Operational with RF-Systems preselector and USB powerbank

Today I did some tests with powering the unit with a 5V power bank. The 5V lead uses the same connector on the back panel, which has 4 poles, two for 12V and two for 5V. So one power supply can be used at a time.

Also the RF-Systems P-3 preselector works great in combination with the SDRplay. An EF-SWL longwire for RX only was used.

The EF-SWL longwire is a rugged, very portable HF antenna that yields stunning results. Highly recommended!

[See the EHAM user reviews here. It gets a solid 5.0 rating after more than 40 reviews - there is no other item with a comparable rating.]

On the left the 10400 mAh power bank. On top the HF preselector.

Preselector on top.

First stage now finished. See pictures.

My double-SDR is now halfway finished: It is operational with the SDRplay only. After summer, I will add the next two modules, the AirSpy and some converter, either the Spyverter or the SV1AFN - have not decided yet.

A picture tells more than 1000 words, so here is the story:

Testing indicator LEDs behind diffusor, enclosure not ready yet

Rubber feet

Velcro strip for SDRplay

Provisional sticker

Serious nuts & bolts

USB cable is led into case without connector

Back panel, one RF-connector still missing (for HF converter input)

Paper template to check if things will fit

I will summarize the concept of my project once again. I consider the SDRplay and the AirSpy as modules, not as devices. I want to have two SDR's under one hood, so I can employ either receiver in the appropriate situation. No module can be fed by the USB host at all. There is a separate 13,8V input (batteries, linear power supplies) and a separate 5V input (cheap power banks).