The Baofeng UV-5R V2 is turning out to be a very popular handheld transceiver for ham operators. It seems like the children are using it for a scanner and FM radio. The Bofeng dualband is so cheap that these little ham radios are flying off of the Chinese shelves. It may be from China, but the low price of the unit has won the hearts of many.

1. THE CABLE — The cable for the Baofeng UV-5R HT: USB Programming Cable for Baofeng.This is probably much easier for the average ham operator that gets the Baofeng HT.

2. THE SOFTWARE — I’ll need the CHIRP software to program the Baofeng. It works with Windows, Apple, and Linux systems.

3. THE ANTENNA — I hear the antenna that comes with the rig is not so good. I think this is the right link: NAGOYA NA-701 DUAL BAND 144/430Mhz U/V SMA-F Antenna For Baofeng.

4. THE MICROPHONE — I would like to have the microphone because it’s convenient. Here’s the link: Baofeng BF-S112 Two Way Radio Speaker.