This guide will help you connect the TORUN HT DiGi digital interface to a Baofeng UV-5R for APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System) operations.
Requirements
1. Hardware Needed
- TORUN HT DiGi digital interface
- Baofeng UV-5R handheld transceiver
- Smartphone (Android-based) or PC
- TRRS Cable or a compatible Baofeng audio cable
- APRS Software (APRSdroid for Android or Soundmodem for PC)
- GPS module (optional, if not using a phone's GPS)
Step 1: Connecting the TORUN HT DiGi to UV-5R
Prepare the Hardware
- Ensure that the UV-5R is charged and working properly.
- Attach the TORUN HT DiGi to the UV-5R using a Baofeng-compatible audio cable.
- Connect the other end of the TORUN HT DiGi to a smartphone (via TRRS cable) or a PC.
Radio Configuration
- Set VOX (Voice-Activated Transmission) to 1 in UV-5R.
- Set the frequency to 144.390 MHz (for North America) or the appropriate APRS frequency for your region.
- Set the power level to LOW to avoid unnecessary interference.
- Ensure PTT (Push-To-Talk) activation via the interface is working.
Step 2: Configuring APRS Software
For Android (APRSdroid)
- Install APRSdroid (Download here).
- Configure APRS settings:
- Set APRS callsign (e.g., S21AF-7).
- Choose APRS-IS or RF-only mode.
- Select AFSK 1200 Baud as the modulation.
- Adjust volume levels so that transmissions are clear without distortion.
- Set audio output to "Ringtone" (not voice mode).
- Press "Start Tracking" to begin sending APRS data.
For PC (Soundmodem + APRSISCE/32)
- Install Soundmodem (Download here).
- Set AFSK 1200 baud rate and select the correct audio input/output.
- Use APRSISCE/32 (Download) for real-time APRS tracking and messaging.
Step 3: Testing & Troubleshooting
- Verify the signal by checking APRS.fi (https://aprs.fi).
- Adjust VOX sensitivity if APRS packets do not transmit properly.
- Check I-Gates and repeaters nearby to confirm data transmission.
- Use an external GPS module if location tracking is inaccurate.
Final Notes
- Ensure your APRS path is correctly set (e.g., WIDE1-1, WIDE2-1 for digipeater use).
- Use headphones or a dummy load when testing to avoid unnecessary RF interference.
- Keep the phone volume at 3/4 level for clear AFSK audio transmission.
This setup allows real-time APRS tracking and messaging using the TORUN HT DiGi, UV-5R, and a mobile/PC APRS setup.
73! Happy APRS Tracking! 🚀