Ham Radio Hobbyist Turns Handheld Quansheng UV-K5 into Custom Desktop Setup

In a creative twist on the versatile Quansheng UV-K5, a popular handheld VHF/UHF radio, ham enthusiast [OM0ET] decided to push its capabilities even further by transforming it into a functional desktop unit. Known for its potential in modding circles, the Quansheng UV-K5 has become a favorite among radio enthusiasts who enjoy adapting and customizing equipment beyond factory specifications.

What sounds like a straightforward re-housing project turned out to require more than just a simple switch-up. The Quansheng UV-K5 relies heavily on keypad tuning, which, while fine in handheld form, becomes cumbersome in a desktop setting. To streamline control and tuning for a more desktop-friendly experience, [OM0ET] crafted an encoder controller using an ESP32 microcontroller. With the help of fellow ham [OM0WT], they developed software to run the encoder, and they’ve made their files accessible on GitHub for those interested in replicating or modifying the project.

Other technical challenges included adjusting the keypad to function in its new, larger housing and reconfiguring the audio, data modules, and speaker to align with the custom setup. The final product, while compact, manages to house all components neatly and offers an impressive, sleek look that would blend well in any ham shack.

This project is another reminder of the innovative spirit within the ham radio community, showing how customizable gear can be when enthusiasts bring their own ideas to the table. It’s a compelling example of DIY ingenuity in the world of radio—sometimes, a custom job is just what’s needed! Check out the video linked below to see the mod in action.