Even with careful preparation, things can go wrong. Here is how to fix them:
Most users choose to update the DM-1702 to move away from the restrictive "Tier II" limitations and improve the overall user experience. Benefits often include:
Updating the Baofeng DM-1702 is not for the faint of heart. It is a collision of cheap manufacturing, legacy Windows drivers, and the stubborn ingenuity of the ham radio community. It is a process that teaches you more about USB stacks than you ever wanted to know.
When you succeed—when the blue backlight glows and the DMR LED blinks green—you aren't just using a radio. You are maintaining a digital artifact. You have taken a piece of mass-produced plastic and, through sheer will and a sketchy driver, bent it to your will.
That is the magic of the DM-1702. Not the hardware, but the ritual.
Baofeng DM-1702 Go to product viewer dialog for this item. (also known as the DM-X) is a Tier I & II DMR radio that requires specific software versions depending on its internal hardware generation . Because flashing the wrong firmware can easily brick this device, it is critical to identify your current version before proceeding . Step 1: Identify Your Firmware Version
Before downloading any files, check your current version on the radio's screen : Go to Menu -> Settings. Select Radio Info -> Versions. Note the version format: baofeng dm1702 firmware update
L05.XX.XXX: This version typically requires software designed for the Retevis RT72, as the internal hardware is nearly identical .
v02.XX.XXX: This is the standard Baofeng firmware series and uses the standard MD CPS software . Step 2: Essential Software & Drivers
Programming Software (CPS): Most users recommend using CPS v1.00.78 as the most stable final version .
Special Drivers: The radio often incorrectly detects as a "USB lp port" on Linux systems; a specific unbind script or driver may be needed for communication .
Compatibility: If the standard Baofeng CPS fails to read your radio, many owners report success using the Retevis RT72 software instead . Step 3: Flashing the Firmware
If you have a verified firmware image (typically a .bin or .zip file), follow these steps to enter update mode : Even with careful preparation, things can go wrong
Connect the USB cable to both the PC and the radio (while the radio is off).
Press and hold the # key while turning the volume knob to power the device on.
The screen will remain black, but the radio is now in DFU (Firmware Update) Mode .
Open the firmware upgrade tool within your CPS and select the correct file.
Caution: Ensure you use a "decrypted" firmware file if using official tools, as standard encrypted images may fail to load . Critical Troubleshooting & Safety
Are the DM-1702 and 1702B CPS and firmware the same? - Facebook Issue: "Device not found" or "Failed to connect"
Here’s an interesting, concise write-up on the Baofeng DM-1702 firmware update — aimed at amateur radio enthusiasts and tinkerers.
Issue: "Device not found" or "Failed to connect"
Issue: Flash fails at 32% or 56%
Issue: Radio is bricked (won’t turn on, no LED)
The DM-1702 has a separate bootloader (firmware for loading firmware). Generally, do not update the bootloader unless the OpenGD77 or Baofeng instructions explicitly require it for a specific version.
Updating the bootloader is riskier than updating the main firmware. If the bootloader corrupts, the radio cannot enter DFU mode, and you must have an external ST-Link programmer. Stick to updating only the firmware.bin or .sgl file.