Description of the article « HackRF Pro + PortaPack H4M Pro: 5-Antenna Kit »
HackRF Pro + PortaPack H4M Pro: portable SDR from 100 kHz to 6 GHz
The HackRF Pro with PortaPack H4M Pro combines a software-defined radio platform with a portable interface for observing signals, exploring frequency bands and testing radio equipment. This kit includes five SMA antennas, a USB-A to USB-C cable and an RF amplifier for setting up different experiments.
The Pro generation extends coverage into lower frequencies and adds an integrated TCXO, FPGA logic, more Flash memory and a USB-C connection. The PortaPack provides a colour touchscreen, physical controls, built-in audio and a holder for a replaceable 18650 cell. A compatible battery must be purchased separately.
Our expert view
This kit suits users who want to observe, compare and capture signals both away from the bench and on a computer. The integrated TCXO provides a more stable frequency reference, while a replaceable 18650 cell makes it easier to prepare for multiple sessions. Consistent results still depend on selecting the right antenna and setting the gains correctly. For absolute power measurements, a calibrated spectrum analyser remains the appropriate reference.
What has improved over earlier generations?
Extended low-frequency coverage
The HackRF Pro tunes down to 100 kHz, compared with 1 MHz for the classic HackRF One. This opens up more scope for low-frequency and medium-wave experiments. A suitable antenna is required for this part of the spectrum: the five supplied antennas mainly serve higher radio bands.
An integrated TCXO, FPGA logic and more memory
The 25 MHz TCXO, with a stated stability of 0.5 ppm, helps reduce temperature-related frequency drift. The iCE40 UltraPlus FPGA replaces the earlier CPLD, and Flash memory increases from 8 to 32 Mbits. These changes provide more room for firmware development and onboard digital processing. Available functions depend on the installed software version.
An updated RF chain and reinforced protection
The Pro platform introduces a revised RF chain, internal shielding and reinforced protection at the antenna connector. Gain adjustment remains essential, especially near strong transmitters: additional protection does not prevent every case of input overload.
A PortaPack with a replaceable battery
The H4M Pro uses a replaceable 18650 cell, so a compatible charged cell can be swapped between sessions. The speaker and microSD slot have also been repositioned for easier access. Runtime varies with the battery, screen brightness, applications and radio operating mode.
| Item | Earlier generations | Pro kit |
|---|---|---|
| Lowest operating frequency | 1 MHz | 100 kHz |
| Programmable logic | CPLD | iCE40 UltraPlus FPGA |
| Flash memory | 8 Mbits | 32 Mbits |
| Frequency reference | TCXO depending on the variant or accessories | Integrated 25 MHz TCXO; stated stability of 0.5 ppm |
| USB connection | Micro-USB on the classic design; USB-C on some variants | USB-C, USB 2.0 |
| PortaPack power | LiPo battery in earlier H4M kits | Replaceable 18650 cell in H4M Pro, not included |
| Standard sample mode | Up to 20 MS/s, 8-bit I/Q | Up to 20 MS/s, 8-bit I/Q |
Compared with the classic HackRF One architecture and earlier H4M kits. Some earlier variants already feature USB-C, a TCXO or additional protection.
Use Mayhem in the field or connect to a computer over USB-C
In standalone mode, the PortaPack H4M Pro gives access to compatible Mayhem applications through its touchscreen and control dial. You can observe signals and make captures without keeping a computer nearby, using a compatible 18650 battery and any microSD resources required by the application.
In USB mode, the HackRF Pro becomes an SDR peripheral for a computer running compatible drivers and software. Standard operation reaches 20 million samples per second with 8-bit I/Q. This describes the sample stream: it does not mean that the device observes the entire 100 kHz to 6 GHz range simultaneously, or that a microSD card can record at that rate.
To compare this kit with the earlier setup, see the HackRF One R10C and PortaPack H4M kit.
Practical uses for this portable SDR
Observe radio activity and investigate interference
Examine a band, compare the RF environment before and after switching on a device, or look for recurring transmissions around a workshop or installation. Keeping the same antenna and gain settings between observations makes comparisons more useful.
