As George has so indelicately reminded me … I got squirreled.
Ooops.
So!
Hints, tips and tricks for the TYT TH-UV88.
EDIT! A quick heads-up. In order for the UV88 to receive out-of-band, ie NOAA WX / 162.550 You must unlock it. There are also two base parameters in the programming software which must be altered. Both areas require altering the maximum RX frequency to 174.000. (no higher) As an assistance to yourselves, I DO NOT recommend setting the TX limits out of the Amateur Radio Bands.
First up, this radio also may (or may not) have been shipped in a locked-down mode. However, the solution to this one is actually included in the owners manual.
In order to enable VFO mode:
Press and hold [7]+[1] while powering on the radio.
In order to enable/re-enable channelized mode:
Press and hold [7] while powering on the radio.
After programming, I typically run mine in channelized mode to eliminate inadvertent butt-buttons.
Antenna considerations:
The factory antenna provided with this radio is quite workable, and in the active tactical environment beats the devil out of something more cumbersome, but it is — as all HT antennas are — a compromise between functionality and gain. I recommend keeping a TRAM/Diamond/Browning/etc. extended length dual band antenna on hand. These things are relatively dirt simple, and I’ve seen no particular benefit or drawback between one brand and the other. I use the TRAM #10125. It works. Your mileage may vary due to personal quirks and investment bias. Use whatever blows your skirt up.
Battery considerations:
Even though the factory charger is effective and reasonably quick, I consider a spare battery pack as indispensable. I use the extended capacity (LB-75L) battery as a back up. If Richard can’t get one of these, try https://www.buytwowayradios.com/tyt-tyt-batt-uv88-hc-kit.html . Be sure to get the charger that comes with it. They are not interchangeable.
I personally think it’s better to give Richard first crack at it. The local vendor you ignore is the one which may not always be there when you need them.
Lanyard:
The UV88 has a lanyard loop on the top rear. I recommend using it.
Lighted screen:
I recommend setting the screen lamp for auto-off and the shortest possible duration. Your battery life will thank you.
Manual/programming:
Sadly, you will need a Windows based computer to run the programming software. The same comments above about the program and the manual apply here. Take Your Time, and have patience.
Stun/Kill
I need to understand what I know about this a little better before I start offering advice. Let me see if I can successfully brick one of mine first.
Otherwise, I wouldn’t play with it quite yet. I’ll do another post when I’ve done the makey-learn thing.
Okey dokey. If you have further questions, please list them below.
73, Dan
P.S. The Roger Beep;
Yeah. This thing has a Roger Beep. it’s pretty much mandatory for hams to curl their lips and wrinkle their noses at roger beeps … but … in secret cockles of your heart … you know they’re just plain cool. Anyone alive and impressionable during the Apollo years knows the exact tone and duration of those famous beeps. HOWEVER! They probably aren’t really welcome on the local repeaters. Use your best judgement … *(beeep)*!
Dit, dit.
