Fonghoo & TYT TH-9800 Plus 50 CTCSS Tones/1024 DCS Codes Amateur Radio A+B Dual Band Mobile Transceiver Vehicle Radio 50W – In-Depth Review

The Fonghoo & TYT TH-9800 Plus is a versatile and feature-rich amateur radio transceiver designed for mobile use. With its 50-watt power output, dual-band functionality, and a broad range of communication capabilities, this transceiver is a solid choice for ham radio enthusiasts. This review will cover its design, features, performance, ease of use, and overall value.

Design and Build Quality

The TH-9800 Plus boasts a durable and well-built chassis, designed to withstand the rigors of mobile use. The unit is compact, making it easy to install in various vehicle types without taking up excessive space. The detachable faceplate allows for flexible mounting options, which is especially useful in cramped vehicle interiors. The front panel has an intuitive layout with well-spaced buttons and a bright LCD screen that displays essential operating information.

The buttons provide good tactile feedback, making them easy to operate even while driving. The microphone is ergonomically designed, featuring a standard keypad that allows for direct frequency input and other convenient functions. The cooling system is efficient, preventing overheating during extended communication sessions.

Key Features

One of the standout features of the TH-9800 Plus is its multi-band capability. It supports VHF and UHF frequencies, making it suitable for a variety of amateur radio applications. The transceiver operates in the following frequency ranges:

• 29.000 – 29.700 MHz (10m)

• 50.000 – 54.000 MHz (6m)

• 144.000 – 148.000 MHz (2m)

• 430.000 – 450.000 MHz (70cm)

With 50 CTCSS tones and 1024 DCS codes, the radio provides excellent privacy and interference rejection, ensuring clear communication in busy frequency environments. The transceiver supports cross-band repeat functionality, allowing users to extend their communication range effectively.

Other notable features include:

• Quad-band capability with wide frequency coverage

• Dual receive for monitoring two frequencies simultaneously

• 800 memory channels for easy storage and quick access

• Adjustable power output levels to optimize battery life and transmission range

• FM radio reception for added convenience

Performance and Audio Quality

The TH-9800 Plus delivers impressive transmission power, reaching up to 50 watts on VHF and 40 watts on UHF. This power output provides a strong and clear signal, making it an excellent option for both urban and rural communication. Signal reception is reliable, with minimal distortion or background noise.

The audio quality is another highlight of this unit. The built-in speaker produces clear and crisp sound, ensuring messages are easily understood. The microphone is sensitive and picks up voice transmissions without excessive background noise. External speaker support allows for further audio enhancement if needed.

Ease of Use

Despite its extensive feature set, the TH-9800 Plus remains user-friendly. The menu system is logically organized, allowing users to navigate settings without confusion. Programming the radio can be done manually, although it requires some familiarity with amateur radio operation. For those who prefer software programming, the transceiver is compatible with third-party programming software, making frequency entry and memory management much easier.

The backlit LCD screen is bright and easy to read in various lighting conditions, which is a significant advantage for mobile users. The ability to assign shortcut functions to the buttons improves efficiency when operating the radio on the go.

Installation and Compatibility

Installing the TH-9800 Plus in a vehicle is relatively straightforward. The unit comes with a mounting bracket, hardware, and a DC power cable that connects to the vehicle's power system. The detachable faceplate further enhances installation flexibility, making it suitable for different vehicle layouts.

Antenna compatibility is an essential factor when choosing this transceiver. The radio requires a properly matched antenna to maximize performance, particularly for long-distance communication. Users may need to purchase a suitable quad-band antenna separately if one is not already available.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• High power output for strong and clear transmissions

• Quad-band capability with a wide frequency range

• Dual receive function for monitoring two channels simultaneously

• Cross-band repeat functionality to extend communication range

• Large memory capacity for storing frequently used frequencies

• Clear audio quality with an ergonomic microphone

• Compact and durable design with a detachable faceplate

Cons:

• Manual programming can be complex for beginners

• Requires a compatible antenna for optimal performance

• Software programming may need an additional cable

• The interface, while user-friendly, may take time to master for new users

Overall Value

The Fonghoo & TYT TH-9800 Plus is a solid choice for amateur radio operators looking for a high-powered, feature-rich mobile transceiver. It offers excellent communication range, a variety of advanced features, and a durable design suitable for mobile use. While manual programming can be challenging for beginners, software programming simplifies the process significantly.

