Baofeng UV3R/UV5R harmonic output

[AG6EB]

Can anyone share the results of actual testing of the harmonic output of these radios?  I am curious but do not own either.

[KA4POL]

There is a Yahoo group for the UV5R with some members who have the possibilities to measure those data if they have not done it yet.

[K1CJS]

Don't expect too much.

[KA4POL]

I found: http://hamgear.wordpress.com/2012/04/05/review-baofeng-uv-5r-part-ii/
If you compare these results with the ARRL results for the Kenwood TH-D72A in July 2011 QST (146 MHz >70dB, 440 MHz >70dB) it is not to bad.

[PD0AC]

The little UV-3R has no harmonic suppression to speak of. When switched to VHF and low power, the second harmonic is as strong as the frequency in the display. Quite horrible. If you want, I can measure one again and send you the spectrum analyzer images by mail.

The UV-5R is actually quite good. More recent batches (firmware versions 251 and later) were even better; about 60dBc down on both bands.

The new Baofeng UV-B5 is fine too. This one has a better front end and low levels of phase noise. As a result the UV-B5's receiver isn't overloaded as easy as the UV-3R or UV-5R. If you live in an RF polluted area and you want something Chinese, this model should be on top of your list.

Hans

http://hamgear.wordpress.com/

[KA4POL]

It is certainly best to forget about the UV-3R. The German 'FCC' did measure some at the Ham Radio Expo in 2011. All were illegal to use. Ob the UV-5R Baofeng claims a 65 dB spurious emission. As long as it is better than 60 dB it is within legal limits.

Thanks Hans for your great support.