The PortaRF, created by OpenSourceSDRLab, is an open-source software-defined radio (SDR) combining HackRF One and the PortaPack H4M into one device. It is a standalone device for transmitting and receiving radio signals from 1 MHz to 6 GHz.
Earlier setups would stack a PortaPack on the main board for HackRF portability. PortaRF integrates these components into a single PCB, reducing size, complexity, and enhancing signal quality. It also features a larger display, increased flash storage, and a bigger battery.
The PortaRF features:
- MCU – NXP LPC432 dual-core ARM Cortex M4/M0 (LPC4320FBD144) microcontroller
- CPLD
- RF ICs
- MAX2837 – Wireless Broadband RF Transceiver (2.3GHz to 2.7GHz)
- RFFC5072 – Wideband Synthesizer/VCO with 30MHz to 6 GHz Mixer
- Frequency Range – 1 MHz to 6 GHz
- Storage
- 2MB SPI Flash (W25Q16DV) for additional Mayhem firmware storage
- MicroSD card slot
- Display – 4.0-inch IPS full-view HD resistive touch screen
- Audio
- Built-in dual speaker sound holes
- 3.5 mm headphone jack
- USB – 1x USB Type-C port
- Expansion
- Board-to-board connector for add-on boards
- Optional ESP32-S3 AI MDK extension board
- Miscellaneous
- LED status indicators
- Gamepad-style directional buttons
- Rotary navigation knob
- CR2032 battery for RTC
- Power
- USB Type-C charging port
- 3,000mAh lithium battery with protection features
- Enclosure – Custom snap-fit shell
An optional AI MDK extension board can be attached to the back, enabling basic voice control features such as waking the device and switching apps.
The PortaRF can receive and transmit various signals. It can capture and decode ADS-B, AIS, Bluetooth, NRF24L01, analog TV, weather radiosondes, TPMS, and pagers. It can send signals like ADS-B, APRS, Morse code, SSTV, RDS, and more.
The PortaRF is supported by a custom version of the Mayhem firmware. Documentation, 3D models, and firmware are available on the OpenSourceSDRLab GitHub and the Mayhem Firmware repository.
The PortaRF is available on AliExpress for about $285 and on the OpenSourceSDRLab store starting at $220, with the AI MDK version at $255. Orders ship from China.