Devices

Vail Adapter Family

There are a few different models depending on functionality. Some are simple USB practice tools, others can key your radio directly. Pick whichever fits your setup. This is an open-source project — all designs and firmware are available on GitHub. Compare all models →

Button Hat Add-On

Optional three-button accessory for computer-free settings control and CW memory recording/playback.

Features

• Adjust speed (5-40 WPM)

• Change sidetone frequency

• Switch keyer modes

• 3 CW memory slots (25s each)

• One-button playback

Compatibility

✓ Vail Basic

✓ Vail Advanced

✓ DIY No PCB

✗ Vail Lite

✗ Vail Summit

Buy Kit

Assembled or DIY kit from Brett (KE9BOS)

Vail Project contributor & maintainer

Buy at shop.ke9bos.com →

Official store · Free shipping in Continental US

DIY Build

Download PCB files and source parts yourself

Get PCB Files on GitHub

Can be added during initial build or retrofitted later

Note: CW memory playback to real radios only works with Vail Advanced. Other models playback via USB only.

Custom PCB Boards

DIY PCB Options

Building your own Vail adapter? We make it easy to get the custom PCBs you need.

Option 1: Order Files

Download the PCB design files from our GitHub repository and order from your preferred PCB manufacturer.

Get PCB Files on GitHub

Option 2: Order from Brett (KE9BOS)

$1 per PCB - US-based ordering

Vail Project contributor & maintainer · official store

Order PCBs at shop.ke9bos.com →

Device Comparison

Feature	Vail Lite	Vail Basic	Vail Advanced	DIY No PCB	Summit
Form Factor	USB Stick	PCB + Case	PCB + Case	Breadboard	Device
Standalone	No	No	No	No	Yes
USB HID/MIDI	✓	✓	✓	✓	—
Vail Zoomer Compatible	✓	✓	✓	✓	—
Sidetone	Buzzer	Buzzer	Buzzer	Buzzer	Speaker
Audio Output Jack	—	✓	✓	Optional	Speaker
Button Control	—	Optional	Optional	Optional	Display UI
CW Memory	—	✓ USB only	✓ USB & Radio	✓ USB only	✓ USB & Radio
Radio Output	—	—	✓	Optional	✓
Capacitive Touch Keying	—	—	✓	Optional	✓
Practice Oscillator Mode	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓
Display	—	—	—	—	4" Screen
WiFi/BT	—	—	—	—	✓
Battery	—	—	—	—	✓
Training Modes	—	—	—	—	✓
Price	$19.99	$24.99	$29.99	DIY	~$80-90

Which One Is Right for You?

Vail Lite

You want the simplest, smallest option
Don't need adjustable settings
Primarily use vailmorse.com or web apps
Value portability above all else

View Vail Lite →

Vail Basic

You want a full-featured CW adapter
Want audio output for headphones
Prefer a durable 3D-printed case
Don't need radio keying

View Vail Basic →

Vail Advanced

You need to key your radio directly
Operate CW contests or QRP
Want built-in capacitive touch keying
Plan to use CW memory on air

View Vail Advanced →

DIY No PCB

You enjoy building from scratch
Learning about microcontrollers
Want to prototype first
Have soldering/wiring skills

View DIY Option →

Vail Summit

You want standalone operation (no PC)
Need built-in training modes
Want WiFi repeater access
Prefer battery-powered portable

View Vail Summit →