B.B. Link Adapter

Meet B.B. Link, the adapter that allows iPhones and iPads to connect to Kenwood TH-D75 and D74 radios via Bluetooth. iOS devices, which are limited to Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), can't pair natively with these radios. With this adapter, iOS applications like RadioMail can access the radio's built-in KISS TNC packet modem for off-grid communication. Simply plug the adapter into a USB-C port for power, turn your radio on, and you're set.

Features

• Pair with the radio once, and the adapter will remember it. It automatically reconnects whenever the radio is on and within range.
• Automatically identifies the correct VFO for data connections and switches the radio to KISS TNC mode when an app connects.
• Allows applications like RadioMail to change frequencies as needed.
• Automatically returns the radio to its previous frequency and mode once you're done.
• Comes with a handy lanyard to keep your adapter within easy reach.
• Powered via universal USB-C connector.
• Over-the-air firmware updates using the B.B. Link Configurator app.
• Flexible open source firmware.

Compatibility

This adapter only works with certain Kenwood radios, devices and apps. Double-check you've got the right gear. You'll need:

• A device with a USB-C port capable of powering the adapter, like the iPhone 15, newer iPad models listed here or a portable power bank with a USB-C port.
• A Kenwood TH-D74 or TH-D75 radio.
• An iOS packet application like RadioMail, APRS.fi or PocketPacket that complies with the BLE KISS TNC specification.

Note:

• While B.B. Link is designed to plug directly into USB-C, beware that the USB-C connector on the TH-D75 won't power the adapter. The radio does not act as a power delivery host.
• If your iPhone is from a generation earlier than the iPhone 15, it uses a Lightning connector, which is not compatible with USB-C devices. Using a Lightning to USB-C adapter will not resolve this issue, as it does not enable the phone to function as a power delivery host.
• If you want to use the adapter with a previous generation iPhone that lacks USB-C, a portable charge power bank can be used instead. Also, your vehicle may be equipped with a USB-C power plug, or alternatively, you can use a USB-C car charger that plugs into the cigarette lighter.
• Some phone cases may interfere with the adapter. The adapter provides about 2mm of clearance when plugged in. If your case is unusually thick, you may need to remove it for a proper fit or consider using a USB-C extender.

What's Included?

• B.B. Link Adapter
• Lanyard
• Quick setup card

Downloads

Install the B.B. Link Configurator from the App Store

Get the Operator Manual pdf file

High Praise from Fellow Operators

Quick and easy setup. Within 10 minutes, I was using Radiomail on my iPad and Kenwood TH-d74 to upload email via Winlink. — Bob AD6Q

What an awesome device and implementation! I was amazed at how compact the device is. Setup with the configuration app was very easy and flawless. Integration with the RadioMail app is perfect. Could not be any happier! Great job, Georges! — Jim WA3NOA

George has done what Kenwood should have in the TH-D74 & TH-D75 model radios. — Don KD9EYU

Great form factor! Plugged into my iphone and connected to the radio right away. Launched Radio Mail and seamlessly connected to a local winlink node. It was so easy. — Christopher KK7DOG

Georges at Island Magic has created magic for the ham radio community again. This device is elegant in design and functionality and ‘just works!’. It easily makes your TH-D74 or D75 a great tool for Winlink. — Thom K7FZO

It was very easy to setup and get working with my TH-D74. Nice, compact design, the dongle connects to my iPhone 15 Pro Max while enclosed in my protective case with no issues. A must have for iPhone + TH-D74/5 users! — Tony W1LMS

The B.B. Link worked right out of the package with very little setup. Just connecting Bluetooth. I have other Ham Radio accessories and this was the easiest to set up and start using. I used other products to use Winlink and they were not as easy and hit or miss as far as working. Would definitely recommend to other users. — Mark KW5MLR

I took the device out of the package and had it communicating in just moments. Very impressed with this adapter. Thanks for bringing this product to market! — Tom N4HZX

From the website to the ordering process to packaging and shipping, youtube videos and the online manual as well as after sales follow up … all very well done. Highly recommended! Got 2 adapters and the radiomail app. All working great with my TH-D75As, iPhones & iPads — Thorsten K5TCP

Quick and intuitive setup. Durable construction ideal for portable use. Made my first Packet Winlink connection within minutes using my Kenwood TH-D74. Already successfully checked into two Winlink nets. Well worth it! — Sam NM5N

Fantastic little device! Does a great job connecting iPhone and the TH-D74. — Jason KJ2A

Excellent piece of kit — Philip W1PHB

The adaptor works very well. Once it is set, it is basically plug-and-play and had been very reliable. — Matt NU8H

The setup is very straight forward. I didn't even have to reference the manual until I had an issue where it wasn't transmitting. Georges has a great troubleshooting section and I had it running in just a few minutes after making a configuration change to the D75. Working like a champ ever since. I like how it will find the closest packet node to your GPS location. Will be great when traveling. — Jim KK7A

I was able to setup the BB link to work with my TH-D74 with minimal effort. I am pleased with the quality and ease of use of the device. I have been able to use RadioMail as a first time win link user to send and receive email via RF. I am really happy that I am able to use my iPhone with my Kenwood HT! — Dave KE7MFR

Very simple to set up and was 'on the air' with packet in minutes. — Ron K5IDL