AnyTone AT-D168UV: Innovative DMR handheld radio for beginners and professionals

For several years, the DMR handheld radios of the AT-D868UV/D878UV series from AnyTone have enjoyed great popularity. This is not surprising, as these devices enable both digital operation and classic FM on 2 m and 70 cm and are available at affordable prices. Thanks to regular firmware updates, reliability and functionality have been continuously developed, and the manufacturer is open to user requests and suggestions for improvement. Now, another model is about to be released, called “AT-D168UV”. I am Tim Rauhut, DL2DMC, and I took a closer look at this device and compared it to my D878UV II PLUS.

The little brother of the D878UV

Is the AT-D168UV the successor to the AT-D878UV? The answer is a clear “no”. I would rather call it an offshoot or “little brother”. But who is this device suitable for, what can it do and what not?

Twice as good: unboxing the AnyTone AT-D168UV

The first “aha” moment comes right when unpacking. In addition to the radio, the box contains two lithium-ion batteries: the QB-50HL with a stated capacity of 2600 mAh and the QB-56L with 1800 mAh, for a total of an impressive 4400 mAh. There are two antennas as well: a short 12 cm “rubber sausage” and a slimmer version that is at least 38 cm long. This is quite practical, since I usually use longer accessory antennas for my handheld radios to achieve better ranges. The antennas are equipped with an SMA socket and can therefore also be used on the D878UV. A desktop charging cradle, AC adapter with USB-A socket, the obligatory belt clip, a USB-C cable and instructions complete the package.

Smaller, smarter and with a fresh range of functions

Satellite radio made easy with real-time tracking and automatic Doppler adjustment

The D168UV also introduces a very helpful function that makes operating via amateur radio satellites (LEOs) considerably easier. In a list, you can find numerous satellites as well as the ISS. During my test, there were 52 entries, sorted in ascending order by the next time of the next flyover. Selecting an entry displays all the important information along with an informative graphic: azimuth, elevation, time, duration of the overflight, and RX and TX frequencies. Particularly helpful and impressive: the frequencies are updated in real time. With a suitable antenna, such as the “Duosat” by EAntenna, you can now actually start satellite operation by simply pressing the PTT button after selecting the desired satellite. The uplink frequency is also automatically adjusted during the transmission process here. It is not really possible to make satellite operation much easier, because no further software is needed for orbit tracking and frequencies no longer have to be updated manually. With firmware version 3.04, this feature is now also available for the AnyTone AT-878UV transceivers. Incidentally, the orbital data is sent to the radio with just a few clicks of the mouse using the programming software. Since the D168UV does not have an integrated GPS, the geographical coordinates of the current location must first be entered so that the calculation can be carried out correctly. Unfortunately, the predictions for the ISS overflights were not really accurate, so hopefully the manufacturer will quickly improve this. Finally, the D168UV also supports the “QDC1200” signaling method, which is probably less relevant for radio amateurs.

Ergonomics meets user-friendliness

The first thing you notice is that the slightly more compact case fits well in the hand and all the controls are ergonomically arranged. All buttons have a clear pressure point. The display is easy to understand, and the menu structure is very similar to the familiar display of the AT-D878UV; if you have already worked with this device, you will find your way around immediately. The particularly user-friendly VFO mode continues to work flawlessly, and its operation is very similar to that of classic analog handheld radios. Frequency entries in VFO mode are possible directly via the keyboard or via the rotary knob. With the two arrow keys, you can “jump” in MHz steps.

Great possibilities with minor restrictions

The built-in speaker performed well in the test, the audio playback is strong and free of distortion even at higher volumes. The D168UV delivers balanced modulation, but I had to increase the “Mic Level” a bit in the device menu beforehand; the default setting (level 1 of 5) was too low for my liking.

But to what extent do the missing GPS and Bluetooth affect it? Although it is not possible to determine the position in real time, APRS operation can still be carried out, albeit to a limited extent. It is still possible to receive digital APRS transmissions. Once you have manually stored your own geographical location, it is also possible to transmit “fixed” APRS beacons based on these coordinates, both digitally and analogously.

A (solvable) challenge for the user is the small number of only two freely programmable buttons available. In theory, each of the two buttons can be assigned three functions, but this is only partially true if you assign the 1750 Hz tone to the “PF1” button (button below PTT) to activate an analog repeater. The second and third functions can then no longer be programmed. By default, the tone call can also be triggered by pressing the PTT+ and PF1 keys together and the PF1 key can be assigned as desired. However, I had unintentionally called up one of the programmed functions after sending the tone call. My solution was therefore as follows:

• Key PF1 is reserved exclusively for the 1750 Hz tone call
• Press the PF2 key briefly to switch between the sub- and main channel
• Pressing the key PF2 “middle” key: Sub-Channel on or off
• Key PF2 long keystroke: Toggle between VFO and memory operation

Simple code plug for uncomplicated configuration

A code plug is required to operate a DMR-capable radio. This is a file in which channels, contacts and settings are stored. Although the AnyTone devices are known for the fact that almost all settings can also be configured directly on the radio, it is of course much easier to configure everything conveniently and clearly on the computer and then just send it to the transceiver. If you already have an AT-D878UV, you usually already have a Codeplug that you are familiar with. But can it also be used with the AT-D168UV? The correct answer is: “mostly”. The import of the previous Codeplug file into the programming software went smoothly and without any error messages the first time around. All channels, talk groups, zones, etc. are imported while maintaining their original order. The DMR ID, which must always be entered in the programming software, is also stored correctly in the device. However, at some points, manual intervention is still required: For example, various device settings were not adopted in the software version tested, such as repeater offsets and display settings. But: these missing values can be added relatively quickly by hand.

Here, too, if you already know the CPS of its “big brother”, you will find your way around here directly. The software is almost identical for both device types.

Affordable and clever, but with some drawbacks. My conclusion.

The AnyTone AT-D168UV is (a little) less of a “jack of all trades” than the transceivers of the AT-D878UV series. The lack of GPS positioning and thus limited APRS functionality could stand in the way of a purchase decision, provided that you actually use it. In all the years I have been working with the D878UV, APRS has been more of a gimmick for me personally, which I have only tested a few times but never seriously used. Also, those who like to work with Bluetooth headsets or radio via the hands-free system in the car should rather use the AnyTone AT-D878UV II Plus. On the other hand, you get an extremely affordable handheld radio that is easy to use, can establish worldwide digital contacts on VHF and UHF, and also performs very well as a classic FM device. Thanks to the integrated USB-C socket, it can be charged and programmed with conventional USB cables. You no longer need special cables that are easily misplaced or refuse to work.

Anytone AT-D878UV II Plus

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced user, if you are looking for a well-equipped and well-made DMR handheld radio, perhaps as a second radio, you can't go wrong with this one. The new feature for satellite operation already makes a promising impression and, in my opinion, represents the highlight of the new device, since it not only makes operation via amateur radio satellites considerably easier, but also encourages you to explore the fascinating world of space communication.

Note: The device tested was a pre-production model. The appearance and functions may differ from the devices to be delivered.

September 24, Tim Rauhut, DL2DMC