Valley Enterprises Radio Programming Cable USB FTDI Compatible

In this review of the Valley Enterprises Radio Programming Cable USB FTDI, the bottom line is simple: this cable is for technicians and radio hobbyists who need a dependable, plug-and-play way to program a wide range of Motorola radios on a PC. The reviewer found the FTDI USB chipset and visible TX/RX LED indicators make setup and diagnostics straightforward, while the 1m length is long enough for bench work without excess cable clutter. It is not a complete turnkey kit since no programming software is included and the FTDI VCP driver must be installed separately.

Key Features

• FTDI USB chipset: Provides stable virtual COM port connectivity so most programming applications detect the cable reliably.
• TX and RX LED indicators: Oncable LEDs show transmit and receive activity, which helps quickly confirm data flow during programming.
• Aftermarket compatibility: Works with a long list of Motorola mobile and handheld models, covering many legacy and current radios.
• Total length 1M (3.3 ft): Offers enough reach for desk or bench programming without leaving excess cable across the workspace.
• No software included: Keeps the bundle focused on hardware; users can pair it with their preferred programming application and FTDI VCP driver.

Who It's For

The cable is best for radio technicians, fleet managers, and amateur radio operators who already have or plan to obtain Motorola programming software and need a dependable physical link to a PC. Its FTDI chipset makes it a good choice when compatibility and stable serial emulation are priorities.

It is not aimed at users looking for a fully packaged solution; those who expect programming software, radios, or a simple turnkey kit should look elsewhere. Also, anyone uncomfortable installing drivers or configuring a virtual COM port may prefer a seller that bundles software support.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Reliable FTDI USB chipset ensures consistent COM port behavior with most PC software.
• Visible TX/RX LED indicators make troubleshooting quick and intuitive.
• Broad Motorola radio compatibility covers many handheld and mobile models.
• Practical 1m length balances reach and tidy bench layout.

Cons

• No programming software included, so buyers must supply compatible Motorola software separately.
• Requires manual installation of the FTDI VCP driver for operation on some systems.

Specifications

Product Type	Aftermarket Programming Cable
USB Chipset	FTDI USB
Indicators	TX and RX LED indicators
Total Length	1M (3.3 ft)
Included Software	No programming software included
Driver Requirement	Requires FTDI USB VCP driver (virtual COM port)

Our Verdict

The Valley Enterprises USB FTDI programming cable is a sensible, value-oriented tool for anyone who needs reliable PC connectivity to multiple Motorola radios. It delivers stable FTDI-based COM port behavior and useful TX/RX LEDs, making routine programming tasks faster; just be prepared to install the FTDI driver and provide your own programming software.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this cable work with my Motorola handheld?
Check the product description list for specific models - it covers a wide range of Motorola GP, HT, MTX, PRO and related series handhelds and mobiles.

Is programming software included?
No, the cable ships without programming software; buyers must obtain compatible Motorola programming software separately.

Do I need a driver to use it?
Yes, the cable requires the FTDI USB VCP driver so the device appears as a virtual COM port to PC applications.