Custom Products for the Digital Radio Amateur Enthusiast
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USB Digital Radio Adapter Interface Board
For Digital Two-Way Radio Applications

Product Support Documentation
Model DRA-36



Top side of DRA-36 circuit board - shown slightly enlarged.
(Click photo to show a larger image)

Bottom side of DRA-36 circuit board - shown slightly enlarged.
(Click photo to show a larger image)

Schematic Image - Click to download a high quality PDF.

Overview of DRA-36
1, Use with VARA FM or other digital communications requiring a very high quality sound card.
2, Mini-DIN-6 pinout compatible with many digital (modem) ready radios.
3, Kits come with the surface-mount IC preinstalled.

Parts List:
If you purchased our kit, refer to the parts list and make sure you have all of the components you need to build it.
Click here for Parts List.

Assembly - Construction Article:
Click here for assembly instructions and construction notes - with large photos.

Jumper Settings:
Click here for Jumper Settings and other board connection assignments.

Mini-DIN-6 Pinout
Click here for Mini-DIN-6 Pinout.

Installation:
This device is intended to be installed inside a radio, computer, or plastic box for protection. Refer to the schematic for the pinout of the DB9F where all of the logic signals, power connections, and audio signals are listed.

Recommended powering requirements:
The board is supplied with 5 VDC from the USB connection.

Recommended receive audio input level:
The DRA-36 accepts the widest range of audio compared to any other similar radio adapter. The input signal is attenuated by a potentiometer, giving the broadest range of acceptable levels. If your receiver audio level is adjustable or programmable, we recommend around 2.0 volts P-P. This allows very good signal-to-noise ratio and low cabling cross talk. This level results in a 50% rotational setting of the potentiometer.

Optional Plastic Case:
A Plastic Case is available optionally for the DRA-36. Available in several colors!

Which C-Media chipset is used?
All DRA series radio adapter boards are supplied with a Genuine C-Media CM119A.

The PC board was designed to be versatile. A CM108 and CM119 is also acceptable. There are slight differences between these components, and the board can be 'programmed' to accept any of the three.

Information on the CM119A.
Click here
to download a manual for the C-Media CM119A.

Secure PayPal ordering available from the DRA-36 main page.

DRAC-12 - 6-foot Mini-DIN-6 Radio Cable can be added optionally to connect several data capble radios to the DRA-36.

Email Kevin Custer for support, ordering information, order by check, or support of this exciting product.
 
 

Product of Masters Communications, all rights reserved.
Specifications may change without notice.
Images property of Kevin Custer - W3KKC
Board layout by Kevin Custer - W3KKC.
HTML June 2, 2020, W3KKC All Rights Reserved!