For those who need a reliable quad-band mobile transceiver with excellent performance and versatility, the TH-9800 Plus is an outstanding option. Whether used for emergency communication, local repeater access, or long-distance contacts, this radio delivers strong performance and dependable connectivity. With the right antenna and proper setup, users can take full advantage of its capabilities for seamless mobile communication.

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Review: FONGHOO HAM-UV25 Dual Band Mobile Radio Transceiver

Overview

The FONGHOO HAM-UV25 is a dual-band mobile radio transceiver designed for amateur radio enthusiasts, particularly for those who need reliable communication on the go. With its 25W output power and frequency range of 144-148 MHz (VHF) and 420-450 MHz (UHF), it promises robust performance for both casual users and serious operators. In this review, we will delve into its features, performance, ease of use, and overall value.

Design and Build Quality

The FONGHOO HAM-UV25 sports a compact and rugged design, making it suitable for installation in various vehicle types. The radio measures approximately 6.7 x 5.1 x 1.8 inches, which allows for flexible mounting options without taking up excessive space. The front panel features a large, easy-to-read LCD display that shows frequency, channel, and status information.

The build quality feels sturdy, with well-constructed knobs and buttons that provide tactile feedback. The unit includes a detachable microphone with a coiled cord, allowing for easy communication without being tethered directly to the device.

Key Features

1. Dual-Band Operation: The ability to operate on both VHF and UHF bands allows users to access a wide range of frequencies and communicate with a variety of other amateur radios.

2. 25W Output Power: The 25W output ensures good signal strength, enabling clear communications over long distances, depending on terrain and conditions.

3. Wide Frequency Range: Covering 144-148 MHz and 420-450 MHz, this transceiver allows for versatile usage in various amateur radio activities, including local and emergency communications.

4. CTCSS/DCS Functionality: The inclusion of Continuous Tone-Coded Squelch System (CTCSS) and Digital-Coded Squelch (DCS) adds an extra layer of functionality, allowing for selective calling and reducing unwanted noise.

5. Memory Channels: The HAM-UV25 can store up to 200 memory channels, allowing users to quickly switch between frequently used frequencies.

6. Emergency Alarm Function: This feature can be invaluable in emergencies, ensuring that help can be requested promptly.

7. Wide/Narrow Bandwidth Selection: Users can toggle between wide and narrow bandwidths, providing more control over signal clarity and range.

8. Included Accessories: The package comes with necessary accessories including a power cable, mounting bracket, and user manual.

Performance

The performance of the FONGHOO HAM-UV25 is commendable, especially for a mobile transceiver in its price range. Users report clear and stable audio quality during transmission and reception, with minimal distortion. The 25W output power proves effective in both urban and rural settings, allowing for good range.

In practical use, the dual-band functionality shines, providing seamless switching between VHF and UHF channels. The CTCSS/DCS features work well in filtering out unwanted communications, allowing for more focused conversations. Users have noted that the radio performs exceptionally well in various conditions, including during adverse weather.

Ease of Use

While the FONGHOO HAM-UV25 is packed with features, it is relatively user-friendly. The user interface is straightforward, with clearly labeled buttons and a menu system that is easy to navigate. New users may take some time to familiarize themselves with all the functions, but the included manual provides clear instructions.

Programming the radio for specific frequencies is simple, and the memory channels can be easily accessed. The backlit display is a thoughtful touch, making it usable in low-light conditions, such as nighttime driving.

Value for Money

Considering its features, performance, and build quality, the FONGHOO HAM-UV25 offers excellent value for amateur radio operators. It provides a robust set of functionalities at a competitive price point, making it accessible for both newcomers and seasoned users.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Dual-band operation for versatile communication
• Strong 25W output power
• Clear audio quality
• Sturdy build and design
• User-friendly interface
• Good memory channel capacity

Cons:

• Initial learning curve for complete beginners
• Limited advanced features compared to higher-end models

Conclusion

The FONGHOO HAM-UV25 Dual Band Mobile Radio Transceiver is a good choice for amateur radio enthusiasts seeking a reliable and powerful mobile solution. Its blend of robust performance, user-friendly features, and excellent build quality make it a worthy investment for anyone looking to enhance their communication capabilities while on the road. Whether you’re a seasoned ham or a newcomer, the HAM-UV25 is likely to meet or exceed your expectations, making it a commendable addition to your radio equipment.

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