Baofeng Foxhunt Controller: Arduino Shield Prototype

I had some free time and wanted to move the circuit to a more usable/permanent design, so I got an Arduino Uno prototype shield and moved the circuit over. This was my first time doing this type of work, so while my connections ultimately worked, my layout was a bit lackluster, crossed-over wires and most notably the pins from the DFPlayer shorting out when touching the USB connector on the Uno (fixed by a little electrical tape for now). I’ll definitely need to try again with the layout and perhaps even use some software to try a PCB layout for a cleaner build.

For now, all is working as it should, and I’ll be testing other transceivers to see if they can work as well. I continue to be plagued by shoddy connections on my Baofeng connector. While trying another UV-5R, the PTT only worked intermittently–when the connector was held in a certain position. It seems the connections inside the connector itself are also wonky and require some pressure in the right places to stay connected. Subsequently, I’ll be seeking out a better cable for future use. In the meantime, it’s a cleaner look than the breadboard.

For powering the Uno, I had been using a 9v, but in testing, I found the board was drawing almost 90ma at the volume level I currently have. So this would mean probably only like 4 hours or so on a fresh 9v battery. I’d like to get more like 48 hours for a weekend hunt, so I’ll be swapping ina 4AA holder (6v) that should provide plenty of power for a weekend. I’ll also be looking into a water resistant box to house whole set up so it can be left outdoors for extended time.