Generic Baofeng Programming Cable on Linux CHIRP

You will need the linux-firmware package (or whatever kernel you are using) from your package manager to have the pl2303 kernel modules. You can load this manually with modprobe pl2303 or you can edit the /etc/modules file to include it.

I am using archlinux in this example but it should work on others. I had an issue using it on ubuntu but it should work for you. I also found that Chirp needs to be run with root permissions.

The cable I bought on aliexpress (I did not receive it for free and I paid for it with my own money) seems to work well and I do not se a reason to get a more expensive cable.

https://www.aliexpress.us/item/32568059210...
I used that link to purchase it and it arrived 8 days after I purchased it. I live on the east coast.

If you have any questions leave them in the comments below.
I think some cables may use a different serial bridge so you will need to use the drivers for those.

WARNING: I do not condone the use of the Baofeng UV5R or ANY radios on FRS/GMRS/MURS frequencies or use without a license, BUT you should know that you realistically will NOT get in legal trouble for doing this. If you are going to use these radios illegally you should stay away from police/governmental frequencies, business frequencies, and aviation frequencies.

And if you are going to talk about spurious emissions on these types of radios, stupid comments will be pinned.