Re: [Discuss-gnuradio] Inexpensive Digital RF Signal Generator

Thanks for both suggestions.  Both recommended solutions are great hardware, but at those prices I may as well buy another HackRF One.

On Thu, Jun 27, 2019 at 4:41 AM Jonas Manthey <jonas.manthey@u-blox.com> wrote:

Hi Cliff,

 

You don't specify your bandwidth requirements but you might want to have a look at the ADALM-PLUTO SDR: https://www.analog.com/en/design-center/evaluation-hardware-and-software/evaluation-boards-kits/adalm-pluto.html

It does not fully match your requirements, however I am not aware of an SDR that can transmit and costs less than 50$. If you strip away the transmit requirements, the rtl-sdr is perfect for your needs: https://www.rtl-sdr.com/buy-rtl-sdr-dvb-t-dongles/

Maybe you can use this and an inexpensive arbitrary waveform generator?

 

Cheers,

Jonas

 

From: Discuss-gnuradio [mailto:discuss-gnuradio-bounces+jonas.manthey=u-blox.com@gnu.org] On Behalf Of cliff palmer
Sent: Mittwoch, 26. Juni 2019 15:15
To: discuss-gnuradio@gnu.org
Subject: [Discuss-gnuradio] Inexpensive Digital RF Signal Generator

 

I'd like to buy/build an inexpensive digital RF signal generator for testing RF scan/capture projects.  I want something that 

- generates a digital pattern I specify (512 - 32k bits)

- on a frequency I select (somewhere in the 100M - 500M range but the range of frequencies can be much narrower)

- is entirely legal to operate in the US (I don't mind registering it with the FCC)

- is simple enough that a newcomer to RF signal processing/SDR can make it work without pestering this fine list with dozens of questions

- is controllable using software running on a linux or windows workstation connected via USB (JTAG is fine)

- is inexpensive (read US$50 or less, or $100 or less if it makes coffee and performs light housekeeping)

- is safe to operate (no breadboard layouts, and something you would let your grandchildren touch)

- is powered by USB connection to a monitor, workstation or power adapter and the power connection on the Signal Generator can be USB, barrel connector, or any other standard connection

And with all that, I am indifferent on color, form factor, brand name and such.

Thanks in advance

Cliff