Unofficial compilation note: this library is unofficial material compiled and rewritten by BG7BAG Radio from public sources, for study reference only, and is not affiliated with the equipment manufacturers. For takedown requests, contact contact@bg7bag.com.
UV-K5 Point-to-Point Texting (Messenger)
Radio-to-radio direct text, a small-range off-net trick.
UV-K5 "texting" play (point-to-point)
The stock Quansheng UV-K5 has no texting, but after flashing third-party firmware (e.g. egzumer, IJV, OEFW) most add a Messenger / SMS / chat feature: you type on the keypad, hold PTT and the text is sent as a data burst on your current voice channel; another UV-K5 on the same firmware and frequency receives and decodes it. This page covers how it works, the conditions and the limits.
What it is
This is radio-to-radio direct text chat, not APRS:
- The text is sent as a data burst (modulated audio) on the current frequency; the other side receives on the same frequency and decodes/displays it.
- No internet, no iGate — pure point-to-point (or others on the same frequency watching).
- It uses your voice channel — it counts as a “data” transmission.
What you need
- Two or more UV-K5 radios, both running the same class of Messenger-capable firmware (egzumer as example; IJV/OEFW have similar features with slightly different paths).
- Both tuned to the same frequency / channel, and within radio range (line of sight, little obstruction).
- The receiver just monitors that frequency (some firmwares need you to sit in the Messenger screen).
Steps (egzumer example)
- Confirm you flashed a Messenger-capable firmware (see the custom firmware page).
- Tune both radios to the same frequency; listen first to confirm it is clear and legal.
- In the menu find Messenger / SMS (path varies by version — follow the screen); enter text on the keypad.
- When done, hold PTT to transmit — the text goes as a data burst; release to stop.
- The other radio on the same frequency receives and shows the text (automatically or manually).
Menu levels differ per firmware; check your firmware’s docs. Flashing has risks — back up first.
How it differs from APRS messaging
- This feature: radio-to-radio direct text, same frequency, short range, no network.
- APRS messaging: via 144.390 (NA) / 144.800 (EU) through an iGate to the internet — cross-city/country, can reach email, but needs iGate coverage and a firmware like IJV.
- For “send a message far to someone” use APRS; for “short-range quiet chat / drill on a shared frequency” use this.
Practical tips
- Keep messages short: a long burst occupies the channel longer and is more prone to errors.
- Match firmware versions: sender and receiver should use the same or compatible firmware so encoding matches.
- Same frequency + monitor: the other side must sit on your transmit frequency.
- Prefer line of sight: the small UV-K5 has limited power; buildings/cars attenuate a lot.
Limitations
- Range = radio range: no repeater / internet relay, so beyond receive distance it is lost.
- No store-and-forward: if the other side isn’t monitoring, the message is missed and not re-sent.
- Both need firmware: a stock radio or different firmware can’t receive/decode.
- Not encrypted by default: anyone on the frequency can read it — don’t send private info.
Compliance note
⚠
The text is essentially a transmission; all same-band rules apply: legal, authorised band, licensed operation, listen-before-talk, don’t hog the channel. Flashing third-party firmware / unlocking TX range carries compliance risk in most places — check local rules first (see the local regulations page).
Can the stock UV-K5 text?
No. Texting is added by third-party firmware (egzumer etc.); the stock firmware has no such feature — you must flash the right firmware first.
Not receiving the other side's text?
Confirm both on the same frequency, same (compatible) firmware, and within range; have the receiver sit in the Messenger screen monitoring; shorten the message and resend.