Three ways to program your HT

Method 1: CHIRP (recommended for most operators)

CHIRP is free, open-source radio programming software that supports hundreds of radio models from every manufacturer. Download from chirpmyradio.com.

What you need: CHIRP software (free), a programming cable for your radio ($10-25), and a computer.

Supported radios: Virtually every Baofeng, Wouxun, Retevis, TYT, BTECH, TIDRADIO, and Quansheng radio. Most Yaesu, Icom, Kenwood, and Alinco amateur radios. CHIRP's radio list covers hundreds of models.

Why CHIRP wins: One piece of software programs nearly any radio. The interface is consistent regardless of radio brand. You can export a channel list, modify it in a spreadsheet, and re-import. You can clone channel lists between different radios. Repeater databases (RepeaterBook) can be imported directly.

Method 2: Manufacturer software (CPS)

Each manufacturer provides their own programming software, variously called CPS (Customer Programming Software), RT Systems software, or a brand-specific application.

When to use manufacturer software: DMR radios (TYT, AnyTone, Radioddity) require the manufacturer's CPS for DMR-specific features like talk groups, contact lists, and digital channel configuration that CHIRP cannot program. Yaesu System Fusion, Icom D-STAR, and Kenwood D-STAR features also require manufacturer software.

The downside: Each manufacturer's CPS is different. Most are Windows-only. Documentation ranges from adequate to nonexistent. The learning curve for DMR CPS is steep.

Method 3: Keypad programming (manual)

Every radio can be programmed from its keypad. This is the slowest method but requires no cable and no computer.

When to use keypad programming: In the field when you need to add a frequency quickly. When you do not have a cable. For programming one or two channels on the spot.

The process (most radios): Enter VFO mode → dial or type the frequency → set the CTCSS tone → set the repeater offset → store to a memory channel. The exact key sequence varies by manufacturer — consult your radio's manual.

What you need to know for each channel

For each repeater or frequency you want to program:

Frequency (output frequency of the repeater — what you receive on)
Offset (the difference between receive and transmit, typically +600 kHz on 2m, -5 MHz on 70cm)
Offset direction (+ or -)
CTCSS tone (the sub-audible tone the repeater requires to open)
Channel name (optional but helpful — "W6ABC 147.000" is more useful than "CH 01")

Where to find repeater information

RepeaterBook (repeaterbook.com) — the most comprehensive repeater database
Your local amateur radio club — often has a channel list or frequency card
ARRL repeater directory — published annually