Explore Baofeng Programming Software and Cable

Baofeng Walkie-Talkie Software Download: Drivers, Tools & Programming Guide

Essential Downloads for UV-5R, BF-888S, UV-32, UV-9R, DM-32UV and More

Welcome to the official Baofeng UK software hub. Here you can find all the necessary programming tools to customise your radio's frequencies, channels, and settings. Whether you are unlocking the full potential of a UV-5R or configuring a commercial BF-888S, our resources ensure you stay connected.

Below, you will find our comprehensive step-by-step programming guide, followed by the specific download links for your radio model.


How to Programme Your Baofeng Radio: A Step-by-Step Guide

Programming your radio doesn't have to be difficult. Follow these four steps to ensure your radio is set up correctly on the first try.

1 Get the Right Hardware

Before downloading any files, ensure you have a USB programming cable that supports data transfer, not just charging.

⚠️ Important: Many connection issues stem from cheap, counterfeit cables that Windows refuses to recognise. We recommend the Official Baofeng PC03 USB Programming Cable — guaranteed to work with Windows 10 and Windows 11, dispatched from the UK.

2 Install the Baofeng Programming Cable Drivers

Do not plug your cable in yet. First, download and install the correct drivers for your operating system.

If you plug the cable in and your computer does not recognise it, or you see a "Prolific" error in Device Manager, you need a USB driver fix. Download the Prolific PL2303 or CH340 drivers from the section below to resolve these errors.

💡 How to identify your driver: Plug in the cable, open Device Manager, look under "Ports (COM & LPT)". If you see "Prolific" — install the Prolific driver. If you see "CH340" — install the CH340 driver. If you recently upgraded to Windows 11, consider upgrading to the Newest PC03 Programming Cable for guaranteed compatibility.

3 Choose Your Programming Method

You have three methods to programme your Baofeng radio. Choose the one that suits your setup:

🖥️ A. Factory CPS Software
  • Best for model-specific OEM settings and factory unlocking
  • Each model has its own dedicated CPS version
  • Required for DM series DMR radios
  • Windows 10 and Windows 11 only
🌐 B. CHIRP-next Recommended
  • Free and open-source — best for beginners
  • Works on Windows 10, 11 and macOS
  • Clone channels between radios with ease
  • Built-in UK repeater frequency database
  • ⚠️ Use CHIRP-next — Legacy is no longer maintained
📱 C. OLA Radio App New
  • Wireless Bluetooth programming from your smartphone
  • No PC or USB cable required
  • Available on iOS and Android
  • Some models need the BT-A1D Adapter

📱 OLA Radio App — Bluetooth Programming Details

OLA Radio App for Baofeng Bluetooth wireless programming on iOS and Android smartphones
✅ No Adapter Needed (Built-in Bluetooth)
  • UV-5R Mini
  • UV-32
  • UV-28 Pro
  • And other Bluetooth-enabled models
🔌 Requires BT-A1D Bluetooth Adapter
  • UV-5RM Plus, UV-5RH Pro, UV-5RH, UV-5R
  • BF-888S, BF-K5 Plus
  • DM-32UV, AT-2 and more

🛒 Shop BT-A1D Adapter →

4 Read, Edit, and Write

Once your cable is connected and drivers are installed (or your Bluetooth adapter is paired):

  1. Open the software and click Read from Radio — this saves your current settings as a backup before making any changes.
  2. Enter your desired frequencies and sub-tones (CTCSS / DCS). UK users can load pre-set repeater frequencies directly within CHIRP-next.
  3. Click Write to Radio to upload the new settings to your device.

💡 UK Frequency Reminder: Always ensure any frequencies you transmit on are within your licence permissions. Visit the PMR446 licence-free guide if you need to operate without an Ofcom Amateur Radio Licence.


Software Download List

Select your radio series below to find the correct programming software and user manual download.

Model/series Description Software User Manual

UV-5R Mini

Official Programming Suite for Compact Series

Unlock the full potential of your ultra-portable Baofeng UV-5R Mini, While this model supports Bluetooth app control, this PC-based software provides a more robust interface for bulk channel management. It allows you to quickly edit frequency lists, assign channel names, and configure squelch settings specifically for the Mini’s dual-band architecture. Ideal for users who prefer the precision of a mouse and keyboard over a mobile screen.

