Turn your Android phone into a ham radio transceiver

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TLDR

  • kv4p HT is an open source DIY add-on that turns an Android phone into a 1W VHF/UHF ham radio transceiver using an ESP32 and SA818 module.

Key Takeaways

  • Hardware stack: custom PCB (v2.0e, orderable from PCBWay/JLCPCB), SA818-V/U radio module, SMA antenna, USB-C connection to phone.
  • Full APRS support with a built-in 1200 baud modem enables SMS-like messaging plus position beaconing, going beyond beacon-only radios.
  • No internal battery; draws power from the phone, making it suitable for go-bags and glove compartments.
  • Entire stack is GPL3: Android app (requires Android 8+), ESP32 firmware, PCB designs, and 3D printer case files.
  • Requires a Technician class amateur radio license minimum; kits available or build from GitHub designs.

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