In the world of amateur radio, integrating digital networks like Allstar Link with Raspberry Pi has opened the door for compact, flexible repeater and node deployments. The AURSINC Shari PiHat is one such accessory that brings RF transceiver capability directly to the Raspberry Pi platform, turning a low-cost single board computer into a self-contained Allstar node. AURSINC
What Is the Shari PiHat?
The Shari PiHat is a custom HAT-style interface board designed to pair with a Raspberry Pi (models 2, 3, 4, or 5). It incorporates a SA818 UHF radio module and USB audio interface circuitry to create a compact portable Allstar node that can transmit and receive on amateur UHF (420–450 MHz) frequencies. AURSINC
Unlike DIY homebrew solutions that require external radios or sound-card interfaces, the Shari PiHat places the radio hardware directly on a Pi-mountable board. This simplifies wiring and reduces the component count required to bring up an Allstar node. AURSINC
Key Features
Integrated SA818 Radio Module
The heart of the Shari PiHat is the NiceRF SA818 embedded transceiver, capable of roughly 0.5–1 W output power in the UHF 70 cm band. This means the PiHat can both handle receive audio and RF transmission without an external radio. AURSINC
Raspberry Pi Hosted Allstar Node
You install a standard Allstar Linux image (e.g., HamVOIP or ASL3) on a microSD card for the Raspberry Pi, and the PiHat provides the audio interface and PTT/COS control over USB. This lets the Pi run Allstar software exactly as it would with a traditional interface like a URI or DVMega, but with the radio module built in. Groups.io
Front-Panel Status LEDs
Onboard LEDs indicate power, USB audio connection status, COS (carrier operate), and PTT (transmit) activity. This gives instantaneous visual feedback during setup and runs. AURSINC
Simple Integration
The PiHat draws power from the Pi’s 5 V rail and uses a USB audio IC (CM119B) for all voice and signaling. It plugs into the Raspberry Pi’s USB ports with minimal cabling, making it suitable for portable or deployed nodes where space and wiring simplicity matter. AURSINC
Typical Build and Deployment
A basic Shari PiHat node setup includes:
- A supported Raspberry Pi (2/3/4/5) with microSD media
- A Pi-friendly Allstar Link image (HamVOIP, ASL3)
- The Shari PiHat board mounted and connected to the Pi
- A suitable 5 V power supply for the Pi (ensure adequate amperage to avoid brownout issues)
- An antenna with appropriate UHF connector and feedline
Once assembled, the Pi boots its Allstar image, enumerates the PiHat as an audio device, and interfaces with the SA818 module. At that point you can program PL tones, TX/RX offsets, and other radio parameters per your local band plan and license privileges. Groups.io
Why It Matters for Ham Radio Operators
For operators and technologists alike, the Shari PiHat represents a practical fusion of:
- Affordable embedded computing (Raspberry Pi)
- Digital linking infrastructure (Allstar Link)
- Onboard RF capability (SA818 embedded transceiver)
This makes it a compelling choice for portable repeater controllers, emergency communications kits, or experimental VoIP-RF gateway nodes without the complexity of separate transceivers and sound-card interfaces.
From a project perspective, consolidating all required hardware into one compact package reduces setup time and wiring complexity — key considerations when deploying in field operations or compact installations. AURSINC
Limitations and Considerations
There are important technical points to keep in mind:
- Power levels are limited compared with dedicated repeater radios; this typically means modest coverage unless paired with a proper antenna system. AURSINC
- FCC compliance and licensing: even with integrated modules like the SA818, operators must ensure their nodes conform to Part 97 or relevant regional regulations for RF spectral purity and power limits. kits4hams.com
- USB and Pi power stability: cheap or under-rated power supplies can cause system instability or communication issues with the PiHat interface. AURSINC
Conclusion
The AURSINC Shari PiHat is a focused accessory for Raspberry Pi enthusiasts and amateur radio operators who want to build a self-contained Allstar node with integrated RF capability. It abstracts much of the complexity traditionally associated with RF interfacing, making Allstar deployments more accessible for portable and compact installations.
Whether you’re building emergency communications nodes, experimenting with VoIP-to-RF bridging, or simply want a Raspberry Pi-centric Allstar node, the Shari PiHat is a noteworthy option in the growing ecosystem of Pi-powered ham radio interfaces.