacking articles in pure ASCII text over a 14.4 kbps modem as an adolescent. I regret missing the BBS scene and only using dial-up in the later 90's with services using a local provider and later MSN and AOL. Oh well, it's time to bring back the BBS over packet.

    • @nvrumi
      @nvrumi 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      I ran a BBS for several years back in the 90s. I learned to connect to FidoNet so we could get email to other nodes in the network. I started out with 1200bps and was in pig heaven when I got a 9600bps modem!

  • @dennishess2046
    @dennishess2046 19 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

    I started with packet in the 80's, so glad to see it coming back. 😊

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  19 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      It's great to see the revival of packet radio! It is more relevant today than ever.

    • @briankendall1978
      @briankendall1978 19 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      It is SO much easier to cover wider areas especially in the VHF and UHF bands because digipeaters are easier to set up and operate than any kind of voice repeater network.

  • @islandmagicco
    @islandmagicco 19 วันที่ผ่านมา +3

    Having a Bluetooth BLE-accessible TNC is a game-changer. For iOS users, RadioMail integrates seamlessly with these radios, including the ability to control frequency.

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  19 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      Indeed. The RadioMail application is hands down the best user interface for Winkink in my opinion. I'm an Android user these days and can't stand the user interface in WoAD (Winlink on Android).

  • @Hero1395
    @Hero1395 18 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    I was big into BBS packet in the 90's. I didin't know it was still posible to do it. I'd love to get back into it. I had a AEA PK232 TNC. It was lots of fun and functional

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  18 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Excellent. They're still around. In fact, I just a 300 baud HF port to mine on 40m.
      TTPBBS
      7.102.70 MHz USB

  • @radiotory
    @radiotory 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

    Good job man 👏 I like such type of tests

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      I am glad you enjoyed the practical test. I'm working on a few more. I test the J-Pole and Diamond RH707 yesterday with better success.

  • @ke8mattj
    @ke8mattj 19 วันที่ผ่านมา +7

    I have to re-ask what another commenter has in one of your past videos: do you ever sleep? I don't much but I think you got me beat on that.

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  19 วันที่ผ่านมา +5

      I sleep 7 hours every night and I'm out in less than 5 minutes. I also take a 1 hour nap every day. I just operate under a very tight, timeboxed schedule to hand family life, exercise, TTP and the day job. However, I do work 7 days a week.

    • @ke8mattj
      @ke8mattj 19 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      @@TheTechPrepper Great job on the time management aspect of everything.

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@ke8mattj Thanks, buddy. I even have timeboxed window for responding to comments 20 minutes around 0500.

  • @abboudbedro5657
    @abboudbedro5657 20 วันที่ผ่านมา

    Great review… Keep up the good work

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  20 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Thanks! I'm glad you enjoyed the review. I have more to say, but in a nutshell, this radio is personally appealing for the BT TNC, price point, USB-C, and rugged(ish) construction. I'll cover it more on this month's member stream and even give away a UV Pro to a member. Have a great weekend.

  • @audiomaker1
    @audiomaker1 19 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

    @TheTechPrepper
    I have a video request and I think you’re the right one to do it…
    As someone with a few HT’s (including the N76), and someone who also uses BNC adapters, and as someone who also values water resistant radios…
    I have always been concerned about losing transmit and reception strength and possibly radio IP rating when installing BNC adapters on my handhelds.
    Would you consider doing some testing to document the effects of post submerged BNC connectors on your signal?

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Thanks for the suggestion, but I am one of those hams how does not get caught up in the very small losses introduced by an additional connector. However, I do have about a half dozen the Diamond BNCP-SMAJ (SMA to BNC) adapters that I run with my VX-6R. The seal is pretty good between the SMA connectors, but water definitely will make it in on the BNC side based on my experience.

    • @audiomaker1
      @audiomaker1 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@TheTechPrepper Ok, so my concern is not over small losses.
      I’m wondering if I’m hiking with that upgraded BNC connector and it’s raining and I’m not getting or producing signal even close to using the (better sealed) SMA where the “washer” is pressed up against the top.
      We seek out these IP radios and does anyone even know what we lose at that connection point between the radio and the antenna or adapter?
      You say that’s it’s very small, but so much caution goes into keeping coax water-tight.
      Here’s a paradox….
      What if that upgraded BNC rig was WORSE than the factory supplied rubber duck in the rain?
      Dunno

  • @miroslavmajer5155
    @miroslavmajer5155 18 วันที่ผ่านมา

    Hi, could you please make a video where you explain all those details (settings the BBS) for a beginer?

  • @DomN5TCB
    @DomN5TCB 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

    Have you tried Signal Stuff Antennas? Rugged, flexable antennas. Theu do have ground wire for antennas.