UV-5RH Pro
(GPS Version)

Advanced GPS Configuration & Frequency Management

This specialized software is essential for the Baofeng UV-5RH Pro, It goes beyond standard channel editing by allowing you to configure the device's GPS positioning and location-sharing features. Use this tool to customize your text greeting, adjust VOX levels, and manage the high-power output settings. Ensure your firmware is up to date and your GPS coordinates are accurate for outdoor tracking and team coordination.

UV-5RH

Universal Programming Software for Modern Baofengs

This is the versatile "All-in-One" programming tool designed for Baofeng’s modern color-screen lineup. It supports the Baofeng UV-5RH,  UV-17, UV-18, UV-19, UV-20, UV-21 series. Whether you are setting up air-band reception or organizing hundreds of memory channels, this software streamlines the process. It ensures cross-compatibility between these newer models, making it easier to clone settings from one radio to another using your Windows PC.

UV-5RM Plus

High-Power Multi-Band Communication Tool

Designed specifically for operators demanding superior range, the Baofeng UV-5RM Plus is the definitive upgrade to the UV-5R series. Unlike standard 5W models, this 10-Watt powerhouse punches through obstacles and unlocks AM Airband reception (108-136 MHz). Use this radio to secure reliable long-distance communication, store up to 999 channels, and enjoy the convenience of modern USB-C charging for extended field operations.

UV-32 GPS
(Bluetooth Programming)

Precision GPS & Bluetooth Setup

Maximize the tactical capabilities of your Baofeng UV-32 GPS Bluetooth Radio. This software allows for deep customization of the radio's Bluetooth pairing settings and GPS location reporting. It is vital for users who need to sync their radio with external headsets or set up specific APRS-like location data. The interface is designed to handle the complex routing of audio and data that makes the UV-32 a premium choice for advanced users.

UV-28 Pro GPS
(Bluetooth Programming)

Heavy-Duty Configuration for UV-28 Pro

This utility is tailored for the rugged Baofeng UV-28 Pro GPS Bluetooth Radio. Use this software to manage the high-capacity channel memory and configure the dedicated GPS side keys. It allows for precise adjustment of wide/narrow band settings and power levels to conserve the large battery during long shifts. Perfect for commercial or outdoor enthusiast use where programming accuracy is critical for safety and connectivity.

UV-5R Series

The Essential Tool for the World's Most Popular Radio

This is the classic Factory software for the legendary Baofeng UV-5R, BF-F8+, BF-F9 Radio. Millions of users rely on this stable software to unlock frequencies, rename channels to 6-character alphanumeric tags, and adjust advanced menus like "Beat Shift" or "DTMF". If you own the classic UV-5R, this is the original manufacturer-recommended tool to restore factory defaults or customize your setup for local repeaters.

UV-25

Tactical Setup for 10W High-Power Radios

The Baofeng UV-25 is a military-grade powerhouse, and this software gives you command over its 10-Watt output. Use this interface to fine-tune transmission power levels across different channels to prevent overheating and extend battery life. It also manages the specialized "Gooseneck" antenna settings and tactical frequency hopping. Essential for maximizing the long-range capabilities of this heavy-duty transceiver.

UV-K5 Plus

Spectrum & Air Band Management

The UV-K5 Plus is known for its wide receive range, including Air Band. This software is crucial for opening up those specific listening frequencies which cannot always be accessed via the keypad. Use it to manage the visual spectrum analyzer settings and organize memory banks for aviation, marine, and amateur monitoring. A must-have download for radio hobbyists who want to explore frequencies beyond standard walkie-talkie ranges.

UV-5R III

Tri-Band System Configuration Tool

Designed specifically for Baofeng’s dedicated tri-band radios, including the UV-5R III, F8+ III, UV-S9. Unlike standard software, this version unlocks the specific 1.25M (220MHz) frequency band alongside the standard VHF and UHF ranges. Use this software to ensure your antenna and radio capabilities match your programmed frequencies, giving you access to the often-overlooked 220MHz amateur band for clearer communication in crowded areas.

UV-9R Plus
/ UV-98 Pro
(Waterproof)

Waterproof Series Frequency Manager

Designed for the rugged IP67 Waterproof Series (UV-98 Pro, UV-9R, UV-9R Plus, T-57). Since these radios use a specialized multi-pin waterproof connector, ensuring you have this specific software version is critical for a stable connection. It allows you to program marine channels, PMR446 frequencies, or amateur bands for wet and dusty environments where manual keypad programming is difficult or impossible in the field.

