Summary of Build a DIY FM Radio with this $12 kit
Summary (under 100 words): This article describes a JC-300 DIY FM radio kit based on the RDA5807 single-chip tuner that covers 87–108 MHz. The kit includes a bare PCB and all components (speaker, antenna, 18650 holder, buttons, power switch) that must be soldered and assembled manually. It requires basic tools and follows full instructions, BoM, and schematics in the user manual. Priced around $12–$13, it is presented as an affordable hands-on project suitable for teaching soldering and older technology to younger learners.
Parts used in the JC-300 DIY FM Radio:
- RDK Microelectronics RDA5807 single-chip broadcast FM radio tuner (87MHz - 108MHz)
- DA2822 power amplifier
- 66mm speaker
- 75 Ohm FM antenna
- 18650 battery holder
- Feet/brackets to hold the PCB vertically
- Four control buttons (volume and station switching)
- Power switch
- Bare PCB
I’ve not used an FM radio for years, but if you’d like to teach younger generations about older technology and show them how to solder components there’s an RDA5807 based kit that would allow you to build DIY FM Radio operating in the 87 MHz to 108 MHz range.
The JC-300 kit comes with a bare PCB, and all components required including a speaker, an antenna, and a holder for a 18650 battery. Some of the main components of the kit include:
- RDK Microelectronics RDA5807 single-chip broadcast FM radio tuner operating in the 87MHz -108MHz frequency range
- DA2822 Power Amplifier
- 66mm speaker
- 75 Ohm FM antenna
- 18650 battery holder
- Feet/brackets to hold the PCB vertically
The system also comes with four buttons to adjust the volume and switch FM stations, plus a power switch.
Nothing is pre-soldered on the bare PCB at all, so everything will have to be soldered and assembled manually. You’ll also need a small Phillips screwdriver, wire cutters, a soldering iron, small gauge solder (1.0mm max recommended), and possibly a magnifying glass. The full step-by-step instructions, as well as the BoM and schematics, can be found in the user manual.
It could make a fun project for kids, and it won’t break the bank as I first found it on IC Station for $13.25, but it’s also available on Aliexpress for $12.61.
Source: Build a DIY FM Radio with this $12 kit
- What frequency range does the JC-300 FM radio operate in?
The RDA5807 tuner in the kit operates in the 87 MHz to 108 MHz range. - Does the kit include a speaker and antenna?
Yes, the kit includes a 66mm speaker and a 75 Ohm FM antenna. - Is anything pre-soldered on the PCB?
No, nothing is pre-soldered; all components must be soldered and assembled manually. - What additional tools are needed to assemble the kit?
You will need a small Phillips screwdriver, wire cutters, a soldering iron, small gauge solder (1.0mm max recommended), and possibly a magnifying glass. - Does the kit come with instructions and schematics?
Yes, full step-by-step instructions, the BoM, and schematics are available in the user manual. - Can this kit be used to teach soldering to younger people?
Yes, the article suggests it could make a fun project for kids to learn soldering and older technology. - Does the kit include a battery holder?
Yes, it includes an 18650 battery holder. - Are there controls for volume and station tuning?
Yes, the kit provides four buttons for adjusting volume and switching FM stations, plus a power switch. - How much does the kit cost?
The article cites prices around $12.61 on Aliexpress and $13.25 on IC Station.