Study your own 433 or 868 MHz sensors
For experiments with sensors, weather stations or telemetry equipment you own, spectrum displays and I/Q captures help reveal frequency, occupied bandwidth and intermittent transmissions. Decoding then depends on the protocol and available applications.
Explore radio reception and ADS-B
With compatible Mayhem applications and a suitable antenna, you can explore broadcast reception, different modulation types and ADS-B reception at 1090 MHz. Results depend on antenna choice, placement and local conditions. Firmware updates allow you to follow the development of compatible applications.
Teach, develop and analyse signals on a computer
In training or laboratory work, the kit lets you move from portable observation to more detailed computer analysis. Compatible SDR software supports further processing, visualisation and demodulation chains. Transmission tests must use your own equipment and comply with the conditions authorised for the frequencies involved.
Strengths and limitations
| Strengths | Limitations to consider |
|---|---|
| 100 kHz to 6 GHz tuning range for exploring many radio bands. | A wide frequency sweep is sequential: the entire range is not observed simultaneously. |
| Portable operation with a touchscreen and physical controls. | A compatible 18650 battery is needed for portable use and is not included. |
| Integrated TCXO and updated radio platform. | Standard operation remains 8-bit I/Q. Absolute power measurements require calibrated equipment. |
| Five SMA antennas for different commonly used bands. | The antenna must suit the band. Reception is not uniform across the full tuning range. |
| USB-C connection for further analysis on a computer. | Half-duplex operation means transmission and reception must alternate. |
| Mayhem applications and scope for further experimentation. | Some functions require technical knowledge and compatible microSD resources. |
HackRF Pro and PortaPack H4M Pro specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Radio platform | HackRF Pro r1.2.1 |
| Portable add-on | PortaPack H4M Pro |
| Operating range | 100 kHz to 6 GHz |
| Transmit / receive mode | Half-duplex, one direction at a time |
| Standard USB sample rate | Up to 20 million samples per second |
| Standard sample format | 8 bits I + 8 bits Q |
| Microcontroller | LPC4330 |
| Programmable logic | iCE40 UltraPlus FPGA |
| Flash memory | 32 Mbits, W25Q32 |
| RF transceiver IC | MAX2831 |
| ADC / DAC | MAX5865 |
| Frequency reference | Integrated 25 MHz TCXO; stated stability of 0.5 ppm |
| USB interface | USB 2.0 with USB-C connector |
| Display | 3.2-inch resistive colour touchscreen |
| Controls | Touchscreen and rotary encoder with five-way navigation |
| Audio | Built-in microphone and speaker; 3.5 mm headphone output |
| Storage | microSD slot, FAT32 or exFAT |
| Expansion | GPIO port and external clock interfaces |
| Antenna connector | SMA; software-switchable 3.3 V Bias-T supply |
| RF protection | Internal shielding and reinforced antenna-port protection |
| Portable power | Replaceable lithium-ion 18650 cell, not included |
| Charging | Integrated USB charging management |
| Preinstalled firmware | Mayhem adapted for HackRF Pro; applications depend on the version and microSD resources |
| Computer software | GNU Radio, SDR++, GQRX and other HackRF-compatible applications, depending on drivers and versions |
| Included antennas | 5 SMA antennas for different parts of the spectrum |
What is included in the five-antenna kit?
The kit includes HackRF Pro, PortaPack H4M Pro with adapted Mayhem firmware, five SMA antennas, a USB-A to USB-C cable and an RF amplifier.
- 1 wideband antenna for the stated 40 MHz to 6 GHz range.
- 1 antenna for 433 / 868 MHz, bands commonly used by sensors and radio equipment.
- 1 antenna for 700 to 2700 MHz for experiments in those parts of the spectrum.
- 1 antenna for 2.4 / 5.8 GHz for observing RF activity in these bands.
- 1 antenna for GSM / 3G / 4G bands, selected according to the frequency being studied.