UV-9R Pro
(Waterproof)

Professional IP67 Rugged Configuration

This dedicated software supports the upgraded UV-9R Pro. Use this to configure advanced power-saving features and emergency alert channels suited for harsh environments. It allows users to lock out keypad functions to prevent accidental changes during outdoor activities. Compatible with Windows 10 and 11, this tool ensures your waterproof radio is programmed with the correct repeater offsets before you head into the wild.

UV-82

Commercial Grade Dual-Band Configuration

This software supports the standard UV-82, Misuta 82 Plus. Known for its commercial-grade audio and Dual PTT button, the UV-82 requires specific settings to optimize its performance. This tool allows you to disable the alarm function, set up priority scanning, and manage the dual-watch standby mode. It provides a clean, simple interface to prepare your radios for security work, event management, or amateur radio use.

UV-82 Tri-Band

Baofeng UV-82 5W Dual Band Radio – Long Range VHF/UHF Walkie Talkie

Dual-PTT & Tri-Band Frequency Manager

Tailored for the UV-82 Tri-band variant, this software handles the unique 1.25M band requirements. It also allows you to configure the signature "Dual PTT" (Push-to-Talk) button, allowing you to transmit on two different frequencies without switching channels manually. Use this tool to organize your A/B switch logic and ensure your tri-band antenna is utilizing the correct frequency offsets for repeater access.

UV-3R+

Baofeng UV-3r plus mini walkie talkie two way radio

Micro-Series Compact Programming Suite

Designed for the ultra-compact Baofeng UV-3R+, this software is the most efficient way to manage the "Micro" series. Because this miniature radio features a simplified keypad and smaller display to save space, manual programming in the field can be difficult. This PC software acts as a bridge, allowing you to rapidly upload frequencies, sub-tones, and repeater offsets directly to the device. It is the perfect solution for users who want to maximize portability without sacrificing complex channel configurations.

UV-6R

Baofeng UV-6R walkie talkie two way radio

Firmware Edition & Channel Manager

This software is specifically engineered for the Baofeng UV-6R, a powerful evolution of the classic 5R chipset. While it looks similar to other models, the UV-6R uses unique firmware that requires this dedicated tool for proper data transfer. Use this interface to manage your 128 memory channels, customize your alphanumeric channel names, and fine-tune squelch levels. It provides a stable, user-friendly environment to keep this durable dual-band radio operating at peak efficiency for both transmit and receive functions.

UV-B5

Baofeng UV-B5 walkie talkie two way radio

High-Fidelity Analog Configuration Tool

The Baofeng UV-B5 is a cult favorite among radio enthusiasts for its superior receiver sensitivity and rotary frequency knob. This software is essential because the UV-B5 uses a completely different memory map than the UV-5R series. Use this tool to quickly organize frequencies, adjust the specialized compander settings for clearer audio, and manage the 99-channel capacity. It ensures you can customize this high-performance analog radio without struggling through the complex onboard menu system using just the keypad

Model/series Description Software User Manual

BF-888S

Essential Configuration for Screenless Radios

This is the definitive programming tool for the Baofeng BF-888S and its variants (BF-888S, BF-888S plus, BF-T99). Since these commercial-style radios lack a display screen or keypad, this PC software is the only way to modify frequencies and settings. It allows you to program specific UHF channels for security, construction, or event staff. Use it to batch-program multiple radios with identical privacy codes (CTCSS/DCS) to ensure your team communicates on clear, interference-free lines.

BF-888S PMR446
(BF-88E)

License-Free Compliance & Privacy Manager

Designed specifically for the license-free BF-888S PMR446 (BF-88E), BF-88A models. While these radios come pre-programmed for legal UK/EU use, this software allows for advanced customization within those legal limits. You can adjust Squelch levels to block background noise, enable VOX for hands-free operation, and configure specific privacy tones. This ensures that your family or business communications remain private, even when using public license-free channels. Perfect for ensuring 100% compliance with local radio regulations.

BF-T1

Mini-Radio Frequency Management

Unlock the versatility of the ultra-compact Baofeng BF-T1. Known as the "Mini" walkie-talkie, this device requires this specific software to manage its UHF frequency range (400-420MHz or 400-470MHz). Use this interface to program your 20 memory channels, set up FM radio stations, and configure the SOS alarm features.
Note: The BF-T1 uses a specialized USB programming cable different from the standard two-pin style, so ensure you have the correct hardware before starting.

