Strip the wires to find GND, RX, and TX. You may need a multimeter to verify which wire corresponds to which pin on the USB-to-Serial chip (usually a PL2303, CH340, or FTDI).
Connect the receive data wire from the adapter to the Ring 1 (TXD) of the 3.5mm jack.
chip, which typically works "plug-and-play" with modern operating systems. You can use the official QYT software or the open-source
To truly unlock the radio’s potential—adding custom repeater offsets, CTCSS tones, and organizing channels logically—you need to hook it up to a PC. However, one of the most common questions on forums is regarding the . qyt kt8900 programming cable pinout top
When viewing the 3.5mm connector from the "top" (the end opposite the cable entry), the pinout assignments are as follows: : RX (Data from Computer to Radio) Ring 1 : TX (Data from Radio to Computer) Sleeve : GND (Ground) Key Connection Details
: It is highly recommended to use a module with an FTDI or CP2102 chipset. Prolific chips (PL2303) found in many cheap cables often face driver compatibility issues on Windows 10/11.
: Once connected, check your Device Manager to identify the assigned COM port. In the software, ensure you select a port higher than COM2 (often COM3 or above) to avoid communication errors. Recommended Retailers Strip the wires to find GND, RX, and TX
The accessory port on the KT-8900 is recessed. A standard audio cable might fit, but a programming cable often has a specific molding. Ensure the cable is inserted and firmly. Even a millimeter of gap can disconnect the data line (usually the Tip or first Ring).
By adhering to this pinout scheme and utilizing a reliable serial chipset, you can easily maintain, program, and clone your QYT KT-8900 radio without relying on flaky factory hardware.
If you buy a pre-made programming cable for the QYT KT-8900 (often labeled "QYT KT-8900 programming cable USB"), it will have a USB-A male end and an RJ-45 male end. Inside the USB plug, there is a tiny USB-to-TTL converter (usually a CH340G). The will match the table above. When viewing the 3
: Most commercial cables utilize the Prolific or CH340 chipsets.
This report provides the pinout mapping for the QYT KT-8900 programming cable when viewed from the top (connector face toward you). It covers the common 6-pin cable used to connect the radio's programming/data port to a USB-to-serial adapter or programming box.
In the QYT KT8900 pinout, . That means it sends data to the PC. Therefore, it must connect to the RX pin on your USB adapter. Similarly, Pin 3 (RX on the radio) connects to TX on the adapter.
If you are building your own cable using a USB-to-TTL (UART) module, such as the CP2102 , wire it as follows: 3.5mm Plug Part UART Module Pin TXD (Transmit) Ring RXD (Receive) Sleeve GND (Ground)
Crossing these wires is the fastest way to frustrate yourself, so double-check with a multimeter continuity test before plugging it in.