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Product Review
TIDRADIO BL-1
v2.0
Bluetooth Programmer
for Handheld Radios
by: John 'Miklor'
Product Review
TIDRADIO BL-1
v2.0
Bluetooth Programmer
for Handheld Radios
by: John 'Miklor'
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General Description The BL-1 offers a unique way to program your FM handheld without the need of a computer. The module connects to well over 100 handheld models using your Bluetooth connection to the Android or iOS app. In the Package Included is the following: - BL-1 Bluetooth Programmer - USB-C charging cable - Basic instruction sheet It weighs in at 1.75 oz (50g) Size is 1.75" x 2.0" (4.5 x 5.1 cm) Form Factor The BL-1 v2 is a self contained device that uses a standard K1 that plugs directly into the radio with no wires attached. It comes with a USB-C cable which is used strictly for charging the module. The v2 case shown here plugs in above the standard K1 cover, relieving the pressure.
Unlike most software, there is no computer required as the BL-1 is 'app' driven. The Odmaster app is available for download for either an Android or iOS device. I was able to successfully program mine with my Android tablet, iPad and iPhone.
The list of compatible models is continuously growing. Odmaster now covers well over 100 different models from dozens of vendors. The growing list of models includes: Baofeng, Quansheng, Talkpad, TID, TIDRADIO, Tenway, Radioddity, Retevis, Ansoko, Anysecu, Rugged, Intek, Techside, WLN, Zastone, Luiton, Pxton Arcshell and more. The complete compatibility list can be found at the Odmaster website. The format for programming is straight forward. Channel, TX/RX frequency and CTCSS tones. The function tab allows you to set squelch levels, scan modes, etc.
When the programming is complete, you have the ability to save the image for future use.
The BL1 software includes access to a huge Repeater Database. By selecting a location, a list of repeaters for that area will be generated. You are able to select the desired repeater and the channels to be loaded. App Notes The app is safe and fully complies with the rules of Google Play and the Apple Store or it would not be published for download. It does require that you turn on location as it needs to connect to your devices Bluetooth. This is a dual function app that also has a 'social' function built in. This allows POC operation (PTT Over Cellular) if desired. Information such as birthday, etc. are not required and you can decline the permission request for the POC option. I've been using my BL-1 for several months with an iPad, iPhone, Android tablet and Windows 10 with no issues. Online Programming Support The BL-1 module is programmed via Bluetooth to an iOS/Android device using an app named "Odmaster". This app will require a user name and password. The image files created using this app are stored offline. The advantage is that you can have multiple iOS/Android devices and multiple BL-1 all able to access these image files. This data can also be accessed via the Odmaster Website. This gives the added flexibility to create and modify your data images using a laptop or PC. Here are a few sample website images.
Pros - Bluetooth. No programming cable or drivers required. - Both iOS and Android. - Web based programming via Odmaster - Small size. Great for Field programming - Automatic repeater selection from repeater database - USB-C Charge Port Observations - Well over 100 different models - New models are continually being added. In Summary One major advantage is that BL-1 updates automatically via app updates. The BL-1 was not meant to replace any existing PC software, but rather a Bluetooth programming alternative. No programming cable is required and it's a lot quicker than using the keypad to search through the menu options. It works especially well for handhelds without a screen. (BF888s, TD777s, etc). The list of supported radios is continually growing as the app is further developed. Bluetooth programming is becoming more of a standard among programming options.
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  BL-1 Bluetooth Programmer -Review-
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