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Negative, but I do have four of them. It's not a viable option for me.during runs as it whips me in the face and has a serious eye hazard. It will likely be a good option for everyone else.

    • @DomN5TCB
      @DomN5TCB 18 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @TheTechPrepper I keep my handie in an over the shoulder sling. So the Stick is not much of a problem. But on the front of a vest.....!

  • @tchambers807
    @tchambers807 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

    I would love to see a little more content on this. I picked up the vgc vr n7500 specifically for Bluetooth APRS about a week ago

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      A few more videos planned for the UV Pro and/or BBS topic. I hear that the VGC is essentially the same radio. Cheers.

  • @wushock92
    @wushock92 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

    Amazon dropped off my UV-Pro last night. I'm still figuring it out but I did get it charged up and some channels programmed in. I still need to calibrate the compass and figure out why it's sending out a digital burst when I unkey. Glad to hear your opinions in this review. WØRHP

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Very nice. Enjoy exploring the new features and have fun troubleshooting the compass. I ignored all the features beyond the TNC and basic VHF/UHF analog voice.

  • @thebnbaldwin
    @thebnbaldwin 20 วันที่ผ่านมา

    Another great video G! Getting ready to pull the trigger.... LOL

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Hang tight for a bit more. More testing needed, but I'm enjoying the practical value of the BT TNC. I recorded a quick freestyle video on my phone today that I may release after this video goes public next week.

  • @MobiusHorizons
    @MobiusHorizons 19 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

    Is it using audio over the bluetooth? or is it just a serial port of data? Asking because I think it would be really cool to make a simpler microcontroller based device using an ESP32 (bluetooth + wifi microcontroller) and something like an E-ink screen.

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  19 วันที่ผ่านมา +3

      I am not sure yet. I am tracking that down as I have a lead on the firmware developer through a friend. I actually am headed in exactly your direction. I actually bought an ESP32 dev board last year to try doing audio over Bluetooth with a built-in VOX circuit. Think DigiRig Lite + Bluetooth. I have socialized this idea with Denis at DigiRig. If this was just a straight audio BT interface, then it would open a world beyond packet. If no one builds this year, I will tackle that if I can. I have all the hardware... I just do not have the time. I like how you think.

    • @RenThraysk
      @RenThraysk 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Can get a Lilygo T-Deck. ESP32, BT5, 320x160 LCD and keyboard.

    • @isaacbotkintrex
      @isaacbotkintrex 19 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      I am very curious to know this as well. There IS regular audio over Bluetooth, both to the phone app and Bluetooth headphones, so that might be the easy way to do TNC data, but it would not be ideal. ​@@TheTechPrepper

    • @mikeph4
      @mikeph4 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@TheTechPrepper Can you fill me in? I have been working with BTech on the last many updates. Their developer team is a complete joke. They should ALL be fired. They don't even do basic checks before pushing out updates. No in house tests or anything. No understanding of basic protocols either. If you could email me about the "developer" I would love to hear it and try to get this radio going in the right direction. As its potential is incredible, but it's limited by the idiot developers who have no idea what they're doing. Please give me an email.

    • @mikeph4
      @mikeph4 19 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      It uses KISS for Bluetooth packet. SPP and BLE. Audio is exclusive to the app, but has now been reverse engineered. So some good news to come!

  • @ExtremeSquared
    @ExtremeSquared 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

    I'm in Tucson and definitely interested in setting up a VHF bbs with one of these and a pi. I've actually been disappointed in Meshtastic/Lora performance over distance, so I'm looking back at VHF packet.

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  19 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      Great idea. Take a look at the map I posted in later in the video with a path from Tucson and feel free to connect to my station.
      Freq: 145.710 FM
      Station: TTPBBS
      Digipath from Tucson: W7MOT-13,W7MOT-6
      73

  • @PreppedScots
    @PreppedScots 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

    only thing i will say with the phone pairing, i have a dedicated field phone i use as a PDA (ulefone armor 24), ill be finding out tomorrow but if ive read it right if its paired to a phone even with zero cell signal it can still act for remote control, essentially turning your phone into a wireless version of a KDU like what those harris PRC152 (and clones) have, since i keep a radio in my webbing belt that would be a massive QOL, only concern at that rate which is as expected, emissions control concerns from the bluetooth protocol and if said device connected to a cell tower while in the field

  • @Robbbbooo
    @Robbbbooo 15 วันที่ผ่านมา

    Neat test. Ill try and get into your HF BBS over the next little while. I am in BC but may be able to connect with a vertical whip and decent propagation. What antenna configuration are you using for the BBS station?
    Cheers, VE7OZR.

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  14 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Good luck! Cheers from AZ. It runs 24x7 on secondary power.

