cjsatuforc/easy-sdr

Creating affordable, easy-to-manufacture prototypes of PCBs to working and expand the capabilities of existing low-cost SDR receivers based on RTL2832U chip.

The project implements some hardware devices for cheap SDR receivers based on Realtek RTL2832U controller

What is SDR?

Software-defined radio (SDR) is a radio communication system where components that have been traditionally implemented in hardware (e.g. mixers, filters, amplifiers, modulators/demodulators, detectors, etc.) are instead implemented by means of software on a personal computer or embedded system.

What are the objectives of this project?

Creating affordable, easy-to-manufacture prototypes of PCBs to working and expand the capabilities of existing low-cost SDR receivers based on RTL2832U chip. All the created elements of the project will have a detailed description of the assembly process, with all the existing features and possible problems.

Current development progress:

Currently available modules at EasyEDA platform:

• Antenna Mini-Whip (TH)              (README, Components list, Assembly guide)
• Antenna Mini-Whip (SMD)           (README, Components list, Assembly guide)
• Antenna power supply (SMD)      (README, Components list, Assembly guide)
• HF Upconverter (TH)                     (README, Components list, Assembly guide, Filters design files)
• HF Upconverter (SMD)                  (README, Components list, Assembly guide, Filters design files)
• PI Attenuator (SMD)                      (README, Components list, Assembly guide)

Current available information articles:

• How to export Gerber file from EasyEDA
• How to order from JLCPCB
• How to order from LCSC
• How to make a PCB (Toner transfer method)
• How to work with SDR receivers on Linux

How to use this repository?

In the root of the repository select a device of interest and go to the appropriate directory (for example HF Upconverter). After the transition, select the component group of interest (SMD or TH). Also in Datasheets and Schematics directories, you can find all necessary technical documentation for the used components in the chosen module and schematic files in PDF format. If you only need GERBER files, you can find them in the appropriate Gerbers directory for the selected components group. The next step is to choose the platform in which the project is implemented (EasyEDA or Sprint Layout (only for TH components)). After selecting the directory with the platform of interest, the list of files for implementing the device becomes available to you. After that, based on submitted files, you can make the device independently or order printed circuit boards for factory manufacturing.

Where can I buy an SDR receiver?

You can order the SDR receiver on any of the currently available internet sites, such as eBay, Aliexpress, Taobao, etc. Or you can use the following links to order some advanced versions of SDR receivers:

SDR Store	Information
RTL-SDR.COM	International delivery. Performed selling modified versions of receivers. Performs support and develop new versions. There is a large set of various useful information (software, articles, manuals, news).
NooElec	International delivery. Large selection of receivers and accessories.
Airspy	You can choose a retailer according to your whereabouts. Performs support and develop new versions. There are links for downloading SDRSharp and software for working with the server part.

Who helped me with the development of the project?

Great thanks to RTL-SDR.COM for the provided samples of SDR receivers RTL-SDR.COM V.3 and information support. LCSC company that provided most of the electronic components used for assembly for completely free. Mini-Circuits company for the providing samples of ADE frequency mixer by EZ-Sample program. And also PCBWay for $ 20 discount when ordering PCBs for the project.

How to contact me?

• E-mail: [email protected]
• Telegram: https://t.me/igrikxd
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/igor-yatsevich/