Hello usrp-users community, I am evaluating hardware options for a project operating across the HF band (specifically 1–30 MHz). We are deciding between adapting an X300/X310 with a UBX daughterboard or stepping up to the USRP X410. While we know the X410 covers this range natively, its 4 TX/RX channels are more than our project requires. We are trying to determine if the X410's lower frequency floor provides a massive real-world performance leap over a filtered UBX system for a 1-channel or 2-channel deployment. I have been reviewing the Ettus KB application note: "Experiments with the UBX Daughterboard in the HF Band." The document shows that with careful flow-graph design and external pre-filtering, the UBX delivers quite good HF performance despite its nominal 10 MHz limit. I have a few questions for anyone who has pushed the UBX into the HF band or compared it to the X410:
1. Pre-Filtering Selection: The KB note mentions an FM-trap and 3-pole LP filters but does not name specific parts. I am looking at Mini-Circuits components to build this front-end filter chain. Has anyone successfully deployed specific Mini-Circuits part numbers for this exact UBX setup? Examples: Mini‑Circuits VLF‑45+, Mini‑Circuits NSBP‑108+, Mini‑Circuits ZX75LP‑50+. 2. Unpublished Performance Data: Does anyone have characterization figures, noise floor comparisons, or empirical data regarding UBX performance specifically between 1–10 MHz when bypassing/working around the LO constraints? 3. UBX vs. X410 Direct Sampling: In practical HF deployment, how much dynamic range or noise figure advantage does the X410’s direct-sampling architecture buy you over a UBX using DDC workarounds and aggressive external filtering? Any insights, test results, or design pitfalls you can share regarding HF performance on these two platforms would be highly appreciated. Best regards Urban Hakansson Principal DSP / Communications System Engineer Saltenna Inc. M: 410-980-4577, E: [email protected]<mailto:[email protected]> W: www.saltenna.com [image.png]
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