  • @AD6DMDennis
    @AD6DMDennis 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

    Up since 0230? When do you sleep? Very cool demo of the bluetooth setup, but yeah I do wonder other than random sitting placement what the advantage is over Digirig. I am waiting for the Anytone to merge with the UV-Pro for full KISS TNC + DMR.

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  19 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      Funny posted that exact feature request to Instagram. That would be a force multiplier. Except, I suggested Bluetooth soundcard with built-in PTT. Think DigiRig Lite with BT. I nap everyday.

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      After swapping out the antenna with Diamond RH707 it works great while in the chest rig, hands free and while sitting on front of the mine entrance again.

  • @Pops_607
    @Pops_607 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

    Have you tried the icom id-52? Might be good to try out

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      To expensive. I'll like to have a fleet of at least three radios. Does it have a built-in TNC?

  • @DomN5TCB
    @DomN5TCB 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

    There is a way to put a ground wire on the handie so you can get a grounding effect.

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      I've had an antenna from SmileyAntenna with a tiger tail. Unfortunately, it uses a different SMA connector. I've also added a 19" DiY tiger tail with ring terminal in the past. They work well, but this test with the stock antenna is a good baseline.

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      I fully agree. I am holding out for a radio with sound card over bluetooth with an integrated VOX circuit. It would be nice to do other modes beyond packet.

    • @jleiben72
      @jleiben72 18 วันที่ผ่านมา

      could add a counter poise to the antenna with a ring connector and a wire, those stock antenna are crap on vhf

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  17 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@jleiben72 Yep. I've made a few, but never liked them when active as they get in the way. I am running the Diamond RH707 now and it works great while in the radio pouch. 73

  • @haxwithaxe
    @haxwithaxe 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

    A tiger tail might help with the HT performance.

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      They bounce around too much when moving. I found a better option that I posted on IG.

  • @MATTHEWPRUESSING-wd7yl
    @MATTHEWPRUESSING-wd7yl 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

    I’m thinking of picking it up for strictly winlink what are your thoughts?

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      It all depends on your personal. Since this is only a TNC, you will one be able to do AX.25 packet. So, you will be limited to packet VHF and UHF. If you can get into nearby Winlink RMS gateways in area on 5 watts, then it is worth exploring the UV Pro. Another option is something like a DigiRig Lite and a cable for your existing HT(s). This would open you up to other modes beyond packet such as VaraFM, FLDigi (PSK1000F, MT63 2KL, etc), Rattlegram...

  • @haxwithaxe
    @haxwithaxe 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

    With more radios with Bluetooth TNCs on the market I'd be surprised if Android packet radio apps don't support it soon if they don't already. Is there a reason beyond lack of support why you don't want to use your phone with this radio?

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      It has too many hooks to the Internet. I'm pretty anti Internet these days and canceled my cell data package 6 months back. These days, I'm not using APRS, so no need for the mapping. I again, this is just my personal opinion. People are going to enjoy the ease of programming from the app. I really prefer manual programming to establish strong muscle memory.

    • @haxwithaxe
      @haxwithaxe 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@TheTechPrepper I meant 3rd party apps. I wouldn't even trust the app from radio manufacturers at all. I haven't looked into any ax 25 apps but I would be surprised if they don't exist.

  • @AndrewWisler
    @AndrewWisler 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

    So, is it basically a UV5R with the addition of BT, a better UI, a TNC, and weatherproofing?

    • @Rambozo79
      @Rambozo79 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      That's like saying that it's just like a UV5R, only different.
      It's totally different.

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      It's a completely different radio. The only similarity is that they are both analog dual-band radios.

    • @AndrewWisler
      @AndrewWisler 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      What I meant was, does the analog circuitry seem to be the same as the UV5R back end, just with a new front end and UI, or does it seem to be a new design. A valid question, since many have criticized the filtering and audio quality of the Chinese radios (which so far all seem to be based on the same audio framework).

    • @AndrewWisler
      @AndrewWisler 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      The other way to skin the cat is to use an inexpensive IP67 rated Baofeng (GT-3WP - less than $30) with a Digirig lite ($40) and an APRS cable ($20). Not as elegant as this solution and more of a pain to deploy, but less expensive. This is how I’ve used digital modes with HT’s in the past, and I usually just dedicate a radio to it and leave it set up because the radios are so cheap, but if the UV Pro is a better quality radio it might be a better standalone solution.

    • @AndrewWisler
      @AndrewWisler 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@TheTechPrepper That’s what I was getting at, Gaston. Thanks!
      73

  • @jinks6410
    @jinks6410 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

    Your work does not go unappreciated. Do you have an X account?

