Question re baofeng uv-3r & uv-5r

[WB2MVM]

Hi,

I'm new to being a "HAM-ster" , and didn't know where to post my questions, so I figured I'd start here.

My first question regards the Baofeng UV-3R. I noticed there are two versions: A "UV-3R Mark II" (aka "UV-3R II"), and a "UV-3R Plus" (aka "UV-3R Plus+"). What's the difference between them?

My second question is a bit more detailed, and concerns my Baofeng UV-5R Plus--specifically, the extended use, 3600mAh Li ion battery accessory. I wanted to buy a battery from the online company that sold me my radio, however, they told me they stopped selling it, due to safety issues. They didn't specify what the "issue(s)" is/are, and yet I've noticed that this particular battery accessory is still being sold online by other stores (furthermore, I haven't heard/seen anything, concerning "safety issues"). Does anyone know anything about this, and what Baofeng is doing to remedy the situation (if anything), or is this battery safety issue just a bunch of "poo-poo de toro"?

Please let me know at your earliest possible convenience. Thanks.

Regards/73's

KJ6WQY

 

[radioalbany]

UV-3R

Thanks for your post, and welcome.

I have a UV3-R, and they are fine radios for the price. There's no problem
using the radio or the battery and charger that comes with it.

The problem, such as it is, comes with a few aftermarket batteries which
may not have adequate (or any!) overcharge and overtemp protection. The battery
is a common Lithium-Ion type used in several cameras. Just be sure that
any batteries you buy have the protective circuitry built in.

Much of the criticism of these radios, IMHO is overblown. People are angry
about their price-performance ratio, which is dramatically better than most
"mainstream" Japanese radios. Don't worry about it.

There's a large and active Yahoo! group for the radios, and there are numerous
files in the FILES section of it that you'll find useful.

73,

Andrew Ellis NO6E
Lafayette, CA

 

[radioalbany]

One more thing...

One thing that gets involved is a decision last year by USPS restricting overseas shipment of Lithium-Ion batteries. Still, if you buy from a U.S. supplier, you should be find.

Andy

 

[xxdanielt3]

There is no real difference between them, aside from firmware and looks.