Watch the video

Full walkthrough video: https://youtu.be/vi4zIviqBBQ

Quick setup commands

First we'll start with the dynamic duo - and patch your machine to the latest version of the OS:

    sudo apt update
    sudo apt upgrade -y
  

From there, we'll need to install direwolf itself:

    sudo apt install direwolf
  

We'll need to put your user in the dialout and audio groups to allow for interaction with the radio:

    sudo usermod -aG dialout,audio $USER
  

After adding yourself to the groups, log out and log back in (or reboot) so group membership takes effect.

Next up, plug in your TOADs DI to your computer/sbc. If its already plugged in, that's ok as well. We're going to find where the sound card showed up and make some notes for your direwolf config. Back to the command line and type in this command:

    arecord -l #grab card number and device number
  

Make a note of the "card #" and the "device #" as I showed in the video.

Configure direwolf.conf

Edit your Direwolf configuration, I use "joe" as my editor, but use whatever you're comfortable with. Since we just logged in, you should be in your home directory already. If not, change to that folder first.

joe direwolf.conf

Change the following lines (examples shown — replace values with your devices and callsign):

    ADEVICE plughw:1,0  # (your sound device that we found earlier via arecord -l)
    PTT CM108           # (set PTT method; change if you use a different USB-PTT or GPIO)
    MYCALL              # (replace with your callsign + SSID)
    PBEACON             # (find your lat/long as show and edit your comment to be whatever you want)
  

Save the file and exit your editor when done.

Start Direwolf

Once configured, start Direwolf from the command line: (we should still be in your home directory)

direwolf -c direwolf.conf

If you're lucky enough to have APRS traffic in your area, you should see Direwolf open the audio device, set the PTT, and begin decoding APRS packets.

About the TOADs DI

The TOADs DI is a compact digital interface designed to bring audio/PTT/COS to older radios that lack USB or data ports. It’s perfect for hobbyists who want to add APRS, packet, or other digital modes without heavy modifications.

Parts needed

These are the parts used in the build and links if you want to source them:

• 👉 100k Ohm Trim Pot (Variable Resistor)
• 👉 10k Ohm Resistor
• 👉 BC547 Transistor
• 👉 4.7uF Capacitor
• 👉 Breadboard
• 👉 Dupont Wires
• 👉 TRRS Breakout
• 👉 Treedix RJ-45 Breakout Board

Troubleshooting tips

• Confirm your sound device with arecord -l and set the ADEVICE accordingly.
• If Direwolf can't access the sound device, ensure your user is in the audio group
• Check PTT wiring and ensure the CM108 (or other PTT hardware) shows up with lsusb.
• Join the TOADs Discord Server and Chat with us in the #toads-di room.