HackRF Pro is an update to the HackRF (One) open-source SDR platform first launched by Michael Ossmann from the Great Scott Gadgets through a Kickstarter campaign in 2013 that attracted close to 2,000 backers at the time, and is still popular since then.
Compared to the HackRF One, the HackRF Pro has a wider 100 kHz to 6 GHz operating frequency, features more RAM and flash memory, supports 16-bit samples for low sample rates, eliminates the DC spike, improves RF performance with a flatter frequency response, has been designed with better power management, and implements other small changes such as switching to a modem USB-C port.
HackRF Pro specifications (preliminary):
- MCU – NXP LCP43xx dual-core Arm Cortex M4/M0 microcontroller
- Logic – Power-efficient FPGA (instead of Xilinx CPLD)
- Frequency Range – 100 kHz to 6 GHz operating frequency
- Tunable from 0 Hz to 7.1 GHz
- Transceiver – Half-duplex
- Sampling rates – Up to 20 million samples per second
- 8-bit quadrature samples (8-bit I and 8-bit Q)
- Compatible with GNU Radio, SDR#, etc…
- Software-configurable RX and TX gain and baseband filter
- Software-controlled RF port power (50 mA at 3.3 V)
- SMA RF connector
- SMA clock input and output for synchronization and triggering
- Buttons for programming
- Internal pin headers for expansion
- USB – USB 2.0 Type-C port
- Power Supply – Via USB
- Injection molded plastic enclosure
We don’t have the full hardware specifications because the documentation has yet to be published. It will be released along with the hardware design files in September 2025. Existing hardware add-ons, including Opera Cake, most PortaPacks, and some enclosures from third parties, will remain compatible with the new SDR.
The software will be familiar to users of the HackRF One because it’s already compatible with HackRF Pro, since it was designed for backward compatibility with the same basic architecture, but with various small enhancements. A migration guide showing how to take advantage of the new capabilities of HackRF Pro will also be provided. You can check out the existing documentation to learn more about the firmware and software for HackRF One/Pro.
The HackRF Pro is already available for pre-order for about $400 from a range of distributors listed on the product page.
Via Hackster.io
Jean-Luc started CNX Software in 2010 as a part-time endeavor, before quitting his job as a software engineering manager, and starting to write daily news, and reviews full time later in 2011.
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