Amateur radio
FTDI USB Programming Cable for Baofeng and Similar Handheld Radios
Product description
Original FTDI controller: This USB programming lead uses an authentic FTDI interface chip to provide consistent serial communications with PCs and laptops. That chipset reduces the risk of counterfeit-chip behavior and improves cross-platform compatibility.
Multi-platform support: The cable functions with Windows (including Windows 10/11), macOS and popular Linux distributions such as Ubuntu. When automatic detection fails, manually installing the matching driver and confirming the COM/serial port typically resolves recognition issues.
Durable construction and size: The cord is sheathed in a nylon braided jacket for enhanced abrasion resistance and tensile strength suitable for everyday transport and repeated handling. The lead measures approximately 1.2 meters (about 3.9 feet), giving comfortable reach between radio and computer.
What’s included and connectors: Package contents include the USB-to-radio programming cable and a driver disc for systems that require manual installation. The radio end is the standard programming microphone connector used on Baofeng-style handhelds; the PC end is USB Type-A.
How it’s used: Connect the cable between radio and computer to read, edit and write frequency/channel data, clone settings, and perform firmware or CPS updates. Compatible with CHIRP for bulk channel management and with vendor CPS software for model-specific features.
Compatibility notes: Works with many handheld models including Baofeng UV-5R, UV-5R MINI, BF-F8HP PRO, UV-5G Plus, UV-82, GM-15PRO, GM21, UV-21R, AR-152 PRO, DM32, UV32, BF-888S, Quansheng UV-K5 and similar two-way units. If the device is not detected, try reinstalling the driver, reconnecting, and selecting the correct COM port in your software.
Pros
- Genuine FTDI chipset for stable detection
- Durable nylon-braided cable jacket
- Works with CHIRP and vendor CPS software
Cons
- May require manual driver install on some systems
- Some radios need firm pressure to maintain connection
- Occasional USB3 port compatibility quirks
VerdictA dependable programming cable option for most Baofeng-style handheld radios. The built-in FTDI chip provides stable recognition across Windows, macOS and Linux when the correct driver is present. The braided sleeve adds durability for daily use and the cable supports reading and writing radio memories with CHIRP or vendor software. Some users report USB3 port quirks or intermittent radio connecto
Reviews
-
Gonza Family 5/5
Solid and Simple
Performs well so far. Easy to use and good build quality.
-
Jas Codrington 5/5
Flawless with Baofeng DM32/UV32
Used this with my Baofeng DM32-UV and it connected, read and wrote with no problems. I used the Baofeng CPS rather than CHIRP. The red cable had a tag, a green activity LED and a sturdy, smooth jacket. Overall good value and I’d buy again.
-
JR 5/5
Plug-and-Play on Windows 11
Worked on Windows 11 with no setup required. It included a driver disc that I didn’t need.
-
Mal B 1/5
Didn’t Work with UV‑5RH; Detected as Prolific
Although Windows installed a driver and the cable showed as a COM port, CHIRP could not get a response from my UV‑5RH. The device identified itself as a Prolific chip rather than FTDI, and despite testing multiple profiles and confirming the connection, the radio never communicated. Possibly a defective unit; I can’t recommend it for UV‑5RH based on my experience.
-
C. Grooms 5/5
Plugs Right Into Windows and macOS
I programmed a few radios for new ops and for myself. My old generic K-plug failed, but this cable worked with both Windows and macOS without hunting for drivers. The build looks like a commodity cable with a brand tag, but it uploaded/downloaded to the radios fine. One radio needed the plug held solidly in place while transferring, which CHIRP also warns about. Reminder: set radio to low power on an open frequency when programming.
-
rammar1 5/5
Sturdier Than OEM, Detected Instantly
Windows device manager showed it immediately. The cable feels more substantial than the OEM lead and the thicker jacket made it easy to find. I used CHIRP to download repeaters and then Baofeng software to set up banks and DMR. Will reorder if I lend it out and lose it.
-
Jon D. 4/5
Did the Job on Win11
Successfully programmed a UV-5R from Windows 11 straight out of the box.
-
Don Hud 1/5
Failed with UV‑5R Mini
The cable was recognized by my computer but would not communicate with a new UV‑5R Mini. It does work with older UV‑5R models using the UV‑5X profile in CHIRP. I tried many drivers and baud rates but could not get any read/write to complete.
-
Kevin Muenzler 5/5
Reliable with USB2; USB3 Quirks
Many cheap cables fail but this one worked on my Windows 10 and 11 PCs. It was flaky on USB3 ports, so I used a USB2 hub and it was flawless. Also, you often need to hold the radio connector firmly while the PC talks to it to avoid disconnects.
-
Salvador Mtz B 1/5
No funciona?
¿No funciona con Windows 11? ¿Alguien más tuvo el mismo problema?
Comments
No comments yet.
Sign in or sign up to comment.