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      I do but I stopped posting years ago. I don't have time for the engagement. . All my communication is moving to radio with me scaling down time on TH-cam and IG.

    • @jinks6410
      @jinks6410 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @TheTechPrepper thanks

  • @VA7LBA
    @VA7LBA 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

    The stock antenna is a known weakness. I upgraded to a Signal Stick.

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      That's a good move. I've been happy with the Signal Stick, too. However, I can't use it on the trail runs due to the eye hazard and constant whipping. I tested the Diamond RH707 and Ed Fong J-Pole yesterday with great success.

    • @VA7LBA
      @VA7LBA 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @TheTechPrepper Although the Fara J is more portable and packable, the Ed Fong is still the best performer and mine is set up permanently at my home inside a pvc pipe. I didn't see you change your squelch the the video so I wonder if you're running it low around 2 like I do? I use a Diamond RH519 on one of my HTs as it is better than the stock whip although probably not great for range. Cheers 73

  • @Rad_Hack
    @Rad_Hack 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

    Very much looking forward to all your upcoming BBS videos.

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  19 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      Me, too. It will be a longer than normal video and will cover everything I've learned in the last 5 weeks. In fact, yesterday I added an HF port for the BBS on 40m. Stay tuned and happy Sunday.

  • @thebnbaldwin
    @thebnbaldwin 20 วันที่ผ่านมา

    I'm pretty sure that radio is BT 5.0, while the THD75 is BT 3.0. WTH Kenwood?!

    • @Sparkletron
      @Sparkletron 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      This radio is a game changer. GPS, BT, and KISS for under $200. I own the GMRS PRO as well. The only downside to the latter is that GMRS repeaters are not allowed to do text messaging.

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      I need to do some analysis. I'll get back to you.

    • @MarkDecamps
      @MarkDecamps 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Don't bitch about BT until you've used a Yaesu. Lol

    • @mikeph4
      @mikeph4 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@Sparkletron just one more reason to do messaging on GMRS. It's your duty to disregard rules and regulations that make no sense.

    • @Sparkletron
      @Sparkletron 18 วันที่ผ่านมา

      ​@@mikeph4The radio itself enforces the rule. It will not send messages over a repeater. Simplex works fine.

  • @dangermandave67
    @dangermandave67 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

    The factory antenna probably isn't great. Would be interesting to see the test repeated with a SignalStick or similar.

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  19 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      I did some testing with the Diamond RH707 and Ed Fong roll-up J-Pole yesterday in a spot further out with great success. I was an early user of the SignaStick, but stopped carrying it a couple years ago as it is major eye hazard. It whips my too much in the face while moving at 5-6 mph on the trail. Either way, the stock antenna is not the way to go. However, my apples-to-apples test with the FT-60R and VX-6R make it into the remote station from the same location.

    • @dangermandave67
      @dangermandave67 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@TheTechPrepper 100% on the eye hazard. I usually find a way to secure the end of the antenna on my backpack, but I understand that it isn't practical to do that with every carry method. A lot of the time, I unscrew it and carry the SignalStick inside the pack until I'm ready to use it, keeping a rubber ducky on it until then. I've also found this radio a little deaf at times. When I'm using it for APRS to spot myself on SOTA summits, I sometimes have to pull out the roll-up J-pole.

  • @Thomas-ct3gu
    @Thomas-ct3gu 19 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    No need to give a dissertation when asking for a radio check.

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  19 วันที่ผ่านมา +5

      Many people scan and short radio checks are frequently missed in my experience.

    • @Sparkletron
      @Sparkletron 19 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

      True-no need for a dissertation.
      But nothing in the rules that say you can't!

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@Sparkletron ;-)

  • @rj44319
    @rj44319 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

    Git er done man! I love you put the work in you preach. - ky4wl

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  19 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

      My cowboy friend reminds me every time we meet: "You can't be a cowboy without doing the cowboy stuff." There's no substitution for hardware work and real-world experience. I try not to preach, instead I want to share what I am doing, why I'm doing it, and share the wins and failures along the way. Take care!

  • @hkmp5s
    @hkmp5s 20 วันที่ผ่านมา

    @3:28 We call that "The Lion King" where I work.

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  20 วันที่ผ่านมา

      I need more details. I am still not tracking on "The Lion King" reference. ;-)

    • @hkmp5s
      @hkmp5s 20 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@TheTechPrepper In the movie The Lion King, the monkey shaman holds up the young lion to show him to the other animals on the African plains. When we do that at work with our radios to get a better signal and talk to a coworker they call that the Lion King.

    • @TheTechPrepper
      @TheTechPrepper  20 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Doh! I'd like to say that "it's way too early and that I did not have enough coffee," but that's not true. It was a brain fart. I'll add that my vernacular. Thanks for the support.