BF-K6

Multi-Band Setup for Type-C Model

his utility supports the modern Baofeng BF-K6, a versatile multi-band radio featuring convenient Type-C charging. The software provides a clear interface to manage the radio's broad transmission and reception capabilities. Use it to organize memory banks across different bands, customize the display lighting settings, and configure the side-key functions. It is the most efficient way to enable specific features like Air Band reception (if supported) and optimize the radio for all-day communication performance.

BF-H6

Baofeng BF-H6 Walkie Talkie Two Way Radio

Power Management for 10W Transmitters

This is the command center for the powerful Baofeng BF-H6 10W Radio. Because this model pushes significantly higher wattage than standard handhelds, using this software is critical for thermal management. It allows you to designate specific channels as "Low Power" for short-range talk to save battery, while reserving "High Power" for long-range contacts. It also unlocks menu features not easily accessible via the keypad, ensuring you get the most out of this military-grade transmitter.

BF-W31

Rapid Setup for Mini Walkie Talkies

Optimized for the Baofeng BF-W31 Mini, this lightweight software mirrors the radio's streamlined design. Since the W31 is built for simplicity and maximum portability, this PC tool is essential for the initial setup. It allows you to quickly load in your preferred communication frequencies and set up privacy codes to block interference. Ideal for hospitality or retail users who need to deploy multiple small radios quickly without navigating complex menus or buttons.

BF-F8+

Baofeng BF-F8+ Walkie Talkie

Unlock the Full Potential: PC Programming & Configuration

While the Baofeng BF-F8+ features a full keypad for manual field programming, connecting it to a PC is the professional way to manage your communications. Using a programming cable (K-Plug) and software allows you to unlock features that are tedious to set manually. You can assign alphanumeric names (like "CAMP", "SECURITY", or "RESCUE") to your channels, making them easy to read on the inverted display. It is the definitive tool for batch-programming repeaters, setting complex privacy codes (CTCSS/DCS), and cloning identical settings across your entire team's fleet in minutes.

BF-F8HP

Baofeng BF-F8HP Walkie Talkie

Essential Configuration for Baofeng BF-F8HP

This is the definitive programming tool for the Baofeng BF-F8HP (8-Watt High Power). While this radio supports manual keypad programming, this PC software is the most efficient way to manage your channel list. It allows you to assign alphanumeric names (Alpha Tags) to specific frequencies, configure High/Mid/Low power settings for each channel, and batch-program privacy codes (CTCSS/DCS) to ensure your team communicates without interference.

BF-R5

Baofeng BF-R5 UHF Mini Walkie Talkie

Ultra-Slim UHF Performance

Experience the lightweight efficiency of the Baofeng BF-R5. Designed for maximum portability, this "Slim" walkie-talkie operates across the UHF 400-470MHz frequency spectrum. Utilize the PC programming capabilities to customize your 16 memory channels and adjust CTCSS/DCS privacy codes for interference-free communication.
Note: The BF-R5 features direct USB charging, allowing you to power up via a computer or power bank without a bulky charging dock.

TR-988UV / BF-T60

Baofeng TR-988UV Walkie Talkie

Rapid Setup for Mini Walkie Talkies

This shared software platform supports both the Baofeng TR-988UV and BF-T60 models. It provides a robust environment for managing dual-band (VHF/UHF) frequencies. Use this tool to configure unique features like the backlit display timeout, voice prompts, and VOX sensitivity levels. Whether you are using these radios for professional security or personal outdoor adventures, this software ensures your channel list is organized and your device settings are optimized for clear, reliable transmission.

BF-T9

Baofeng BF-T9 Walkie Talkie

Rugged Series Channel Programmer

Dedicated configuration software for the Baofeng BF-T9. This tool allows for the precise programming of the T9’s channel memory and feature set. Use it to enable or disable the "Roger Beep," adjust the microphone gain for clearer audio, and set up CTCSS/DCS privacy tones. It is designed to make the programming process fast and error-free, ensuring that your rugged T9 radios are perfectly synced and ready for action in any environment.

Baofeng BF_Tn Series

This software is used for BF_Tn Series

Baofeng BF-V Series

This software is used for Baofeng V Series Radio
Model/series Description Software User Manual

DM-32

Digital Configuration Suite for DMR & GPS

This is the essential programming environment for the advanced Baofeng DM-32. As a DMR (Digital Mobile Radio) with GPS capabilities, manual keypad programming is extremely difficult. This software allows you to build your "Codeplug" visually, managing contacts, Talk Groups, and APRS GPS settings with ease. It also provides tools to configure digital encryption keys, ensuring secure communication for your team. A must-have for unlocking the crystal-clear digital audio features of the DM-32.

