There are now several models of Digirig interface – each optimized for a range of use cases. Here we’ll go over features and differences making it easier for you to choose a perfect match for your typical operating scenarios.
Hardware overview
Below is a side-to-side comparison of the features for the Digirig interfaces.
| Model | Digirig Mobile [link] | Digirig Lite [link] | Digirig DR-891 [link] | VOX PTT Cable [link] |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Form factor | Aluminum extrusion, about size of the 9V battery | Shielded cable ~12″ long with ferrites and ABS plastic enclosure in the middle | Aluminum extrusion, about size of the 9V battery | Shielded cable ~8″ long with PCB inside of the molding in the middle. |
| Computer connection | Female USB-C, requires data capable cable (sold separately [link]) | Male USB-C or USB-A with included adapter | Female USB-C, requires data capable cable (sold separately [link]) | Male 3.5mm TRRS headset jack with CTIA pinout |
| Transceiver connection | Female 3.5mm TRRS for audio and PTT, Female 3.5mm TRRS for serial and 3.3V power (optional), requires audio and optionally serial cables (sold separately) | Female 3.5mm TRRS for audio and PTT, requires audio/PTT cable (sold separately) | Female 3.5mm TRRS for audio and PTT, Female 3.5mm TRRS for downlink USB connection, | Female 3.5mm TRRS for audio and PTT |
| Cables | Required data capable USB-C cable, required audio/PTT cable, optional serial cable (none included) | Required audio/PTT cable | Required data capable USB-C cable (not included), required audio/PTT cable, optional downlink USB cable (both included) | Required audio/PTT cable |
| Audio interface | Soundcard | Soundcard | Soundcard | Uses internal soundcard of the phone or tablet |
| Serial/CAT control | Supported for CAT and/or programming. Serial port lines can be configured for Logic Levels, RS-232, CI-V, TX-500. | Not supported | Supported, via pass-through to transceiver’s internal USB-to-serial bridge | Not supported |
| PTT methods | PTT by RTS of COM port, PTT via CAT command | GPIO3 (RA-Board), Active VOX on the right audio channel. Each can be disabled via solder pads. | PTT via CAT command, GPIO3 (RA-Board), Active VOX on the right audio channel. Each can be disabled via solder pads. | Passive VOX on the right audio channel |
| Configuration pads | Serial levels, attenuator (disabled by default), 3.3V output (disabled by default) | PTT by VOX (enabled by default), PTT by GPIO3 (enabled by default) | PTT by VOX (enabled by default), PTT by GPIO3 (enabled by default), attenuator (disabled by default) | None |
Selecting Digirig Model
Here is a simplified steps to help you choose Digirig that best fits your plan.
Choosing Digirig Model
I have a DR891, I’m using it on VARA hf, can I use this for VARA FM?
Can I use the Digirig FT2500 cable for Yaesu FM mobiles?
Or do I need a Digirig Mobile for this?
Yes, you can use DR-891 for digital modes with FM radios. This includes modes such as VaraFM, APRS, SSTV, VarAC etc. You can use standard Digirig audio/PTT cables in DR-891’s black socket labeled “audio”. The functionality of the interface will be equivalent to that of Digirig Lite.
I have a Yaesu FT-710. Yes, I should be able to use a USB cable from my PC to connect to the radio. The problem is that the USB cable gets overwhelmed when I do FT-8, and the PC stops communicating with the Radio. I have tried multiple PCs and different USB cables (even a high-shielded cable). Can I purchase a Digirig DR-891 and use it with my FT-710? If so, What do I need?
Yes, you can use any Digirig model with your FT-710, though I would suggest further troubleshooting the situation with the internal interface. The problem is likely caused by the RFI. If the disruption stops when you use lower TX power and/or a dummy load instead of antenna then you’ll need to work on choking off the coax and preventing RF energy from returning back to the radio through the shielding.
Can I use the Digirig that I have for an ICOM IC-706MII, or do I need to change the connections inside?
For complete integration of IC-706 you’ll need Digirig Mobile in CI-V configuration. If your Digirig is in different configuration then you can use it for basic integration (audio + PTT). More information here.
Hola, deseo comprar el interfax y el cableado para un Kenwood TS-2000. ¿Que productos exactos debo de adquirir? Gracias
For your Kenwood TS-2000 you’ll need:
– Digirig in RS-232 configuration: https://digirig.net/product/digirig-mobile/?attribute_cat-config=RS-232
– Transceiver cables: https://digirig.net/product/kenwood-cables-digirig-mobile/
– USB-C cable https://digirig.net/product-category/cables/usb-cables/
I have a yeasu FT450D. From my research I will need the Digirig with rs232? And the ts-480 cables correct?
Will I need to let you know my radio at checkout in case any modification needs to be made?
Yes, if you plan to use Yaesu FT-450D with optional serial CAT control then you’ll need Digirig Mobile in RS-232 configuration. You can select Digirig configuration in the product page prior to adding it to the cart. It is not required, but you can leave a note with your order mentioning the transceiver model. More details on serial port configuration can be found here: https://digirig.net/selecting-digirig-configuration/
Kenwood TS-480 is the correct cable set for Yaesu FT-450D. For help selecting compatible cables for any additional transceiver models, please use this page: https://digirig.net/digirig-transceiver-compatibility/
I own two Yaesu radios, an FT 891 and an FT 818.
I would like to know which interface to purchase for the digital modes, preferring to use the CAT interface for both.
Thank you.
If you can only pick one Digirig for these two radios then I would recommend Digirig Mobile in logic levels configuration. This will give full integration of FT-818 and audio+PTT for FT-891. The serial CAT control of FT-891 can then be achieved with a separate USB connection to the computer directly from the transceiver as discussed in this post: https://forum.digirig.net/t/cables-for-yaesu-ft-891/16