Antenna choice directly affects reception. The stated ranges guide selection and do not guarantee uniform sensitivity across every frequency. A dedicated antenna may be needed for low-frequency work.
18650 battery not included. Some applications and recording functions require a microSD card prepared with resources matching the installed Mayhem version.
HackRF Pro and PortaPack H4M Pro FAQ
Can I use the HackRF Pro with PortaPack H4M Pro without a computer?
Yes. The PortaPack H4M Pro lets you run compatible Mayhem applications using its touchscreen and physical controls. Portable operation requires a compatible 18650 battery, which is not included. Some applications also need resources on a microSD card.
What frequencies does the HackRF Pro cover?
The radio platform operates from 100 kHz to 6 GHz. Reception also depends on the antenna, frequency, gain settings and surrounding RF conditions. The device does not observe this entire range at the same time.
What are the main upgrades in the Pro version?
Compared with the classic HackRF One architecture, the Pro extends the lower frequency limit to 100 kHz, adds an integrated TCXO, replaces the CPLD with an FPGA and increases Flash memory to 32 Mbits. It also updates the RF chain, protection and USB-C connection. The H4M Pro uses a replaceable 18650 battery and repositions the speaker and microSD slot. Some earlier variants already include some of these features.
What is included in the five-antenna kit?
The kit includes HackRF Pro, PortaPack H4M Pro with an adapted version of Mayhem, a USB-A to USB-C cable, an RF amplifier and five SMA antennas: a 40 MHz to 6 GHz wideband antenna, a 433 / 868 MHz antenna, a 700 to 2700 MHz antenna, a 2.4 / 5.8 GHz antenna and an antenna for GSM / 3G / 4G bands. The 18650 battery is not included.
Is a battery included, and how long does it last?
The 18650 battery is not included. The H4M Pro uses a compatible, replaceable lithium-ion cell. Runtime depends on battery capacity, screen brightness, the application and whether the radio is receiving or transmitting. No fixed runtime is specified for this kit.
Can the kit record radio signals?
Yes. Compatible applications can save I/Q captures to a correctly prepared microSD card. Recording features and data rates depend on the Mayhem version, application and card performance. The maximum USB sample rate does not automatically apply to standalone recording.
Can it transmit and receive simultaneously?
No. The HackRF Pro is half-duplex: it receives or transmits at any given time. A firmware update cannot turn this hardware architecture into a full-duplex radio.
Do the five antennas cover the full 100 kHz to 6 GHz range?
The supplied antennas serve different parts of the spectrum and do not provide uniform reception across the device's entire range. A dedicated antenna is needed for effective low-frequency work. Choose the antenna to suit the band being studied.
Which computer applications can I use?
GNU Radio, SDR++, GQRX and other applications supporting HackRF can be used, depending on the operating system, drivers and software versions. The connection requires a data-capable USB-C cable, such as the included USB-A to USB-C cable.
Does it automatically identify every Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or mobile device?
Seeing a signal shows that there is radio activity in a band. Identification and decoding depend on the protocol, bandwidth and software. This kit is not a universal decoder and does not automatically provide access to encrypted communications.
Specifications of the article « HackRF Pro + PortaPack H4M Pro: 5-Antenna Kit »
- Type: SDR transceiver with PortaPack H4M Pro
- Frequency range: 100 kHz to 6 GHz
- Standard sampling: Up to 20 MS/s, 8-bit I/Q
- Operation: Half-duplex, receive or transmit
- Display: 3.2-inch resistive colour touchscreen
- Clock: Integrated 25 MHz TCXO, stated stability of 0.5 ppm
- Logic / memory: iCE40 UltraPlus FPGA / 32 Mbit Flash
- Connection: USB-C, USB 2.0
- Firmware: Mayhem adapted for HackRF Pro
- Storage: microSD slot
- Portable power: Replaceable 18650 cell, not included
- Included antennas: 5 multiband SMA antennas
- Included accessories: USB-A to USB-C cable and RF amplifier
