(Click on image for larger view.)
This project started after I constructed the YO3GGX FT817ND DIY data modes miniature USB Sound Card Interface V2. Available HERE
This interface works great with my Yaesu FT817ND using my desktop PC or Laptop. But what about pedestrian mobile operations where the laptop is to big to carry around. Well I found FT8CN a mobile FT8 communication software based on Android system developed by BG7YOZ. The FT8CN is developed for easy mobile operation, especially outdoors and can be used at any time to make FT8 contacts. The operational logic is as simple as possible, easy to use, with basic FT8 operation.
Another irritation was cables with regard to pedestrian mobile operations. The ultimate goal is to have as few cables as possible. FT8CN can control a cellphone through various methods such as voice control, USB serial port, bluetooth, network, etc. I decided to use bluetooth as I already had a new module and 8pin Din Plug which I did not use in a previous project.
The bluetooth module I had was a HC-05 Bluetooth Module, the one with the reset button. I decided to attach wires to the module and solder them to the ACC 8 Pin Plug.
The cables were connected in the following way:
HC-05 Module ACC 8 Pin Plug
TXD Bluetooth TX D ACC Plug
RXD Bluetooth RX D ACC Plug
GND Bluetooth GND ACC Plug Also connected to the - of the 5v external power supply unit.
5 V DC VCC ACC Plug not used. Used 5v external power supply unit.
Pin outlay printed on the back of the HC-05 Bluetooth Module. The ACC pin outlay is available on page 5 of the FT817ND Operating Manual.
I decided not to make any software changes using a TTL USB programmer and TeraTerm terminal software. The bluetooth unit was plugged in and it worked with the default settings and wire connections. I however needed to alter the FT8CN settings as prescribed in the FT8CN Quick Manual.
Receive via FT8CN and the Bluetooth module works great. However for the time being I will use the VOX of the Yaesu FT817 radio for the PTT. I tested this setup and it works as it should.
I intend going pedestrian mobile during the holiday season and hope to make a few contacts on 10 meter using the FT8 mode and this setup.
Finally: The images and video provide more information on how I constructed a DIY Bluetooth Module for my Yaesu FT817ND radio.
Video:
Images: (Click on images for larger view.
