The BlueDV DV Radio is an experimental digital voice (DV) radio project that extends the idea behind BlueDV into a standalone “radio-like” solution.
Instead of relying on a traditional transceiver, this setup uses a Raspberry Pi combined with software and a few external components to create a fully functional digital voice station. It supports multiple popular amateur radio digital modes such as DMR, D-Star, and Fusion (DN), and allows you to easily switch between them.
For voice encoding and decoding, the system uses an AMBE3000-based device (such as a DVStick or ThumbDV), ensuring high-quality and compatible digital audio across the supported modes.
Optionally, the project can be extended with hardware like a TFT display, rotary encoders, and a custom 3D-printed case—turning it into a compact, physical “radio” with its own interface. However, these additions are not required; the core system works perfectly in a headless setup.
The BlueDV DV Radio is a true hobby project, developed and shared for experimentation and fun. It reflects a modern approach to amateur radio, where software, networking, and low-cost hardware come together to create flexible and innovative communication tools.
What can it do:
- Supports multiple DV modes simultaneously (DMR, D-Star and Fusion(DN))
- Easy switching(focus) between modes (DMR, D-Star and Fusion(DN))
- Auto scanning of DV modus
- Control the software via a webbrowser
- The software is completely free
- D-Star support is available only for XLX. The old REF system is not supported.
- Perfect modulation due DVSI AMBE3000
- Attach a 2.8″ SPI TFT screen to your PI ( not required )
- Rotary buttons for TX control and volume (not required )
That is required:
- QX-18B microphone(You can also use without one, but only listening). [LINK]
- AMBE3000 USB stick (DVStick30 or ThumbDV) [LINK]
- Raspberry PI (3,4 or 5) with Debian Trixie (64Bits) without GUI
- Knowledge of Linux to install the software.
- USB speaker ( or 3.5 mm Audio Jack on the RPI3 )
Installation instructions [LINK]
Change log [LINK]
Questions en Answers [LINK]
Keep in mind that I am not a company, I do this in my spare time. I also have a daytime job and a family.
Greets and 73,
David PA7LIM
Bonus ( Addition )
Working on hardware (it is an addition! The software also works without this screen) that is connected to the GPIO of the Raspberry Pi. I am not very handy with hardware, but as long as nothing catches fire, I enjoy building it!
The case is finished. This is an older video.