DM-5R

Basic Digital & Analog Channel Manager

Designed for the first-generation Baofeng DM-5R, this software bridges the gap between analog and digital functionality. It allows users to program both standard analog frequencies (compatible with UV-5R) and basic digital channels. Use this interface to set up your digital Color Codes and Group IDs, allowing for noise-free digital reception.
Note: This version is for the standard DM-5R. If you have the repeater-capable version, please download the Tier II software below.

DM-5R Tier II

Repeater-Capable Time Slot Configuration

This specific software is required for the Baofeng DM-5R Tier II edition. Unlike the standard version, this tool unlocks true "Dual Time Slot" technology, which is essential for connecting to DMR repeaters. Use this platform to configure Time Slot 1 and Time Slot 2 settings, ensuring you can access local amateur radio repeaters without interfering with other traffic. It is the critical tool for users upgrading their DM-5R for serious network use.

DM-1701

DM-1701 Advanced Radio Management & Programming Suite

Take command of your Baofeng DM-1701 configuration with this comprehensive management software. Essential for unlocking the radio’s heavy-duty Tier II digital capabilities, this application allows you to build custom codeplugs from scratch. Seamlessly organize 3,000 channels, manage digital talk groups across multiple zones, and bulk-import up to 120,000 contacts for global roaming. Beyond frequency mapping, the suite allows you to customize the 1.77" color screen layout, SMS alerts, and programmable keys. Perfect for rapidly deploying business radio fleets or tuning your ham setup for maximum efficiency.

DM-1702 GPS Tier II

Advanced Codeplug Editor for DM-1702

This is the comprehensive management suite for the flagship Baofeng DM-1702. This powerful radio requires complex setup to utilize its Tier II dual-slot and GPS features. The software allows you to create detailed Codeplugs, importing thousands of contacts and organizing multiple Talk Group lists / Zones. It also manages the radio's recording function and GPS text messaging settings. Essential for power users connecting to global DMR networks like BrandMeister or managing commercial fleets.

Model/series Description Software User Manual

AR-152 Pro

Tactical Operations Console

This software is the dedicated control panel for the military-grade Baofeng AR-152 Pro. Given its massive 10W tri-power output and tactical design, precise configuration is key. Use this tool to manage the radio's 12,000mAh battery efficiency settings, configure transmission channels via Bluetooth — no cables needed — and organize tactical frequency lists across up to 1,000 channels. With built-in GPS tracking and NOAA weather alerts, it delivers real-time situational awareness, ensuring voice commands cut through noise in any operational environment. Essential for prepping your comms for long-range missions.

AR-152

Tactical Programming Command Center

This software is the dedicated control panel for the military-grade Baofeng AR-152. Given its massive 10W output and tactical design, precise configuration is key. Use this tool to manage the radio's 12,000mAh battery efficiency settings, configure high-power transmission channels, and organize tactical frequency lists. It also allows deep customization of the specific audio companding features, ensuring that voice commands cut through noise in outdoor or operational environments. Essential for prepping your comms for long-range missions.

TYT TH-9800

Quad-Band Mobile Station Manager

The TYT TH-9800 is a complex "Quad-Band" mobile transceiver (10m/6m/2m/70cm), often called the "Quad-Bander." Manual programming of its 800+ channels and hyper-memory menus is nearly impossible via the microphone keypad. This PC software simplifies the entire process, allowing you to visualize and organize your cross-band repeater settings, CTCSS tones, and AM aviation reception. It is the professional way to set up your vehicle or base station for complete spectrum dominance.


Shop Top Deals


UV-25

UV-5RH

UV-9R Pro

UV-16 Pro V2

BF-888S

UV-5R III

UV-17 Pro

BF-88E PMR446

UV-K5 Plus

UV-K6

UV-5RH Pro (GPS)

Quansheng UV-K5

Explore Baofeng Programming Software and Cable

How to Programme Baofeng UV-5R Series with Programming Software

Since the Baofeng UV-5R series share the same Factory CPS software and CHIRP-next supports most UV-5R models, this programming guide is a helpful reference for the following models:

Baofeng UV-5R Mini, UV-5RH, UV-5RH Pro, UV-5R+/UV-5R+ Plus, UV-5RA/UV-5RA+/UV-5RAX+, UV-5RAX (2M/1.25M), UV-5RE/UV-5RE Plus, GT-3, BF-F8/BF-F8+, BF-F9 and more.

