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Model RA-38M
For Two-Way Radio Applications

    Pricing:
  • Unassembled Kit with Metal Case # - $80.00 each.
  • Assembled and Tested with Metal Case # - $110.00 each.
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  • A (NO Case) option is not available - please click back and choose a RA-38.
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    The RA-38M is available in a blue, black or red metal case.
    The "M" Series is designed to fit directly into our Metal cases and are easier to set-up and use.
    They don't require adapter rails or hardware.
    The board slides directly into the side rails of the metal case.

    Article on the differences between the RA-38 and RA-38M

    Shipping and handling is calculated at checkout for US and International orders.
    First-Class shipping available to most locations worldwide, calculated at checkout.
    PayPal accepted - order below.

    Looking for radio adapters for digital applications? See our new DRA-Series.


    RA-38M - shown larger than actual size - - RA-38M Board shown smaller than actual size.
       

       



    What is it - and why do I need it?
    The RA-38M is intended to easily make a portable AllStar Link RF hotspot. It easily connects to some portable radios like the Baofeng UV-5R (not included) to make a simplex AllStar Link node with little fuss. Works on VARA FM narrow and other slower digital data protocols too. The RA-38M senses the COS signal that's available at the radios Earphone jack and connects using a cable available from another vendor. This enables the user to easily make a simplex node without needing to do any modifications or building radio cables. The radio cable is not included or available from me - you will need to purchase it separately / additionally from Tigertronics to complete the package (details below).

    Quick features list:

  • Modification of the radio is NOT required.
  • On-board COS circuitry and a (yellow) LED to show receiver activity.
  • Pre-made radio cable is available from Tigertronics (NOT included).
  • Works with VARA FM for digital data (at lower "narrow" speeds).
  • Comes with pre-stripped wires for "manually wiring" the configuration socket (eliminates the need to purchase a configuration module).
  • Pre-made configuration modules (jumper modules) are available to easily map out the required radio cable wiring - (no soldering required - plugs into the configuration socket instead of the jumper wires).
  • Near Plug-&-Play operation - (audio calibration may be required - radio dependent).
  • Use of low power and a remotely mounted antenna is encouraged to minimize RF interference to the host computer (Raspberry Pi).
  • Supplied with a ferrite equipped USB cable to help reduce RFI problems.
  • Radio cables and configuration modules are NOT included.
  • Baofeng radio is NOT included.

    For the Baofeng UV-5R - use the following cable from Tigertronics - Purchased Separately:
    Tigertronics SLCABHTW

    NOTE: We supply the RA-38M pre-configured for use with the above cable.
    However, you may want the matching configuration module for other reasons - available below.

    Tigertronics SLMOD6PM Purchased Separately:
    NOTE: Set the SLMOD6PM jumper module to the "12" (1200) position.

    All RAs come with a USB cable to connect the interface to the host computer or Raspberry Pi. The cable supplied with the RA-38M has been upgraded with ferrite choke filtering to help reduce RFI and help provide stable operation. RFI issues can result when using a portable radio with a rubber duck antenna directly attached to the radio.


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    RA-38M Unassembled Kit with Metal Case
    Case (box) Color - Use down arrow to choose:

    RA-38M Assembled & Tested with Metal Case

    Case (box) Color - Use down arrow to choose:

    Shipping amount is calculated at checkout for shipping to most locations Worldwide.


    Support Documentation - Schematic, Parts List, installation and set-up instructions for the RA-38M.
    RA-38M Construction Article.
    Summary Features List.
    Detailed Description.

    Custom cables available from Tigertronics. They have custom radio cables and configuration jumper modules for the RA-38M for many radios.

    Email Kevin Custer for ordering information, ordering by check, and/or support of this exciting product.

    Product of Masters Communications, all rights reserved.
    Specifications may change without notice.
    Images are property of Kevin Custer - W3KKC
    Board layout by Kevin Custer - W3KKC
    HTML March 10, 2025 W3KKC - All Rights Reserved!