Preparation Before Programming

1. Computer System Requirements

  • Operating System: Windows 10 (64-bit) or Windows 11 (64-bit) — Recommended. macOS supported via CHIRP-next or OLA Radio App
  • Hard Disk Space: At least 200 MB available
  • Minimum RAM: 4 GB recommended

2. Programming Cable

  • Option A — USB Cable (CH340 / Prolific): Install the correct driver before plugging in. Download the matching driver from the links above.
  • Option B — FTDI Cable: No driver installation needed. Plug in and use directly. Works natively on macOS.
  • Option C — Bluetooth (OLA App): Use the BT-A1D Bluetooth Adapter or a built-in Bluetooth model. No PC required.

🛒 Shop Official PC03 Programming Cable →

3. Software Download & Install

  1. Turn on your computer and confirm the system meets the requirements above.
  2. Download the Factory CPS for your model from the table above, or download CHIRP-next (free).
  3. Install the software before connecting your radio.

4. Connect Your Walkie-Talkie to the Computer

  1. Connect the USB end of the programming cable to your computer.
  2. Connect the other end to your walkie-talkie's speaker/mic port.
  3. Once both ends are connected, turn on your radio. Ensure it has sufficient battery power during programming.

Baofeng UV-5R CHIRP-next Programming Process

Step-by-Step Guide:

1 Open CHIRP-next → Download From Radio

Open CHIRP-next (latest version). Click Download From Radio under the "Radio" menu. This reads and backs up your current radio settings before any changes are made.

CHIRP-next software Radio menu showing Download From Radio option for Baofeng UV-5R programming

2 Select COM Port, Vendor & Model

Select the corresponding cable driver port (COM port). Under Vendor, select Baofeng. Under Model, select UV-5RX (or your specific model). Click OK to read the radio.

💡 Model Selection Tip: For UV-5RM Plus → select UV-5RM. For UV-K5 Plus → select UV-K5. Always match the exact model to avoid data transfer errors.
CHIRP-next dialogue showing COM port selection and Baofeng UV-5RX model selection for radio programming

3 Edit Channels in the Memories Tab

You will arrive at the Memories page. Here you can adjust: Channel number, TX Frequency, RX Frequency, CTCSS/DCS sub-tones, High/Low Power, and Wide/Narrow Band settings.

CHIRP-next Memories tab showing Baofeng UV-5R channel list with TX frequency, CTCSS tones, power and bandwidth columns

4 Adjust Settings

Switch to the Settings tab to adjust global radio parameters: VOX Function, Squelch level, Backlight, DTMF, FM Radio, Voice Prompt, Scanning mode, VFO Mode and more.

CHIRP-next Settings tab for Baofeng UV-5R showing VOX, Squelch, Backlight and DTMF global configuration options
CHIRP-next additional Settings page for Baofeng UV-5R showing FM Radio, Scanning mode and VFO configuration

5 Upload to Radio

Once all edits are complete, click Upload To Radio under the "Radio" menu to write all settings to the device. Reboot your radio to apply all changes.

✅ Tip: Save your CHIRP configuration file (.img) to your computer as a backup. You can reload it later or clone it to another compatible radio of the same model.

UV-5R Factory Software Programming Process

1 Open Software & Select COM Port

Download and open the Factory CPS software for your model. Click "Communication" and choose your COM Port, then click the Confirm button.

Baofeng UV-5R Factory CPS software Communication menu showing COM port selection step
Baofeng CPS COM port confirmation dialogue box for UV-5R USB programming cable connection
Baofeng Factory CPS software showing successful COM port connection status ready to read radio data

2 Read Data from Radio

Click the Read button, then click Read again in the pop-up dialogue to download the current settings from your radio. Do not disconnect the cable during this step.

3 Edit Channel Parameters

You will arrive at the Channel Parameters page. Adjust: Channel number, TX/RX Frequency, CTCSS/DCS tones, High/Low Power, and Wide/Narrow Band settings as required.

4 Configure Optional Features

Click "Edit""Optional Features". A pop-up window will appear where you can adjust: VOX Function, Squelch, Backlight, DTMF, FM Radio, Voice Prompt, Scanning, and VFO Mode.

Baofeng UV-5R Factory CPS Optional Features window showing VOX level, Squelch and Backlight settings
Baofeng CPS Optional Features additional settings showing DTMF, FM Radio and Voice Prompt configuration options

5 Configure DTMF (Optional)

To configure DTMF functions (for selective calling or repeater access tones), click "Edit""DTMF" to open the DTMF configuration page.

Baofeng UV-5R Factory CPS DTMF configuration page showing tone encoding and decoding settings for repeater access

6 Write Settings to Radio

Click the Write button, then click Write again on the confirmation pop-up to upload all settings to your radio. Reboot your radio after writing is complete to apply all changes.

Baofeng UV-5R Factory CPS Write to Radio confirmation dialogue showing successful programming upload completed

Frequently Asked Questions & Common Issues

The most common cause is a missing or outdated USB driver. Follow these steps:

  1. Do not plug your cable in yet.
  2. Download and install either the Prolific PL2303 or CH340 driver from the links on this page.
  3. Plug in your cable. Open Device Manager and confirm it appears under "Ports (COM & LPT)".
  4. If you see a "Prolific error", your cable may be counterfeit. Upgrade to the Official PC03 Programming Cable, guaranteed to work on Windows 10 and Windows 11.

For most users, we recommend CHIRP-next.

  • CHIRP-next — best for beginners, cloning channels between radios, UK repeater data, and macOS support.
  • Factory CPS — for model-specific unlocking, GPS settings (e.g. UV-5RH Pro), and DM series DMR programming.
  • OLA Radio App — for Bluetooth-enabled models or with the BT-A1D adapter. No PC needed.

Yes. The software and drivers on this page are compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10, and 11.

However, Windows 11 applies stricter driver signing requirements. If your cable is old or a cheap copy, it may not connect reliably. We recommend upgrading to the Newest PC03 Programming Cable for guaranteed Windows 11 compatibility.

Yes! The free OLA Radio App allows wireless Bluetooth programming — no PC or cable required.

  • No adapter needed (built-in Bluetooth): UV-5R Mini, UV-32, UV-28 Pro and other Bluetooth-enabled models.
  • Requires BT-A1D Adapter: UV-5R, UV-5RH, UV-5RM Plus, BF-888S, BF-K5 Plus, DM-32UV, AT-2 and more.

📱 iOS (App Store)  |  📱 Android (Google Play)

These are two different USB-to-serial chipsets used in programming cables:

  • Prolific PL2303 — Common in older Baofeng cables. Install the Prolific driver if Device Manager shows "Prolific".
  • CH340 — Used in newer cables including the official Baofeng PC03. Install the CH340 driver if Device Manager shows "CH340".

How to check: Plug in your cable, open Device Manager, and look under "Ports (COM & LPT)" — the chip name will be displayed there.

Software settings (like Squelch and power level) can help slightly, but software cannot change the physical transmission power of your radio.

The most effective upgrade: Replace the stock "rubber duck" antenna with a NA-771 High Gain Antenna. This can improve reception range by up to 20% immediately.

This is almost always a false positive. Factory CPS software is older and comes from a publisher not recognised by Windows, triggering warnings in antivirus programs like Windows Defender.

Files downloaded from our official website (baofengradio.co.uk) are safe to use. You may need to temporarily disable your antivirus or add a folder exception to complete the installation.

The official Factory CPS software is Windows-only. Mac users have two great options:

  • CHIRP-next — fully supports macOS. Use with the PC03 Programming Cable (FTDI chip, natively supported by macOS — no driver needed).
  • OLA Radio App — available on iPhone/iPad via the App Store. Programme wirelessly via Bluetooth — no cable or PC required.

Yes, for transmitting on most frequencies. Most Baofeng radios (like the UV-5R) can transmit on frequencies requiring an Ofcom Amateur Radio Licence. It is illegal in the UK to transmit on these bands without a valid licence.

However, you can legally listen (receive only) on any frequency without a licence.

For licence-free operation, use PMR446 licence-free radios and frequencies only. Always check current Ofcom regulations before transmitting.

Owning a Baofeng radio is perfectly legal in the UK.

Transmitting on licensed frequencies (such as amateur VHF/UHF bands) requires a valid Ofcom Amateur Radio Licence. For licence-free legal operation, use PMR446-approved radios and channels only. Always ensure full compliance with current Ofcom regulations.